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A shoe is composed of different
parts. The key to finding a shoe that properly fits your foot is to understand
the basics of shoe construction. Once you know the basics, you can choose
intelligently from among the thousands of available styles.
The tip is the tip of the
shoe that provides space for the toes. The toe box may be rounded or pointed, Do
not select a shoe with too narrow of a toe box.
The vamp is the upper
middle part of the shoe where the laces are commonly placed.
The sole consists of an
insole and an outsole, The insole is inside the shoe where the foot rests; the
outsole is the bottom of the shoe that contacts the ground and helps determine
traction. The softer the sole, the greater the shoe's ability to absorb shock.
The heel is the bottom
part of the shoe that provides elevation. The higher the heel, the greater the
pressure on the front of the foot.
The foxing is the
covering of the lower heel
The quarter is the
covering of the ankle
The back stay is the
narrow covering at the back of the foot
The last is the part of
the shoe that curves in slightly near the arch of the foot to conform to the
average foot shape.
The upper is the leather
or synthetic part of the shoe that encases the foot. Uppers come in many styles;
it is important to choose the upper best suited to your foot type.
Remember the
material from which the shoe is made can affect the fit and comfort of the shoe. Softer
materials decrease the amount of pressure the shoe places on the foot.
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