Orthopedic Build Ups

[rickybobby]

When doing a "lift" for someone with one leg shorter than the other you need to,

• Is it done safely?
  
• Does it work correctly?
  
• Does it look as "natural" as possible?
  
• Will it last?
  

I am sure there are others. It is important to use the shoes original sole bottom whenever possiable. This will give the shoe the same "feel" when worn, same stopping, same gripping.

Some shoe designs are better then others for this procedure due to their construction and quality.

We first remove the sole, install the light weight "cloud" material. Level and contour so the rolling action and stride are not affected. Reinstall the original sole then finish all edges to make the shoe look as "natural" as possible.

Many techniques & tools used to do leatherwork are used in doing Orthopedic Build Ups. Our business is fairly new but people have been bringing many to us because of the variety of shoes we can do. My business partner has been doing them for 25 years. We have a lady that brought a couple of shoes to us and was so happy we would do them she went out and bought more. She said she has never had so many shoes that she can wear and feel comfortable in! We have done 12 for her.

Rick J.

[scottishshoemaker]

Hi rickybobby, nice job. I do this on a dailly basis on all type of footwear and thank god someone else removes the original sole and reuses it. I also do covered raises in the best match to upper as possible.

a couple of pics.

[rickybobby]

Hi rickybobby, nice job. I do this on a dailly basis on all type of footwear and thank god someone else removes the original sole and reuses it. I also do covered raises in the best match to upper as possible.

a couple of pics.

Nice work you do! It appears you used a cork base for the lift and covered it? I have never used cork or done that high of lift. I have done 1/4" to 1 1/4" lifts and used "cloud "material.

We only do a couple a week, but it is a nice change from doing 1/2 soles and heels on dozens of pairs of cowboy boots! A little challenge can brighten your day!

Rick J.