Between Substance. That part of the sole that holds the stitch.
Blackball. A mass of grease and lampblack, formerly used by shoemakers on edges of heels and soles; sometimes called “cobbler’s botch.”
Blacking the Edge. Blacking or dyeing edge of sole, welt, or that part of the edge which cannot be blacked so well in the making room.
Blocking. The cutting or chopping of a sole in such a form or shape that it can be rounded.
Bloom. A term often applied to the grayish white deposit that gathers on shoes in stock. It can be wiped off readily.
Blucher. The name of a shoe or half boot, originated by Field Marshal Blücher of the Prussian Army, in the time of Napoleon I. It became very popular and has since received occasional favor, being used with high tops as a sporting or hunting boot. Its distinguishing feature is the extension forward of the quarters to lace across the tongue, which may be an extension upward of the vamp.
Boot. A term used (especially abroad) to designate women’s high-cut shoes. In this country it applies only to high or topped footwear, usually made with the tops stiff and solid. It is sometimes laced, as in hunting boots.
Bootee. Leather legging extending between knee and ankle, usually of Russian calf,—a riding boot originating with the English.
Bottom Filling. The filling that goes in the low space on the bottom in the forepart of the shoe. It is either ground cork, tarred felt, or other filler.