Overview
ISO 20868:2001 - Footwear - Test methods for insoles - Abrasion resistance is an international standard developed by ISO, detailing a consistent and reliable test method for determining the abrasion resistance of insoles, regardless of the material from which they are made. The standard ensures that footwear manufacturers, testing laboratories, and quality assurance teams have a uniform approach to assess insole durability, supporting product quality, safety, and performance in the global footwear industry.
Key Topics
- Abrasion resistance definition: The standard describes abrasion resistance as the surface resistance exhibited by an insole test piece when subjected to specified rubbing cycles with a wool felt pad and abradant fabric under controlled conditions.
- Test apparatus specifications: ISO 20868 defines the apparatus needed for the test, including a planar metal platform, sample holders, a weighted finger, felt pads, abradant fabric, and controls for cyclic movement.
- Sample preparation and conditioning: The document specifies how to prepare insole samples and conditioning requirements to ensure testing is consistent and reproducible.
- Test procedure: Steps are detailed for conducting the abrasion resistance test, including the number of cycles, the use of wet felt pads and abradant fabric, and when to replace test materials during the process.
- Results and reporting: Guidelines are provided for visually assessing abrasion damage against reference test pieces, and requirements for comprehensive test reporting are outlined.
Applications
ISO 20868:2001 is widely applied in the global footwear supply chain to ensure product durability and performance by:
- Footwear manufacturing: Helping manufacturers verify that insoles meet abrasion resistance benchmarks before incorporation into finished products.
- Quality assurance and control: Providing a standard method for in-house or third-party lab testing to certify that insole materials deliver satisfactory lifetime performance under wear.
- Product development: Supporting R&D teams in material selection and design by offering a clear method to compare the abrasion resistance of alternative insole materials.
- Regulatory compliance: Assisting companies in fulfilling regulatory or contractual obligations that reference ISO standards for footwear.
- International trade: Facilitating mutual recognition of test results across borders, simplifying global sourcing and supply chain operations for footwear brands.
This test method applies to all insole types and materials, ensuring broad relevance in sports footwear, safety shoes, occupational footwear, casual shoes, and specialty markets where comfort and wear resistance are critical.
Related Standards
Organizations using ISO 20868:2001 may reference or integrate it with these related standards for a more comprehensive footwear quality framework:
- EN 12222 / ISO 18454 - Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing footwear and components.
- EN 13400 / ISO 17709 - Sampling locations of components for footwear.
- EN 344 - Requirements and test methods for safety, protective, and occupational footwear.
- Additional ISO footwear standards addressing aspects such as water resistance, slip resistance, and upper/outsole durability.
By adhering to ISO 20868:2001 and related footwear test standards, companies can improve product reliability, maintain competitive advantage, and build consumer confidence in product quality and longevity.
