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.