Construction & Craft
Leather Insole vs Removable Insert — What’s Actually Under Your Foot?
Understand structural leather insoles, sockliners and removable footbeds. Learn what an insert changes in dress-shoe fit and what to check before ordering.
shoe construction
All Journal →
Construction & Craft
What Is a Heel Counter? Why the Back of a Shoe Holds Its Shape
A heel counter helps the rear of a shoe keep its intended shape. Its stiffness and material vary by design, so more rigid is not automatically better.
Construction & Craft
Insole vs Midsole vs Outsole — What Each Layer Does in a Shoe
Footwear terminology becomes confusing when sneaker language is applied to dress shoes. This guide separates the insole, optional midsole/filling and outsole.
Construction & Craft
Single vs Double Leather Soles — What Changes in a Dress Shoe?
A double leather sole is not simply a 'better' single sole. Extra thickness changes flexibility, profile and feel, which can suit some shoes better than others.
Buying Guides
Loafers vs Moccasins — What’s the Difference?
Compare loafers and moccasins by style, upper construction, soles, fit and use. Learn why apron stitching alone does not identify how a slip-on is built.
Buying Guides
Leather Sole vs Rubber Sole — Which Should You Choose?
Leather and rubber soles behave differently in grip, wear, weather and appearance. Learn where each works best, what affects comfort and repairability, and how to choose the right outsole for the way you wear your shoes.
Construction & Craft
Blake Stitch vs Goodyear Welt vs Hand Welt — What’s the Difference?
Blake stitching, Goodyear welting and hand welting connect a shoe’s upper and sole in different ways. Learn how each construction affects profile, flexibility, repairability and the way a shoe is built.
Construction & Craft
Shoe Construction Explained — From Upper to Welt to Sole
A shoe is a system of connected parts. This guide explains what the upper, lining, insole, welt, filling, shank, outsole and heel actually do — and why construction method matters for repairability.
Construction & Craft
Hand Welting vs Goodyear Welt — Is the Price Difference Worth It?
Compare hand welting and Goodyear welting by inseaming, insole preparation, fit, repairability and price. Judge the complete shoe before paying for a label.