The synthetic equivalent to Natural Rubber is polyisoprene (IR) which can be produced by polymerization of 2-methyl-1,3-butadiene with Ziegler-Natta catalyst.

In applications where consistency and good processability is required, synthetic polyisoprene is often the better choice. Since the polymerization of isoprene is carried out under narrowly controlled conditions, there is very little variation of composition, structure, and resulting properties, whereas natural rubber contains naturally occurring impurities and the molecular weight varies with the growth conditions of the rubber tree.

Both has a noticeable impact on the physical properties and processability of the rubber.

In general, synthetic rubber has superior resistance to aging and weathering and is easier to process due to its lower viscosity. It is also often more compatible with other rubbers such as SBR and EPDM.

Synthetic polyisoprene has lower strength than natural rubber but better low-temperature properties.