Overview
ISO 17695:2004 - Footwear: Test methods for uppers - Deformability defines a laboratory method to measure the deformability of footwear uppers or complete upper assemblies, regardless of material. The standard quantifies the multidirectional modulus characteristics of upper materials to assess their suitability for end use, enabling objective comparison of materials and assemblies used in shoe construction.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Test applies to uppers and complete upper assemblies (including linings, interlinings and reinforcements, but excluding toe puffs and stiffeners).
- Deformability definition: Multidirectional modulus characteristics of an upper material.
- Specimens: Three circular specimens are cut and conditioned. Avoid seams, perforations, high-strain lasting areas; for leather use prEN ISO 2418 sampling guidance.
- Conditioning: Specimens conditioned in a standard atmosphere per EN 12222 for 24 hours before testing.
- Test apparatus: Clamping system that leaves a central circular free area (25.0 mm ± 0.5 mm) and prevents slippage or pre-deformation. A moveable plunger with a 20.0 mm ± 0.2 mm spherical ball is used.
- Test motion and recording: Plunger advances at 0.20 mm/s ± 0.05 mm/s; continuous recording of travel (±0.05 mm) and force (0–800 N range, ±10 N).
- Procedure: Plunger distends the specimen up to 10 mm or until specimen failure. Force is recorded continuously and sampled at 2 mm intervals from initial contact.
- Results: Arithmetic mean of the three specimens’ forces at each travel point, reported to the nearest 10 N.
- Test report requirements: Include mean forces, material and sample descriptions, footwear style (if applicable), method reference, test date and deviations.
Practical applications
- Quality control for footwear production-ensures upper materials meet target deformability for fit and comfort.
- Material selection and R&D-compare deformability of leathers, textiles, synthetics or complete upper assemblies during design iterations.
- Supplier validation-verify incoming upper materials and laminated assemblies perform as specified.
- Performance assessment-correlate laboratory deformability data with wearer comfort, lasting behavior and structural performance.
Who uses this standard
- Footwear manufacturers (product development, quality assurance)
- Material and component suppliers
- Independent testing laboratories and certification bodies
- Footwear researchers and designers
Related standards
- EN 12222: Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing of footwear and components (referenced for conditioning)
- prEN ISO 2418: Leather sampling for physical and mechanical tests (referenced for leather sampling)
Keywords: ISO 17695:2004, footwear deformability test, uppers, upper assemblies, test method, plunger test, conditioning EN 12222, prEN ISO 2418.
