The Crepe Sole

Soft, flexible, and unmistakable: The crepe sole has been part of Sioux's shoe tradition since its beginnings. Made from natural rubber, it combines comfortable walking with a distinctive look. It is particularly closely associated with the [Grashopper], whose appearance it has shaped since the 1960s.

What is a crepe sole?

Natural crepe is extracted from the milky sap of the Hevea rubber tree. After harvesting, the liquid latex is coagulated, rolled, and processed into thin crepe sheets. Several of these so-called sheets are then pressed together and cut into soles.

At Sioux, soles made from real natural crepe are used for corresponding models. The material is recognizable by its slightly irregular, open-pored structure and the typical light to honey-colored hue.

Why are crepe soles particularly comfortable?

The special strength of a crepe sole lies in its softness and flexibility. The elastic material gives slightly when stepped on and accompanies the natural movement of the foot. At the same time, it has good resilience.

This creates a pleasantly soft walking sensation, which can be particularly noticeable during longer periods of walking and standing. If you would like to learn more about different sole constructions, you can find an overview under [Shoe Soles and Their Properties].

The crepe sole and the Sioux Grashopper

Hardly any Sioux shoe is as closely associated with the crepe sole as the [Grashopper]. Already in the 1960s, the model was equipped with natural crepe soles. The slightly irregular sole edge still emphasizes its relaxed moccasin character today.

It is precisely this combination of natural material, craftsmanship, and flexibility that makes the Grashopper crepe sole an important part of its unmistakable design.

What should you consider with shoes with crepe soles?

Natural crepe is robust, but behaves differently from synthetic sole materials. Due to its open-pored, slightly adhesive surface, the sole accumulates dust and dirt over time. A certain patina is therefore completely normal and belongs to the character of the material.

Strong heat as well as gasoline, solvents, or similar substances should be avoided, as they can attack the surface of the natural rubber.

How to clean a crepe sole?

A crepe sole does not have to look new permanently. If you want to remove heavy dirt, simple means are usually sufficient:

Dissolve some colorless, grease-dissolving dish soap in warm water and carefully clean only the sole with a sponge or a soft brush. Alternatively, some bar soap can be used. Then clean with a little clear water.

Make sure that the upper leather remains as dry as possible – especially with suede. Solvents such as white spirit, turpentine, or paint remover are unsuitable and can permanently damage natural crepe.

Natural material with its own character

A crepe sole changes over time – and that is precisely part of its character. Its soft, flexible nature and typical appearance make shoes with crepe soles a special Sioux specialty to this day.