Basic Footwear Construction Terminology
Apron - The overlay piece on the front of the shoe. So called because it normally is shaped similar to a butcher's apron.
Counter - The rear heel area where additional stiffening support is added.
Dimensional Molding - An embossing process that can mold a distinctive pattern design into a permanent shape retention.
Mudguard - The overlaid piece running around the toe area. Primarily conceived as a wearing layer.
Moisture Management - The selection of specific material combinations that control and activate the passing of perspiration from the foot area to the outer surface area.
Neoprene - A type of high-grade latex rubber sponge that is covered with a fabric. It has a degree of elasticity used as an
alternative to elastic gussets which are woven structures.
Orthotic - A medical device inserted into the shoe by trained professionals to aid in support and correction of foot problems.
Shank - The structural support element placed in the heel/waist area.Traditionally to keep the sole to heel line but now used
more as a side stability support system.
Topline - The top line of the shoe or boot running from rear lacing/fastening top point.
Tread - The forepart area of the sole directly underneath the metatarsal area but now widely used to identify the traction pattern of a sole design. (ex. secure traction).
Waist Area - The narrower area of the sole bottom roughly in the center under the instep. So named because of similarity to the human waist.
Counter - The rear heel area where additional stiffening support is added.
Dimensional Molding - An embossing process that can mold a distinctive pattern design into a permanent shape retention.
Mudguard - The overlaid piece running around the toe area. Primarily conceived as a wearing layer.
Moisture Management - The selection of specific material combinations that control and activate the passing of perspiration from the foot area to the outer surface area.
Neoprene - A type of high-grade latex rubber sponge that is covered with a fabric. It has a degree of elasticity used as an
alternative to elastic gussets which are woven structures.
Orthotic - A medical device inserted into the shoe by trained professionals to aid in support and correction of foot problems.
Shank - The structural support element placed in the heel/waist area.Traditionally to keep the sole to heel line but now used
more as a side stability support system.
Topline - The top line of the shoe or boot running from rear lacing/fastening top point.
Tread - The forepart area of the sole directly underneath the metatarsal area but now widely used to identify the traction pattern of a sole design. (ex. secure traction).
Waist Area - The narrower area of the sole bottom roughly in the center under the instep. So named because of similarity to the human waist.