17 Parts of Your Shoes That Actually Have Names
Whether you’re going bespoke or just want to impress your shoe guy, these terms will help you speak fluent footwear.
1. Backstay
Stiff panel behind the heel that adds shape and stability to back of shoe.
2. Counter
Rear portion of the shoe.
3. Eyelet
Metal or rigid leather perforations through which laces are fed.
4. Gore
Elastic or mesh panel that ensures a snug fit for slip-on styles.
5. Heel
Made of stacked leather or rubber, pads the heel and adds height to back of shoe.
6. Insole
Part of sole that cradles and pads the foot, often removable.
7. Medallion
Perforated decorations found on toe cap, such as broguing.
8. Monk Strap
Strap and buckle used in place of laces.
9. Outsole
Part of sole that touches the ground.
10. Plain-Toe
Vamp made of a single piece of material, as opposed to a toe cap.
11. Saddle
Panel covering the instep, often seen on a pair of classic derbys.
12. Throat
Middle portion of the shoe, often begins at the “throat line” at the base of laces.
13. Toe Cap
Portion covering the toe.
14. Top Lift
Also, top piece. Part of the heel that comes in contact with the ground material often adds traction.
15. Topline
Also, collar. Stitching or rigid material around rim of the shoe that gives opening structure.
16. Vamp
Front part of the shoe.
17. Welt
Portion connecting the sole and the upper.
