Vinyl as a foot orthotic top cover material is widely used and is derived from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin and can be available with or without a knit fabric backing. It is a synthetic material and used as a substitute for leather. Vinyl is made from two components: chlorine (from common salt) and ethylene (from crude oil). Vinyl is widely used in the upholstery industry and PVC is the second most commonly used plastic worldwide. It is very versatile plastic and has wide applications.
As a top cover material for foot orthotics, vinyl has a small amount of elasticity which make it suitable for covering the surfaces with slight curves. It does tend to be long lasting and is resistance to tearing. Vinyl does not absorb moisture and is not breathable. It comes in a wide range of colors and different surface finishes.
Vinyl for use with foot orthotics is typically 1-1.5mm thick, so it has next to no cushioning or shock absorbing properties. It can be used as a cover on its own for a foot orthotic shell or with a backing of a shock absorbing material as a full length top cover. Folding vinyl can leave to permanent creases in the material, so it does need to be stored carefully.
Phthalates are used as a plasticizer during the production of vinyl and there is some concern that this may have health implications, but the data is somewhat inconclusive. Facilities that manufacture PVC and vinyl will be subjected to occupational health and safety requirements.
Other Top Cover Materials:
| Chamois | Poron | PPT | EVA | Leather |
| Vinyl | Cambrelle | Spenco | Neoprene | Bamboo |
| Suede | X-Static |
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