 :For other uses of the term, see shoe (disambiguation) ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ A shoe is an item of footwear. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ - Sole - traditionally made of leather, but many plastic, rubber, or polymer materials are used these days. In some shoes, the sole and heel are combined in one piece.
- Heel - Leather was used in the past, but harder materials are usually more desirable. Many plastic, rubber, or polymer materials are used these days. Fortified cork is sometimes used in heels or soles so the shoes are lightweight.
- Upper shoe or covering - conventionally made of leather for dress shoes, but can be made of patent leather, suede (inverted leather), plastic, or plastic-covered cloth. Other types of shoes can use other materials.
- Inner lining - often just at the bottom, but fancier shoes have an inner lining for the upper shoe also. Commonly made of leather, but other materials can be used.
- Shoelaces - sometimes used but not always
- Elastic bands - sometimes used instead of shoelaces
- Zipper - occasionally used instead of shoelaces or elastic bands
- Straps and/or buckles - have been used on some shoes
- Velcro - sometimes used for fastening shoes
- Steel toe - commonly inside at the tip of the shoe for protection. When used, it is usually for work shoes.
- Tassel - some styles of men's dress shoes have a decorative tassel on the upper body
Accessories to shoes ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ - shoe horn - can be used to insert a foot into a shoe by keeping the shoe open and providing a smooth surface for the foot to slide upon. Many shoes are nearly impossible to put on without the help of a shoe horn.
- shoe stretcher (or shoe tree) - placed inside shoe when user is not wearing
- shoe polishing equipment - often used for boots also
:*shoe polish - a material spread on leather shoes to improve appearance, glossiness, and protection ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ :* polishing cloth - used to rub the polish into shoes ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ - overshoes - rubber covering placed over shoes for rain, snow, or puddle protection
- various types of inserts for cushioning, improved fitting, or reduced abrasion. These include padding and inner linings.
- shoe tree - for hanging shoes on pegs when not worn
- shoe bag - compartmentalized accessory hung in closet for storing many shoes
Shoe related Images and Photos (experimental) | 
