ISO/TS 20952:2024

Overview

ISO/TS 20952:2024 - Footwear - Performance requirements for components for footwear - Uppers defines performance criteria and test methods for upper components (not finished shoes), regardless of material. The Technical Specification helps assess whether uppers are suitable for their intended end use and provides a common reference for footwear manufacturers, component suppliers and testing laboratories.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope and classification: Applies to uppers for all kinds of footwear and classifies products by exposure/use: Class A (slight), B (medium), C (high) and D (heavy).
• Essential vs additional requirements: Essential requirements must always be met; additional requirements are optional and agreed between supplier and manufacturer.
• Core performance tests (examples):
  • Flex resistance: Specified cycle counts without visible damage (e.g., Class A dry: 15 000 cycles; Class B leather dry: 50 000 cycles; higher levels for coated materials and Classes C/D).
  • Tear strength: Minimum average tear forces (e.g., ≥ 15 N for Class A; ≥ 25 N for Class B; ≥ 30 N for Classes C/D).
  • Colour fastness: Requirements for inside/outside staining and colour change after defined rubbing cycles, with special provisions for velour, nubuck and suede.
• Common additional tests: lastability, seam strength, bondability (adhesive strength), delamination resistance, water vapour permeability and absorption, water resistance (penetration time & absorption), abrasion resistance, breaking strength and elongation.
• Marking and labelling: Optional. If used, only uppers meeting all essential requirements may reference ISO/TS 20952 and must include manufacturer ID and intended shoe class.

Practical applications and users

• Footwear manufacturers: specify component acceptance criteria for design, quality control and supplier contracts.
• Component/material suppliers: demonstrate compliance and support product datasheets.
• Testing laboratories and QA teams: perform the referenced test methods to verify conformity before lasting and assembly.
• Procurement and compliance managers: use the standard to compare materials and reduce warranty/failure risk.

Related standards

ISO/TS 20952 references and harmonizes with multiple test-method standards, notably:

• ISO 17693, ISO 17694, ISO 17696, ISO 17697, ISO 17698, ISO 17699, ISO 17700–17706, ISO 17709
• ISO 19952 (vocabulary), ISO 20870 (ageing conditioning)
• EN 1392, EN 15307 (adhesives/sole-upper bond testing)

ISO/TS 20952:2024 is a practical tool for ensuring consistent, testable performance of uppers components across materials and shoe types, improving product reliability and supplier communication.