47.Temper: Leather
This test is used to define the softness of a leather, where higher values indicated softer leather.
48.Tensile Strength and Elongation
Tensile strength is defined as the force per unit area required to break a material in tension. Elongation is a measure of how far a material stretches before failing. The breaking strength and elongation of a material are important properties for the overall performance of a shoe. A low tensile strength could result in the premature failure of a shoe or shoe component. However, a low tensile strength might be acceptable when the material exhibits a high elongation. For instance, stretch materials typically exhibit a low tensile strength but a high elongation, on the order of 100 to 200%. It is not likely that the material will ever reach this type of elongation in a footwear application. Therefore, despite a low strength, it would still be acceptable for use.
49.Thermal Conductivity
Materials that are used for insulation are typically subjected to thermal conductivity testing. This test measures both the thermal conductivity and the thermal resistivity. Thermal conductivity is a measure of how well a material conducts heat. Thermal resistivity is a measure of how well a material resists the transfer of heat. A good insulating material has a low thermal conductivity and a high thermal resistivity.
50.Water Absorption/Uptake – Cellular Soling
This is a measure of how much water a material absorbs in a set period of time. This is measured as a function of the change in weight of a standard test specimen.
51.Water Vapor Permeability and Absorption
Water vapor permeability is a measure of how well a material breathes, or how easily water vapor is allowed to pass through the material. Water vapor absorption is a measure of how much moisture a material retains. Highly breathable materials will have a high water vapor permeability and a low water vapor absorption.