RUBBERDOT

Rubber Foot & Bumper Size Selector

Size a rubber foot or bumper to the load it carries. Enter the weight and the number of feet to get the load per foot and the minimum pad area and diameter that keeps the rubber — and your floor — happy.

Weight of the item resting on all its feet.
How many feet share the load.
How hard the pad may press — 300 kPa is a safe default for a soft floor.

Recommended foot size

Load per foot
10 kg
Force per foot
98.1 N
Min. contact area
326.9 mm²
Min. diameter
20.4 mm
Suggested size
22 mm

Size from the load, not by eye

A rubber foot has one job: to carry weight without over-compressing and without marking the surface underneath. Both come down to pressure — the force on each foot divided by its contact area. Choose a pad that’s too small and the rubber squashes flat, spreads, and can press a permanent dent into a soft floor.

The fix is to start from the load. Split the total weight across the feet, decide how hard the pad may press on the floor, and let the area follow. The result is the smallest foot that comfortably carries the load, which is usually the right one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the right size rubber foot?

Work from the load. Divide the item's total weight by the number of feet to get the load each foot carries, then give each foot enough contact area that the rubber isn't over-compressed. This tool does that for you and suggests the nearest common pad diameter at or above the minimum.

What bearing pressure should I use?

It depends on the pad and, more importantly, on the floor. A softer floor like vinyl or laminate wants a lower pressure (around 200–300 kPa) so the foot doesn't dent it, while a hard tile or concrete floor can take more. When in doubt, use a lower pressure — it just means a slightly larger foot.

Why does a bigger foot protect my floor?

Pressure is force divided by area. Spreading the same weight over a wider pad lowers the pressure at the floor, which is what prevents dents, marks, and indentations, especially on soft or heat-sensitive flooring.

Is a bigger foot always better?

Up to a point. A larger pad lowers pressure and improves stability, but an over-sized foot wastes material, can look clumsy, and may not fit the leg. The suggested size is the smallest standard diameter that keeps the pressure within your limit.

Estimates only. Confirm load ratings and floor limits with the pad and flooring makers before you commit.