Shoes

A shoe is an item of footwear. more...

Parts of a shoe

Sole

The bottom of a shoe, which supports the wearer's foot, is called the sole. It usually consists of several layers, and is usually a separate piece from the upper shoe (though not always, as in the case of wooden shoes).

Insole

The insole is the interior bottom of the shoe, which sits directly beneath the foot. Many shoes have removable and repalceable insoles, and extra insoles are often added for comfort or health reasons. (To control the shape, moisture, or smell of the shoe, for example.

Midsole

The midsole is a layer situated between the insole and the outsole, found in some shoes. Often it will provide cusioning and shape to the insole.

Outsole

The outsole is the layer in direct contact with the ground. The material of the outsole varies depending on the function, dressiness, and quality of the shoe, but is generally very durable material, since it experiences the most stress. Dressier shoes have leather outsoles; casual or work-oriented shoes have outsoles made of natural rubber or a synthetic immitation. The outsole may comprise a single piece, or may comprise separate pieces of different materials. Often the heel of the sole is rubber for durability and traction, while the front is leather for style. Specialized shoes will often have distinct modifications on this design: athletic cleats have spikes empedded in the outsole to grip the ground; many kinds of dancing shoes have much softer or harder soles.

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