As its name suggests, the upper is the combination of materials that wrap around the top of the foot. The upper consists of: Overlays - Synthetic materials that criss-cross the upper, and provide support and/or reinforcement. Heel Counter - Rigid or semi-rigid device in the heel that holds the foot in place. Collar - Foam padding that surrounds the sides and rear of the shoe, and helps hold the foot in place. Toe-box - Front portion of the upper that creates the space above and around the toes. Running shoe toe boxes should be roomy to allow the foot to expand. Last - The last is how the upper is attached to the midsole. The last is molded to fit the volume and width of each particular size. There are three different types of lasts: slip, strobel and combination. Slip - The upper is wrapped around the bottom of the last and the materials are stitched together down the middle. Strobel - The upper is attached to a thin material that is patterned on the shape or silhouette of the midsole.
Traditional strobel lasts use a thin cloth material, while newer variations use a thin sheet of EVA for a more cushioned feel. Combination - Traditional combination last attaches the upper to fiberboard in the rear of the shoe and the front is slip-or strobel -lasted. Newer variations use an EVA (see below) sheet in the rear of the shoe while the front is slip-or strobel-lasted. The midsole is typically made of plastic materials that feel and behave like foam or rubber. Midsole composition dictates the durability or longevity of the shoe, as well as the quality of the ride. Cushioning and pronation control technologies are located in the midsole. Compression-molded EVA - The most common insole material. EVA stands for ethylene vinyl acetate, a combination of two types of plastics. Polyurethane - Another type of material that behaves like plastic or rubber, and is used in midsoles. Polyurethane is not as commonly used as EVA because it tends to be heavier and firmer.
Durometer - Midsole resistance to indentation is indicated in durometers. The higher the durometer, the stiffer and more resiliant the midsole. Cushioning devices - Cushioning devices are placed in the heel and forefoot to absorb shock and resist compression. Each shoe manufacturer produces their own unique types of cushioning devices, but the function of these devices is similar across brands. Dual-or multi-density midsole - A midsole that has two different densities of material is dual-density and a midsole with more than two densities is multi-density. Shoes that are designed to prevent over-pronation usually have dual-or multi-density midsoles. Medial Post - A device located on the medial, or inside, part of the shoe. A medial post is placed in a shoe to reduce over-pronation. Medial posts are usually made out of plastic. Thermal Plastic Unit - Used to replace or support the midsole material. Most often, thermal plastic is used in the bottom of the midsole at the mid-foot.
Thermal plastic units can also be used in the midsole to reduce over-pronation. Typically made of rubber, the outsole is the bottom of the shoe. The outsole provides traction and contributes to how soft or firm the shoe "rides" as well as the torsion rigidity and flexibility. Carbon Rubber - Durable rubber compound that makes up the majority of running shoe outsoles. Blown Rubber - Air-injected rubber that is lighter, softer and more flexible than traditional rubber. Blown rubber is most often found in the forefoot. It provides a great feel but is less durable than carbon rubber. Shape - Outsoles range in shape from curved to straight. Curved shoes tend to be less stable, and are best for neutral runners to supinators, while more rigid straight shoes are best for overpronators.The legs attach to the foundation, BRILLIANT! It's all one piece and significantly lighter than any old bed frames or rails.As a PlanetShoes customer, I believe you will find the styling and comfort of the Earth Shoes family of brands a perfect fit.
Earth Shoes are the makers of many fine women’s shoe brands including Earth®, Earthies®, Earth Origins® and the original wellness shoe brand Kalso Earth® Shoes. You can rest assured that the same core values of PlanetShoes are shared by Earth Shoes. Take a look for yourself and as a token of thanks for your past loyalty and support, we’re extending this very special offer of extra 20% off on EarthBrands sale items – just for you. first began in 1999, we knew we wanted to sell shoes that were good for you and good for the planet. In doing that, we created a community of like-minded individuals that shared the same affinity for shoes and for Mother Earth. We’ve learned a lot as we’ve grown up—thanks to you. Your dedication and concern for the Planet, better products, and community have been a constant source of inspiration.This will allow us to take a deep breath, and re-evaluate what PlanetShoes should be to achieve ultimate balance and harmony—of doing and being better.
In the meantime, don’t go far. We’ll stay in touch and keep you up to date with our next move. More than anything, this letter is to extend our deepest gratitude to you. Your support has allowed us to do something we all love and believe in. We’re taking the lessons we’ve learned over the years to come back stronger. We hope you’ll stay with us on this journey. Phil Meynard and the PlanetShoes FamilyFind clothes, accessories and more for the entire family. Women's Clothing Men's Clothing Baby & Kids Clothing Activewear Swimwear Shoes Accessories See all Sunday best. Hop on limited-time savings on Easter outfits for the family. Free shipping select items. Jessica Ann Floral Cardigan Dress | Designer Women's Textured Top | Pink & Violet Trendy Chiffon Coral Stripe Maxi Dress | Premise Cold Shoulder Top | Nick Graham Men's Fitted Shirt & Tie Set | Perry Ellis Portfolio Casual Stretch Dress Pant | Gold Toe 4 Pair Rib Crew Dress Sock |