Jun. 30, 2025
EVA foam is a highly versatile material. Because it is resistant to scratching and biting, it is often found in environments where it comes into contact with (young) children, such as in playgrounds. This type of foam is also commonly used in child seats, toys, stroller wheels, solar panels, bag linings, shoe soles, and automotive interiors.
However, the foam sold by EKI is primarily used for industrial applications, such as shock absorption. Due to its excellent shock-absorbing properties, it is frequently used in foam mats, especially in sports settings. In addition to being a good shock absorber, the foam also serves effectively as insulation against heat, cold, and sound. Moreover, it is suitable for sealing window frames, doors, and glass in construction, as well as sealing joints with a small joint profile. Examples include partition walls and concrete pouring. The material is also used in boats, wellness centres, gardens, and swimming pools.
EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) foam might seem interchangeable at first glance – both are go-to materials for manufacturing everything from packaging to sports gear. But there are key differences that define them.
To help you pick the perfect match for your project, we’ll be tackling three big questions in this guide:
By the end of this guide, you’ll know which foam – EVA or PVC – solves your project’s unique requirements.
Talk to an EVA & PPC Foam Expert
PVC is one of the world’s most popular plastics. One of its many derivatives is PVC foam board. (A “foam” is simply a material with small bubbles introduced into its structure.)
It is a closed-cell, lightweight material valued for its balance of durability and versatility. Some of its key characteristics include:
Some of the most popular applications for PVC foam fabrication include:
At Polymershapes, we offer a variety of PVC foam fabrication services. This material is especially popular for exhibitions and retail displays, but we get orders for many other types of applications as well. Whether you need PVC or EVA material for your project, our experts are here to help you identify the ideal material and fabrication process for your product applications.
Besides its versatility, PVC foam offers several other benefits, including:
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Just like EVA foam material, PVC foam is highly resistant to water, wind, salt, temperature, and sunlight. This makes it highly suitable for outdoor use, particularly in marine applications.
In fact, PVC foam owes its origins to the sea. PVC was used to great effect in marine tools and equipment during World War II. After the war, the private sector deemed PVC too heavy. However, since the other properties of PVC are so well-suited to marine applications, researchers set about developing a lightweight version, eventually resulting in the invention of PVC foam board. What is PVC foam if not a testament to market innovation!
EVA offers a compelling alternative when PVC doesn’t align with your project’s demands. Made by blending ethylene and vinyl acetate, this closed-cell foam balances rubber-like flexibility with shock absorption – all while resisting moisture, chemicals, and wear. It can range from rigid to supple and is one of several materials sometimes known as “foam rubber.”
Depending on how much vinyl acetate is added during production, it can feel as pliable as a rubber sole or as sturdy as a tool handle. You can also add ingredients to boost its resistance to sunlight, flames, or specific chemicals, tailoring it to environments like outdoor signage or industrial workshops.
EVA foam isn’t usually considered a direct alternative to PVC foam. Like PVC, EVA is very impressive in its versatility, but what is EVA material best used for? Here are just a few of its applications:
Some of the main benefits of EVA material include:
EVA foam handles subzero conditions without cracking, making it a reliable choice for cold environments like refrigeration units or winter sports gear. Its dense structure blocks moisture, UV rays, and temperature swings, so it performs consistently outdoors.
The foam’s ability to rebound after compression ensures long-term usability. Gym flooring, packaging inserts, or industrial gaskets retain their shape even under repeated stress. This resilience pairs with a soft, latex-free texture, ideal for medical splints, shoe insoles, or any application where skin contact matters.
Polymershapes simplifies material selection for projects involving EVA foam, PVC foam, and other industrial plastics. Instead of going through endless options alone, discuss your needs with our team – we’ll match your design goals, budget, and timeline to the right material and fabrication method.
We have 70+ years of experience as a plastic fabrication company delivering products that meet our customers’ needs, and we have the facilities to manufacture a wide variety of plastic products at competitive prices and with a fast turnaround.
The company is the world’s best eva membrane supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
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