Boots Key Terms

Boots lingo to stock your shelves and educate your customers

Boots are worn by everyone from men and women, to kids. They are worn in the workplace, for fashion, hunting and hiking. To become a knowledgeable resource for your customers it is important to educate yourself on some key terms for boots. Learning the parts of boots such as Gore-Tex, heel counters and piping, as well as learning some popular types of boots such as steel toe, rubber boots and Jodhpur boots will enable you to educate your customers and stock your shelves.

 

Gore-Tex

Gore-Tex is a patented material used in many boots. Gore-Tex is a membrane inside a pair of boots that has a series of small pores that aid in the release of moisture, while allowing air to circulate. This keeps feet water and sweat proof by moving moisture and perspiration away from the foot and out of the boot. Warm and dry feet are especially important in cold climates.
Try: To learn more about Gore-Tex and how it works to keep boots waterproof, check out Outdoor Country and W. L. Gore & Associates.

Heel counter

A very important part of any boot is the heel counter. The heel counter provides stability to you as you walk in boots while preventing your foot from rolling over the side. The heel counter is housed inside the boot between the lining and the outsole. It is actually molded to the heel to provide support.
Try: Cultured Cowboy describes what a heel counter is and how it is important in making boots stable to walk in.

Piping

Piping is the decorative strip of leather or fabric that runs up the sides of boots to cover the seams. The piping is located directly in the middle of the front and back of the boot.
Try: Explore the meaning of piping and the contrast of piping from years ago as opposed to today’s piping at Allen’s Boots.

Steel toe

Steel toe boots are the most popular type of work boots. They have a built in steel toe to protect the foot from heavy or sharp objects that may fall on the foot. Steel toe boots are worn in construction and manufacturing jobs and are many times required by these types of employers.
Try: SHOEBACCA offers a complete definition on steel toe boots as well as a sampling of the variety and colors they come in.

Rubber boots

Rubber boots are the epitome of waterproof boots. They offer complete waterproof protection and are ozone resistant. Rubber boots are great for any damp working condition or environment.
Try: G&L Clothing defines rubber boots while offering many options to choose from.

Jodhpur boots

For avid horse riders and people that care for horses, Jodhpur boots are the way to go. Jodhpur boots are boots that are low cut and can be laced onto the foot, or slipped on. They are great for equestrian activities because of their comfort, durability and performance quality. Many Jodhpur boots are even made with a steel toe in case a horse steps on your foot.
Try: Zappos.com gives a complete definition on Jodhpur boots, while TackWholesale.com describes their functionality.

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