Having spent over a decade in the plastics and recycling industry, I’ve seen the market for TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) shoe sole scrap evolve significantly. If you’re here, you’re likely wondering about the cost of TPR shoe sole scrap per kilogram, perhaps to source materials for recycling, manage waste from a footwear factory, or explore cost-saving opportunities for your business. Drawing from my experience and recent market insights, I’ll break down the current pricing for TPR shoe sole scrap, what influences these costs, and how you can make informed decisions when buying or selling this material in 2025. Let’s dive in with a conversational yet professional lens, grounded in real-world expertise.
What Is TPR Shoe Sole Scrap?
Before we get to the numbers, let’s clarify what TPR shoe sole scrap is. TPR, a blend of rubber-like elasticity and thermoplastic processability, is widely used in shoe soles for its flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. During manufacturing, offcuts, defective soles, or excess material—collectively called scrap—are generated. This scrap is highly recyclable, making it valuable for manufacturers, recyclers, and businesses looking to repurpose it into new soles, mats, or other products.
Understanding the price of TPR shoe sole scrap is crucial for anyone in the footwear or recycling industry. Whether you’re a factory owner looking to sell scrap or a recycler sourcing materials, knowing the market rates helps you maximize value while keeping costs in check. Let’s explore the pricing landscape and what’s driving it.
Current Price Range for TPR Shoe Sole Scrap in 2025
Based on my industry contacts and data from platforms like IndiaMART and Alibaba, the price of TPR shoe sole scrap in 2025 typically ranges from $0.44 to $1.25 per kilogram (or ₹44 to ₹125 per kg in India). This wide range depends on factors like the scrap’s quality, color, and whether it’s been pre-processed (e.g., grinded or unprocessed). For example, high-grade, clean TPR scrap fetches higher prices, while mixed or contaminated scrap is cheaper.
Here’s a breakdown of TPR shoe sole scrap prices based on type and condition:
|
Scrap Type |
Price Range (USD/kg) |
Common Sources |
Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Mixed Grinded TPR Scrap |
$0.44–$0.70 |
Footwear factories, recycling |
Pre-processed, mixed colors |
|
Black TPR Scrap |
$0.50–$0.85 |
Shoe sole production |
Single color, high recyclability |
|
High-Grade TPR Sole Scrap |
$0.85–$1.25 |
Premium footwear brands |
Clean, minimal contamination |
These prices are based on suppliers like Shri Krishna Plastic and V.R. Plastics in New Delhi, who quote ₹48–₹100 per kg for TPR shoe sole scrap, depending on quality and order volume.
Factors Influencing TPR Shoe Sole Scrap Prices
From my years in the industry, I’ve seen TPR scrap prices fluctuate due to several key factors. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Quality and Condition of the Scrap
The quality of TPR scrap significantly affects its price. High-grade TPR scrap, free from contaminants like dirt, metal screws, or other plastics, commands premium prices (up to $1.25 per kg). Mixed or loosely packed scrap, like that offered by Niraj Nagar Plastic at 44 per kg, is cheaper due to additional processing needs. In my experience, clean, single-color scrap (e.g., black TPR) is more valuable because it’s easier to recycle into consistent products.
2. Color and Composition
Single-color scrap, such as black TPR, often fetches higher prices (e.g., ₹50–₹85 per kg) because it requires less sorting and processing. Mixed-color scrap, while versatile, is priced lower (e.g., ₹44–₹70 per kg) due to the effort needed to separate colors for specific applications. I’ve worked with recyclers who prefer black TPR for its uniformity in producing new soles or industrial mats.
3. Market Demand and Recycling Trends
The demand for recycled TPR is growing, driven by sustainability trends in footwear and other industries. In India, where recycling is a major industry, suppliers like Shri Tirupati Polymers offer TPR scrap at ₹70–₹80 per kg, reflecting strong demand for recyclable materials. However, oversupply in regions like New Delhi can push prices down, especially for lower-grade scrap. I’ve seen this firsthand when factories dump excess scrap during slow production periods.
4. Regional and Logistics Factors
Prices vary by region due to logistics and local market dynamics. In India, New Delhi-based suppliers quote ₹48–₹100 per kg, while international prices can be higher due to shipping costs. For example, importing TPR scrap to Europe or North America can add $0.10–$0.20 per kg in freight costs. I’ve advised clients to source locally to avoid these markups, especially if they’re near major recycling hubs like Delhi or Gujarat.
Regional Price Variations
From my work with global clients, I’ve noticed distinct price differences for TPR shoe sole scrap:
India: Prices range from $0.44–$1.25 per kg (₹44–₹125), with New Delhi suppliers like Shri Krishna Plastic offering competitive rates for bulk orders (e.g., 150 MT/month). India’s robust recycling infrastructure keeps prices low.
China: Prices are slightly higher, around $0.60–$1.30 per kg, due to strong export demand and processing capabilities. Alibaba suppliers often quote higher for pre-processed scrap.
Europe/North America: Prices can reach $0.80–$1.50 per kg, reflecting import costs and stricter recycling regulations. Local sourcing is less common, driving up costs.
How to Get the Best Price for TPR Shoe Sole Scrap
Over the years, I’ve helped clients buy and sell TPR scrap effectively. Here are my top tips:
Source from Verified Suppliers: Platforms like IndiaMART and Alibaba list suppliers like Shri Krishna Plastic, offering TPR scrap at ₹48–₹100 per kg. Always check for certifications like ISO 9001 to ensure quality.
Negotiate for Bulk Orders: Suppliers often discount for large orders (e.g., 10+ tons). I once helped a recycler save 20% by ordering 15 tons of black TPR scrap from a single vendor.
Prioritize Clean Scrap: High-grade, clean TPR scrap (e.g., ₹85–₹100 per kg) is worth the investment for applications like new shoe soles, as it reduces processing costs.
Monitor Market Trends: Resources like TradeIndia and Procurement Resource track TPR scrap prices, predicting stability in 2025 with potential dips if supply increases.
Test Samples: Low-cost scrap (e.g., ₹44 per kg) may contain contaminants, leading to processing issues. Always request samples to verify quality before committing.
Applications and Cost Implications of TPR Shoe Sole Scrap
TPR shoe sole scrap is highly versatile, making it a valuable resource for various industries. Here’s how it’s used and what it means for costs:
Recycled Shoe Soles: High-grade TPR scrap ($0.85–$1.25 per kg) is reprocessed into new soles for budget footwear. A small factory might spend $4,000–$6,000 on 5 tons of scrap to produce 10,000 pairs, factoring in processing costs.
Industrial Mats and Carpets: Mixed TPR scrap ($0.44–$0.70 per kg) is ideal for mats or flooring. A recycler might budget $2,000 for 3 tons to produce durable mats, leveraging TPR’s elasticity.
Other Products: TPR scrap is used for garden hoses, pads, or craft materials, especially mixed-color scrap at lower prices.
In my experience, choosing the right scrap grade for your application—whether for high-quality soles or low-cost mats—ensures cost-efficiency and performance.
Sustainability and Future Outlook
Sustainability is a big topic in the industry, and TPR shoe sole scrap plays a key role. TPR is 100% recyclable, reducing the need for virgin materials and landfill waste. Suppliers like Shri Tirupati Polymers emphasize TPR’s eco-friendly properties, such as tear strength and abrasion resistance, making it a sustainable choice for recycled products. In India, the push for circular economies has boosted demand for TPR scrap, stabilizing prices.
Looking to 2026, I expect TPR scrap prices to remain in the $0.44–$1.25 per kg range, barring major disruptions in raw material supply or recycling capacity. The growing focus on sustainable footwear, especially in Asia, will likely keep demand steady, while innovations in recycling could lower costs for mixed-grade scrap.
Wrapping Up
Navigating the TPR shoe sole scrap market can feel like a balancing act, but it’s manageable with the right knowledge. Current prices of $0.44–$1.25 per kg offer options for various budgets, whether you’re recycling for new soles or other products. Focus on quality, negotiate for bulk deals, and source from reputable suppliers to get the best value. Platforms like IndiaMART and Alibaba are great starting points, and staying informed through resources like TradeIndia can give you an edge.
Whether you’re a recycler, manufacturer, or small business, TPR shoe sole scrap is a cost-effective, sustainable resource. If you’re unsure where to begin, reach out to suppliers for quotes and samples, and don’t hesitate to ask for certifications. Got more questions? Drop them below, and I’ll share insights from my years in the industry!
Related Questions and Answers
Q: Why do TPR shoe sole scrap prices vary so much?
A: Prices depend on quality, color, and processing. Clean, single-color scrap like black TPR costs $0.50–$0.85 per kg, while mixed grinded scrap is cheaper at $0.44–$0.70 per kg. Always verify quality with samples.
Q: Is TPR shoe sole scrap worth buying for recycling?
A: Yes, especially high-grade scrap at $0.85–$1.25 per kg, which is ideal for new soles or mats. Lower-grade scrap ($0.44 per kg) suits less demanding applications but may require extra processing.
Q: How can I find reliable TPR scrap suppliers?
A: Check platforms like IndiaMART or Alibaba for verified suppliers like Shri Krishna Plastic, offering TPR scrap at ₹48–₹100 per kg. Request certifications and samples to ensure quality.
Q: Can TPR shoe sole scrap be used for non-footwear products?
A: Absolutely! Mixed TPR scrap ($0.44–$0.70 per kg) is used for mats, hoses, or craft materials. Its durability and recyclability make it versatile for various industries.
Q: How will TPR scrap prices trend in 2026?
A: Prices should stay stable at $0.44–$1.25 per kg, driven by steady demand and recycling innovations. Monitor raw material costs and industry trends via TradeIndia for updates.
