what-when-how
In Depth Tutorials and Information
usually confined to the quarters and the insock, where the lack of stretch
and permeability are unimportant. Some modern lining materials can be
breathable, wick moisture away from the foot or even be impregnated
with silver, which is proven to be effective in reducing harmful bacteria.
Key
Concept
It is desirable that the linings be made of leather or another breathable
material to allow moisture from the foot to be drawn away.
Soling and heels
The sole must be durable, waterproof and have sufficient friction to
prevent slipping. Leather is the traditional soling material but is quick to
wear out and can have poor grip. Manmade soling is more durable,
resilient to water and can offer better grip, although this is dependent on
the pattern of the soling materials. Soles can be made lighter through
cavities in the main soling material being injected with lighter-weight foam.
Combinations of materials can be used, such as a more durable layer
outermost and a softer more flexible midsole for greater comfort. This can
be a useful combination in patients presenting with foot pathology, foot
pain and/or lesions associated with pressure.
The heel can be made from synthetic material or stacked layers of
leather. The heel is covered with a top piece which can be replaced or
repaired as the heel wears down with usage. The shank can be made of
steel, wood or synthetic material. Toe puffs and stiffeners support the
upper material and prevent it from collapsing onto the toe or inwards at
the back of the shoe.
Footwearâstyles
Practitioners need to be aware of the variety of footwear styles and
designs that suit different activities and levels of use. There are eight basic
footwear styles, the rest being variations on the basic themes (
Figure 5.2
).
Although style is dictated by current fashion and the required function
of the footwear, any shoe that is considered suitable for foot function and
protection must have a mechanism for holding the foot back into the heel
of the shoe. Without this fixation, the foot is allowed to slip forward in the
shoe and this can result in friction on the sole of the foot, the toes impact-
ing the front of the shoe or, in the case of sandals, the toes overhang the
front of the sole.
The two key components of any style of footwear are a fastening
around the instep and corresponding support at the heel, which need to
