Aortha OrthaGrip Rubber Contact Adhesive

Orthagrip Natural Rubber Adhesive for Footwear

A versatile, natural rubber-based contact adhesive developed for reliable bonding in footwear manufacture, orthotic device production and professional shoe repair.

Best for: leather, rubber, and mixed-material bonding where flexibility and heat resistance are required.

Not ideal for: applications requiring rigid, structural bonds or permanent high-load fixation.

• Natural rubber polymer base
• Balanced open time for accurate positioning
• Consistent performance in workshop environments

What is it?

Orthagrip Natural Rubber Contact Adhesive is a solvent-based adhesive formulated around a natural rubber polymer system. It is designed to provide high initial tack combined with long-term flexibility, making it suitable for applications where bonded materials are subject to repeated movement, flexion, or moderate heat exposure.

The adhesive is supplied ready to use and dries to a mild yellow finish that blends discreetly with many footwear and orthotic materials. Its viscosity profile allows controlled application by brush or spreader, supporting both detailed assembly work and larger surface bonding.

Who is it for?

This adhesive is intended for professional and specialist users who require dependable, repeatable bonding results in clinical, manufacturing, or repair settings. It is commonly selected by:

• Orthotists and prosthetists assembling or modifying devices
• Orthotic technicians and fabrication laboratories
• NHS and hospital-based workshops
• Podiatry clinics producing or adapting orthoses in-house
• Shoe repairers, bespoke footwear makers, and technicians
• Educational institutions teaching footwear or orthotic manufacture

What is it used for?

Orthagrip is used wherever a flexible, contact-bonded joint is required between compatible materials. Once applied to both surfaces and allowed to reach the correct tack, it forms an immediate bond on contact, supporting efficient assembly workflows.

Typical applications

• Bonding leather uppers, linings, and insoles
• Fixing rubber soles, heels, and outsole components
• Assembling orthotic shells, top covers and posting materials
• General footwear repairs requiring a discreet adhesive finish
• Fabric and flexible plastic bonding where movement is expected

Characteristics

• High initial strength with flexible cured bond
• Medium open time allowing controlled positioning
• Good resistance to heat once cured
• Suitable viscosity for precision application

How to work with it

The adhesive is applied as a thin, even layer to both bonding surfaces. After a short drying period, the surfaces are brought together with firm, even pressure. Once contact is made, repositioning is limited, so alignment should be checked carefully before bonding.

Expected use timeline

First use: After application, the adhesive typically reaches the correct tack within 5 to 15 minutes, depending on materials, temperature, and humidity. Bonding occurs immediately on contact.

Ongoing use: The bonded assembly should be left to cure fully for up to 24 hours before being exposed to stress, heat, or repeated flexion. Over time, the adhesive maintains flexibility and bond integrity under normal use conditions.

Problem and solution overview

Key benefits

• Designed for flexible materials used in footwear and orthotics
• Supports efficient workflows with predictable tack development
• Discreet mild yellow finish suits visible and concealed bonds
• Performs reliably across a range of workshop temperatures
• Available in multiple tin sizes to suit different usage volumes

Common mistakes to avoid

• Applying the adhesive too thickly, which can extend drying time
• Bonding surfaces before the adhesive has reached correct tack
• Attempting to reposition parts after contact bonding
• Using on unsuitable materials without prior compatibility testing

How to work with Orthagrip

1. Ensure all bonding surfaces are clean, dry, and free from grease or dust.
2. Lightly roughen smooth surfaces to improve mechanical adhesion.
3. Apply a thin, even coat of adhesive to both surfaces.
4. Allow to dry until tacky, typically 5–15 minutes.
5. Align carefully and press surfaces together with even pressure.
6. Leave the bonded item to cure fully for up to 24 hours.

Technical specifications

Frequently asked questions

Is this adhesive suitable for orthotic device manufacturing?

Yes. It is commonly used for bonding orthotic components where flexibility and durability are required.

Can it be used for shoe repairs?

It is well suited to professional and specialist shoe repair tasks involving leather, rubber, and similar materials.

How long does the bond take to reach full strength?

Initial bonding is immediate, but full curing typically occurs within 24 hours.

Does the adhesive remain flexible?

Once cured, the natural rubber base helps maintain flexibility during normal use.

Is heat resistance sufficient for everyday footwear?

The adhesive is formulated to provide good heat resistance under typical footwear conditions.

Can beginners use this adhesive?

It can be used by advanced DIY users, provided safety guidance and application instructions are followed.

Complementary product suggestions

• Soling and heel rubber materials
• Orthotic top cover foams and fabrics
• Surface preparation tools and abrasives
• Application brushes and spreaders

Further Bonding advice with Contact Adhesives