What is the anatomy and composition of a Sneaker shoe?
On A Step Closer we offer you a lot of information on shoes, sneakers, (eco)responsible & ethical fashion and many other subjects that are close to our hearts, such as our opinions on sneakers produced by Nike , Adidas , Puma , Reebok , etc. However, when we publish an article, it is sometimes possible that certain somewhat technical words are used, and if MEEKO regulars are uncompromising sneaker enthusiasts, this is not the case for everyone. That's why we made this little glossary of the anatomy and composition of a sneaker shoe.
Midsole, upper, hell, tongue… Do you like sneakers but find it difficult to make your way through the jungle of specific terms? Here is the index of the different parts of the sneakers!
The world of sneakers is very anglicized and it is not uncommon to hear words from across the Channel (even from across the Atlantic) to describe the different parts of a sneaker.
midsole
The midsole, or “midsole,” is really what sets sneakers apart from other types of shoes. This sole is placed between the upper body of the shoe and the outsole (or outsole in sneaker jargon). It is usually made of plastic or rubber materials. Most often white or black, the midsole can take on various styles depending on the sneaker model. Frequently, it is even embellished with an air bubble, made popular by the Nike brand. The midsole fulfills the mission of "shock absorber" for the contacts of the foot on the ground. This is the reason why the materials used are often flexible but thick.
Brands are always looking to innovate on the composition of the midsole of their pair of sneakers. Generally, each manufacturer, each brand, uses its own technology for this sole. For example, at Nike we find its Shox technology or the air bubbles of the Air Max, at Reebok the Pump technology, Gel at Asics, etc., the most recent innovations being the "Boost from Adidas or the "React" technology. from Nike. Both provide a lot of comfort.
Upper
The upper (or vamp = upper facade) is the largest part of a pair of sneakers. It starts from the kick to the toe. It is therefore also the part of the shoe that undergoes the most transformations according to brands, styles or fashions. It can be made of suede, leather, nylon, mesh, nubuck, plastic, textiles of all kinds... In short, the only limit is the imagination to make sneakers unique.Heel
Simply the heel! Well, no need to think too much here, it's about the back of the sneaker. This part is essential for good foot support and cushioning. And this is obviously another element that varies according to the sneakers, some will be harder, others softer. It's up to you to choose a shoe adapted to your morphology and your desires.
Laces
Now we are going to tell you about the laces and the different parts that allow the lacing of a pair of sneakers. First the laces, of course. Most often round or flat, in different colors, they are essential and contribute to the aesthetics of the shoe. (even if the fashion for “sock pairs” (without laces) is in full swing)The eyelets are small perforations visible, or not, on the upper part of the upper. Often in metal, sometimes in plastic, the eyelets allow the maintenance of the laces, and therefore of the foot in the shoe.
Tongue
On the top of the sneakers, a part hides behind the area occupied by the lacing system. This is obviously the tongue or "tongue" in English. This part of the sneakers has the role of protecting the foot from the imprint of the laces and of maintaining the foot like on a common city shoe. This is also the part that usually wears the brand logo.
Nevertheless, the designers of trainers and sneakers are gradually revolutionizing the structure and support of the foot of sneakers. We have seen the appearance of sneakers / slippers that do not really have a tongue, such as the Adidas Ultraboost or the Balenciaga Trainer Speed.
Linings & insole
The liners are located inside the shoe. It is in direct contact with the foot and therefore has undeniable functions of insulation and comfort.The insole corresponds to the insole (bottom of the image). The insoles have the particularity of being the element in direct contact with your feet. They play a major role in transmitting shock to the rest of the body and stabilizing your foot. The inside of the shoe can sometimes undergo alterations linked to the perspiration of the feet in particular.
outsole
The outsole, also called undersole, refers to the outsole, or outsole. It is the sole that is directly in contact with the ground. It has an insulating role with respect to the rest of the shoe and aims to adhere to the ground. There are several types depending on the purpose of the sneaker (mountain running, road running, lifestyle, sneakers, tennis, golf, etc.).
As its name suggests, it prevents wear related to the use of the shoe. Like the midsole, it is also capable of absorbing shocks. Several materials (natural or synthetic) can be used to produce this thin, flexible and abrasion-resistant layer.
