SPRING 2008

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the gravitypope shoe glossary

adiPRENE - Special process, compressed-injected EVA foam insert (Adidas), also a visco-elastic polymer insert which performs the same function.

adiPRENE + - Special process, compressed injected EVA foam insert layer, used in forefoot (Adidas).

adistar 80 - Inspired by the ultra-light adiSTAR 80 running spike from the mid 80's which was famous for its ultralight weight. Mesh upper with easy to wear colorways, EVA midsole. Rubber outsole retains the details of the original spike shoe.

adistar runner - Introduced in 1982 as a flat level competition shoe, the Adistars are a super-light-weight running shoe meeting the highest demands and fit of the mid-long distance runner. Fitting the foot perfectly and adjusting to the anatomical shape of your foot with every step, the shoe is finished in soft leather heel and toe trims. The trefoil print on the non slip compact rubber sole performs best on asphalt and the bold and bright colourways are perfect for the summer months.

aglet - The plastic sheath at the end of a shoelace which makes the lace easier to thread through the eyelet holes of the shoe.

airport friendly - A shoe that contains no metal of any sort, allowing the wearer to pass through airport metal detectors.

alligator skin - Leather made from an alligator’s skin. Often times embossed leather is designed to look like alligator skin. See also “embossed leather.”

all terrain sandal - Any sandal that is meant for multiple outdoor activities. Often waterproofed and with an all terrain outsole.

alum tanned leather - Leather tanned using aluminum salts mixed with a variety of binders and protein sources. Very light shades of leather are possible using this process, but the resulting material is not as supple as vegetable tanned leather, and not as durable.

americana - The incredible Adidas Americana Lux trainer. The Americana is just one of a collection of Adidas back catalogue styles.

ankle boot - A shoe that has the styling of a boot without the height, also called a shoe-boot or “shootie”

ankle strap - A strap attached at the rear of the shoe that encircles the ankle. Usually features an adjustable buckle or elastic.

ankle wrap - Straps that are meant to be wrapped around and tied around the ankle for a stylish accent.

antiquing - A type of leather finish that creates a contrasting, rubbed-off appearance.

apollo - With its 80s disco feel, this shoe was designed for performance, but is also now dance floor approved. This version of the iconic Apollo track shoe comes with comfort closure as well as distinctively stylish details like fold-over tongue, glitzy stripes, leather upper and suede details inspired by track and soccer shoes. Running.

apron toe - A type of toe characterized by a large overlay that covers the front of the toe and has visible edges or stitching, to form a sort of "apron" on the front of the shoe.

arch - The high, curved part of the sole of the foot, located between the ball of the foot and the heel. This term can also refer to the raised area of the insole of a shoe, which is meant to pad and provide support for the arch of the foot.

archtech - Midfoot shank device causes the shoe to return to a stable base, after allowing the foot to twist in its natural movement, during the gait cycle (Puma).

athletic shoe - Athletic footwear meant for performance of a specific sport. Basketball, Crosstraining, Golf, Hiking, Running, Tennis and Walking are some examples.

back seam - The vertical seam at the center of the back of a shoe or boot.

back stiffener - A leather reinforcement inside the shoe at the point where the quarters meet.

back strip - This is a piece of leather used to cover the back seam of the shoe quarter.

ball - The padded area of the foot between the big toe and the arch of the foot.

balmorals - Otherwise known as oxfords, footwear that has a vamp with a v shaped slit to which the laces are attached.

bar shoe - Shoe with an instep strap or button.

beckenbauer allround - Endorsed by Franz "Der Kaiser" Beckenbauer, the only person who has won the World Cup both as a player and as a manager. This shoe was originally released in 1982 as an all purpose soccer shoe.

bellows tongue - A stitched-in tongue, giving protection from the elements and the ingress of debris.

bend leather - Leather used for the top sole and the heel (both lifts and top piece). The cowhide is between 5-8 mm in thickness and has been softened and stored in tanning pits for at least 15-18 months. The leather is waterproof and temperature resistant and easy to work. Bend leather makes up greatest part of cowhide.

bicycle toe - A type of toe characterized by two stitched straight line accents, so named because of their similarity to professional bicycling shoe detailing.

binding - The fabric channel through which the drawstring runs in ballet shoes.

bluchers - Footwear with laces that are tied to two pieces of leather independently attached to the vamp.

blucher toe - A type of toe characterized by a smooth, turned stitch border around the toe area, like an apron toe style in reverse.

board lasted - The upper section is pulled over the last and cemented to a flexible innersole board. This method provides stability and is especially good for larger individuals.

boat shoe - A type of shoe originally meant to be worn aboard a boat, usually with a siped, non-slip outsole, often with side lacing details, almost always a casual shoe you can wear with or without socks.

boiled leather - A hide product that has been hardened by being immersed in hot water or in boiled wax.

boot - Footwear made of leather, rubber, or the like, for the foot reaching to the ankle, covering all or part of the leg. Can be practical, casual or dressy. see: cowboy boots, go go boots, kinky boots, motorcycle boots, platform boots, riding boots, rubber boots, thigh length boots, ugg boots, valenki, waders, wellington boots

bootie - A shoe that has the styling of a boot without the height, also called a shoe-boot.

boot heel - Typically found on boots, this is a wide, stable type of heel that usually is not very high.

bowling shoes - Intermediate style between ordinary dress shoes and athletic shoes. they have harder rubber soles/heels so as not to damage bowling alley floors.

box or block - In ballet shoes this is the stiff toe cup throat which encases the toes

bracing - Threading used to last an upper to an insole.

brain tanned leather - Leather made by a labor intensive process which uses emulsified oils(often those of animal brains). They are known for their exceptional softness and their ability to be washed.

break - The natural crease created across the vamp of the shoe from everyday wear.

breast - The forward facing part of the heel, under the arch of the sole.

brocade - A type of fabric, often with embroidered or embroidered-style elaborate designs, popular with Asian influenced looks.

brogue - Stout leather shoes from Ireland or Scotland - the word is derived from the Gaelic for Shoe. A full brogue has the toe, side and heel decorated with punched and serrated leather.

broguing row - A arrangement of holes of the same or different sizes are regular intervals along the lines and curves where the upper components meet.

buckle - a clasp consisting of a rectangular or curved rim with one or more movable tongues, fixed to one end of a belt or strap, used for fastening to the other end of the same strap or to another strap.

buckskin - Leather made in a tanning process that uses animal brains or other fatty materials to alter the leather. The resulting leather is supple and suede like.

built heel - A heel that has horizontal lines, indicating that it is made up of stacked layers of leather, or a heel with that appearance. Same as stacked heel.

burnish - The process of buffing a shoe surface to achieve an antiquing effect of the leather.

button - A catch of various forms and materials, used to fasten together the parts of a shoe. The button is attached to one part and when passed through a slit (i.e. buttonhole), in another adjoining section it acts as a fastener.

calfskin - Leather created from the skins of very young cows. Calfskin is typically very supple and soft.

campus - The Campus sneaker from adidas was a suede version of the smooth leather Superstar basketball shoe.

canvas - A heavy, coarse, closely woven fabric of cotton, hemp, or flax, used for tents and sails.

cap toe - A type of toe style with a full toe overlay and a straight stitching line across the top part of the toe, often seen in dress shoes.

cell - Hexagonal polyurethane cells of varying size with various amounts of CM-EVA or PU foam for support, with a slower rate of compression or breakdown than foam (Puma).

cemented construction - A shoe construction in which the upper of a shoe is cemented, rather than stitched, to the sole of the shoe. Cement construction results in a lighter, more flexible shoe.

channel - Row of holes where stitching is made.

chelsea boot - A type of boot, usually ankle height, in a pull on style with elastic side panels. Popularized in England.

chile 62 - Originally designed for the World Cup in Chile 62 as a football boot, and now reproduced as a great retro style trainer. The Adidas Chile 62 series has a timeless look that has become an absolute classic over the last 40 years and looks great as a casual trainer. Versatile enough to be used as an indoor or astro turf trainer, Chile 62 always look good even when battered and scuffed and this has ensured their enduring popularity.

chrome tanned leather - A method of tanning invented in 1858, using chromium sulfate and other salts of chromium. It is more supple and pliable than vegetable tanned leather and does not discolor or lose shape as drastically as vegetable tanned leather when exposed to water. many different colours are possible using chrome tanning.

Chuck Taylor - Charles H. ("Chuck") Taylor was born in 1901 in Indiana, USA. In 1921 Converse hired Chuck Taylor from the Akron Firestone Non-Skids basketball team. Chuck Taylor conducted basketball clinics for Converse. In 1932 The Chuck Taylor got his signature on the basketball shoe now associated with his name. During World War II Chuck coached the Army Air Forces "Air-Tecs" basketball team at Wright Field, Ohio. In 1958 he was inducted into the National Sporting Goods Hall of Fame and into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1968. Chuck Taylor died in 1969, probably as his namesake basketball shoe reached the height of its popularity.

chukka boot - A boot style with laces, usually with a plain toe, and is the height of the ankle.

circumference - The measurement around the shaft of a boot is taken at the widest part near the top of the boot shaft.

Classic Slip-On - The Vans Classic Slip On was added in 1979 in a multitude of color combinations and quickly became the craze of Southern California.

cleats - Any traction enhancing spikes or nubs attached to the sole of an athletic shoe, often used in grass-based sports such as baseball, soccer, or golf to ensure sure footing.

climacool - A venting and cooling system used by adidas brand footwear with flexible screened vents to keep feet cool.

climbing shoes - Footwear that is worn for rock climbing, the shoe is covered with a rubber layer. Usually, the shoes are only a few millimeters thick and will have a very tight fit around the feet. Climbing shoes are not suitable for hiking, so outdoor climbers usually carry them to the base of the rock.

clog - A type of shoe, usually casual and comfortable that slips on with an open heel. Sometimes the heel is completely closed or closed with a strap, usually for better support or to meet local health regulations.

closed seam - Two upper sections stitched together then flattened.

CM-EVA - Compression-molded ethylene vinyl acetate foam.

collar - A strip of material stitched to the opening of a shoe or the topline. The collar can be padded for extra comfort.

column heel - A type of women’s high heel that’s round and column-shaped.

combination last - A footwear last in which the heel is two sizes smaller in width than the widest part of the shoe, producing a shoe with a narrow heel and a wide toebox.

compression moulded EVA - Midsole construction consisting of ethyl vinyl acetate foam (EVA) that has been heated and compressed to give it shape and improve durability.

comptown - The Adidas women's Comptown ST casual shoe features a suede upper that gives you support and comfort. This 80's classic now has GeoFit(tm) which enhances fit and comfort by placing padding in anatomically correct areas.

cone heel - Rounded heel that starts wide and tapers in to a point.

contoured footbed - An insole that molds to the shape of the foot.

cordovan - Leather from a horse's posterior. When tanned it becomes a rich black cherry color; so it has evolved into common usage as a color name.

corporate casual - A shoe that is clearly casual, but suitable for most “casual Friday” dress codes or relaxed corporate styles.

corrected-grain leather - Also known as top grain leather, is fuzzy on one side and smooth on the other. The smooth side is the side where the hair and natural grain used to be. Lower quality hides have the natural grain sanded off and an artificial grain applied.

counter - A stiff piece of material at the heel of a shoe positioned between the lining and upper that helps maintain the shape of the shoe. The counter helps strengthen the rear of the shoe.

crepe rubber sole - A type of sole characterized by a nubbly texture like crepe paper. This type of sole is typically very comfortable, as it is made of small particles of rubber loosely melted together to create a very soft but durable rubber sole.

crocodile skin - Leather made from a crocodile’s skin. Often times embossed leather is designed to look like crocodile skin. See also “embossed leather.”

croc embossed - Leather that has been embossed or stamped in a pattern simulating crocodile skin .

cross training - Athletic shoes suitable for multiple aerobic activities, from running to aerobics to weight training.

cuban heel - A broad heel of moderate height with a slightly tapered back and straight front, used in shoes and some boots.

cupsole - An outsole construction, which cups the midsole to give greater lateral support and stability.

curing - The application of chemicals to animal hides in preparation for the tanning process.

cushioning - Padding on the insole or outsole of a shoe for added comfort and stabilization.

cycling shoes - Footwear that is equipped with a metal cleat to interface with clip-less pedals, as well as a stiff sole to maximize power transfer and support the foot.

dance shoes - Special shoes made for tap, jazz, ballet, or ballroom dancing. Dance shoes usually feature hard leather soles so that the shoe doesn't 'stick' to floors.

demi boot - A style of boot whose shaft is generally no taller than the anklebone.

derby - Also known as 'Bluchers', Derby's have eyelet tabs stitched on the top of the vamp, called an open front type. most are double stitched and double soled available in plain, full brogue and semi brogue styles . A ladies Derby shoes is also called a Gibson or a Lorne shoe.

derby shoes - Known as bluchers, Footwear with laces that are tied to two pieces of leather independently attached to the vamp.

distressed leather - Leather that has been rubbed, scratched, or treated for a worn, abused or distressed effect.

DMX - Connected air bladders exchange air from one end of the system to the other, and back, on impact (Reebok).

DMX I-Pak - Two-chambered air bladder, surrounded by EVA, exchanges air from one end of the system to the other, and back, on impact (Reebok).

DMX Internal - Ambient air-filled, non-visible, multi-chambered bladder transfers air from front to rear and back. Positioned within the EVA midsole, it creates a noticeable cushioning effect.

DMX Lite - Ambient air-filled, two-chambered bladder transfers air from front to rear and back. Positioned under the Strobel board, it creates a noticeable cushioning effect. (Reebok - also see Stim-Pac).

d'orsay - (pronounced "door-say") A style of pump featuring one or both sides cut-out.

doubler - An interlining placed between the toe lining and the vamp of a shoe. Its purpose is to provide additional plumpness to the forepart of the shoe and to preserve the shape of the shoe. Doublers are cemented to the upper parts with an adhesive before the lining is sewed in the shoe.

double stitched shoe - A handmade shoe with one sole and two stitch rows, or two soles and three stitch rows. All the stitch rows are externally visible.Only a strong smooth leather is suitable for double-stitched shoes or one with a rough surface. Combinations of different colours are also frequent found.

dragon - Take a step back in retro expression with the Dragon sneaker from Adidas. Classic stripe overlays bring smooth contrast to the soft leather upper. Multi-directional rubber sole to guide your laid-back weekend.

driving moccasin - A type of casual moccasin or slip on ideal for driving, with a flexible outsole, pedal-gripping sole, and a wraparound protected heel.

dual density midsole - Seen in running shoes, a midsole that employs two different densities of cushioning foam, with denser foam where the foot would normally tend to roll.

durable rubber compound DRC - A blend of solid rubber with additives that offer extra durability for rough and abrasive surfaces. DRC is a heavy, dense and very hard material. Compared to other outsole materials, DRC is heavier, but offers increased durability. DRC is mainly used in tennis, walking and outdoor basketball shoes.

duralon - Blown rubber for lightness, with a toughened skin for more durability.

earth Shoes - The earth shoe differs from orthodox shoes with respect to the toe box, the arch and the heel which is lower than the sole of the shoe.

eclipse 5000 - Closely monitored injection-molded or compression-molded EVA, for applications of durability and cushioning (Reebok).

eclipse 6000 - Closely monitored injection-molded or compression-molded EVA, for applications of durability and cushioning (Reebok).

eel Leather - Leather made from the tanned skins of eels. Eel leather has a smooth, shiny finish with a horizontal stripe-like pattern, used in wallets and shoes.

engineered forefoot ride EFR - Layer of blown rubber, for cushioning, under harder, more durable carbon rubber (adidas).

elastic gore - An elastic fabric panel inserted into shoes to provide stretch.

elon - Compression-molded compound of rubber and EVA, which is more durable and resilient than standard EVA.

energy return - In running and athletic shoes, it is the response after the foot strikes the ground, a sort of propulsion that helps maintain an effective “gait” or stride.

engineer boot - Originally worn by the Army Corps of Engineers, it is a work style pull on boot characterized by instep and top straps.

era & authentic - In 1976 Vans came out with the first Era in red and blue vans authentic shoe. This shoe was designed by two professional skaters, Tony Alva and Stacy Peralta.

espadrille - Any shoe that has jute, woven rope or rope-look trim, usually in the sole area. Espadrilles are often sandals but all forms of shoes with jute soles or detailing can be classified as espadrilles.

EVA - EVA is soft, light and flexible. It is the least expensive midsole material and is often used in entry-level shoes. Midsoles are cut and shaped from flat sheets of EVA foam. EVA will compress and become flat over time as the air trapped within the foam is squeezed out. Once EVA is compacted, it does not return to its original shape and no longer provides cushioning. EVA compresses faster than other midsole materials.

exercise sandals - Introduced by Scholl's the sandals were a simple sole with leather forefoot attachment. Shaped like the sole of the foot the shoe combined the properties of a simple sandal with a clog.

eyelet - A small hole, usually round and finished along the edge, as in cloth or leather for the passage of a lace.

faux-croc - Leather that has been stamped or printed to look like crocodile leather.

faux-lizard - Leather that has been stamped or printed to look like lizard leather.

faux-snake - Leather that has been stamped or printed to look like snake leather.

faux leather - Simulated non-animal leather-like material, usually polyurethane or micro-fibre (see Pleather and Naugahyde).

feather - The part of the shoe where the upper meets the sole.

filling - Substance used to fill the gap in a welt-stitched shoe, with a shock-absorbing and stabilising effect on the sole when walking.

finishing - Once the shoe has been constructed the upper goes through a process of washing, creaming and polishing: the edges of the heel and the sole are inked respectively. The edge of the sole is pressed with the edge iron and edges of the heel smoothed with the dummy iron, and then individually patterned with the fancy wheels. The top piece and sole are inked and creamed.

finishing wax - A thin coat of wax is applied to the upper surfaces of the shoe after inking. This is then pressed into the leather with the ink using a warm iron.

fisherman sandal - Type of sandal with woven or stitched vertical and horizontal straps, often with a closed toe.

fish leather - Leather made from tanned fish skins. Fish leather tanners claim fish skins are as strong as crocodile leather and have the strength and durability of a manmade fiber.

fitness - Athletic shoes ideally suited for gym-style workouts.

flats - Shoes with a very low or no heel height.

flip-flop - A type of sandal, usually a thong, with a lightweight foam outsole that makes a “flip-flop” sound when you walk.

football shoes - Athletic footwear with plastic or metal cleats to improve traction when running on grass.

footbed - The insole of the shoe, where the foot rests.

forefoot - The area of foot between the ball and the toes.

forest hills - The ace of the adidas tennis shoe range in 1978. Weighing only 250 grams, this was the lightest tennis shoe in the world. The Forest Hills sneaker features super soft leather with ankle and heel padding and padded tongue. The specially developed Poliair sole is many times more durable than conventional soles and is further reinforced with and injected velour tip. The adjustable sole ventilation system, with its advanced developed airbed inlay sole, helps to considerably reduce heat in the shoe.

foxing - A strip of rubber joining the upper and sole of a shoe. Typically found on canvas sneakers.

Franz Anton Beckenbauer - (born September 11, 1945) Is a German football coach, manager, and former player, nicknamed der Kaiser ("the emperor") because of his elegant style, his leadership qualities, his first name "Franz" (reminiscent of the Austrian emperors), and his dominance on the football pitch. Beckenbauer was one of the world's most famous defenders. He was a versatile player, who adapted to different roles on the pitch, and he is often credited as having invented the role of the modern sweeper or libero (SW).[1] Twice selected the European Footballer of the Year, he appeared 103 times for the West Germany national team and played in three World Cups. He lifted the World Cup trophy as captain in 1974, and repeated the feat as a manager in 1990. With the club Bayern Munich, he won three consecutive European Cups from 1974 to 1976, and went on to become coach and president of the institution. Today, Beckenbauer remains an influential figure in both German and international football. He lead Germany's successful bid to host the 2006 World Cup an chaired the organizing committee.

french heel - A heel with a curved back. French heels are various heights. (also known as “Louis heel”)

full brogue - A type of shoe decorated with perforated patterns, with winged toe caps and rows of perforations.

full grain leather - Hides made from the finest raw material, have not been sanded to remove imperfections, only the hair has been removed. The grain remains in its natural state which will allow the best fiber strength, resulting in greater durability. The natural grain also has natural breatheability resulting in greater comfort. The natural full grain surface wears better over time, rather than wearing out, it will develop a natural patina and grow more beautiful over time.

gaiters - A covering for the ankle and foot, made from either leather or stout linen. They are generally buttoned down the side and were often fitted with a strap which passed under the sole of the shoe.

gait control - In athletic running or walking shoes, a system of controlling the foot’s movement within the running or walking step to prevent injury and fatigue

galosh - A waterproof (typically rubber) overshoe or boot meant to protect the foot and footwear from inclement weather.

gardening clog - A type of footwear that is usually backless, rubber, and waterproof, ideal for gardening.

gazelle - The Gazelle was introduced in 1968 as an all-around training shoe. It has become a classic as its simple style made it popular as a training, running, tennis, indoor soccer and everyday casual shoe.

ghillie - (pronounced "gil-ee") A style of footwear in which the laces pass through fabric or leather rings or loops attached to the front opening of the shoe, rather than eyelets.

gimping - Trimming and simultaneously decorating the edges of leather pieces. Done with a gimping machine in which steel tools with various patterns and designs are fitted.

girth - The circumference of a shoe last, as measured around the ball of the foot.

golf shoes - Atheletic footwear with spikes for better grip in grass and wet ground.

goodyear welt ® - A shoe construction in which the upper and sole of the shoe are stitched together, resulting in greater durability. The resulting seam is visible and runs around the outside of the shoe, where the upper and outsole meet.

gore - An elastic panel stitched into either side of a shoe's vamp in order to make it more comfortable and easier to put on and take off.

gore-tex - An advanced, lightweight waterproof material, ideal as a lining.

gum rubber - This is a combination of natural rubber and synthetic rubber. It is easily identified by its natural tan color. Gum rubber is soft and provides excellent traction on all indoor surfaces, but is not meant for outdoor courts. Its use is usually limited to indoor court play and volleyball shoes.

haircalf - Natural calfskin material with a soft furry texture also known as ponyhair.

half brogue - A semi brogue shoe design.

hand stitched - A shoe made by the traditional method. Two types of stitching ie. welt stitched and double stitched variants.

harness boot - A type of boot characterized by straps across the instep and heel, usually joined by a ring detail.

heel - The heel is the part of the sole that raises the rear of the shoe in relation to the front. The heel seat is the top of the heel that touches the upper, this is typically shaped to match the form of the upper. The part of the heel that comes in contact with the ground is known as the top piece.

heel construction - Several leather lifts, a top piece, and a quarter rubber are assembled to form the heel.

heel cup - A piece of leather (part of the upper) on the outside of the back of the shoe covering the seam join the quarters. It may be a narrow strip or a long vertical piece of leather in line with the heel.

heel edge - The outer surface of the heel. Usually it is black, but sometimes it is coloured to match the upper leather. If it is not coloured, the individual lifts are readily discernible.

heel height - Heel height is measured on a vertical line at the breast of the heel, from the bottom surface of the sole where it meets the heel, to the floor. Heel height is measured in increments of 1/8th inches, so an 8/8 heel is one inch high.

heel seat - The part of the shoe directly below where the heel of the foot rests. Also where the sole and the heel are joined together.

heel section - The back of the shoe.

herringbone tweed - A type of tweed fabric with a jagged line pattern.

hidden gore - An elastic panel at the front of a shoe that is covered by the shoe's tongue. Provides added comfort.

hide - The skin of a large animal that is treated, tanned or finished for use in boots, shoes, handbags and clothing.

high profile - The toebox of pointe shoes are often cylindrical with relatively large spaces between the outer sole and the top of the foot.

hiking boots - Footwear especially designed for walking a great distance, especially through rural areas, for pleasure, exercise, or military training. They are generally very durable and made of leather.

houndstooth check - A type of pattern with a diagonal “tooth” checked design.

huarache - A type of woven sandal-like casual shoe, originating in Mexico and Central America.

imitation leather - Any synthetic material made to look like leather.

injection molded construction - A type of sole unit construction created by injecting melted PVC or a similar material into the sole mold. Injection molded construction is an efficient way to mass-produce footwear.

inseam - The hidden seam of a welted shoe holding together the welt, upper, lining and insole.

insole - The part of the shoe that the foot rests upon, usually cushioned.

instep - The area of the foot between the toes and the ankle, or the top front part of a shoe or ‘vamp’.

Jack Purcell - Jack Purcell was an athlete of the 1930's who earned his fame playing badminton. In 1935 he received the honor of a shoe with his name from BFGoodrich. At that time the BFGoodrich company was a rubber and tire company that produced shoes. In the early 1970's, Goodrich left the sneaker market and Converse acquired the rights to make the Jack Purcell sneaker.

Jelly - A type of shoe or sandal made entirely of a soft rubber material, made in bright colours they are sometimes transparent or translucent.

jodhpur boot - Also called a Chelsea Boot, an ankle height slip on boot with elastic side panels.

kangaroo leather - Leather made from tanned kangaroo skins. This leather is known to be strong and stretchier than cow leathers good for gloves or tight fitting boots.

kiltie - A decorative, fringed tongue over the vamp of a shoe.

kipskin - Middle-grade leather created from the skins of young cattle that are larger than calves, yet not fully grown.

kitten heel - A type of heel that is set forward, usually 1" or under in height.

KMS 100 - Specific recipe for EVA that is of predictable quality (Puma).

laces - A strip of material strung through the eyelets of a shoe in order to pull the shoe closed and adjust its girth.

lapped seam - Seam when two pieces are sewn together, one on top of other.

last - A wooden shaped block around which a shoe is designed and made. Asymmetric lasts are two different lasts which reflect the characteristics of the right and left feet. Symmetric lasts measurements for only one foot were taken and used for both lasts, in use from the fifteenth century until the end of the eighteenth century. This was used in ancient times and revived again in the nineteenth century. Custom made lasts are produced by measuring an individual's foot to construct custom footwear.

lasting - Nailing the upper to the insole on the last. The last gives the upper a plastic form.

last removal - The removal of the last from the completed shoe. The shoemaker pulls it out using a footstrap and an iron hook, approx. 6-7mm thick adjusting the pressure with the footstrap.

last type - This determines the shape of the shoe. The differences lie in the shape and width of the vamp.

Latigo Leather - (Chrome veg tanned) Soft, supple leather great for use on products where strength and flexibility are needed. This is a very supple leather usually with a slightly oily texture. This leather is often referred to as harness leather but there is a distinct difference.

light hiking - Athletic shoes that are ideal for day hikes or “approach” hiking but are not ideal for long backpacking hikes or serious climbing.

lightstrike EVA - Very fine quality (through extreme monitoring) Ethylene Vinyl Acetate foam that is lighter and more durable than lesser forms. (adidas - though not proprietary)

lining - Most shoes include a lining on the inside of the shoe, around the vamp and quarter. These linings improve comfort, can provide warmth, and can help increase the lifespan of the shoe.

lining leather - Vegetable tanned leather approx. 1.2mm thick is used to line the inside of the shoe. The leather is hard wearing but exceptionally soft, often pigskin or synthetics.

lizard embossed - Lizard leather has the pattern of scales found on many different species of lizard. The fine scale-like pattern creates a pebbled and shiny finish.

loafer - A trademark for an open casual leather shoe like a moccasin but having a wide flat heel.

louis heel - The front surface of the heel (or breast) is covered by a downwards extension of the sole and was splayed at the base with a wasted section. This was thought to be invented by Louis XV (1715-1774), albeit it was in existance since 16th century. The shape and height of the heel have varied considerably and the Louis heel remains popular today. The term is used to describe a method of making the sole and heel in one section. A thick heel often covered that curves in at the mid section before flaring out.

low profile - This is a pointe shoe box with a generally flat shape and a relatively small space between the outer sole and the top of the box.

lucite - A type of clear hard plastic that is often used in platform shoes.

lug sole - A sole with a heavy three dimensional traction pattern.

lycra / neoprene - A blend of stretch fabric and neoprene rubber, ideal for a waterproof and sporty soft lining.

maglia / maglietta - A metal eyelet or little loop through which laces are threaded, sometimes made of silver or silver gilt.

mary jane - A type of women’s shoe characterized by a strap across the instep.

medallion - The perforated pattern punched in the center of the tip of many styles of shoes.

medial post - Denser CM-EVA foam, TPU device, or combinations of the two, on the inside edge of the shoe to curb pronation.

medium height heels - High heel shoes that have a heel height of less than 2 inches.

merrell air cushion - Special chamber in the heel of the shoe that forces air as a cushion.

mersey boot - Also known as “Beetle Boots,” dress boots with a zippered side and a slightly raised heel.

microfiber - A type of closely knit smooth fabric often used in shoes and a variety of other applications. Microfiber is fiber with strands less than one denier. Fabrics made with microfibers are exceptionally soft and hold their shape well.

mid-sole - The layer of material between outsole and innersole used for reinforcement or cushioning.

midsole - The part of the shoe between the very bottom and where the foot rests, often cushioned.

mintex® - A lightweight, synthetic, lining. It is backed to an open cell foam rubber to provide a trimmer fitting lining that still provides warmth to the wearer.

moccasin - Possibly the earliest type of shoe, a slip on style with visible stitching, often with a soft leather bottom.

moc toe - A type of toe design with a seam and stitching details, originally seen in moccasins.

mod style - Style characteristic of the “Mod” era in the 1960’s, with bold, high contrast geometric patterns and pop-art details.

monk - A type of shoe designed like an oxford, but with a strap closure across the instep rather than a lace up front closure.

monk strap - A closed shoe, usually a blucher pattern, with a wide strap across the instep that buckles at the side. Also known as a monk strap.

motion-control - Designs or devices found in athletic shoes that control the inward rolling (pronation) of the foot.

motorcycle boot - Boots ideal for riding a motorcycle, often with thick, durable soles.

mule - A closed toe shoe with no back.

nailed construction - When shoe components are nailed together.

nappa leather - A type of leather characterized by its stretchy, soft, smooth texture.

naugahyde - The most well known brand name of man made leather which used to be made in Naugatuck, Connecticut. It is now made in Stoughton, Wisconsin.

negative heel - Popular in comfort footwear, a type of footbed with a lowered heel area designed for more natural foot placement.

norweigan shoe - A variant of the basic Derby, characterized by an unusual division of the vamp and hand stitched on the upper.

nubuck - A type of leather that has been “bucked” or sanded for a smooth texture with a slight nap.

oil tanned leather - (Chrome tanned) Beautiful, durable leather has just the right amount of oil for a soft, supple feel.

Old Skool - The old skool, "style 36" was first introduced in 1976, it was the first model to carry the now infamous Vans sidestripe logo.

open toe - A shoe with a small opening at the toe, otherwise known as peep toe.

orthopedic shoes - Footwear specially designed for people with foot problems.

orthotic - A full or partial insole specifically designed for comfort and support.

ostrich leather - Ostrich leather is considered to be one of the finest and most durable exotic leathers. Ostrich leather has a characteristic “goose bump” look because of the large follicles from which the feathers grew.

outsole - The exposed part of the sole that is in contact with the ground. As with all parts of the shoe, outsoles are made from a variety of materials. The properties the outsole need are: grip, durability and water resistance.

overlay - Detailing on a shoe made by layering material on top of other material.

overshoes - Worn under or around shoe to keep it clean or dry.

patent - Leather that has been given a high gloss finish. The original process was developed in Newark, New Jersey by inventor Seth Boyden in 1818. Modern patent leather usually has a plastic coating.

pebbled grain - An embossed-leather grain finish resembling a pebble surface.

peep toe - A type of closed toe with a small open panel allowing a glimpse of toe.

penny loafers - Low slip-on shoes with tops that resemble a moccasin, but have broad flat heels. They have no shoelaces or buckles. Penny loafers are made of leather and are often worn in formal situations.

perforation - A pattern of small holes punched or bored into the trim of a shoe, for the purpose of decoration or ventilation.

Pete Mavarich - Pistol Pete Maravich, one of the NBA’s Top 50 Players holds nearly every scoring record in college basketball. Outside of being known as the “Pistol” because of the technique he used to shoot the ball (out of the hip), Pete also is known as the NBA’s first showman, thanks to his incredible ball handling skills and shooting.

pigskin leather - Leather made from the skin of pig, often used to line shoes because of its soft and smooth texture. Pigskin is rarely used for the construction of the outside of the shoe, as it is too delicate.

pilgrim shoe - Flat, pointed shoe with a buckle across the front.

pinking - Detailing characterized by a sawtooth edge.

piping - A decorative, narrow strip of leather that typically follows the seam of a shoe.

pitch - The angle of the back part of the heel where it meets the sole, compared to the front part of the heel where it meets the sole. On a high-heeled shoe the pitch should be at a larger angle, in order to stabilize the heel.

plain toes - Have a sleek appearance and no extra decorations on the vamp.

platform - Shoes, boots, or sandals with thick soles, often made of cork, plastic, rubber, or wood generally worn strictly for fashion, and/or added height.

pleather - Slang term for synthetic leather made out of plastic.

pointe shoes - Shoes designed for professional ballet dancing.

point shoes - Re-enforced pumps used by ballerinas. The shoe has an outer sole usually made of synthetic or leather, which is in contact with the floor when the dancer stands in the normal flat position. The platform is the part of the pointe shoe on which the dancer stands when on points.

polyurethane - A type of man-made material that can be made to have the look and feel of leather.

pronation - The inward rolling of the foot during running or walking, potentially a source of injury.

pro model - Inspired by Pistol Pete Maravich, one of the NBA’s Top 50 Players. The Pro Model was the first all-leather basketball shoe that Pistol Pete wore many times while playing for the Atlanta Hawks in the 1970’s. The Pro Model features an all leather upper, rubber shell toe and herringbone traction design.

PU - The commonly used abbreviation for polyurethane.

puff - A reinforcing inside the upper which gives the toe its shape and support. Similar in function to a toe cap.

pumps - Women’s dress shoes, usually slip on, often with enclosed toe and sides.

PVC - Abbreviation for Poly-Vinyl Chloride, is used for faux leathers, but is considered lower quality than Polyurethane because it doesn’t breathe and is difficult to clean.

quarter lining - The lining of the rear part of a shoe, typically made from leather or fabric.

quarter panel - The sides of the shoe from the heel to the toe.

quarter rubber - A piece of hard , non slip rubber a quarter of an inch (6mm) thick that is nailed to the top piece of the heel.

Radiantex ® - An insole that provides thermal reflection to keep your feet warm and cozy.

rand - A leather strip four fifths of an inch (2cm) wide and one eighth of an inch (3mm) thick that s nailed onto the insole, combining with the welt to form a basis for the top sole. A rand can also describe a special welt in the heel region , nailed in a well stitched shoe and stitched in a double stitched model.

rawhide - Leather made by scraping the skin thin, soaking it in lime and then stretching it while it dries. Rawhide is stiffer and more brittle than other forms of leather and is primarily found in cords for lacing or stitching.

retifism - The term describes someone who is attracted to shoes. Shoe fetishists or retifists are similar in principle to foot fetishists but their stimulus i.e. the shoes, becomes the total focus for arousal. Some shoe fetishists need only the shoe and not the person to be satisfied. Others will incorporate a shoe within their regular coital behaviour but to the true shoe fetishist, complete satisfaction is possible, if the shoe is the total object of desire.

retro - Referring to popular styles of the past.

riding boot - A boot designed specifically for equestrian activities. Usually knee-high, with goring and a low heel. This term can also describe boots that are designed to look like riding boots.

rim - The part of the shoe where the foot enters. Another term for collar or topline.

Rodney George Laver - (born August 9, 1938, in Rockhampton, Australia) Is a former tennis player from Australia who was the World No. 1 player for 5 consecutive years. More famously, he is the only player in tennis history to have twice won all four of tennis' Grand Slam singles titles in the same year—first as an amateur in 1962, and then again as a professional in 1969. For this achievement, Laver is considered by many tennis fans to be the greatest player of all time.

Rod Laver - Rod (Rodney George) Laver was an Australian tennis pro of the 1960's. Like Stan Smith, an American tennis player around the same era, adidas gave him the honors of a namesake shoe. This performance tennis shoe has a breathable mesh upper, with a special suede toecap for protective reinforcement and a polyurethane sole to provide outstanding traction on or off the court. The Rod Laver shoe is standard equipment for a sport not yet invented when Rod was a tennis star. Many freestyle footbag players prefer the Rod Laver and its smooth sides of nylon mesh. Their requests were instrumental in bringing the Rod Laver shoe out of retirement and back into shoe stores. Note that the Rod Laver does not have any side stripes.

ruched - A type of detailing characterized by gathered or pleated material with stitching accents.

running - cushioning - Running shoes characterized by a high degree of cushioning in the insole and midsole, designed for runners in need of maximum shock absorption.

running - stability - Running shoes characterized by a high degree of stabilizing elements, designed for runners in need of gait control.

running - supportive cushioning - Running shoes with a combination of cushioning and stabilized support, designed for runners needing both.

running - trail - Running shoes designed for running both on and off road, with increased stability and traction for irregular terrain.

saddle oxford - An oxford-style shoe featuring a saddle across the vamp, often in a contrasting color.

saddle shoes - Shoes with a contrast colored instep overlay or “saddle,” usually found on golf shoes or retro styles.

safety shoe - A shoe or boot designed specifically for wear in an industrial setting. This style of shoe often includes protective features such as steel-toe reinforcement and waterproof and oil-resistant materials.

Saint Crispin - St. Crispin is the patron saint of shoemakers. Traditionally shoe shops closed on St. Crispin's Day (October 25th).

scalloped - A type of detailing characterized by round wavy edges.

scotch grain - The embossing of leather to create a heavy, pebbled look.

screw stretcher - A device for widening the shoe by hand.

sculpted heel - A type of high heel molded in one piece, usually out of high-impact plastic.

seat - Where the heel of the fit sits in the shoe. It normally matches the shape of the heel for comfort and support.

semi brogue - A shoe style with perforated decoration, a plain toe cap, and brogueing rows. Also known as a half brogue.

shaft height - Shaft height of boots are measured from middle of the arch up the inside of the boot, to the top of the boot shaft.

shank - A piece of metal or plastic inserted between the sole and the insole lying against the arch of the foot.

shearling - Sheepskin or lambskin with the wool still attached. Used often as a lining for shoes and boots.

sheepskin - Skin from sheep, either with or without the wool still attached.

shoe - An external covering for the human foot, usually of leather and consisting of a more or less stiff or heavy sole and a lighter upper part ending a short distance above, at, or below the ankle. see: athletic shoes, boat shoes, boots, bowling shoes, cleats, climbing shoes, court shoes, cycling shoes, dance shoes, diabetic shoes, espadrilles, football shoes, footwear, galoshes, high heels, hiking shoes, kittenheels, lace up shoes, mary janes, moccasins, monks, mules, orthopedic shoes, Penny loafers, Platform shoes, pumps, running shoes, sandals, School shoes, Skate shoes, sling-backs, slip-on shoes, slippers, slide, sneakers, stilettos, Tap shoes, tennis shoes, trainers, wing tips.

shoe sizes - The variation between full sizes is one-third of an inch, while the difference between half sizes and full sizes is one-sixth of an inch. This system of sizes is based on a decree made by Edward in 1324.

shoe trees - Pieces of wood shaped like a last, designed to keep the shoes in shape. Popular designs include the three piece shoe tree and the sprung shoe tree.

Side Linings - Narrow pieces of leather cut from the same hide as the upper leather and placed between the upper and lining leathers and between the toe cap and the heel cup to stop the leather stretching and to strengthen both sides of the shoe.

silicone - A slippery polymeric material used to waterproof shoes.

siped - A type of outsole with narrow grooves or channels, often found in boat shoes.

sipes - A specific, razor-cut pattern in the outsoles of deck shoes that help to disperse water and prevent slipping.

sk8 Hi - The sk8 hi is the hi top version of the ‘old skool’ introduced in 1978 they were the first skate specific high top design and still remain in style today.

slide - A sandal with an open toe and open back, with one band across the toes. See also: sandal.

slingback - Shoes that are backless with a rear strap that goes around the upper heel, usually with a buckle or elastic panel .

slip-on - A style of footwear which is simply slipped on to the foot with no further adjustment.

slipper - A flat shoe that is easily slipped on, usually meant for indoor wear and lined for comfort and warmth.

slouched - Shoes with a baggy, gathered design that “slouches” down, usually found in boots.

smooth leather - Any leather that is smooth on the surface, without pebbling, or noticeable grain.

snake leather - Extremely rare and expensive Snake leather is made from the tanned skins of snakes. Snake leather is most often simulated or "faux" because the cost of using genuine snake leather is often too high for any but the highest-end luxury shoe maker.

snakeskin - Leather made from the skins of snakes, with a rough, scaley texture.

sneakers - (also called trainers, gym shoes, tennis shoes) - General purpose athletic shoes; made out of rubber, cloth, leather, and or plastic to be lightweight, flexible and have good traction.

sneaker pump - A shoe that looks like an athletic shoe, but is equipped with a heel, making it a kind of novelty dress shoe.

snip toe - A type of toe that is tapered, with a squared front as if “snipped”.

sock-liner - A sock liner is the insole in the interior of the shoe that the foot rests on.

sole - Another word for outsole, the bottom part of the shoe.

sole edge - The edge of the welt and the top of sole or of the welt, middle sole, and top sole.

sole leather - Any heavy leather (usually cattle-hide), used for the soles of shoes.

soling - The process of sticking and sewing the top sole cut out of bend leather to the welt.

spandex / neoprene - A combination of stretchy Spandex fabric and soft neoprene rubber, a soft and waterproof material usually used as a lining.

spats - A shorter gaiter, covering the upper part of the foot and the ankle. They fastened under the shoe and were made from linen. They were buttoned from the side and were very popular at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of 20th century.

spectator - A shoe design that is characterized by 2 materials, often of different colors or materials, with an edge of the dominant color having a pinking edge exposed, and a perforated design on the toe.

split leather - A type of leather used in shoes that is made from the lower layers of a hide that have been split away from the upper or grain.

split sole - A shoe sole made up of two pieces - one that protects the ball of the foot and one that protects the heel. Usually the midsole (or arch) of the shoe has no sole, leaving the leather of the upper exposed.

spool heel - Stacked heel made of large individual, often rounded parts,

stacked heel - A heel that has horizontal lines, indicating that it is made up of stacked layers of leather, or a heel with that appearance.

Stan Smith II - The Adidas Stan Smith was introduced in 1965 as the first all leather tennis shoe. The earliest version of the shoe was produced in cooperation with and endorsed by French tennis player, Robert Haillet. This first version of the shoe had a thick outsole and lacked the Adidas trefoil logo on the heel. In the mid-1960's, an up and coming tennis phenomenon came to the attention of Adidas, and the shoes were renamed in 1971 after Stan Smith, a tennis legend in the making. Stan Smith, a 6'3 tennis marvel from Pasadena, California, won seven Davis Cup victories, 39 singles titles and 61 doubles crowns in his career. The Adidas Stan Smiths are one of Adidas best-selling shoes of all time with over 30 million pairs sold.

Stan Smith - (born December 14, 1946 in Pasadena, California) Is an American tennis player who, with his partner Bob Lutz, was one of the best doubles players of all time. Together they won many major titles all over the world. Smith was also an excellent singles player who won many titles including the Wimbledon championship once and the United States Open championship once. In 1972 he was the World No. 1 player for the year. Smith played collegiate tennis at the University of Southern California, where he was a three-time All-American and won the 1968 NCAA singles championship and the 1967 and 1968 doubles titles. Following his playing career, Smith became active as a coach for the United States Tennis Association. Today Stan Smith lives on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, with his wife and 4 children, all of whom went on to compete in collegiate tennis. In his 1979 autobiography, Jack Kramer, the long-time tennis promoter and great player himself, ranks Smith as one of the 21 best players of all time.[1] In 2005, TENNIS Magazine put him in 35th place in its list of 40 Greatest Players of the TENNIS era. Smith was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1987. He still plays in exhibition matches and was recently noted by an observer to "still have it."

Steel Toes - Steel toes are most frequently found in industrial-style footwear that is meant to prevent injury in the workplace. Steel toes are tested by the A.N.S.I (American National Standard Institute) for their ability to maintain a minimum clearance when compressed by different weights.

Steeple - This new addition to our line of track spike-inspired shoes comes with all the clean and simple style you want from a running shoe. Features a full leather upper graced by colorful EVA layers and a rubber outsole.

stiffeners - Pieces of leather cut from the same hide as the upper leather that are placed beneath brogue, for example or on the upper part of the tongue.

stiletto - A high, tapered, narrow heel, also called a “spike” heel, named for a type of slim knife.

stingray leather - Leather made from the tanned skins of stingrays. Stingray leather is one of the most durable exotic leathers. Once the leather has been tanned and the finishing techniques are complete, the leather has a characteristic coarse and textured finish.

stitching channel flap - The leather edge formed when material is pared away from the mark. It covers the top sole seam, which would otherwise make contact with the ground and quickly get worn away , sooner or later leading to separation of the sole.

straights - The term applies to symmetrical shoes which are made left and right, but can be worn on either foot.

straight lasted - A type of last used to create a very straight shoe that helps to prevent severe pronation.

strappy sandal - A sandal characterized by a multiple strap design.

studio-aerobic - Athletic shoes ideally meant for aerobics and other studio fitness activities.

style form - A form for the upper components. It highlights where the components meet, their relative size and all lines , curves, and decorations. It is used to make individual forms for the upper component.

suede - Leather that has been sanded or roughed to produce a surface with a thick napped soft texture.

sueded fabric - Fabric that has been given a soft nap to simulate the feel of suede leather.

Superstar II - The Adidas Superstar II was first introduced in 1969 as the first low-top basketball shoe to feature an all-leather upper and the now famous rubber shell toe. Three quarters of all NBA players were wearing the shell toe shoes by the mid 70's and the Adidas Superstar II hasn't lost its popularity since. No longer worn as a performance basketball shoe, the Superstar is a retro basketball style shoe perfect everyday casual wear with its all leather upper and seasonal colors.

Super Skate - The Super Skate was the first skate shoe made by Adidas in 1979 originally appearing only in a French catalog featuring Low-cut tumbled leather upper with suede overlays and a non-marking sole.

supination - The rolling of the foot outward to the side while running or walking, can lead to serious injury.

synthetic materials - Materials other than genuine leather, but which are designed to look or function like leather. Also known as man-made materials.

t-strap - A type of shoe with a single vertical strap linking the toe and ankle/heel areas.

Tactic - The original shoe was introduced in the early 90's as a canvas women's tennis shoe.

tailored - Characterized by a fitted, precise design that follows the contours of the foot.

tango / flamenco shoes - Dance shoes designed especially for tango or flamenco dance. Typically men’s and womens have thicker heels with nails in them to achieve a loud sound.

tanning - The treatment of the skin with tanning agents to render it durable resilient hard wearing and soft. There are to types of tanning i.e. vegetable and mineral. In the former skins are tanned in pits with plant extracts such as spruce, oak, or alder woods; oak galls, pomegranates or acorn seed husks are used. it is usually the lower part of the shoe that undergo vegetable tanning. In mineral tanning the skins are tanned in drums with alum or chromium salts, the latter shortening the otherwise protracted tanning period to six or seven weeks. It is mainly the upper leather that undergoes mineral tanning.

tap - The attachment of a leather or metal partial sole over the existing sole of a shoe.

tassel - A rope and knot ornament typically found on the vamp of a loafer or moccasin.

Tennis Vintage - In 1967 Bungert was the first German tennis player to make it the Wimbledon finals and this shoe dedicated to his achievement was released in the early 1970’s.

Thermoplastic Rubber (T.P.R.) - A plastic material used by many manufacturers in the injection molding process.

Thermoplastic Urethane (T.P.U.) - A plastic material that gives support through the midfoot or medial side of a running shoe.

the Chukka Boot - Originally introduced in 1983 as a low-top basketball shoe The Chukka blends high-top appeal with boat-shoe fashion and comes in leather and canvas uppers.

thong sandal - Any sandal that has material that fits between the toes, especially the big and second toes.

throat - The front of the vamp next to the toe cap. For shoes where the vamp and quarter panels are one piece the throat is at the eye-stay.

tip - An additional piece of leather covering the toe of a shoe. May be in several different shapes or patterns. Also known as a Cap.

toe ridge - A horizontal ridge added into the footbed of some sandals to anchor and provide support and cushioning for the toes.

toe thong post - The part of a thong sandal that actually fits between the toes.

tongue - A strip of leather or other material, sewn into the vamp of a laced shoe and extending to the throat of the shoe.

topline - The top edge of the upper.

top piece - The part of the heel that comes in contact with the ground. Made of a durable material that helps maintain friction with the ground.

torsion - Device that causes the shoe to return to a stable base, after allowing the foot to twist in its natural movement during the gait cycle. Differs from Torsion by extending upward into the arch (Adidas).

track shoes - Lightweight running shoes often with plastic or metal cleats.

Traxion - Multi-oriented crescent-shaped studs to provide trail shoe traction in all directions (Adidas).

tread - The part of the under surface of the foot or of a shoe that touches the ground.

tru-moc - A shoe in which the bottom is a single piece of leather, stitched around a last. The vamp is usually attached by whip stitching to the bottom of the shoe so it encloses the foot. Also known as moccasin.

trubuck - A fabric with a durable but soft texture that simulates nubuck leather.

tumbled leather - A leather grain achieved during the finishing process - not embossed.

turf cleats - Permanent or removable plastic or rubber cleats on athletic shoes. (see football shoes).

turnshoe construction - When the shoe is made inside out first, then turned inside-out.

twill fabric - A woven fabric material characterized by a smooth surface and durable wear.

unit bottom - A single shoe bottom made from a mold of rubber or plastic. It includes the sole, platform heel or wedge.

upper - The part of the shoe that covers the top part of the foot, from heel to toe.

upper features - Items that either reinforce or decorate the upper: linen lining, eyelet facing with underlay, collar lining leather.

upper leather - Any leather used for making shoe uppers. The principal leathers used for shoe uppers are calf, kind, horsehide, goat, sheep, and leathers made from the skin of reptiles. All of these may be made in a wide variety of finishes, such as smooth, suede, patent, embossed, and glossy.

upper reinforcers - Leather or textile stiffeners for those regions of the upper where the danger of stretching persists.

vachetta leather - A type of soft cow leather. The leather is left untreated and is therefore susceptible to water and stains. Sunlight will cause the natural leather to darken in shade, called a Patina.

vamp - The front center part of a shoe’s upper, covers the instep of the foot.

vamp elastic - Wide, firm elastic sewn at the throat of the pointe shoe to extend the vamp and cover the top of the foot.

vegetable tanned leather - Leather tanned using tannin (hence the name “tanning”) and other ingredients found in vegetable matter, tree bark, and other such sources. It is supple and brown in color, with the exact shade depending on the mix of chemicals and the color of the flesh. Vegetable-tanned leather is not stable in water; it tends to discolor, and if left to soak and then dry it will shrink and become less supple and harder. In hot water, it will shrink drastically and plasticize, becoming rigid and eventually becoming brittle.

vegetarian shoes - Shoes made of non-leather or synthetic materials.

Velcro ® - Brand hook-and-loop fasteners are often used as straps to provide adjustable fits for shoes.

Vibram® - Vibram soles are used by over 1000 shoe manufacturers,. In 1937 Vibram launched the first rubber soles on the market with the financial backing of Pirelli Tires. The sole was designed to provide excellent traction on the widest range of surfaces, have a high degree of abrasion resistance, and was made using the latest vulcanized rubber of the time.

vinyl - Short for polyvinyl chloride (P.V.C.), vinyl is a shiny plastic often used for coating shoes.

vulcanized rubber - Rubber that has been converted from its crude state to one of durability and strength.

waist - The arch and in-step of the foot.

walking shoes - Have a more flexible sole than a running shoe, lighter in weight than the hiking boot and may have air holes for breathability.

walled toe - Shoe forepart which rises vertically,

washed leather - Leather that has been washed to soften the leather and give a patina finish.

water sports - Any sports such as rafting, kayaking, surfing, etc. that require footwear that is waterproof, quick drying, with all terrain traction.

wedge heel - A heel that is an extension of the sole of the shoe.

wellington - A style of pull-on boots with no trim, often made of rubber, for inclement weather.

welt - A strip of material that joins the upper to the sole.

welt seam - The seam that holds the upper, insole and welt together.

welt stitched shoe - An elegant handmade shoe. The welt seam that holds the upper and insole together is not externally visible. The top sole seam, which is visible, holds together the welt and the top sole (in a single soled shoe); or the welt, the middle sole, and the top sole (in double soled shoes)

western - roper - A type of Western boot characterized by a lower shaft, flared top, and medium round toe.

width - The width of a shoe is typically measured in letters (AAA, AA, A, B, C, D, E, EEE, EEEE) and refers to the width of the shoe last as measured at the ball of the foot. Widths are defined in one-sixths of an inch.

Wilhelm Bungert Vintage - Wilhelm Bungert, the 1967 Wimbledon runner-up inspired two adidas signature shoes. This one was too good to leave in the '60s. The re-introduction of the Wilhelm Bungert as part of the Icons theme celebrating the careers of three German world-class athletes.

wing tip - A type of shoe with overlays and stitched, perforated trim, usually a dress style.

work - non-safety - Work boots that do not have a steel safety toe.

work - safety - Work boots that have a steel safety toe and conform to CSA safety standards specified .

woven leather - Thin strips of leather woven together to give a basket like texture, sometimes leather is embossed to give an impression of weaving.

wrestling shoe - Athletic shoes ideal for Greco-Roman wrestling, usually with a flexible split outsole and covered laces to conform to rules.