Materials

Natural crepe rubber soles

Duckfeet has used natural crepe rubber soles since 1975. A conscious choice – selected for comfort, durability and its natural character.

We choose materials that develop with use. The crepe sole gradually softens, darkens and adapts to your foot – becoming part of the shoe’s character – and how it’s worn over time.

Why we choose natural crepe rubber

Grounded comfort
Soft, flexible and naturally shock-absorbing – allowing the sole to move with your foot and provide a stable, grounded feel.

Good grip for everyday use
Provides reliable grip for daily wear, while staying soft and responsive.

Pure natural material
Made from latex tapped from Hevea brasiliensis trees. No synthetic additives – just natural rubber.

Durable by nature
A dense, long-lasting sole designed for years of wear – not seasons.

Why we love how it ages

Crepe rubber doesn’t stay the same – and that’s exactly why we choose it. With time, the sole softens, darkens and develops a natural, lived-in look. It reflects how the shoe is worn and becomes part of its story.

Duckfeet shoes are made to last – and to be repaired. The sole can be replaced, extending the life of the shoe for many years and reducing the need to replace them.

A material with character

The crepe rubber soles on Duckfeet are made from 100% natural rubber. Natural rubber allows the sole to adapt to your foot and the way you walk.

To maintain this unique comfort, we recommend regular use and care. In return, the soles stay soft, supportive and comfortable over time.

Care for your soles

Learn more about crepe soles, or explore our full care guide.

Read care guide

Do crepe soles adapt over time?

Yes. With use and body warmth, the material becomes softer and more flexible – allowing it to adapt not only to your movement, but also to the shape of your foot over time.

Why do crepe soles change colour?

Crepe rubber naturally darkens over time when exposed to light, air and use. This is part of the material’s character and does not affect performance.

Natural variations in colour can also occur from the raw material itself, depending on when the latex is tapped, as well as from the shoe production process.

Do crepe soles provide good grip?

Yes. Crepe rubber provides reliable grip for everyday use while remaining soft and flexible underfoot.
It is not designed for icy or very slippery surfaces.

Why can the sole feel firm at times?

Crepe rubber is a natural material that responds to its surroundings – including temperature.

If the shoes have been stored in cooler conditions – for example in a warehouse or after a period of not being worn – the soles may feel firm at first, sometimes almost hard to the touch.

This is completely normal.

With warmth and regular use, the material quickly returns to its natural softness and flexibility. If needed, you can help the process by letting the shoes warm up at room temperature or placing them on a warm (not hot) surface for a short period before wearing.

Why can the sole feel slightly tacky?

Natural crepe rubber softens and can become slightly tacky if left in direct sunlight.

If the surface feels more noticeably tacky over time, a cobbler can easily refresh it by removing a thin layer of the sole. In some cases, it may also be a sign that the soles have been worn for many years and could benefit from replacement.

How should I care for crepe soles?

Crepe rubber is an untreated natural material that responds to its surroundings.

Regular wear helps maintain the sole’s natural softness and flexibility. If not worn for a period of time, storing your shoes at normal room temperature provides ideal conditions for the soles to rest.

Avoid contact with oils, solvents or similar substances, as they may affect the surface of the rubber.

Can the soles be replaced?

Yes. Duckfeet shoes are constructed so the soles can be replaced, extending the life of the shoe.

Many customers have had their Duckfeet resoled multiple times over more than a decade of regular wear.

Explore replacement crepe soles