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Proper method to apply rubber to bottom of leather sole?

post #1 of 2
Thread Starter 

I just bought what I think is my first pair of actually really nice shoes (Silvano Sassetti).  Years ago, I bought a pair of Johnston Murphy captoe shoes for $360 which, looking back, I don't think are as nice as these.  Not knowing how to take care of them at the time, I allowed rain and snow to ruin the soles and damage the uppers.

 

After several years of mourning the loss of a few hundred dollars, I was content with spending less than a hundred each on a couple of pairs every year.  However, I recently fell in love with a pair of brown, two-toned Silvano Sassetti shoes.

 

Afraid of running into the same trap as last time, against the elements of the weather, I decided to get toe and heel taps added to them immediately.  Then, before every wearing them, I went back to the cobbler and had him put some rubber onto the soles, as well.  He showed me the material he would use, but I am not sure if they are Topy.  They are somewhat of a check design with more vinyl feel, than rubber. 

 

His work was impressive.  I don't even notice any addition when viewing from the sides.  However, I noticed that he seem to have removed a thin layer of the sole before he glued the rubber part to the sole.  The purpose of this, I suppose, is to make it flush with the rest of the leather sole.  Any comments about this?  Did he compromise my shoes?

 

Thanks.

post #2 of 2
That's common practice. Your soles are fine. Topy is just a brand name. I have two pairs with vibram rubber pieces put on the sole. You can't tell the difference when walking and they do a great job in extending the life of your soles.
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