Injection Blown Rubber Explained

Injection Blown Rubber (IBR) – What You Need to Know

At Lems, we are dedicated to using the best materials to craft lightweight, minimalist shoes that support natural foot movement and comfort. Our team extensively tests various materials to ensure they perform well across different environments.

Since minimalist footwear is our specialty, we prioritize materials that are ultra-lightweight, flexible, and foot-friendly—without compromising on comfort or durability.

This is where injection blown rubber (IBR) comes in. Many of our shoes feature IBR outsoles to provide exceptional flexibility and an ultra-light feel. But what exactly is IBR, and how does it compare to traditional rubber?

Let’s dive in!

What Is Injection Blown Rubber?

Injection blown rubber (IBR) is a unique blend of air and rubber, designed to make shoes incredibly lightweight and flexible. When used for outsoles, IBR creates a featherlight shoe with excellent mobility—but with slightly less durability compared to full-rubber outsoles.

This means that while IBR outsoles enhance flexibility and comfort, they may wear down faster than full-rubber alternatives. Depending on your lifestyle and activity level, you might prefer the super-lightweight feel of IBR over a heavier, more rugged outsole.

Best Uses for Shoes with Injection Blown Rubber

To maximize the lifespan of IBR shoes, they are best suited for casual wear and everyday activities rather than rugged terrain.

Perfect activities for IBR shoes include:

  • Everyday office wear
  • Walking the dog
  • Relaxing at camp
  • Running errands around town
  • Bike commuting
  • Travel and lightweight packing

Lems Shoes That Feature IBR Outsoles:

If you're looking for ultra-light, flexible shoes, check out these Lems models featuring IBR technology:

  • Primal 3
  • Primal Zen
  • Primal Eco
  • Boulder Boots
  • Nine2Five
  • Drifter
  • Chillum
  • Kourt (Regular)
  • Laguna
  • Malibu

These models are great for everyday wear, light walking, and travel. Some may also handle occasional hikes on gentle terrain, but if you need a more durable shoe for rougher conditions, we have options for that too.