Agree. My experience with Santoprene TPR material is fairly dated. Although the processing point or glass transition temperature of that material is 320-350F, I could see how even moderate temperatures could make shoes feel softer. Especially with the weight and power of a professional footbal player on top of them. But originally I was reacting to the sensationalist headline stating the shoes were melting. Today Ai headlines can basically state anything to get clicks and rarely get called out. We are just desensitized to that garbage. I’ll get off my old man chair now.

Vulcanized rubber usually refers to natural rubber from plant material. Tires are thermoset, EPDM ( ethylene propylene diene monomer). EPDM is vulcanized or cross linked with either a sulpher or peroxide based system. As are shoe soles.

Edit: the long chain polymers are cross linked not cured which changes the plastic or elastomer to a thermoset which will not melt

Most TPRs (thermoplastic rubber) materials melt above 350F. Most shoes are made from thermoset materials, ie the same material as tires which once cured do not melt. Although the field was likely much too hot for athletes to be comfortable or even safe, the title is complete bullshit.