Why is pig skin leather a poor choice for top cover material?

Choosing pig skin leather as a top cover material is often discouraged because it is open cell. In footwear, particularly therapeutic shoes, an open cell structure can allow moisture and humidity to penetrate the material more easily. This can lead to several issues, such as increased risk of blistering or bacterial growth, as moisture can become trapped against the skin.

Moreover, an open cell system can potentially reduce the overall comfort and protective features of therapeutic footwear, which are critical for individuals with foot issues or conditions such as diabetes. Maintaining a dry and comfortable environment in footwear is vital to preventing complications, so materials that do not allow for such penetration are preferred.

In examining various materials to use in therapeutic footwear, factors like durability, weight, and grip are important, but the permeability of the material is crucial for skin health and overall comfort. Therefore, the open cell characteristic of pig skin leather is a significant drawback, making it unsuitable for use as a top cover in therapeutic shoe applications.