Shoe Dictionary

Look for terms shoe-related terms alphabetically.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z |

2A

Visco-elastic (elastomer) polymer units that absorb shock (Fila).

3D Torsion

Device in Adidas shoes 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

3D Ultralite

Reeboks' Injection-molded mixture of rubber and EVA which eliminates the need for separate midsole/outsole pieces

ABZORB

Visco-elastic (elastomer) polymer pads to absorb shock (New Balance).

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).

Aeroflo

Midfoot ventilation system to allow the cooling of the foot on impact (Fila).

AHAR

ASICS High Abrasion Rubber

Air Cushion Merrell

Chamber that forces air as a cushion

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).

Back Strap

A tab or strip of leather/fabric extending above the top of the shoe upper at the back to assist in drawing the shoe on the foot

BioLock

IInternal strapping system to improve heel fit (Mizuno).

Boot

Any footwear extending above the ankle.

BRS 1000

IDurable carbon rubber compound (Nike).

Canvas

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

C-CAP

ICompression-molded ethylene vinyl acetate (New Balance).

Cell

IHexagonal 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).

Clog

A thick soled, sometimes back-less shoe sometimes with leather upper.

CM-EVA

Compression-molded ethylene vinyl acetate foam

Collar

Area around the ankle that's padded for fit and comfort

Combination Lasted

The use of a fibrous , stabilizing board, glued into the heel when the shoe is being constructed. The combination of the slip-lasted forefoot (for flexibility) with the stabilizing board in the heel gives the shoe more stability and versatility.

Counter

A piece of heavy leather or other stiffening material inserted between the outside and the lining of the upper at the back part of the shoe. The purpose of the counter is to strengthen the back part of the shoe and to prevent it from sagging and losing its shape.