GLOSSARY

Here you will find a glossary of terms for boots and all sorts of gear. You will find these on our products and this glossary is here to help.

# A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

4D ADVANCED CHASSIS™
Developed by Salomon this system has foot control and protection with active comfort provided through a stable chassis construction that works together with two different midsole components.

5.11 Tactical Shock Mitigation System^™
This system was engineered by 5.11 Tactical with feedback from the special operations community. Specific components include:

Carbon based rubber outsole
Phylon mid sole
Hypertex lasting board
Nylon flex-fit composite shank
4-layer insole system
Lunar lining

These elements are strategically combined to offer support for high-impact activity. This system is lightweight with superior compression and rebound resulting in comfort, stability, and optimal speed.

AEGIS® Odor Control Technology
A proprietary technology from Microban for odor control. Bacteria are attracted to the barriers’s positive charge, and upon coming into contact with the treated fibers, quickly die. This odor control technology works continuously to protect garments between launderings as well.

Aglets
a small sheath, often made of plastic or metal, used on each end of a shoelace, a cord, or a drawstring. An aglet keeps the fibers of the lace or cord from unraveling; its firmness and narrow profile make it easier to hold and easier to feed through eyelets, lugs, or other lacing guides.

Air Flow Comfort Orthotic System: Features gel heel and ball shock absorbers with a moisture control sock lining.

Alligator: Alligator skins have a high gloss finish with a deep, rich color. The distinctive squares are called “tiles.” Caiman is often substituted for alligator to produce fine western boots that beautiful and affordable.

Alloy Toe
An alloy toe is made from lightweight materials like titanium or aluminum, but they’re as strong as steel. They are 30-50% lighter than steel. It’s a bit thinner, giving more room in the toe box. They are metallic and will set off metal detectors. Alloy toe like steel toe and composite toe also meets the ASTM F2413 and I75/C75 protective toe classification.

American Bison: Popular leather for western and work boots because of its unique quality of being soft and mellow, yet tough as iron.

AMP™ Comfort System
From Georgia Boot the AMP™ (Advanced Memory Polyurethane) insole has a unique dual layer of polyurethane for maximum cushioning and a memory foam top layer to ensure that each boot's insole is custom molded to your own foot.

Anchor Disk
The Anchor Disk, consisting of a TPU stabilizer and built in shank, provides additional shock absorption and support where you need it most.

Antimicrobial: Treatment of the boot components that prevents odors and the growth of fungus. Agion is the only prevention system proven safe and effective enough to be called antimicrobial. John Deere WCT, Combine II, Miner, Filed Boots, and Canadian Safety Toe series feature Agion antimicrobial linings.

Antique Finish: This finish occurs where a contrasting color is sprayed on the leather surface giving it more depth. The leather is then rubbed to create highlights.

Army Regulation 670-1

(Source specification from US Army)

Tan or coyote in color
8 to 10 inches in height
Made of tan or coyote flesh-side out cattle hide leather
Plain toe
Soles match the color of the tan or coyote upper materials
Rubber and polyether polyurethane are the only outsole materials that are authorized
Sole not to exceed 2 inches in height, when measured from the bottom of the outsole, and will not extend up the back of the heel or boot or over the top of the toe
Exterior of the boot upper will not contain mesh but will be constructed of either all leather or a combination of leather and non-mesh fabric

ASTM F2413
This is a specification for the performance of protective (safety) footwear in the toe cap such as steel toe and composite toe. This specification is usually accompanied by ASTM I75/C75.

ASTM I75/C75: Laboratory testing to determine that safety toe footwear meets the testing standards for impact and compression.

B width
"B" width refers to an extra narrow width.

Barnyard Acid Resistant
This specially treated leather is three times stronger and two and a half times more abrasion resistant. The boots are “pasture-poop-proof. This leather will resist alkali, sulfuric acid, calcium hydroxide, manure, urine and lactic acids. This process is used to make John Deere Combine II, Field Boots, and Canadian Safety Toes Series boots.

Berry Amendment
The Berry Amendment (USC, Title 10, Section 2533a), requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to give preference in procurement to domestically (USA) produced, manufactured, or home-grown products, most notably food, clothing, fabrics, and specialty metals. Congress originally passed domestic source restrictions as part of the 1941 Fifth Supplemental DOD Appropriations Act in order to protect the domestic industrial base in the time of war.
The Amendment applies to both prime general contractors and subcontractors. The types of products affected by the Berry Amendment include the following:

Clothing and the materials and components thereof which may include headwear, outerwear, underwear, footwear, nightwear, hand wear, hosiery, badges, belts and insignia.
Cotton and natural fiber products
Tents and their components, including covers and tarpaulins
Spun silk yarn for cartridge cloth
Woven silk or woven silk blends
Wool (fiber or yarn contained in materials, fabrics or manufactured articles)
Synthetic fabric
Coated synthetic fabric
All textile fibers and yarns used in such fabrics
Any piece of equipment containing or manufacturing from such yarns, fibers or materials manufactured in the USA.

Berry CompliantBoots and gear made that adheres to the Berry Amendment

Blucher
A shoe construction featuring two side flaps of material that are joined across the foot with lacing.

Bob
Eco-friendly heat, slip and chemical resistant rubber. Found on some of the John Deere 'Field' boots.

Boot Shaft
The part of the boot that covers your leg.
It has two measurements.
The height is taken on the inside seam of the boot, and is measured from where the shaft meets the sole of the boot, to the top of the shaft.
To determine where the top of a boot will hit on your leg, measure the height of the shaft against the inside of your leg, starting at your instep.
The circumference (sometimes called calf size) is the measurement around widest part of the shaft of the boot.
To see if tall boots will fit your calves, measure around the widest part of your calf, and compare your measurement to the shaft circumference.

Boot tree
a form used to keep boots in shape when they are not being worn. Also known as "wooden feet", boot trees are designed to be inserted into the foot of the boot with relative ease, thanks to slide or spring action built into and underneath the wood. They are regaining popularity and can be readily purchased. Older ones were usually made of maple, but today cedar is more common because of its deodorizing quality.

Bootjack
A tool that enables the boot wearer to remove boots while standing. The first boot jacks were made of wood and had a forked end to hold the heel of one boot while the wearer pulled his foot out of the other. Bootjacks gave rise to the catchy expression "Once you use a jack, you will never go back."

Briar Pitstop Leather
This leather has a lot of waxes and oils that are applied during the tanning process. The concentration of the oils and waxes in this leather make it "explosive" meaning that it has a lot of "pullup". This can be seen by folding the leather tightly, as this happens, the oils move around inside the leather creating a color change. The color returns after the leather is returned to the original shape.

Brush-Off Leather First the leather tannery adds color to the leather, and then in the boot manufacturing process a brushing wheel takes off some of the color for a richer finish.

Bullhide Also known as shrunken shoulder, taken from the shoulder of the cow. In the tanning process the leather is shrunk to give it a textured appearance and toughness.

Burnished Leather The surface of the leather is actually burned using high heat caused by friction, which gives the leather a much deeper, rich appearance.

C width
"C" refers to a narrow width.

Caiman
Found in Central & South America, these small to medium reptiles are desired for their unique look. Boots using caiman leather are prized for their high fashion look and feel. Sometimes also referred to as 'caiman gator.'

Calfskin
The natural fine grain of calfskin is highly desired because of its high luster and shine.

Chukka
Ankle-high leather boots with suede or leather uppers, leather or rubber soles, and open lacing with two or three pairs of eyelets. The name chukka possibly comes from the game of polo, where a chukka is a period of play.

Cold Storage Traction
Provides extra action in cold storage inddor environments such as industrial freezers.

Classified UL
This mark certifies that products have been tested and certified by Underwriters Laboratories to meet the applicable standards in the U.S. and Canada.

Collar
The material sewn into the opening, or the topline, of the shoe. The collar can be padded to provide increased support or comfort.

Coil Zipper
Coil zipper—also known as nylon coil zipper—is a type of zipper whose teeth/elements are made from coiled monofilament that is traditionally nylon. The coil is sewn to a zipper tape to make the final product. The final zipper product is completed when the nylon coiled teeth are sewn onto the zipper tape. Nylon coil zippers have a continuous coil chain made from nylon. When this coil is positioned on the back of the zipper and not in the front, this kind of zipper is called invisible zipper.

Combine II
Named for the John Deere 'Combine II' work boot series. Made of rubber, the Combine II outsole is slip, heat and chemical resistant. Found on the John Deere 'Tractor,' 'Field,' and 'Canadian Safety Toe' Series boots.

Comfort Core® CC5 Comfort System
An insole material of polyurethane from Georgia Boot that is designed to give your foot the comfort and stability it deserves. The ergonomic arch support found on the CC5 footbed ensures that your feet are comfortable on the job all day long. Extended perforations on the bottom of the insole promote airflow and cooling inside your boot.

Comfort Core® CC6 Comfort System
From Georgia Boot Comfort Core® CC6 insoles feature an energy return plug that aborbs shock and stores energy when compressed, then releases energy as you lift your foot for comfort as you walk. The bottom of the insole also features vent perforations engineered to keep air circulating under the foot, helping keep your feet cool all day long.

Comfort Core® CC7 Comfort System
From Georgia Boot Comfort Core® CC7 insoles consists of a three-layer comfort system. The first layer of polyurethane cushions and absorbs shock, while the second layer of polyurethane gives you heel and arch support. The triple-layer comfort is completed by a memory foam top layer ensures that each boot's insole is custom fit to your own foot.

Comfort Cushion
Insole provides comfort and cushion to the feet. The moisture wicking cover keeps feet cool and dry.

Composite Toe
A composite safety toe is made of non-metal materials like Kevlar, carbon fiber, plastic, or fiberglass. Unlike steel toe it will not set off any metal detector. Composite toes also tend to be lighter then steel toe and do not conduct electricity so they are usually Eletrical Hazard rated.

Composition
High abrasion resistant rubber provides for longer wear.

Contagrip®
Made by Salomon Contagrip® is a footwear outsole technology that increases traction and adds walking comfort by filtering shocks from terrain. Contagrip® is made of a robust rubber formulation that is very abrasion resistant, and it provides grip and durability on all mountain surfaces. Contagrip® is manufactured by Salomon, and can be found in many pairs of their running shoes and boots.

CORDURA®
This material is a versatile nylon fabric with more strength and bulk than No. 7 Duck at little more than half the weight. CORDURA® Nylon is a textured nylon for a natural spun-like appearance, with excellent resistance to fading, abrasion, rot and mildew. Quick drying, and highly water repellent.

Corral
Oil, slip and heat resistant rubber outsole. Found on some of the John Deere 'Field' boots.

CROSSTECH®
This is usually found as an inner liner and is waterproof, breathable, bacteria, chemical, and bloodborne pathogen resistant. This is normally found in EMS gear. It is also made by the same company as Gore-Tex®

Counter
A stiff piece of material (typically leather) used to maintain a shoe's shape, and which is inserted between the shoe's lining and upper materials.

Counter Lock System
This is a system to help put on and take off books. Counter Locks are usually locatednear the heel of the boot.

Coyote
This is a common color in military camouflage and has a few slight variations such as Coyote Brown and Coyote Tan. Coyote Brown is for military spec use and conforms with Army Regulation 670-1

Cowboy Certified TPU and Leather Outsole
TPU outsole designed for traction but ease in and out of the stirrup. Has a leather border for elegant finish.

Crazy Horse
Natural leather that is hot stuffed with oils and waxes.

Crepe
Lightweight and resists abrasion for longer wear.

Crepe Sole
A kind of sole typically cast from rubber and made to resemble the texture of wrinkled crepe paper. These soles are almost exclusively seen on casual shoes and older style boots.

Crunch Leather
This leather has been bunched, exposed to high pressure then allowed to dry. The unique pattern is formed when angled sprays are applied to the finish.

Cupron
Cupron a company that embeds specified copper compounds in select polymers that enable finished products to deliver the desired impact. Copper known for its antimicrobial properties is used in boots with products by Cupron.

Custom make-up
A term used by boot factories to describe their version of custom-made boots. The major difference is that there is no custom last, nor are there any measurements involved. A stock factory last in a standard size that comes as close as possible to accurately fitting the customer's foot is used instead.

Cutouts
Cutouts are shapes cut into sections of the boot usually the shaft for a styling effect.

D Toe
A type of toe tapered toward a point, but with a flat tip found on cowboy boots

D width
"D" width refers to a medium or standard width.

Deer
Genuine deerskin is known for its soft and supple qualities. Deerskin shoes and boots are prized for their durability.

Deertanned
Cowhide leather tumbled repeatedly giving it softness and suppleness.

Demi Boot
A style of boot whose shaft is generally no taller than the anklebone.

Die
A metal pattern with razor-sharp edges that works like a cookie cutter. It is used to cutout sections of the boot in various shapes; these are then glued and sewn together to form the vamp, counter, and top of the boot.

Direct Attach Construction
A manufacturing process where separate pieces of a boot a combined together to make one piece. This has the tendency to make boots stronger and is used in applications such as waterproofing.

Direct Molded Sole (DMS)
A construction method that fuses the upper materials directly to the outsole for lifelong durability.

Differential
A running shoe term. May also be used in cross-training and hiking footwear. Describes the difference between the heel height (midsole and outsole) and forefoot height (midsole and outsole) of a shoe. Also called: heel drop, drop, heel-to-toe, offset.

Digger Polyurethane
Extremely flexible and cushioning polyurethane, oil and chemical resistant. Found on the John Deere 'Tractor' Series boots, and the John Deere 'Women’s' Series boots.

Dingo Chevron Flex
High abrasion resistant rubber provides for longer wear.

Dingo Flex
High abrasion resistant rubber provides for longer wear.

Distressed
Leather that has been treated for a stylish effect.

Dual Density Work
Made of rubber and polyurethane, offers oil, slip and heat resistance. Outsole tread disperses water for stability.

Durango Suspension System
Designed for all-day comfort, durability, and flexibility. The #Durango Suspension System is composed of four key components are engineered together to create a lightweight design that is embedded in boots. The components are a removable cushion footbed, tempered steel shank, rolled shank area, and a dual density outsole with EVA and rubber. Combined these create a comfortable suspension system the keeps you comfortable in some of the best western boots.

Durango X-Pand System
The Durango X-Pand System is engineered to the perfect universal fit for boots for all calf sizes. The fully engineered design includes a hidden elastic material located under each pull tab that expands an additional 2” on each side for added room, comfort, and flexibility.

Durango X-Treme Comfort Footbed
This footbed has three times the flexibility, cushioning and support. It provides instant cushioned comfort forming to the shape of your foot for immediate gratification. The three layers in this footbed include a polyurethane bottom with airflow channels to provide cool circulation, a mid memory foam layer for all day comfort and a top anit-microbial mesh covering which prevents odor-causing bacteria.

Duty Shoe
A health care professional or service industry shoe.

EE width
"EE" width refers to a wide width.

EEE width
"EEE" width refers to an extra wide width.

Eel
Elegant, delicate exotic skin with a high shine and distinctive look. Eel skin boots and shoes have smooth, soft feel that gets more supple with use.

Electrical Hazard
Designed with special heel and sole materials to provide extra protection where accidental contact with electrically energized objects is possible.

Ergo-Fit
Developed by Georgia Boot The Ergo-Fit safety toe is designed to match contours of your feet, providing superior comfort and flexibility.

Exotic Prints
Leather or vinyl that is printed to replicate exotic skins. May be snake, lizard, bullhide, ostrich, or alligator. Exotic print boots provide a value alternative to traditionally more expensive leathers.

Eyelet
A hole through which a lace is threaded; may be reinforced with a metal ring or grommet.

Fashion Heel
A fashion style heel.

Fence-climbing lugs.
An innovation by 5.11 Tactical in which the lugs on the outsole, designed to fit perfectly into the holes in a chain-link fence, making them easier to climb.

Fiberboard
A material made primarily of wood pulp which is used for counters, insoles and heel lifts.

Fin Friendly
Boots with this classification will fit just about all dive fins used by militaries worldwide.

Fine Line Trucker
High abrasion, oil and slip resistant rubber.

Finish
The process by which the final appearance of a shoe is created. The finish can include the application of polish to create a high-gloss finish, or a contrasting polish to create a rub-off finish like "antiquing".

Finishing Room
The area of a shoe factory where the shoe is finished, including the removal of the last, insertion of the insole, completion of the outsole and final application of polish.

Flexible Net Fit
Flexible net fit means these boots have great flexibility and ease of movement throughout your day.

Footbed
A term sometimes used to denote a shoe's insole.

Forefoot
The area of foot between the ball and the toes.

Foxing
A strip of rubber joining the upper and sole of a shoe. Typically found on canvas sneakers.

Fringe
an ornamental border of threads left loose or formed into tassels or twists, used to edge clothing or material. Sometimes thought to evoke of tribal style of native american nations, usually found in Western and cowboy styles.

Full Grain Leather
Leather that has been tanned so that the a natural texture, or grain, of the animal skin is visible.

Galoshes
Waterproof (typically rubber) overshoes or boots meant to protect the foot and footwear from inclement weather.

Georgia Waterproof
Georgia Waterproof is a development by Georgia Boot to enhance what people think about waterproofing and what being waterproof means. Using proprietary methods and technologies Georgia Boot works to have 100% waterproof system, so much so they guarantee it.

Ghillie
Pronounced "gil-ee", this is a style of footwear in which the laces pass through fabric or leather rings or loops attached to the front opening of the shoe, rather than eyelets.

Girth
The circumference of a shoe last measured around the ball of the foot.

Glazed Leather
Using Aniline-dyed leather, this type of leather is polished to a high luster by passing through greatly-pressured glass or steel rollers to create a smooth and shiny finish.

Goat
Lightweight, tight grained leather known for its durability. Commonly used in western boots.

Goodyear Welt Construction
Recognized worldwide as a superior method of footwear construction for durability.

GORE-TEX®
A waterproof, windproof and breathable membrane designed to protect against the elements to keep you dry and comfortable at all times.

GSA Compliant
For military personnel, it is required that each person has attire that is compliant with the guidelines from General Services Administration (GSA). For manufacturers and resellers, GSA compliant products mean that the “final products” that are sold through their GSA Schedule must also be assembled in the approved countries.

Gusseted Tongue
A gusseted tongue refers to boots, whether hiking, work, or military boots. It is a type of tongue in boots that prevents dirt, water, pebbles, and sand from entering your boots through the lace eyelets or the space between the tongue and the upper part of the boot. A gusseted tongue is sewn to the upper of the boot behind the laces, thus attached to both sides of the boot. To ensure the best water-proofing of your tactical boots, a gusseted tongue is an essential requirement.

HAIX® 2-Zone Lacing
Enables separate adjustment of the boot to the foot and leg area.

HAIX® AF (Ankle Flex) System
Our ankle flex system stabilizes the foot with a flexible insert in the shaft/instep area that fits like a lace-up boot.

HAIX® Climate System
Our climate system uses a pumping movement, which permits air circulation with every step – moist air is released and fresh air comes in through the vent holes at the top of the boot.

HAIX® ES (Easy Slip) Out System
Special heel edge for easier doffing of the fire fighting boot.

HAIX® FL (Fast Lacing) Fit System
Patented two zone lacing system for quick and optimal lacing adjustment and correct fit of the boot.

HAIX® FP (Flex Protection) System
Leather reinforcement over the heel rounding that protects the soft, flexible inset in the bending area from chafing.

HAIX® Smart Lacing System
Smooth and non-pressure adjustment of the boot to the foot, quick lock and lace pocket.

HAIX® WI (Water Ice) Grip System
Extremely slip resistant profiled rubber sole. Optimal performance in water, ice, and snow. Fullfills the highest demands of the European Standards EN 15090 + SRC as well as the U.S. Standards NFPA 1971 + 1951 + 1977.

Handmade
Boots that are built entirely from scratch by hand the old way. There is little or no machinery involved, other than a foot-pedaled sewing machine for some of the fine stitching.

Heel
The part of shoe that is attached under the heel of foot, and which varies in height and material according to the style of the shoe. In dress shoes, the heel is often fabricated separately from the shoe's sole.

Heel Stabilzer
Usually made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is added for additional stability.

Hot Stitch

Ibex

Inner Drainage Ports
Boots with these allow you to go amphibious by pushing water out of the boots with each step, especially while rucking (Carrying a weighted pack on your back. It implies action, energy, and purpose.).

Intermediate Cold-Wet Boot(ICWB)
These were designed to fill the protective gap between the uninsulated U.S. Army Standard Leather Combat Boot that offers minimal performance in cold and damp conditions, and the highly-insulated U.S. Army Extreme Cold Weather Vapor Barrier Boot that locks out the cold and wet with rubber-enclosed air chambers but does not breathe.

Insole
The inner sole of the shoe, which is often cushioned for comfort, molded for orthopedic reasons or hard for supportive comfort.

Instep
The area of the foot between the toes and the ankle, or the top front part of a shoe

J Toe
Sharply pointed toe usually found on cowboy boot styles

Jungle Boot
A type of military boot that was originally designed for the hot, wet, humid, thick in plants, types of environments that are found in jungles. Jungle boots have vent holes in the instep and sometimes a canvas upper to aid in ventilation and drainage of moisture.

Kiltie
A decorative, fringed tongue over the vamp of a shoe.

Laredo Flex
High abrasion resistant rubber provides for longer wear.

Last
An Old English word for footstep. The last is the model used to make all custom and factory boots. Until recently it was always carved from wood, but now fiberglass poured into foot molds has almost entirely replaced wood. The toe, however, can be fastened to the end of the last in any style the customer desires. And small pieces of leather are shaped and glued and then sanded down smooth to compensate for any irregularities in a foot or changes that occur normally as a customer ages

Leather
The dressed or tanned hide of an animal, usually with the hair removed.

Leather-like
Material resembling or made to resemble leather; tough but pliable.

LENZI®
A non-metallic L-Protection® anti-penetration board keeps your feet safe from puncture dangers with pre-treated ceramic and high tenacity fibers

Lightweight Tactical
Lightweight construction methods cause a boot to fit and feel more like a running or athletic shoe, while still providing the full range of motion, expected durability, and keeping feet secure and protected. Such boots come in multiple GSA Compliant colors such as black, desert tan, and sage and assortment of cuts including standard 8-inch military height.

Low Profile
A low profile boot that has less height than the average boot which is usually 6 inch, 8 inch, or 11" they tend to look more like athletic shoes because of their shapes.

LT Honeycomb
The LT Honeycomb technology system give the boot comfort and lightness. The comfortable, durable dual-density rubber outsole has a comfortable EVA Honeycomb midsole.

Lug Sole
A thick rubber sole with deep indentations that improve the stability and traction of utility footwear such as work boots.

Mad Cat
Another name for goat leather.

Metatarsal Guard/Protection
Metatarsal protection keeps your feet safe in the event that a heavy object falls on them.

Midsole
Midsole is the part located between the sole and the top of the boot. Made of gel, foam or some other materials, all of them brand-specific. This type of padding makes the midsole more durable while improving its stability and shock absorption. It is also seen sometimes by having a different color than the other part of the boot, but this is not always the case. The midsole and shank work together to reduce exhaustion. The midsole provides a layer of support between the ground and the orthotic insert, and the shank absorbs the shock that results from ground strike impact, so your feet don't suffer.

Milled Brass Hardware
Milled Brass Hardware helps extend the life of laces.

Moc toe
A type of shoe design where there is a seam running around the top of the shoe.

Mossy Oak
the name of a type of camouflage usually pertains to forest type looks. Mossy Oak is actually a collection of camouflage styles especially when licensed from the Mossy Oak company.

Mud Guard
This is a form of protection surrounds the base of the non-marking contragrip outsole, enhancing the traction and durability of the shoe.

MultiCam
A camouflage pattern designed for use in a wide range of conditions produced by Crye Precision. Variants of it, some unlicensed, are in use with armed forces worldwide. The pattern is also available for civilian usage.

Nailed Construction
Refers to shoes that have their pieces nailed together, instead of sewn.

Nomex®
A flame-resistant meta-aramid material can withstand temperatures up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit (370 degrees Celsius). Skin can burn instantly at temperatures of 131 degrees F (55 degrees C) it is used as protection against fire.

Non-metallic
Constructed using no metal material or parts. Perfect for working environments that require passing through metal detectors.

NFPA 1977
Protective clothing and equipment standards for wildland fire fighting

Nubuck Leather
A kind of top-grain cattle leather with a slight 'nap' of short protein fibers and otherwise smooth finish that is velvet-like and is achieved by 'bucking' (or sanding) the hide on the grain side (or outside). It is resistant to wear, and may be white or coloured.

Oil Resistant
Slip resistant boots specially designed to protect soles from damage caused by oil and other fuels. The special rubber material in the outsole gives you the capability to move freely on the job without a worry that your shoes will deteriorate due to high exposure to harmful liquid substances.

Oil-tanned leather
Soft and flexible, oil-tanned leather is also water-, damage-, and stain-resistant as well as being very stylish.

OrthoLite
A type of insole known for long term cushioning, high-level breathability (allowing air to circulate in and around the insole, keeping the foot cooler inside the shoe), a moisture management system (which helps move moisture away from the foot to provide a cooler, drier, healthier shoe environment), being lightweight, and machine washable.

Outsole
The bottom-most part of the shoe's sole usually rubber or leather.

OxfordAn Oxford shoe is characterized by shoelace eyelets tabs that are attached under the vamp, a feature termed "closed lacing". Originally, Oxfords were plain, formal shoes, made of leather, but they evolved into a range of styles suitable for formal, uniform, or casual wear. Seen used across many industries and boot styles with quite a few being uniformed approved and having features to be worn in a variety of environments.

Padded Collar
A section of the a boot that cushions the ankle and the Achilles tendon. The collar limits rocks and mud from entering the boot while hiking on rocky terrain. These are found in many boot styles and might be abbreviated PC in some listings.

Panama Sole
This sole style on many combat and tactical boots designed to help with ventilation and perspiration, but also to increase the comfort of the boots.

Pointed Toe A toe design that is considered to be the traditional cowboy boot style and often found in media representations. This narrow, pointed toe was designed to slide easily into stirrups of horses without snagging. There are several designs of pointed toe.

J toe: Sharply pointed
D toe: Tapered toward a point, but with a flat tip
R toe: Tapered, but rounded at the tip (the most common toe shape in cowboy boots)

PU Collar
Bicast leather (also known as bi-cast leather, bycast leather, or PU leather, sometimes described as split leather) is a material made with a split leather backing covered with a layer of polyurethane (hence the term "PU leather") that is applied to the surface and then embossed. On a collar of a boot this allows for easy cleaning of this area that might be more difficult with non-synthetic materials.

Pull holes
Finger holes at the tops of boots that replace pull straps and are very often used by working cowboys.

Pull straps
Straps that are used to assist in pulling the boot on. They can be on the outside or the inside of the boot in any size or shape.

Quarter Panels
The side components of the shoe, which run from its heel to its toe.

Ram Ridge
A Rugged TPU Heel Counter developed by Rocky to help take off boots easier.

Rakkasan
The Rakkasan rubber outsole, made of deep vulcanized lugs, provides a zero-slip, unbeatable grip on the toughest terrain. The hydrophilic lining with spacer mesh makes these boots as breathable as they are tough.

Realtree Camo
This innovation in camo that disrupts the human form and naturally conceals is from Rocky. It has several variants such as Realtree Xtra®, Realtree Edge Camo

R Toe
Tapered, but rounded at the tip (the most common toe shape in cowboy boots)

Rocky® Air-Port™ Footbed
Developed by Rocky The Rocky® Air-Port™ Footbed is a high-performance, cushioning and comfortable footbed. Arch support comes from the arch lift which conforms to a man's foot and rebounds to its prior shape after each use. This footbed also provides metatarsal ridge support to enchance insole performance. Heel cups impressions in this provide support and comfort. It contains 40-density polyurethane to absorb shock. Like the arch lift, it too rebounds to its original shapes after each use. Finally for last piece of extra comfort this insole is covered with soft, brushed fabric.

Rocky Vapor Pass Technology
Rocky Vaporpass Technology is a waterproofing technology from #rockyboot. It consists of two parts a waterproof barrier keeps every liquid that nature can throw at you and microscopic pores to let perspiration out to keep your feet dry.

Rocky® Waterproof
Rocky® Waterproof construction ensures the highest level of waterproof protection while maintaining breathability.

Roper
A style of boots with a wide, round toe, no decorative stitching, usually a nine-to-ten-inch top, and a low walking heel.

Rounded Toe
A style on cowboy boots with rounded toes that are usually known for long days of walking the fields or working around the barn. This style is usuallt prefered by people with wider feet or those who simply prefer a boot with extra toe room. Toes of this type are also referred to as W toe, U toe, Roper toe and look fully rounded or U-shaped.

Scallop
The V-shape in the front and back of the cowboy boot. This can be shallow or cut very deep.

Scent Concealing
Scent concealing gear prevent human body odors from being detected by animals and other means.

Scotchgard® Stain Resistance
helps keep boots clean. Scotchgard is the name most known for helping keep clothes and other fabrics clean. In boots Scotchguard helps repel liquids and block stains without changing the look and feel of the materials.

Shaft
From heel to toe, this term refers to the all the parts of the shoe that cover the top of the foot.

Shank
The portion of the boot that is used as reinforcement for the wearer's arch. Most boot makers today use a thin, pre-cut strip of eighteen-gauge steel, which is glued, whip stitched, or tacked in place.

SHOCK ZONE footbed
The SHOCK ZONE footbed is found in various Thorogood boots and provides a remove footbed that is designed to absorb ground strike impact from hard work days and your feet won't feel sore.

Sidewall Stitching
This stitching is sewing side seen on the seam of leather shoes and leisure shoes, especially for duty- working shoes.

Side Zip
Side Zip boots are able to be put on and taken off much faster than lace-up boots. These boots are usually used and are important for military and first responders so they can be ready a moment's notice.

Slip-On
Slip-On means that this footwear can be slipped-on and stay on your feet without the use of laces. These are similiar to pull-ons in this aspect.

Sockliner
The sockliner (also called insole) is the first layer of soft foam which your foot rests on inside the boot

SoftStreets™
From Thorogood this is a dual density polyurethane outsole designed for street comfort used by postal workers and others.

SPR leather
Compared to traditional leather, it is roughly 3 times as strong and resists abrasions 2.5 times as well.

Square Toe
A wide, flat and angular toe found on cowboy boot styles.

Static Dissipative
Protects both you and your equipment by reducing the static electricity you gather from the floor.

Stay
The strip of leather that runs up and down the back of the inside of the boot lining to stiffen and support the boot and hold up the top. Also knows as a "back stay."

Steel Toe
A durable boot or shoe that has a protective reinforcement in the toe (made of steel) which protects the foot from falling objects or compression, usually combined with a mid sole plate to protect against punctures from below. In various environments OSH (Occupational safety and health) legislation or insurance requirements may require the use of such boots in some settings, and may mandate certification of such boots and the display of such certification directly on the boots such as ASTM approved steel toes. Steel toe is popular in many environments.

StreetNav^™
An outsole by Belleville that has a unique cleat and lug design for superior traction in multiple environments.

TDC Comfort System
From Georgia Boot TDC stands for Technology Driven Comfort. The polyurethane TDC footbed offers maximum on the job comfort thanks to its ergonomic design in the heel and the arch areas. The bottom of the footbed also features air channels that promote air circulation, helping keep your feet cool all day long.

Teju Lizard
Also known as the Alligator Lizard, the Teju lizard is found in the jungles of Central & South America and is known for its elegant, distinctive look and durable quality. Boots made of Teju lizard have narrow rows of tight scales which age beautifully.

Temper-Dri
a Berry Compliant moisture management lining that is EPA registered MIL-SPEC anti-microbial that meets and/or exceeds MIL-SPEC abrasion resistance and ball burst strength and Can absorb up to 138% of its own weight and dry within minutes

Terra Suspension Footbed
From Rocky this is a rubber footbed in black with low traction areas to keep it in place.
This bootbed features an advanced high-cushioned polymer that gives you shock absorption on the heel and forefoot areas which are the parts of your feet that handle the most stress and weight.
The full-length urethane is soft and lightweight, yet it still supports your foot, providing excellent insole cushioning in boots.

Tempered Steel Shank
Protects and provides support for the arch.

Teraloc
Teraloc lace system. Teraloc is a special lace system that helps keep boots snug even if accidently untied. The fastening hardware is comprised of nylon coated brass eyelets and speedlaces.

Thermal Poly Rubber (TPR)
Lightweight for comfort, resists abrasion for longer wear.

Thinsulate and Thinsulate Ultra Insulation Insulation developed for those who demand extreme performance outdoors.

Toe Box
A stiff piece of material that is placed in the top of the boot toe between the outer vamp leather and the lining to reinforce the shape. All toe boxes used to be made of leather until the advent of super man-made materials. However, many custom boot makers still use leather, while the factories use plastic or man-made toe boxes.

Toe Bug
Also referred to as the "toe flower," "medallion," "fleur-de-lis," or just plain "toe stitch." Every boot maker has his favorite design. It becomes their signature and can identify the boot to others. Usually only one or two rows of stitching are used to create a delicate and artful design. You seldom see cowboy boots without decorative toe stitching unless they are made from exotic skins, in which case the stitching would not be visible.

Toe Cap
The top and front of the boot in where additional protective materials or markings can be put onto the exterior of a boot. Such as seen on fire fighting boots. These can also be found on cowboy boots, and others types, in addition to being added as decoration. As a decoration the toe cap may not provide additional protection.

Toe Vamp
This term is used to refer to the front center part of a shoe's toe and usually is sewn to the upper and counter.

Turf
This polyurethane outsole is oil, slip and chemical resistant, provides for excellent cushioning and flexibility.

U Toe
Fully rounded or U-shaped toe found on cowboy boots.

Underslung
A descriptive word for the angle of the back of the heel. Underslung heels are also sometimes said to be "undershot." From 1880 to 1960, most cowboy boots had higher heels. To keep them from having a heavy, blocky shape, boot makers hand-fashioned the backs of the heels to angle toward the foot.

Upper
From heel to toe, this term refers to the all the parts of the shoe that cover the top of the foot.

Velcro®
Registered trademark of Velcro Industries BV. Brand hook-and-loop fasteners are often used as straps to provide adjustable fits for shoes.

Venator Camo
provides the visual elements to give the hunter the stealth needed for any hunt, in any environment. Not only does the camo provide hunters with the stealth they need; the layering system provides superior warmth, stretch and breathability. Through the use of natural and synthetic yarns, styles that feature the Venator camo offer superior comfort and performance.

Ventilation Zones
are designed for breathability and comfort and can help keep airflow going and your feet cool inside your favorite boots.

Vibram®
A type of durable, non-slip outsole typically found on hiking boots. Vibram is a registered trademark of Vibram S.P.A.

Vinyl
Short for polyvinyl chloride (P.V.C.), vinyl is a shiny plastic often used for coating shoes.

Walk'em Dry^™
An innovation from Rocky Boots where Advanced S2V Sieve^™ technology circulates air in and water out so feet stay dry, cool, and comfortable even in the most severe conditions.

Water repellent
Water-repellent boots or shoes are in between waterproof and resistant in their protection level from liquid. While they can prevent far more water from penetrating the shoes than water-resistant footwear, they still can’t match the impermeability of waterproof boots.

Waterproof
Protection from standing water and rain so it is ideal for cold and wet environments. Waterproof means there is a waterproof inner bootie, like Gore-Tex® or other proprietary waterproof/breathable booties sewn boot, which prevents water from seeping all the way to your foot, as will happen with water-resistant boots.

Waterproof Leather
Leather that is treated during the tanning process to resist moisture. Non-moisture wicking leather is tested 50,000 flexes without any water coming through the leather. Waterproof leather is especially effective in work boots and duty boots.

Waterproof Membrane
Also called "Waterproof Bootie Construction." Made into the boot to trap moisture between the lining and the leather outside boot.

Water Snake
These very poisonous, small, waterborne snakes are found in the waters of Asia. The scale pattern of the snakes produces a beautiful grain in boots and shoes made of its leather. They are more fragile than python and require more frequent care.

Waxed Leather
During the tanning process, the leather is injected with hot wax throughout the skin giving the leather a burnished or pull-up finish.

WCT
also known as 'Work Comfort Technology.' Named for the John Deere 'WCT' work boot series. Tough, high abrasion and oil resistant Polyurethane.

Wellington
A style of pull-on boots with no trim, often made of rubber for inclement weather.

Wellmax®
This company creates puncture resistant materials seen in many boots.

Welt
A strip of heavy leather that is sewn around the lasting space of the upper and joins it to the insole. The sole is then stitched to the welt with a second seam.

Work Welt Oil Resistant
High abrasion, oil and heat resistant rubber, resists abrasion.

Worn Deer
Genuine deerskin that retains its natural finish, including scratches, during the tanning process.

Wrapped Cushion
12mm polyurethane and foam insole provides comfort. The moisture wicking cover keeps feet cool and dry.

XO-Toe

An innovation from Rocky Boots the XO-Toe is the first ASTM certified externally attached protective toe. This protective toe is externally attached with a lightweight, flexible cement construction. This composite toe gives extra toe space without compromising safety.

YKK Zipper
YKK stands for Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha an originally Japanese company who is known for producing high quality zippers and is held in high regard by apparel manufacturers because of their quality. Therefore many companies use YKK Zippers.