| Aglet: Also known as an aiglet, this is the name for the small metal or plastic cylinders found at the end of a shoelace. This sheath facilitates the shoelace's passing through the eyelet holes, makes it easier to tie the shoelace, and keeps the shoelace from fraying. Ornamental aglets may be made of precious metals, stone, or other materials, though usually they serve a purely utilitarian function.
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| Airport Friendly: Shoes often worn by frequent travelers, pilots, or airport personnel. Their distinguishing feature is the complete lack of metal components. These shoes are useful when passing through the metal detectors at airports or other locations because the wearer may not be required to remove the shoes. Most other shoes must be removed in order for the wearer to pass through airport security. Because they lack metal components, the metal detector will not go off when the wearer passes through airport security. Most airport friendly shoes are made of plastic or leather and are designed in a slip-off style easy to remove quickly, if needed, at airport checkpoints.
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| All Terrain Sandal: Sandals designed for hiking, rafting and other outdoor activities. This type of footwear features waterproofing, durable yet breathable exterior, and a rough sole. Most all terrain sandals are designed with a slip-on style.
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| Alligator Skin: Alligator skin is used as the exterior on both men's and women's shoes. This exotic skin has a slightly three-dimensional feel depending on the part of the alligator used. The visible scale pattern varies based on the section of the alligator body; they may be small and uniform, or vary in size and shape; the “hornback” variety of alligator skin refers to the horn-like scales found on the back of the alligator, giving this type of skin a distinctive texture and appearance. Though naturally green or brown in color, alligator skin is often dyed in a range of bright or subdued colors. There are two finishes available: classic high-gloss, with a similar appearance to that of patent leather, or a more natural looking “safari” semi-gloss finish. Over a period of several years of wear, the safari finish will achieve an aged patina, while the classic finish may become dulled.
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| Alpargata: The Spanish word for espadrilles, a casual shoe with a rope sole dating to at least the 14th century. They can be either flat or heeled shoes with a platform or wedge shape. The upper is traditionally either canvas or cotton fabric, although modern versions of the alpargata incorporate other materials. Modern alpargatas may have a sole in rubber molded to appear like rope, though traditional alpargatas have rope soles. This jute or hemp rope sole is the defining characteristic of the alpargata or espadrille.
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| Alum-Tanning: A sterilization process for the insoles of shoes using a powder containing aluminum, usually with potassium or ammonium. The powder dries out the interior of the shoes, preventing mold and deodorizing the interior of the shoe as well as sterilizing it. Alum-tanning is also the term for a traditional procedure for tanning hides using a powder containing aluminum, though this method is seldom used today except by hobbyists. It may still be used occasionally, particularly in the production of white leather.
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| Ankle Boot: A boot with a short shaft, ending at or near the ankle area. This type of shoe covers the entire foot, and is also known as a bootie or demi boot. Often distinguished from other footwear covering the ankle by the existence of a distinct heel, though the heel may be made in one piece with the rest of the sole and may be very flat.
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| Ankle Strap: A narrow strap attached at the rear of the shoe, behind the ankle. It encircles the ankle, and is usually elastic or features a buckle enclosure for an adjustable fit. The strap is designed to firmly hold the shoe to the foot, although in some cases it serves a mainly decorative purpose. The strap may be made in the same material as the upper portion of the shoe, though this is not necessarily the case.
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| Ankle Wrap: Shoe featuring string, ribbons, or other material to be wrapped around the ankle multiple times and then tied. Usually, this portion of the shoe designed to firmly hold the shoe to the foot, although in some cases it serves a mainly decorative purpose. The wrapped material may be made in the same material as the upper portion of the shoe, though this is not necessarily the case. An ankle wrap shoe differs from a shoe with ankle straps because the material is meant to be wrapped multiple times, is usually tied instead of buckled.
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| Anklet: An anklet is worn around the ankle. It may be a separate piece of jewelry, worn around the ankle as a bracelet is worn around the wrist, or it may be attached to the shoe itself as an ornamental version of an ankle strap or ankle wrap. The anklet is distinguished by its ornamental purpose; the anklet generally does not serve to keep the shoe on the foot. Anklet is also the name for a sock that reaches just above the ankle.
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| Antiquing: Process of applying a finish to the upper of a leather shoe to create a subtle mottled finish like that of well-worn leather. The finish is applied to the upper and then immediately rubbed off, except for in the edges and crevices of the leather. This rubbed-off finish gives new leather shoes the appearance of age.
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| Approach Shoe: An athletic shoe with a grip sole to aid rock climbers as they go to and from the climbing area, this hybrid shoe has characteristics of both hiking boots and rock climbing shoes. Comfortable to wear while walking for long distances, the specialized rubber sole is designed to maintain traction on steep rock inclines.
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| Apron Toe: A closed toe shoe style characterized by an overlay of the upper portion of the shoe that covers the front of the shoe, at the toe. Usually with visible stitching, this overlapped piece forms an “apron” over the front of the shoe. Generally used on men's leather dress shoes.
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| Arch: The high, curved part of the sole of the foot, located between the heel and the ball of the foot. When barefoot, the arch is the part of the sole that does not touch the ground. The arch also refers to the section of the shoe which touches the arch of the foot and is designed to provide support for the foot. In the shoe, the arch is the narrowest part when viewed from the sole; it is also known as the instep.
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| Athleisure Shoe: Also known as “athletic-inspired shoes”, this type of trendy and fashionable footwear is meant for casual wear, not athletic performance. With detail or form inspired by athletic shoes, athleisure shoes are designed to be comfortable yet stylish. Though traditionally a men's style, women's athleisure shoes are becoming more popular.
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| Athletic Shoe: Shoes designed for optimum performance while playing a specific sport. With cushioning and support designed for a specific activity, athletic footwear may be designed specifically for high performance in basketball, golf, tennis, hiking, running, tennis, walking, or a range of other sports.
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| Baboosh: Also known as a Turkish slipper, this soft, flat shoe is distinguished by its pointed, turned up toe. It is also popular in Morocco . This heelless shoe is often made with a soft leather upper, and it is worn by both men and women.
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| Baby Louis: This low heel measures one and a half inches or shorter. It is the shorter version of a Louis heel. The Louis heel begins with a wide section as it attaches to the sole of the shoe, tapering in the middle of the heel, and becoming wider again at the base, just before the heel touches the floor. The Louis heel, which dates to the seventeenth century, is also known as the French heel.
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| Back Seam: The line of stitching usually present at the outer back of the shoe or boot, at the heel of the shoe. It is also known as a heel seam. This vertical line visually separates the right side from the left side of the shoe, though it is often covered by a thin strip of material called a back-strap or back-strip.
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| Backpack: A style of knapsack or pack, often constructed of canvas or nylon, sometimes with a lightweight metal frame, designed to be carried on one's back through the use of two straps on the back of the pack, connecting the top and bottom edges. Also the name for a style of athletic shoe meant to be worn on long hikes in which such a knapsack would be carried. Characterized by cushioning and support specific to hiking and related activities.
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| Back-Strap/Strip: A strip of leather or a similar material used to cover the seam on the back of a shoe, directly over the heel. This seam is known as the back seam. The term back strap is also used to describe the strap of leather or fabric, usually with elastic or a buckle, which is wrapped around the ankle to hold the shoe in place, although ankle strap is the more common name.
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| Ball: The area of the sole of the foot between the toes and the arch of the foot. Also used to describe the corresponding section of a shoe or sole. The ball is the widest part of the foot, and also the widest part of the shoe when viewed from the sole.
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| Ballerina Flat: A low, flat heeled shoe inspired by the shoes worn by ballerinas. Meant for everyday wear, this type of slip-on shoe features a rounded toe. It may have an ankle strap or ankle wrap, though not necessarily. Usually lightweight with a thin sole.
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| Ballet Flat: Inspired by the shoes worn by a ballerina, this low, flat heeled shoe is meant for everyday wear. A slip-on shoe with a rounded toe, it may include an ankle wrap or ankle strap. This style of shoe is lightweight, with a thin sole.
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| Balmoral: Also called a “Bal”, this lace up style refers to the way an Oxford shoe is tied. The two sides being laced together start out very close together at the bottom of the laces, closer to the toe of the shoe, with the gap growing larger towards the top of the shoe, forming a “V” shape. When tied correctly, only the tip of the tongue will be seen. This style of shoe is similar to the Blucher, but the lace-up portion of the shoe is sewn down, so it cannot be adjusted for wider or narrower feet. The name is derived from Prince Albert , who wore a pair of shoes with this type of construction while on holiday at the Balmoral castle in England .
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| Bar Shoe: Any of several styles of women's shoes with a strap over the instep or vamp to hold the shoe onto the foot. The bar or bars may be arranged in several ways. This style includes the Mary Jane as well as the T-Bar and others. Usually designed with a closed toe, the bar shoe typically has a heel height of at least two inches.
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| Bellows Tongue: Shoe tongue attached to both the top and sides of the shoe. Mainly used on men's dress shoes and athletic shoes, particularly those designed for hiking. The bellows tongue may be found in leather, canvas, or mesh to offer maximum ventilation. Fitting over the top of the foot, a bellows tongue makes it easier for the foot to slide into the shoe.
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| Bicycle Toe: Type of shoe designed with two vertical lines of stitching which run from the toe of the shoe to the shoe's opening. Named because shoes designed for professional cycling are often designed with this type of toe, though this design detail is also commonly found on men's dress shoes, casual shoes, or boots. Bicycle toe clips are unrelated to the bicycle toe design. These clips attach to a bicycle pedal, enclosing the front part of the cyclist's shoe.
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| Blucher: A lace-up type shoe, typically designed as a dress shoe for men, distinguished by the side flaps of material, usually leather, that are joined across the top of the foot using lacing. The “quarter”, or piece with the eyelets for lacing, is sewn on the outside of the vamp. This type of shoe is called a Derby style shoe. Similar to the Balmoral oxford, the Blucher is more adjustable because the bottom of the lace-up flaps are not attached to the shoe, so they can be adjusted for wider or narrower feet. The Blucher is named for the Prussian field mashal Gebhard Lebecht von Blucher, who ordered this style of shoes for his soldiers.
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| Boat Shoe: Also known as a boating shoe, deck shoe, or dock shoe, this type of shoe was originally meant to be worn when aboard a boat or on a dock. This casual shoe is characterized by a non-slip sole, lace-up closure, and quick-drying fabric, such as canvas, on the upper. It can usually be worn with or without socks. Often this style includes an eyelet and lacing detail around the opening for the foot.
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| Boot: Any type of footwear extending to the height of the ankle or higher. This style of shoe typically completely encloses the toes, and may extend as high as the thigh, though versions stopping at the knee are more common. Styles range from casual to dressy, and are made in a wide variety of materials including suede, leather, rubber, or fabric.
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| Boot Heel: This style of heel is wide and stable. It is typically not very high, but is usually between one and two inches. Also known as a chunky heel, it is typically found on boots and other shoes as a compromise between stability and heel height.
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| Bootie: A very short boot; may also be called a demi boot, ankle boot, bootee, shoe-boot, or “shootie.” The very short shaft on this style of boot ends near the ankle area. It covers the entire foot, and it usually distinguished from other footwear styles ending at the ankle by the existence of a heel, although the heel may be formed in one piece with the sole, and may be very low. Traditionally made with a warm lining for cold-weather wear by woman and children, the bootie has also become fashionable for casual wear.
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| Bottom: All parts of the underside of a shoe. This includes the sole, the heel, the insole, and the welt that joins the upper to the sole. The bottom includes everything situated under the foot when the shoe is worn. Along with the upper, it makes up the whole of the shoe.
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| Bracing: In shoe construction, the thread used to sew the shoe's upper, which covers the top of the foot, to the insole, where the sole of the foot rests.
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| Brannock Device: Invented in 1927 by Charles Brannock, this shoe measuring device is used by most retail shoe stores and shoe makers. A metal device with sliding gauges, it is used to measure the length and width of the foot so that the corresponding shoe size can be determined, ensuring that the shoe will fit properly.
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| Break: A natural sign of wear that forms on shoes after time. This crease is located across the middle of the upper, between the toe box and the lacing or the opening for the foot. This crease across the vamp usually becomes more apparent in leather shoes, and will be more or less visible depending on the material used for the upper.
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| Brocade: A type of richly ornamented, heavy fabric with embroidered or embroidered-style raised designs. Usually silk or satin, though cotton or synthetic brocades are also available, the design typically incorporates gold or silver elements. Brocade is popular in Chinese or Asian-style designs. Developed in the 16th or 17th century in both Europe and China .
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| Brogan: General term for a thick, sturdy work shoe, especially one that is ankle-high. More specifically, it was used to describe the boots worn by soldiers in the American Revolutionary War and the American Civil War. During the Civil War, the standard brogan was square-toed, with two rows of four eyelets each for laces. Linked to the word bróg, the Irish word for shoe or boot. Today, the brogan is often given brogue detailing including perforations to emphasize the seams between each piece of leather.
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| Brogue: The British term for the wingtip, a style of men's dress shoe. These low-heeled shoes originating from Scotland and Ireland are usually constructed of heavy leather. This heavy oxford is characterized by its detailing. The upper consists of several distinct parts, with perforations and other decorations where the pieces meet to emphasize the seams. A brogue shoe is similar to a spectator style shoes. It is distinguished from similar shoe styles by the wingtip toecap, which features a point at the center of the foot, which forms a W shape, and a piece at each side of the foot extending back. It is also distinguished by the Derby style lacing. Other laced shoe styles are often given a brogue effect through punched designs and other ornamental decorations, this technique is called “brogueing” or “brougeing.”
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| Buckle: A fastener typically used at the end of a length of fabric or leather. Though usually metal, a buckle may be made in any number of materials which makes it decorative as well as functional. On shoes, this clasp is often used to fasten an ankle strap because of its adjustable nature. However, it can also be used for decorative purposes, in which case it is often oversized. The buckle clasp consists of a rectangular or rounded piece with one or more hinged pins. The buckle is fixed to one end of the strap, and the other end of the strap is perforated with holes through which the pin on the buckle is inserted, fastening the strap.
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| Built Heel: Heel type made from layers of material, usually wood, leather or fiber, pressed together in contrasting colors or tints. Similar to a stacked heel except that the layers often show more contrast against each other, although the terms are often used interchangeably.
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| Bunions: Inflammation of the bursa, or lower joint, of the big toe. This condition is nearly always caused by wearing shoes that are too tight, particularly those with pointed toes or high heels. These shoes place excessive pressure on the joint. As the joint becomes enlarged due to inflammation, the toe is forced towards the smaller toes. They cause pain, tenderness, and a limited range of motion, and can result in permanent deformation. Proper shoe fit can reduce the occurrence of bunions and relieve pressure on existing bunions. Orthotics can also be inserted in shoes that do not offer enough arch support to reduce the pressure placed on the joints.
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| Burnish: The process of buffing a shoe with a specialized tool. This method is particularly used on leather shoes. The burnished surface is polished, with a smooth and bright surface. The shoe may also be burnished with a specialized compound to give an antiqued effect.
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| Buskin: Type of laced boot dating to the sixteenth century. Made of soft leather and reaching to the calf or knee, the term particularly refers to boots which are open across the toes. Some historians refer to ancient Greek shoes as buskins because there is a visual similarity, leading to confusion over the exact meaning of the term. At various times it has also been used to refer to stockings or hosiery of various materials worn in the Roman Catholic Church.
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| Button: A small knob or disk used to fasten a strap, or to fasten two pieces of material to each other. Also called a toggle, this fastening device involves a disk or knob, usually round, attached to one end. The button is fastened by insertion through a loop or hole on the other side. Buttons are one of the oldest known style of fasteners. Though it usually serves a functional purpose, they are also used for decoration. They are constructed of a wide range of natural and synthetic materials including metal, ivory, glass, wood, ceramic, shell, bone, bakelite, and plastic, though today hard plastic is the most common material for mass-manufactured buttons. Buttons are measured in lignes, with 1 inch equal to 40 lignes.
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| Calcagnetti: The Italian term for Chopine, a fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth century shoe with an exaggerated platform sole. Particularly a women's style, with the sole made of cork or wood. Originally used as an overshoe to protect the shoes and clothing from becoming soiled. The higher the platform heel, the higher the status of the wearer; some examples are over 20 inches high. Also called a ciabattine.
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| Calceus: An ancient Roman shoe covering the ankle. Closed-toe shoe or boot typically worn with the toga outside the house, fastened with straps of leather tied around the leg or ankle.
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| Caleghero: The Italian term for ‘shoemaker,' as opposed to ‘Zavatero', a cobbler. The shoemaker makes new shoes, while the cobbler repairs old shoes.
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| Calfskin: The hide or leather of a young cow, or calf. Also called calf leather or calfskin leather. Known for being supple and soft, yet durable. This versatile leather is used on nearly every type of shoe, and it is among the highest quality of all types of leather.
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| Calluses: Hardened or thickened part of the skin, especially on the hands or feet. Usually caused by prolonged pressure or rubbing. This natural reaction of the plantar skin protects the underlying tissue from wear. Properly fitted or broken in shoes can help prevent calluses on the feet, while gloves may be worn to protect the hands from the formation of calluses.
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| Cambrelle: A specific brand of durable synthetic material used in hiking boots and other shoes designed for athletic wear. Known for its ability to wick moisture away from the skin, allowing the foot to breathe while adding warmth.
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| Cambridge : A style of slip-on dress or casual shoe, usually designed for men, with a low rise and elastic insets (or gussets) on each side of the foot instead of laces.
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| Cap Toe: An embellishment on the toe box of closed-toe shoe meant to provide both ornamentation and reinforcement. Distinguished by a straight line of stitching horizontally across the shoe just above the toe box. The material at the toe, is also known as a tip, may be a contrasting color or material to the upper of the shoe. Also known as a captoe or capped toe.
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| Casual After Sport: A type of casual shoe meant to be worn after athletic activity incorporating a sporty, comfortable design. Detail or form usually inspired by athletic shoes, but the casual after sport shoe is not designed for optimum performance while playing sports, as it often lacks the support and other features present in an athletic shoe. Similar to the athleisure style, and often used interchangeably.
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| Cemented Construction: A shoe construction technique in which the upper of a shoe is glued (cemented) instead of stitched to the sole. This technique usually results in a lighter and more flexible shoe. It may also be referred to as “cement lasted.”
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| Channel: A groove or row of holes made around the edge of an insole or outer. Designed so that the stitches holding the shoe together will sit below the surface of the leather, which protects the thread from wear.
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| Cheerleading Shoe: A style of lace-up athletic shoe designed for the sport of cheerleading. Lightweight shoes with cushioning and support, with indents in the sole to allow the fingers to firmly grasp the soles during aerial moves. Most shoes of this style are solid white with an accent color on the sides; cheerleading shoes are usually ordered with the team color as the accent color.
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| Chelsea Boot: A boot style, usually ankle height, with closed toe. Pull-on style featuring two large elastic panels on the shaft, to the left and to the right of the ankle. Popularized in England . Also know as a jodhpur boot.
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| Choo: Shortened name for shoes of the Jimmy Choo label, a British company founded in 1996 by couture shoe designer Jimmy Choo and Vogue accessories editor Tamara Mellon. Known for women's heeled shoes.
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| Chopine: A style of shoe worn in the fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth centuries. Characterized by an exaggerated platform sole, up to twenty inches tall, made of cork or wood. The taller the platform heel, the higher the status of the wearer. Mainly a women's shoe, this style was originally designed as an overshoe to protect shoes and clothing from becoming soiled as the wearer walks.
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| Chucks: A particular style of canvas sneaker-style shoes. Originally designed as a basketball shoe, though now accepted as a casual shoe for everyday wear. Full name Converse All Star “Chuck Taylor”; the slang term “chucks” originated in the 1970's as a shortened name of the designer of the shoe, Chuck Taylor.
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| Chukka Boot: A style of ankle-length boot usually worn by men featuring a plain closed toe. Lace-up style with either two or three eyelets for laces. Sometimes referred to as turf boots or Jodhpur boots. The name chukka originates from the game of polo. Chukka boots became popular for casual wear during the 1940's and 1950's, and are usually made of calfskin or suede.
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| Ciabattine: An Italian term for the chopine, a 16th and 17th century women's shoe characterized by an exaggerated platform sole made of cork or wood. This style of shoe was originally designed to be an overshoe, protecting the shoes and the lower edge of clothing from becoming soiled. Some examples have platform soles up to 20 inches high; the higher the platform, the higher the status of the wearer. Also known as a calcagnetti.
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| Circumference: Generally, the measurement around the perimeter of a closed figure or area. In shoes, the circumference refers to the measurement around the shaft of a boot. Taken at the widest part, usually near the top of the boot shaft.
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| Cleats: A style of specialized athletic shoe characterized by spikes, nubs, or other projections on the soles. These additions are designed to provide the wearer extra traction, and are usually worn for sports played on grass, such as baseball, soccer, or golf. The term may refer to the shoes as a whole, or to the spikes on the bottom of the sole.
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| Climatrac: A type of durable material often used as the lining in boots and shoes, particularly those worn for athletic activities or inclement weather. Known for being breathable and quick-drying.
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| Clogs: A style of slip-on shoe with an open heel, closed toe, and thick platform or wedge sole. The clog is commonly associated with Belgium , Denmark , Sweden , and the Netherlands . Traditionally, both the sole and the upper were made from wood, or the shoe would be formed by a leather upper nailed to a wooden sole. Today, clogs may be made in any number of materials, natural or synthetic.
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| Closed Seam: A type of seam which is stitched with two leather pieces placed face to face. After the stitching is complete, they are then opened out and flattened. This type of seam, also called a close seam, is one of two main shoemaking seams; the other is the overlapped seam.
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| Club Shoe: A style of women's shoe worn for dancing or other entertainment activities. Typified by an exaggerated, narrow high heel, such as a stiletto. May also have a platform sole. May be open or closed toe. Also known as a clubbing shoe or dancing shoe.
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| Cobbler: A person who repairs or mends shoes. Traditionally, this trade has been separate from that of the shoemaker, who makes new shoes. A cobbler traditionally works on old shoes or uses recycled leather. Today, the terms are often used interchangeably.
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| Collar: A strip of leather stitched around the outside of the opening of a boot or shoe. May be functional, decorative, or both. Sometimes this material is padded for comfort, providing for a more secure fit and keeping debris from entering the shoe around the foot. The collar is usually, though not always, the same material as the upper. Also known as the rim, topline, or throat.
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| Column Heel: A style of women's high heel that is cylindrical in shape. It may flare slightly at either end, or have perfectly straight sides all the way from top to bottom.
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| Combination Last: A last, or shoe form, designed so that the heel is much narrower than the width of the toe box. Differs from a standard last because the heel or instep is narrower than usual.
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| Cone Heel: A style of women's high heel that is rounded, but much wider at the top portion of the heel attached to the sole of the shoe, tapering down to the bottom portion of the heel that touches the floor, forming a conical or triangular shape.
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| Congress Boot: A style of ankle-length men's boot popular in the late nineteenth century and earlier twentieth century characterized by wide elastic panels on both the right and left of the shaft. This lace-less boot often featured a tab at the heel and sometimes at the front to aid the wearer in pulling the boot onto the foot. Similar in style to the Cambridge boot, this style is also called the congress gaiter.
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| Continental: A style of medium or high heel with a curved or cylindrical back portion facing away from the shoe, and a flat front facing the toe of the shoe.
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| Contoured Footbed: An insole that has been pre-formed to the shape of a foot before insertion into the shoe. Often with toe-shaped indents or extra padding for the arch, the contoured insole is designed to provide better support for the foot.
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| Cordovan: A type of leather typically made from horsehide, although traditionally made using goatskin until the eighteenth century. Usually made from the fibrous muscle on the rump of the horse. Known for being soft and smooth, this type of leather is particularly popular for wingtips and loafers. Also called cordwain leather. When tanned, this equine leather becomes a rich, dark burgundy or reddish-brown color, and the term cordovan is also used to describe the color itself.
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| Cordwain: A type of red-dyed leather traditionally made from goatskin. Since the eighteenth century, it has been made using horsehide, typically from the rump of the horse. Characteristically soft and smooth, this leather is popular for many shoe styles. It is also called cordovan leather.
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| Corn: A callus of dead skin, usually found on the toe or other surface of the foot, although not often on the thick plantar skin such as that found on the heel of the foot. A corn appears as a round area with a distinct focal point. Usually the result of continuous friction or pressure concentrated on a small area, such as when ill-fitting shoes are worn, particularly those that are too tight. Though a natural occurrence of the body's attempts to protect itself, corns can be painful, particularly if they grow large. Properly fitted or broken in shoes can help prevent corns, which are also called a clavus (plural clavi).
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| Corporate Casual: A style of shoe that is appropriate for the work environment, but may be more casual than a full dress shoe. Examples include closed-toe flat shoes for women or non-leather, non-athletic shoes for men. Suitable for relaxed corporate environments or “casual Friday” dress codes.
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| Counter: A piece of stiff material, such as leather, placed in the heel area of a shoe during shoe construction. It is layered between the lining and the upper, and is used to retain the shape of the heel area. This reinforcement is also called a heel stiffener.
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| Court: A classic style of slip-on women's shoe, also called a pump. Usually, this shoe style has no fastener and a low front cut. May have any heel shape or height, though usually a medium or high heel. May have a pointed or round toe shape. Though usually a women's shoe, the name is derived from a men's formal dress shoe from the Victorian period, usually worn with silk knee-high stockings and breeches. This style of shoe was also called the opera shoe or opera slipper.
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| Crepe Sole/Crepe Rubber: A natural type of rubber using dried latex from the rubber tree, usually requiring minimal processing. When used for shoe soles, this type of rubber gives the sole a crinkled texture. Though durable and flexible, it may slip against wet surfaces. |
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Croc Embossed: Leather or simulated leather that has been stamped or pressed to look like crocodile or alligator skin. This faux crocodile pattern usually features a pattern of box or circle-like shapes in various sizes to simulate the pattern of crocodile skin. Also called croco embossed or embossed leather.
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| Crocodile Skin: Exotic leather made from a crocodile's skin. Similar in appearance to alligator skin, with a visible scale pattern and slightly three-dimensional feel. The scales may be rectangular or rounded and of varying sizes depending on the size of crocodile as well as the section of the body from which the skin was taken. Crocodile skin is naturally brown or green in color, though it is often dyed. Very similar in appearance to alligator skin; the two are often mistaken for each other.
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| Cross Training: A type of athletic shoe designed for versatility and high performance in multiple sports, usually running, aerobics, and weight training, with cushioning and support to aid in a variety of sporting activities. This style of shoe is also known as a cross trainer. |
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Cuban: A type of medium to high heel which begins wide where it attaches to the sole of the shoe, and then becomes narrower towards the bottom, where the heel touches the floor. This tapering occurs in an angular manner, unlike a Louis heel which tapers in a curved manner. The sides and front of the Cuban heel have little to no curvature or tapering. |
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Curing: A step in the production of leather from an animal hide. During this process, the hides are treated with various chemicals to prepare them for tanning. |
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Cushioning: Soft padding on the inside of a shoe, usually on the insole. Functions to provide comfort and support for the foot. Particularly evident in the insoles or midsoles of athletic shoes. |
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D'Orsay: A style of women's heeled shoe, or pump, in which the sides are cut away, revealing the arch of the foot. Because of the lack of sides, the heel and toe areas are un-attached. May be slip-on style or with an ankle strap or ankle wrap. Also called a D'Orsay pump. |
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Damask: A thick fabric usually made of linen, silk, cotton, or rayon. Usually characterized by flat, rich patterns formed by weaving. Often woven so that different threads reflect the light differently according to the viewing angle. First produced in China , popularized by Damascus in the twelfth century. |
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Demi Boot: A short boot, with a shaft ending at or near the anklebone. Also known as an ankle boot or bootie. Distinguished from other footwear covering the ankle by the existence of a distinct heel, though the heel may be made in one piece with the rest of the sole and may be very flat. This style of boot may have any height of heel. |
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Distressed Leather: Leather which has undergone an artificial process to give it the appearance of being aged and worn. Natural defects in the hide, such as scratches, wrinkles, or healed scars, are often enhanced during the distressing process because they are considered a positive characteristic. |
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Dressing: A polish, gloss, or similar substance applied in a layer to a finished shoe to maintain or perfect the shoe's appearance as one of the last steps of the shoe construction process. Many such substances are also available to maintain the finish of a shoe once it has been worn. |
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Dri-Lex: A particular brand of material often used for shoes consisting of two layers. The interior layer is composed of Hydrofil, a nylon fiber known for its moisture absorbing qualities. The outer layer is moisture resistant, and is knitted together with the underlayer. Shoes using Dri-Lex are designed to be cooler and dryer, and therefore more comfortable for the wearer. |
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Driving Moc: A simple slip-on shoe for men and women styled like a moccasin with a specialized rubber grip sole. The sole may be extended up the back of the shoe, in a section that is sometimes called a heel bumper. The rubber sole provides better traction for braking or accelerating, and this style of shoe is often designed for comfort during long trips. Designed specifically for driving, though also worn as casual shoes in other situations. Also called a driving moccasin. |
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Dual Density Midsole: A section of cushioning foam inserted into the sole of athletic shoes between the outsole (the part of the sole that touches the ground) and the insole, which touches the foot. More dense at the ball of the foot, it is designed to provide stability for the foot and disperse weight. |
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Duty Shoe: A shoe designed for work, particularly within the healthcare field. Designed with cushioning and support specific to those professions, particularly worn by those who remain standing for long periods of time. |
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E.V.A.: Ethylyne Vinyl Acetate is a synthetic polymer often used for the outsoles of shoes, which is the layer of sole that touches the ground. This material is of a category known as “expanded rubber” or “foam rubber.” Easily shaped by heat and pressure, the E.V.A. outsole provides shock-absorbing support for the foot. |
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Elastic Gore: An elastic fabric panel inserted into certain styles of shoes to provide stretch. Sometimes used in place of lacing or other closure devices, or to adjust fit or comfort. Usually inserted on both the left and right sides of the boot, though not always. The Cambridge , Chelsea Boot, and Congress boot are several styles of shoes traditionally utilizing an elastic gore, although today elastic panels are used in many styles of casual slip-on shoes. |
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Embossed Leather: Leather with a pressed or stamped design for ornamental purposes. The pattern may simulate exotic animal skin, such as snake or crocodile, or may be a random pattern or other decorative style. |
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Energy Return: The spring-back created by the energy of the foot striking the ground. This response aids in maintaining an effective stride. Many athletic shoes are designed for maximum energy return, reducing the stress and fatigue associated with walking, or running. |
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Engineer Boot: A style of heavy leather work boot originally designed to be worn by the Army Corps of Engineers. Also worn as motorcycle boots. Pull-on boots characterized by straps around the base of the shaft or across the instep and at the top of the shaft; straps usually have a metal buckle. Boots have a heel height of less than one inch, may be mid-calf or knee length, and are generally black or dark brown leather. |
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Espadrille: A style of casual shoe or sandal usually worn by women. Can be either flat or heeled with a platform or wedge shape. Characterized by raffia, straw, jute, rope, or a similar material covering the sole area. Originating in Spain , this shoe traditionally has an upper of canvas or a similar woven material. |
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Eyelet: A small hole in leather, fabric, or a similar material for laces or ribbon to pass through. Usually placed in pairs. May be functional, decorative, or both. May be reinforced with a metal or plastic ring, called a grommet, to prevent the lace from tearing the material. Informally called lacing holes. |
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Faux Leather: Any manmade material that has been specially treated to create a leather-like appearance and feel. Usually made of polyurethane, vinyl, or another synthetic material, and used as a replacement for leather in shoes, clothing, accessories, and other items. Also known as imitation leather. |
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Fiberboard: An inexpensive material usually made from wood pulp, though it may include other synthetic or natural fibers bonded with resin or latex. Often used as inserts in the heel or toe section of shoes as a stiffening material (called a counter). |
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Finish: The process of creating the final appearance of a shoe. Generally, a product is applied to give the material of the upper a certain look. Examples include a polish to create a high-gloss finish, or a compound that is rubbed off to create an antiqued appearance. The polishing compound itself may also be described by the term ‘finish.' |
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Fins: A footwear style worn for snorkeling, swimming, and other water activities. Paddle-like devices shaped like the fins of fish, worn on the feet as an aid in swimming. Usually constructed entirely of rubber or another waterproof material. Slip-on style held onto the foot by suction when in the water; may also have a small strap with a buckle over the instep. Also known as swim fins or flippers. |
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Fisherman Sandal: A style of sandal characterized by a closed toe and multiple wide vertical and horizontal straps. Flat shoe with a thick sole, with the upper usually constructed of thick brown leather with contrast stitching. Similar in style to a huarache. |
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Fitness: A particular style of athletic shoe designed for gym workouts. Similar to the cross trainer, with versatile cushioning and support suitable for a range of fitness activities. |
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Flat: Any style of shoe characterized by the lack of a heel; may also refer to a shoe with a heel height of less than one inch. |
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Flat Foot: A condition in which the arch of the foot is collapsed, and this area of the foot rests or nearly rests in contact with the ground along with the rest of the foot. Either the arch failed to develop, or the arch has fallen. Most flat foot conditions are asymptomatic. This condition may occur in one or both feet, and is also referred to as fallen arches. |
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Flat Heel: Shoes with no heel or a heel height of less than one inch. This type of shoe is also referred to as a “flat.” |
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Flip-Flop: A casual style of sandal with a lightweight sole. Named because of the sound the sole makes against the ground as the wearer walks. Usually constructed with two straps which connect between the big toe and the second toe. Also referred to as a ‘thong.' |
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Footbed: Also known as insole. The inside portion of a shoe, where the foot rests. |
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Footbinding: A Chinese practice of tightly binding the feet of young girls and women to keep the feet as small as possible. Practiced from the 10th century to the early 20th century. The practice was outlawed in 1949. During the footbinding process, the arch of the foot becomes broken. The ideal bound foot was said to be three to three and a half inches from toe to heel, termed the Golden Lotus. This permanent deformity can cause pain and disabilities, including difficulty walking, to the woman with bound feet. |
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Footgear: Any covering for the feet, such as boots or shoes. |
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Forefoot: The front half of the foot, particularly the section between the ball and the toes. May also be used to refer to the corresponding section of the shoe. |
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Foxing: A thin strip of rubber wrapped around the perimeter of the outer shoe, usually cemented, to join the sole to the upper. Most often found on canvas sneakers. |
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French Heel: Also known as a Louis heel. Style of high heel which is wide at the section attached to the sole of the shoe, tapering with a curve in the middle of the heel length, and becoming wider again before the heel touches the floor. This style of heel dates to the seventeenth century. |
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Full Grain Leather: A type of leather, typically cowhide, characterized by the natural texture of the skin remaining visible. Typically the full thickness of the hide is used, offering strength, durability, and often a waterproof outer layer. |
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Gait: A particular individual's style of stepping, walking, or running. |
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Gait Control: The control of the foot movements when walking or running. |
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Gaiter: An overshoe with a fabric or leather upper. Can be attached to the shoe, though it is usually worn over the shoe or boot. Drawn closed around the leg using a fastening system such as zippers, laces or straps. Usually worn to protect the ankle and portion of the legs below the knees from the elements or high water. Also worn for horseback riding, and as a part of some military uniforms and historically as clerical clothing for bishops and archdeacons of the Anglican Communion. |
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Galosh: A waterproof boot or overshoe, typically made of rubber. Worn to protect the feet from mud or water, particularly in inclement weather. Usually knee-high, and may be worn instead of shoes or over the shoes. Also known as a rain boot, Wellington boot, or wellies. |
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Gardening Clog: A style of backless, slip-on footwear designed for gardening. Usually made of rubber or a similarly waterproof material. |
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Geta: A style of traditional Japanese platform sandal resembling both flip-flops and clogs. Usually with a wooden sole and simple thong passing between the big toe and the second toe to hold the shoe on the foot. The wooden sole, or dai, may vary in shape from oval to rectangular. Often designed with two platforms, one underneath the heel of the foot and one underneath the ball of the foot, giving the Geta a distinctive design. These platforms, also made of wood, are called “teeth,” and may be carved from one piece of wood along with the sole. The front heel may be tapered, causing the wearer to lean forward while walking. |
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Ghillie: A style of laced shoe, typically tongueless and low cut. Characterized by the use of loops of fabric, ribbon, metal, or leather attached to the front opening for the laces to pass through in place of eyelets. Laces may extend to tie around the ankle. Traditional Scottish shoe; also spelled ‘Gillie.' |
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Girth: The circumference of the foot as measured at a specific point. Most commonly taken around the joints or ball of the foot, or the widest part of the foot. Used to fit a shoe to a particular wearer. |
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Goatskin: Any form of leather made from the skin or hide of a goat. |
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Golden Lily: A traditionally style of Chinese shoe designed to be worn by women with bound feet. The practice was outlawed in 1949, so the Golden Lily form of shoe is no longer worn. Traditionally made of heavily embroidered silk. |
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Goodyear Welt: A style of shoe constructed using a visible length of stitching around the perimeter of a shoe's outer, joining the sole to the upper. Provides greater durability and shape retention. Typically used on boots or heavy leather shoes. |
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Gore-Tex: A modern brand of lightweight, waterproof and breathable material. Used as a lining primarily in outerwear and shoes, particularly those meant to be worn during athletic activities, in wet conditions, or during inclement weather. |
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Grain: The natural patterning of the outer surface of a piece of leather, which was formerly covered by hair. Each type of animal hide has a characteristic grain pattern, allowing for identification of the type of leather. |
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Gym Shoe: A style of athletic shoe with a rubber sole and lightweight canvas upper, usually with laces. Also called a sneaker. The term may also used to describe any athletic shoe. |
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Haircalf: A material made from the skin of a young cow. Characterized by a soft, furry texture. |
| Harness Boot: A style of closed-toe boot, usually with a shaft ending between the ankle and the knee. Most often constructed of heavy leather in black or brown. Characterized by straps, usually leather, across the instep or front of the shaft and heel, often with a buckle or metal ring detail connecting the two straps. Also known as a motorcycle boot, similar to an engineer boot. |
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Heel: The padded back portion of the sole of the foot. This term also refers to the corresponding area of the underside of the shoe, which may be raised when compared to the rest of the sole. This second meaning is also known as a “lift.” |
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Heel Breast: The vertical surface of a shoe heel facing the toe of the shoe; when the shoe is worn, this surface of the heel is forward-facing. |
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Heel Height: A measurement of the vertical distance from the bottom of the sole of the shoe to the surface of the heel that touches the floor. Typically measured in increments of an eighth of an inch. |
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Heel Seat: The part of the insole of the shoe where the heel of the foot rests. Also used to describe the area of the outsole of the shoe where the heel is joined to the shoe. |
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Heel Spurs: A foot condition caused by inflammation characterized by soft calcium deposits growing on the “plantar fascia”, a band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, where it connects to the heel bone. These deposits are identified via X-Ray. This condition typically causes pain in the heel area. |
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Herringbone Tweed : A rough woolen fabric characterized by a jagged line pattern formed by alternating V shapes, usually constructed in two colors or shades. |
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Hidden Gore: An elastic panel set into the upper of a shoe for fit or comfort. Covered by the shoe's tongue or one or more pieces of material sewn over it. |
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Hide: The skin of a large animal that has been treated and tanned in preparation for use in clothing, footwear, or other products. Leather may use the entire thickness of the hide, or a portion of it. |
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Houndstooth Check: A pattern consisting of a diagonal checked or “toothed” design often woven into a material in two contrasting colors. |
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Huarache: A type of woven casual shoe consisting of a flat sole and woven leather upper usually utilizing thin strips of leather woven in a crossed pattern. Originating in Mexico and Central America . Some styles of the huarache are similar to a fisherman sandal. |
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Imitation Leather: Any material that has been treated and given a finish to look and feel like leather. Usually consisting of polyurethane, vinyl, or another manmade material, and used as a replacement for natural leather. Also known as faux leather. |
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Ingrown Nails: Nails with corners or sides growing abnormally into the skin, causing pain. Many causes including improper nail trimming, heredity, poor foot structure, injury, or pressure from shoes.
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| Injection Molded Construction: A method of making shoe soles by heating the synthetic material for the sole, such as PVC or EVA, into a liquid, and then pouring into a specially created mold. Commonly found in mass-produced shoes because it is an efficient manner of creating uniform soles.
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| Inseam: The hidden inner seam in a welted shoe holding together the welt, upper, lining, and insole.
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| Insole: The part of the inside of the shoe where the foot rests. Runs the full length of the inside of the shoe, and is usually cushioned. Also known as the footbed. |
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Instep: The section of the top of the foot between the toes and the ankle. Also the corresponding section on the upper of the shoe. May also be used to describe the section on the bottom of the shoe commonly called the arch. |
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Jelly Or Jellie: A type of casual shoe or sandal made entirely of a rubbery plastic material, such as PVC, using the injection molding process. The shoe itself may be formed in many styles. Produced in many colors, often transparent or translucent, and usually worn by women or children. |
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Jodhpur Boot: A style of ankle-length boot usually worn by men, traditionally for equestrian activities. Characterized by a thin strap around the ankle, sometimes with a buckle on the side. May have two or three eyelets for lacing, or have gores on each side to facilitate a pull-on style. Also known as a Chukka boot when laced, and a Chelsea boot when pull-on style. |
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Kabkab: A traditional platform clog or sandal with wooden sole worn by women in Turkish bathhouses to protect their feet from the heated and wet floor. Stilted shoes often with extreme heights. Usually constructed with two platforms, one underneath the heel of the foot and one underneath the ball of the foot, similar in style to the Japanese geta. Wooden, usually with decorative details such as mother-of-pearl.
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| Kid Leather: Leather made from goatskin, particularly from the hide of a young goat. Soft, supple, and lightweight, with a fine grain. Also known as kidskin.
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| Kidskin: Soft leather made from the hide of young goats. Known for being lightweight, soft, and supple, with a fine grain. Also known as kid leather.
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| Kiltie: A fringed tongue or flap set over the instep or vamp of a shoe as a decorative detail. Usually used on loafers and moccasins, it conceals all or part of the lacing when used on a lace-up shoe.
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| Kipskin: A type of leather made from the hide of a young adult cow. This soft leather is the intermediate grade between the calfskin of a young cow and cowhide from an adult cow. |
| Kitten Heel: A type of low heel on a women's shoe measuring less than 1 1/2 inches high. Usually in a tapered, narrow shape similar to a short stiletto heel, with a curve setting the heel in from the back edge of the shoe. Introduced in the late 1950s, sometimes referred to as “trainer heels” because of their short height. |
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Laces: A string, cord, or strip or material strung through the pairs of holes on either side of the opening of a shoe in order to pull the shoe closed around the foot. Usually tied in a bow after being threaded through the top row of eyelets or holes. |
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Lambskin: Any type of leather made from the hide of a young sheep. |
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Lapped Seam: A seam produced by layering one part or piece of material over another, with the front part of both pieces of material facing outward, and stitching them together. Also known as an overlay when used for decorative purposes. This type of seam is also known as an overlapped or overlapping seam. |
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Last: A three-dimensional form commonly made of wood, though sometimes of metal or plastic, to represent the shape of the foot inside the shoe. Used to construct the shoe's upper and give it its shape. The last determines the fit and size of the shoe, similar to the use of a mannequin for clothing construction. |
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Lasting Margin: The seam created once the upper of the shoe has been formed, when the bottom edge of the upper is turned under and attached to the insole or sole of the shoe. This material may be trimmed off later in the shoe construction process. |
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Latchet: A shoe fastening where the top of the upper extends over the instep of the foot in a tab or strap-like formation. They may overlap and be joined by a buckle, or they may be joined by a lace or ribbon which is tied. |
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Leather: Any material made from the skin or hide of an animal that has been chemically prepared and tanned for use, typically though not always with the hair removed. |
| Lift: A raised area on the rear end of the sole of a shoe, also called a heel. May also refer to the individual layers of leather or leather board composing the heel. |
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Light Hiking: A style of athletic shoe or boot designed for day hikes, but not ideal for long hikes or steep grades. Designed with cushioning and support for rugged terrain. Similar to an approach shoe. |
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Lining: The material covering the inside of the upper of the shoe. May cover all or part of the interior surface of the upper. Typically the layer closest to the foot. May be composed of leather, fabric, or a synthetic material. |
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Lizard: A type of exotic leather made from the skin of a lizard. Usually characterized by a speckled appearance or pattern of small circles and a grainy appearance. May also be called lizard skin. |
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Loafer: A flat slip-on closed toe shoe with rounded front. Casual shoe worn mostly by men, first worn in the 1930s. Lightweight shoe made of leather, with no fasteners. May have a small tongue. Sometimes with tassels or metal decorations on the front. Constructed like a moccasin. |
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Lotus Foot: The desired result of the traditional Chinese practice of footbinding, or the binding of the feet of young girls and women to keep them as small as possible. Practiced from the 10th century until it became illegal in 1949. The ideal bound foot was said to be three to three and a half inches from toe to heel. Women felt great pride at reaching this standard, also called the Golden Lotus. The Lotus Foot is a permanent deformity causing pain and difficulty walking. |
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Lotus Slipper: An intricately embroidered silk shoe worn on a foot that has been bound according to traditional Chinese footbinding tradition in place from the tenth century to its outlaw in 1949. In this tradition, the feet of young girls and women were bound to keep them as small as possible. Ideally, the slipper measures three inches long, at which point the woman was said to have achieved the Golden Lotus or Lotus Feet. |
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Louis Heel: A style of high heel in which the widest section is that attached to the sole of the shoe. The heel then tapers with a curve, becoming thinnest at the middle of the heel length, and then tapers again with a curve outward before the heel touches the floor. Also called a French heel. |
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Louis Or French: A particular style of high heel popularized by Louis XIV. Characterized by a curve so that the widest section of the heel is that attached to the underside of the shoe, and the thinnest is the section in the middle of the heel height. |
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Lucite: A type of transparent or translucent acrylic or plastic developed during the 1930s. Hard material often used for shoe heels, straps, or portions of the upper to create the illusion of glass or invisibility. |
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Lug Sole: A thick and rugged rubber sole with heavy treading to provide secure footing. Often used on work shoes or boots, or those used for climbing and other athletic activities on rough terrain. |
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Lycra/Neoprene: A blend of two materials used in shoe uppers. Lycra is a stretchy material used to provide a soft lining, while Neoprene is a synthetic rubber providing waterproof qualities. |
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Mary Janes: A style of usually closed-toe heeled shoe for women or girls characterized by one or more straps, usually wide, across the instep. The strap may be elastic or use a buckle or button fastener. May have a low, medium, or high heel; the toe job is usually short and rounded. Also known as maryjanes or babydoll shoes. |
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Mersey Boot: A short boot extending to the ankle or slightly higher. Characterized by visible elastic gussets on both the right and left side of the shaft or a zippered closure, as well as a low heel. Also called the Beatle boot because of its popularity with members and fans of the Beatles. |
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Metatarsal Bones: The five long bones located on the top of the foot sloping down from the ankle to the toes. These bones assist in propelling the body forward when walking or running. |
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Microfiber: A modern polyester synthetic knit fabric. Characterized by the use of ultra-fine fibers with less than 1 denier, allowing for a close knit and smooth texture. Microfiber is used for its flexibility, durability, and ability to wick moisture away from the body. Also known as microfibre (British) and kanebo. |
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Middle Or Middle Sole: A layer in the sole between the outsole, which is the outermost layer, and the insole, which is the top layer of the sole. This section is shock absorbent and provides cushioning and stability. Also described as a mid-sole or midsole. |
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Mid-Sole: A layer between the outsole, which is the bottom of the sole that touches the ground, and the insole, which is the layer that touches the foot. This section of the sole is designed to absorb shock and provide cushioning and stability. Also described as a midsole, middle, or middle sole. |
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Moc Toe: Short for moccasin toe, a style of closed toe shoe with a visible seam or gathered effect with visible stitching around the toe box separating the top and sides of the toe box with a U shaped line of gathering or stitching. Originally seen on moccasin-style shoes. |
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Moccasin: A style of flat closed-toe shoe without a distinct heel. Usually made entirely of suede or leather; may not include an insole, though a reinforced sole may be added on top of the leather sole. Originally a Native American style, sometimes constructed with the upper and sole in one piece. Flexible and lightweight. Often with visible stitching to create a gathered effect along the perimeter of the toe box; may be decorated with fringed detailing. |
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Mod Style: Any shoe with styling characteristic of the 1960's youth culture. May include bright, high-contrast patterns, pop-art details, or geometric shapes. Also used to refer to several shoe shapes popular during this era. |
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Monk Shoe Or Strap: A closed-toe shoe, lace-less and usually worn by men. Flat or with a low heel. Characterized by a strap across the instep or the lower edge of the shoe opening which buckles on the outer side of the shoe. This strap is known as a Monk Strap. |
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Motion-Control: A feature in an athletic shoe designed to control the foot, stopping it from rolling inward and placing the weight of the body on the inner surface of the foot (pronation). |
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Motorcycle Boot: Any of several styles of boot with a shaft extending to the mid-calf or knee, ideal for riding a motorcycle. Often characterized by thick, durable soles and thick leather upper and shaft, usually in black or brown. May feature leather straps across the inset, behind the heel, or at the top of a shaft, with metal buckles. Styles of motorcycle boot include the harness boot and the engineer boot. |
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Mukluks: A style of soft, lightweight boot based on the moccasin originally worn by Eskimos and constructed of reindeer skin or sealskin. Leather upper, with a shaft extending almost to the knee with fur or faux fur covering. May also have a fur lining. The top of the boot shaft often features a drawstring and one or more fur pom-poms. May also be adorned with beadwork. |
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Mule: A backless, closed-toe slip-on shoe with no fasteners. May have any heel shape and height. |
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Muslin: A woven cotton fabric made in any weight from sheer to heavy, with a smooth or coarse finish depending on the quality of cotton thread used. May have printed, woven, or embroidered patterns. |
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Nailed Construction: A technique in which the parts of the shoe are attached to each other using small nails as an alternative to stitching. |
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Napa Leather: A soft and supple type of sheepskin. Also known as Nappa leather. |
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Negative Heel: A type of heel that is lower than the height of the rest of the sole, in contrast to more common heel types where the heel is raised in comparison to the rest of the sole. Usually seen in comfort footwear, the negative heel is used to improve posture and reduce stress on the body. The presence of a negative heel makes the sole a rocker sole, causing the body's weight to shift more towards the heel. |
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Nubuck: A type of supple and lightweight leather that has been buffed, brushed or sanded to give it a slight nap or suede-like feel. The nap is like velvet, finer than that of suede. |
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Ombre: A dyeing technique for fabric. Ombré dyed fabric is shaded or graduated in tone from light to dark. Also known as dip dyeing or graduated dyeing. |
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Orthotic: An insole or other corrective device which is placed inside the shoe. Specially designed for comfort and support, especially used to relieve or correct an orthopedic problem. Usually prescribed by a podiatrist. |
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Outsole: The exterior layer of the sole of the shoe, which comes into contact with the ground. Usually built with durable materials that provide good traction. |
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Overlay: A decorative seam formed by the joining of two or more pieces of material by layering one on top of another. When used for functional shoe construction, it can also be known as a lapped seam or overlapped seam. |
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Overshoes: A shoe, boot, or similar covering that fits over regular shoes. Usually worn for extra protection from wet or cold conditions. May have a platform sole to elevate the wearer above the ground. |
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Oxford : A classic style of closed-toe shoe usually worn by men. A laced shoe, usually with a leather upper, though it may be any type or color of leather. Characterized by a closed front, meaning that the sides of the upper with the holes for lacing have been stitched together at the end closest to the toe box. Also called the Balmoral. |
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Pantofole: An Italian term for a pair of slippers or cork soled overshoes. The singular term is pantofola.
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| Patent Leather: A type of leather, usually cowhide, which has been specially varnished to create a hard, shiny surface. |
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Patten: A covering or shoe made of wood, leather, or rubber meant to be worn over regular shoes, usually for protection from wet, cold, or muddy situations. Also known as overshoes, and sometimes clogs. May have a thick or platform sole to raise the wearer above the ground. |
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Pebbled: A style of embossed leather finish made to resemble a surface covered in pebbles, with a characteristic surface of small, raised circular shapes. |
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Pebbled Grain: An embossed leather style designed to resemble a surface of pebbles. Characteristic surface of small, bumpy circular shapes covering the leather. |
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Peekaboo Toe: A type of shoe style with a mainly closed toe, except for a small, usually centered opening at the end of the toe box, allowing the tips of one or two toes to become visible. Also called a peep toe shoe. |
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Peep Toes: A style of shoe with a mostly closed toe, with the exception of a small opening to allow the tips of the toes to be visible. This opening is usually triangular in shape and positioned on the front of the toe box. Also called a peekaboo toe. |
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Penny Loafer: A style of flat closed-toe shoe usually made of leather. Slip-on style characterized by a flat strap across the vamp with a slit or notch. Originally fashionable to place a penny in this slit for good luck. |
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Perforation: A design or pattern of small holes pierced into a piece of material, such as the upper of a shoe. Usually used to form a decorative pattern. Also to aid in ventilation, especially in athletic shoes. |
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Pianelle: The Italian term for Chopine, a style of shoe worn mainly during the 16th and 18th centuries. Mainly a women's shoe, characterized b an exaggerated platform sole made of cork or wood. The taller the platform, the higher the status of the wearer. Originally designed as an overshoe meant to lift the wearer off the ground and protect the shoes and clothing from becoming soiled. |
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Pigskin: A type of leather made from the skin of a pig. |
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Pinafore: A closed toe shoe style characterized by an apron layer over the upper, covering the toe box. Usually with visible stitching to visually separate the apron from the rest of the upper. Also known as an apron toe. |
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Pinked: A decorative edge characterized by a zigzag, scalloped, or saw-toothed design. Also the punching of holes in leather in a pattern or design for ornamentation. |
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Piping: A thin strip of leather used for decorative purposes, usually applied along the seam of a shoe. May be the same material as the upper, or a contrasting color. Can also be formed by placing string under the material and stitching along it, forming a raised bump. |
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Pitch: The angle between the sole and the ground. It should be greater on shoes with high heels than on those with low heels. If this angle is too large, the heel may be the incorrect height for the shoe. |
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Platform Shoe: A shoe which is elevated using a thick sole or heel formed without any gap between the outsole and the ground along the full length of the sole. This platform generally follows the contours of the sole, so that it is widest at the ball of the foot and thinner at the instep. This platform may be formed of cork, wood, plastic, or a number of different natural or synthetic materials. |
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Platform Wedge: A shoe style combining the platform and wedge style heel. Elevated with a thick sole or heel, with no gap between the outsole and the ground along the full length of the sole. The height is taller at the back or heel end of the shoe than at the front or toes. |
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Plug: A style of shoe also called a moccasin. Flat and closed-toe, usually without a distinct heel. May be made entirely of suede or leather, though often with an additional outsole made of rubber or another synthetic material. Known for being flexible, lightweight, and comfortable. |
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Podiatry: The branch of medicine concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of diseases, injuries, and disorders related to the human foot. Those who practice podiatry are podiatrists. Also called chiropody. |
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Polyurethane: A synthetic/manmade material that is often used to simulate leather. In this use it may be called imitation leather or faux leather. Flexible and lightweight. Abbreviated PU. |
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Polyvinyl Chloride (Pvc): A semi-rigid man-made plastic material, usually shiny, used for shoe soles and heel counters to provide additional support. Because of its shiny surface, also used to imitate patent leather on shoe uppers. Abbreviated PVC. |
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Poulaine: A style of shoe originating in Poland popular during the 15th century. Characterized by an exaggerated pointed toe. Some laws attempted to define how long the toes were allowed to be by the class of the wearer. Worn by men and women, though mostly known as a men's shoe. Also called a crakow. |
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Pronation: The inward rolling of the foot during running or walking so that the inner edge of the sole bears most of the body's weight. Potentially a source of injury. |
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Pu: The abbreviation for polyvinyl chloride. A synthetic material known for being lightweight and flexible, it is often used in place of leather. In this use, it is also called faux leather or imitation leather. |
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Pumps: A style of lightweight slip-on women's shoe with a low cut front and typically no fastener. May have any heel height or shape, though usually with a heel of at least one inch. Toe shape may be pointed or round. Also known as a court shoe. |
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Quarter: The portion of the upper covering the heel and often the sides. Usually constructed in two pieces and joined at the back seam. |
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Quarter Lining: The lining of the rear part of a shoe. The layer that generally touches the heel of the foot. Usually made from leather or fabric. |
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Quarter Panel: The part of the upper of a shoe covering the sides of the foot, extending from the heel area to the toe area. |
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Rand : A leather or rubber strip cemented to the edge of the sole to make it level before the heel is attached. |
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Reticella Lace: A type of decorative fabric currently made by using a fine metal screen constructed with openings in a specific pattern. Usually forms a geometric design of squares and circles. Originally a form of lace in which threads were pulled from linen fabric to make a grid for stitching a pattern. Also known as Maltese lace. |
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Retro: Any style of shoe related to or invoking a popular style of the past, particularly a style from the mid-twentieth century. May be related to mod style. |
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Riding Boot: Any style of closed-toe boot designed for riding horses. Usually with a shaft extending to the knee, with a low and chunky heel. Usually made of thick leather. The term can also be used to describe a boot styled in this manner but unsuitable for equestrian activities. Also known as an equestrian boot. |
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Rim: The large opening in a shoe's upper where the foot is inserted into the shoe or boot. Also known as the topline, throat, or collar. |
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Round: A toe style on a closed-toe shoe with a toe box that is rounded, as opposed to squared or pointed. |
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Ruched: A type of styling for fabric in which the material has been gathered along a single line of stitching. Characterized by loose folds, gathers, or pleats. |
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Running Shoe: A type of athletic shoe designed for running, with cushioning and support for optimum performance in that sport. Not typically used to describe shoes worn for the sport of track. |
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Sabot: A thick wooden shoe made from a single block of wood that has been hollowed out, traditionally worn in some European countries. Also a sandal or shoe with a strap across the instep. |
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Saddle Shoes: A specific style of oxford shoe with an additional piece of leather across the middle top of the shoe, covering the center of the shoe and the sides, extending down to the sole on either side of the shoe. Named because this piece of leather resembles the saddle of a horse. The saddle is usually of a contrasting color to the rest of the shoe, particularly white with a black or brown saddle. |
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Safety Shoe: A style of shoe or boot with a built-in steel toe cap designed to protect the toes from damage, particularly from crushing injuries. Typically made of thick leather. Also known as a work boot. |
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Sandal: A style of shoe with an upper consisting of strips of leather, fabric, or another natural or synthetic material. The shoe may be slip-on style or fastened by tying or buckling these straps over the foot. Usually with an open toe, open back, and low heel. |
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Satin: A type of fabric with a smooth, glossy face and dulled back, and a soft, slippery texture. May be made of acetate, rayon, nylon, or silk. Also used to describe any material with a similarly smooth and glossy surface. |
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Scalloped: A decorative element in which the edge has been cut or otherwise ornamented with a series of continuous, identical curved shapes to form a border. |
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Scotch Grain: A style of embossed leather that has been given a bumpy, pebbled look, with small raised circular shapes covering the entire surface of the leather. |
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Sculpted Heel: A type of shoe heel that has been formed in a single piece of material rather than being assembled from separate pieces. |
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Shaft Height: A measurement of the height of a boot. Measured from the bottom surface of a heel, which touches the floor, to the opening at the top of the boot. May also be measured from the top of the arch underneath the foot to the top of the shaft. |
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Shank: The narrowest part of a shoe when viewed from the underside or sole. Located between the heel and the toes, underneath the arch of the foot. Also known as the instep, waist, or arch. |
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Shearling: The tanned skin or leather of a sheep or lamp with the wool still attached. Often used as a warm lining in shoes or boots. |
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Sheepskin: The skin, or leather made using the skin, of a sheep. The wool may or may not remain attached. |
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Shoe Anatomy: A diagram or drawing showing the various parts of a shoe. |
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Shoe Horn: A curved device made of horn, metal, or another material, to aid in slipping the foot into a shoe or boot. The device is used by fitting it into the heel of a shoe to stretch it away from the foot, providing more room for the foot to maneuver into the shoe. |
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Shoe Lace: A string, ribbon, or strip of material used to fasten shoes. Usually laced between pairs of eyelets, loops, or holes, and then tied. Also termed shoelace. |
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Shoe Sizes: A numerical indication of the size of shoe that will fit a particular person. Generally indicates the length of the shoe, with most shoes being produced in a standard width, although some shoes are also sized with a width notation. There are several different shoe-size systems used worldwide. |
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Side Leather: Leather that originates from the sides of an animal, particularly of a cow. |
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Silicone: A slippery compound used for waterproofing or providing water resistance, particularly on the outer or outsole of a shoe. |
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Siped: A type of outsole in which the bottom of the sole is cut with narrow grooves or channels. Often found in boat shoes because the pattern helps to disperse water and improve traction in wet areas, preventing the wearer from slipping. |
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Slides: A style of shoe or sandal with an open toe and back. Characterized by a band or strap across the toe or instep. No ankle strap, thong post, or toe ring. Can be flat or heeled. |
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Slingback: A style of shoe with a strap around the upper heel, usually with a buckle or section of elastic, to hold the shoe to the foot. Otherwise backless, may be open or closed-toe with any heel height. |
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Slip-On: Any style of shoe that slips onto the foot without any type of closure or fastener. |
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Slipper: A loose, lightweight shoe meant to be worn indoors. Usually a flat slip-on style with a lining designed for comfort and warmth. Also known as house shoes. |
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Slouched: A style of shoe upper or boot shaft designed in a material not stiff enough to stand up on its own, so it gathers towards the ankle or instep. |
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Smooth Leather: Any type of leather with a smooth surface. No embossing, pebbling, or visible grain. |
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Snakeskin: An exotic leather made from the hide of a snake. Characterized by a rough, scaly texture with a visible pattern of oval shaped scales. |
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Sneaker: A type of athletic or athletic-inspired shoe with a rubber sole. Usually with a lace-up canvas upper. Named because of the ability of the wearer to “sneak” around without making a noise due to the rubber sole. |
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Snip Toe: A style of closed-toe shoe characterized by an elongated and tapered toe box. Characterized by a flat and abrupt end to the toe, as if it has been “snipped.” Similar to the pointed toe style, except that the end is squared off, not pointed. |
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Sock-Liner: An insole or lining layer directly touching the foot. May be covering the upper or sole of the shoe, or both, and may be removable. |
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Sole: The bottom part of the shoe. May be used to refer to the outsole, which is the layer touching the ground, the insole, which touches the foot, the midsole between the two, or all of the layers between the foot and the ground except the heel. May also be used to refer to the bottom of the foot. |
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Sole Leather: A type of leather used for the sole of shoes and boots. Usually heavy leather, such as cowhide. |
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Solee: The bottom part of the shoe including the layer touching the ground, the layer touching the foot, or both. Usually spelled as ‘sole.' |
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Spandex/Neoprene: A blend of two materials often used as a shoe lining. Spandex fabric is stretchy and soft, and neoprene rubber is waterproof and pliable. |
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Split Leather: A type of material made from the lower layers of an animal hide that have been split away from the upper or grain layers, leaving a thinner and lighter weight leather. Used in the upper or lining of shoes. Usually referring to cowhide. |
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Spool Heel: A style of high heel that is wide at the top and tapered in the middle. May become wide again before touching the floor. First popularized during the mid-18th century. Can also be used to describe a distinctive style of shoe heel constructed of stacked individual pieces, often large and round in shape. |
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Stacked Heel: A style of high heel constructed from visible layers of material, usually pressed leather or wood. Also a heel with horizontal lines to give it the appearance of stacked individual pieces. May also be called a built heel, although a built heel typically has layers which show more contrast against each other. |
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Steel Toes: A piece of metal formed in the shape of the toe box that is inserted between the upper and the lining in order to protect the toes, particularly from crushing injuries. Usually a feature in work shoes or boots; safety shoes are characterized by such a design. |
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Stiletto: A high, very slender heel, after a style of slim knife by the same name. Though the style of heel was used since the 1800's, the term was coined in the 1930s. Also known as a spike heel. Stiletto heels shorter than 2 inches are called kitten heels. Sometimes defined as having a tip with a diameter of less than 1 centimeter. A shoe with such a heel may also be called a stiletto. |
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Straight Lasted: Shoes designed in a style able to fit on either fit, without the distinction of right or left. Not used for modern shoes. Today, the term can also be used to describe a shoe form with no laterality. This very straight shoe provides greater stability and prevents the foot from rolling inward (pronation). |
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Strappy Sandal: An open toe shoe with an upper composed primarily of multiple straps or strips of leather, fabric, or a synthetic material. May be flat or with any length of heel. May be slip-on style or close using a strap with a buckle or another type of closure. |
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Suede: A style of leather that has been buffed or sanded to produce an outer surface with a soft, velvety appearance and “nap.” Usually softer and more pliable but less durable than other types of leather. Also used to describe a fabric with a similar surface. |
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Sueded Fabric: Material with a soft nap, the texture of which simulates the feel of suede leather. |
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Supination: The outward rolling of the foot during running or walking so that the outer edge of the sole bears most of the body's weight. Potentially a source of injury. |
| Synthetic Materials: Any type of man-made materials. In shoe construction, particularly those designed to imitate leather or another natural material. May be used for any part of the shoe. |
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T Strap: A style of shoe utilizing a single strap between the ankle and toe areas. Also used to describe this strap itself. A t-strap shoe may have an open or closed toe, and a heel of any height. Typically with an ankle strap. |
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Tacks: Small nails traditionally used to hold the upper of the shoe onto the wooden shoe last or form. May also be used in the assembly and construction of the shoe itself. |
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Tailored: Any style of shoe that is designed to closely follow the shape and contours of the foot. |
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Tannage: The process of treating animal hides or skins, turning them into finished leather. Also known as tanning. Usually accomplished through the application of tannin, an acidic chemical compound which alters the protein in the skin. Unlike hides or skins, the finished leather does not easily decompose. After tannage, the leather is ready to be used in shoes and other finished products. Also known as tanning. |
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Tap: A leather or metal partial sole attached over the existing sole of a shoe, underneath the toe box and/or the heel area. This attachment makes a clicking sound when the wearer engages in tap dancing. |
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Tapine: An Italian term for the Chopine, a shoe popular from the fifteenth through the seventeenth century. Known for its exaggerated platform sole, which could be up to twenty inches tall and was commonly made of cork or wood. Those with a higher status usually wore those with higher platforms. Mainly worn by women, though also by men. Originally designed as an overshoe to protect the wearer's shoes and clothing from the ground. |
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Tassel: A decorative element consisting of a bundle of threads or other material hanging from a round knob or head, usually attached by a rope or string. Often found on the vamp of a loafer or moccasin. |
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Thermoplastic Rubber (T.P.R.): A type of synthetic rubber often used in the injection molding process for the creation of shoe soles. |
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Thermoplastic Urethane (T.P.U.): A synthetic plastic material used to provide support, typically in the midfoot of a running or athletic shoe. |
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Thong Sandal: A style of simple sandal that is held onto the foot with the use of material that fits between the toes, particularly between the big toe and the second toe. The pieces of material typically originate to the left and right of the instep, and connect at a thong post located between the toes. Also known as a flip-flop sandal. |
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Throat: The main opening of a shoe or boot, through which the foot is inserted into the shoe. Also known as the topline, rim, or collar. May also describe the area of the upper immediately in front of this opening. |
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Tip: A style of closed toe shoe characterized by a straight line of horizontal stitching across the width of the shoe, separating the toe box from the rest of the upper. Often, the material in the toe box is in a contrasting color or material to the rest of the upper. Also known as a cap toe shoe. |
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Toe Cap: An extra layer over the toe of a shoe attached on top of the outer. May be added for decorative purposes or function to provide reinforcement and protection. |
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Toe Ridge: A raised horizontal strip on the insole or footbed of a shoe or sandal. Positioned so that the toes sit directly on top of this elevated ridge, to help secure the shoe to the foot. May also provide support or cushioning. |
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Toe Thong Post: In a thong sandal, the small column or pole that fits between the toes, particularly the big toe and the second toe. Functions to attach the thong straps or strips to the sole. |
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Tongue: A piece of leather or other material attached at the underside of the lacing eyelets towards the main opening of the shoe. Usually extends past the lacing to appear in the throat of the shoe. Though usually seen in a laced shoe, may also appear in shoes that close through other fastening methods, such as Velco. |
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Top Lift: The part of the heel of a shoe that touches the ground. May be leather, metal, or a synthetic material. Generally the part of the shoe that is subject to the most wear, and is therefore made of a very hard and durable material. |
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Tread: The design or pattern of the outsole of a shoe, which touches the ground. May include ridges or other features to aid in traction. |
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Trubuck: A synthetic fabric designed to imitate nubuck leather. Durable, but with a soft texture. |
| Tru-Moc: A style of flat, slip-on closed toe shoe characterized by visible stitching which creates a gathered effect around the toe box. Often made entirely of suede or soft leather. May also be called a moccasin. |
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Turf Cleats: A type of athletic shoe designed for sports played on grass, such as baseball or soccer. The term may refer to the shoes as a whole, or to the specialized spikes on the bottom of the sole. These spikes or nubs designed to provide extra traction. |
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Turnshoe Construction: A style of shoe construction in which the shoe is pieced together while inside out. The finished shoe is then turned right-side in after it has been completed, and additional ornamentation may be added. |
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Turn-Welt: A method of shoe construction using a strip of leather, called a welt, sewn between the insole and the outsole. Only used on shoes with at least two layers in the sole. |
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Twill Fabric: A durable woven fabric material with a smooth surface. Characterized by a pattern of diagonal lines or V shapes. |
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Uggs: A specific brand of sheepskin lined, flat suede boots made in Australia . May be anywhere from ankle to knee length. Also used as slang for any similarly styled boot. |
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Unit Bottom: Any type of shoe sole created out of a single mold, including any platform or wedge heel present on the shoe. |
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Upper: The portion of a shoe that covers the top and sides of the foot. Connected to the sole, which covers the bottom portion of the foot. May be made from leather, fabric, synthetic materials, or a combination. |
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Upper Leather: Any type of leather used to construct the upper of a shoe or boot. Usually referring to cowhide, though horsehide or leathers made from goat, sheep, or reptile skin may also be used. May have a variety of finishes including smooth, embossed, patent, or suede. |
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Vachetta Leather: A material made from cowhide. This high-quality leather has a buttery soft texture, and is tanned using vegetable dyes. Over time, it ages to a deep patina. |
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Vamp: The front part of a shoe upper, covering the top of the foot closest to the ankle. May extend downward to cover the toes if there is no separate toe cap. Can also be called the instep. |
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Vamp Wings: When the sides of the vamp extend behind the top of the foot to cover part of the quarter panel to the sides of the ankles, towards the heel of the shoe. |
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Vegetable Tanned: A type of leather created by treating an animal hide with a solution made from vegetables. Usually made from certain plants and woods, this method is also called “bark tanning.” An alternative to treating the skin with a tannin solution, especially used for those who are allergic to chromium or other chemicals normally used during the tanning process. |
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Velcro: A type of closure consisting of two strips of fabric or plastic. One side contains tiny hooks, usually made of plastic. The other contains loops. When the Velco is fastened, the hooks become entrapped in the loops. Often used as fasteners for straps on shoes. |
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Veldtschoen: Also known as Veldskoen, a traditional shoe originating in South Africa with an untanned leather upper, sewn together without the use of nails. The shoe's upper is often turned outward, forming a projecting edge. Similar to the moccasin. |
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Vibram: A specific type of outsole usually found on hiking shoes or boots to provide durable, non-slip traction for hikers. |
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Vinyl: A shiny, synthetic plastic material. Used for shoe soles and heel counters. Also used to imitate patent leather because of its shiny surface. Also known as polyvinyl chloride or PVC. |
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Vulcanized Rubber: A type of rubber that has been specially treated to become durable and strong. This process allows rubber to be molded and used for shoe soles and other items. |
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Waist: The section of the shoe that is narrowest when viewed from the underside or sole. Located underneath the arch of the foot, between the toes and heel and in front of the ankle. Also known as the arch, instep, or shank. |
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Walker : A type of athletic or after-sports shoe designed for regular walking, with cushioning and support specific to that activity. Also known as a walking shoe. |
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Walled Toe: A style of closed toe shoe designed to offer more room for the toes to move within the toe box. |
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Water Sports: A type of athletic shoe designed for sports and activities such as rafting, kayaking, or surfing. This type of footwear is waterproof and quick drying, often with all terrain traction features on the sole to provide the wearer with sure footing. |
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Waterproof Leather: A type of leather that has been specially treated to repel water and prevent water penetration. Unlike water resistant materials, waterproof materials do not let water through in any quantity. Typically used for the upper of shoes. |
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Wedge: A style of heel used on a women's shoe with no gap underneath the entire length of the shoe sole with more height towards the heel end of the shoe than towards the toe, giving a triangular or wedge shape when viewed from the side. May also be combined with a platform heel, in which there is additional height under the toe of the shoe. |
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Wedge Heel: A type of heel used on a women's shoe with no gap underneath the entire length of the shoe sole. With more height on the heel end of the shoe than on the toe end of the shoe, which gives a wedge or triangular shape when the shoe is viewed from the side. Often combined with a platform heel, which provides additional height under the toe end of the shoe. |
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Wedges: A pair of shoes having a wedge heel. Characterized by the lack of a gap underneath the entire length of the shoe. More height under the heel of the foot than under the toes. When viewed from the side, having a triangular or wedge shape. |
| Wellington : A style of pull-on waterproof boot, often made of rubber. Simple boots with no trim. Worn to protect the feet from rain or mud. Originally named for the Duke of Wellington. Also known as a galosh or wellies. |
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Welt: A narrow strip, usually of leather, sewn to the shoe along the perimeter of the uppers, where the sole and upper will be connected to each other. Used to create greater durability. |
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Western: A style of closed toe boot usually extending to the mid-calf. Characterized by a dip in the top of the shaft, unlike other boot styles cut straight across. Often with a chunky stacked heel, and sometimes with pull straps attached to the top of the shaft. Usually with a rounded toe. Also known as a cowboy boot or roper. |
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Width: The measurement of the horizontal dimensions of the shoe. Usually measured at the ball of the foot, and given in letters. The scale usually ranges from A to E, with A being the narrowest width and E representing the widest width. Many modern shoes are sold in one standard width, while others are identified using this scale. Multiple letters, such as AA or EEEE, characterize the shoe as being extra narrow or extra wide width. |
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Wing Tip: A style of closed-toe shoe characterized by a toe cap featuring a point in its center, extending backwards towards the throat or heel of the shoe, forming a W-shaped toe cap. Usually also including a perforated ornamental pattern. May be used to refer to this toe cap or the shoe as a whole. Also known as a Brogue. |
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Work: A shoe or boot designed for heavy-duty wear, usually ankle length. Typically made of thick leather. May also contain a steel toe to protect the toes from injury. Also known as a safety boot. |
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Zavatero: The Italian term for ‘cobbler,' as opposed to ‘Calaghero', a shoemaker. Usually, the shoemaker makes new shoes from scratch, while the cobbler repairs old shoes. |
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Zibroni: One of many Italian terms for the Chopine, a popular shoe during the fifteenth century through the seventeenth century. Usually worn by women, though also by men. Characterized by an exaggerated platform sole made of wood or cork, sometimes reaching up to 20 inches tall. The height of the platform sole was usually related to the status of the wearer, with a higher sole denoting higher status. |
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Zoccoli: An Italian term for the Chopine, a shoe popular during the fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth centuries. Usually a women's shoe, characterized by a very high platform sole made of wood or cork. Often with exaggerated heels, sometimes of up to 20 inches. Originally worn as an overshoe to protect the shoes and clothing from becoming soiled. Also called a ciabattine. |
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