Proper method to apply rubber to bottom of leather sole?

[raggedsweater]

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.

 

[musicguy]

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.