When it comes to building a custom orthotic, the choice of top cover material plays an important role in providing comfort, support, and other benefits for patients. When combined with the right orthotic shell material, the possibilites are endless when it comes to treatment of foot pathologies.
By understanding the unique properties of each material, you’ll make informed decisions when prescribing foot orthotics for your patients. Tracy Winchester, our resident Director of Orthotics, shares some insights into making the proper top cover material selection for your patients.
1. Neoprene:
- Benefits: Neoprene is a flexible, water-resistant material with excellent cushioning and compression properties. It offers stability, support, and thermal insulation. Neoprene can provide good stability and support.
- Disadvantages: Neoprene may not provide as much breathability as other materials. It can be relatively thick, which may require adjustments in footwear fitting.
2. Marine-Grade Vinyl:
- Benefits: Vinyl offers excellent water resistance, durability, and ease of cleaning. It provides a smooth surface, reducing friction and minimizing the risk of irritation.
- Disadvantages: Vinyl has limited cushioning properties and requires additional padding for optimal comfort. Patients may feel their feet slide around in the shoe due to less friction.
3. EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate):
- Benefits: EVA is lightweight, flexible, and provides excellent shock absorption. It offers good cushioning properties, pressure distribution, and energy return.
- Disadvantages: EVA wears out faster compared to some other materials. It may also compress over time, reducing its cushioning effectiveness.
4. Ucolite (Polyethylene Foam):
- Benefits: Ucolite is a lightweight and breathable material that provides good shock absorption and pressure distribution. It offers mild odor control and antimicrobial properties. Perforations allow air circulation in shoes for athletic activities and more breathability.
- Disadvantages: Ucolite colors may bleed onto socks during heavy use. It doesn’t have as much water resistance as other materials.
5. Microsilver:
- Benefits: Microsilver is an antimicrobial material that helps limit the growth of bacteria and fungi, promoting foot health. It provides odor control, moisture-wicking properties, and improved hygiene.
- Disadvantages: Microsilver has limited color options and limited breathability. This can potentially leading to heat buildup within the orthotic.
6. Leather:
- Benefits: Leather is a material that can withstand regular use and offers a soft and supple feel against the skin. It’s a natural material with an appealing aesthetic.
- Disadvantages: Leather has limited shock-absorbing properties. Additional cushioning materials may need to be added. It needs occasional cleaning and protection against water or moisture.
Top Covers Conclusion:
Choosing the right top cover material is essential for optimizing the benefits and functionality of foot orthotics. All of our materials each offer distinct advantages and disadvantages.
When considering the specific needs of patients and the properties of these materials, doctors can select the most suitable top cover material for foot orthotics to ensure optimal comfort, support, and therapeutic outcomes.
If you have any questions about customization, contact one of our orthotic specialists and we can help you select the optimal materials for effective orthotic solutions.
