What Is Neoprene & How Does It Work?

Neoprene is a synthetic rubber like material which is made of polychloroprene and other chemicals that provides a solid barrier between the person wearing it and the environment around them. It is resistant to a wide range of temperatures and environments. It is not a breathable material, but it provides insulation from elements such as extreme cold that could otherwise be harmful to the wearer.

How is Neoprene Made?

The polychloroprene begins as a liquid form and when it arrives at textile factories it is combined with additives to change some of its properties. It is then mixed and placed in an industrial oven to harden. It is available in a variety of thicknesses and the thicker it is, the more waterproof and insulative it is.

Neoprene Properties

• The properties of Neoprene include elasticity, heat retention, formability and waterproofing. Neoprene fabrics are significantly stretchy which can be beneficial when used in the manufacture of sporting accessories and clothing, as it can stretch up to six times its original size.
• Neoprene will not degrade at high temperatures, unlike natural rubbers making it perfect for outdoor usage or usage in high-temperature environments. If Neoprene does get too hot it doesn’t degrade by melting but by hardening.
• Neoprene is a waterproof material; the only way it could leak is if it is punctured. This can apply to any stitching used, so if Neoprene is stitched to make sports equipment or wet suits, the seams need to be bonded with glue to maintain a watertight seal.
• Neoprene can be used for lots of different products including clothing, laptop cases, military applications, such as wetsuits and gaskets, supports for sporting, insoles for sports shoes and much more.

Neoprene Usage in Sports

Neoprene is significantly used in sport because of the supporting and insulative properties that it holds. It also comes in a foam form which is spongy and thick making it useful for padding in body armour. Neoprene also keeps its shape which provides support and comfort to the player.

Different sports have different needs for which Neoprene provides protection and support.

• Cricket – Cricket gloves feature Neoprene in the wrist section as it is a long-wearing material and is waterproof
• Rugby – There is a sock inside certain brands of rugby boots that supports the ankle; this is made of Neoprene. This provides compression support and waterproofing. Lots of rugby boots also feature Neoprene insoles for cushioning.
• Hockey – Neoprene is significantly used in hockey to protect the player from the ball and from other players hockey sticks. Protective shorts (used by goalkeepers) use Neoprene as padding in the hips, thighs and upper back as a guard from the ball. Neoprene is also used in body armour which covers the whole torso, chest and arms to protect the goalkeeper from receiving severe injuries. Hockey gloves use Neoprene for the protective padding surrounding them.
• Support – There are lots of different body supports made out of Neoprene which sports players use during games to help relieve the pressure on joints when running or performing other activities. These are available for the knees, ankles, shin, back and more.

Meta Title: What Is Neoprene & How Does It Work?

Meta Description: Neoprene is a synthetic rubber like material that provides a solid barrier between the person wearing it and the environment around them.