You're currently on:

• Home
• ::
• Resources
• ::
• Definitions - Upper

Upper

The term upper is used to describe the material on the top portion of a shoe that surrounds the toes and heel and holds the laces. The upper is where the primary decoration on the shoe can be found, as it is most visible. People buy shoes based on the color, style and overall design, which is mostly found displayed on the upper. The upper basically includes all of the sewn material on the shoe excluding the sole. The shoe's upper is what differentiates a particular shoe from another one. It creates the style of the shoe; when you decide you like a shoe, you are saying you like the design of the shoe's upper. The upper can be made of different materials such as:

• Leather
• Suede
• Plastic
• Rubber
• Canvas
• Mesh
• Synthetic Fibers
• Wood

The upper of the shoe also denotes the style of a shoe. For instance, if the upper consists of a thong strap, then the shoe becomes a flip-flop or a thong sandal. If the upper is entirely covered but features a backless heel then the shoe becomes a mule. Essentially, it is the upper that holds the mystery and wonder of the shoe.