Bottom Scouring. Sandpapering the parts of the sole, except the heel.
Boxing. A term used to designate the stiffening material placed in the toe of a shoe to support it and retain the shape; such as leather, composition of leather and paper, wire net, drilling (a cotton fabric) stiffened with shellac, etc.
Box Calf. A well-known proprietary leather having a grain of rectangularly crossed lines.
Box Toe. Used to hold up the toe of the shoe so as to retain the shape. It is generally of sole leather, but often made of canvas or other material and stiffened with shellac or gum.
Breaking the Sole. Molding the sole so as to fit the spring better.
Brogan. A heavy pegged or nailed work shoe, medium cut in height.
Brushing. The final finish of the top edge, heel, and bottom, by means of a brush.
Buckskin. A soft leather, generally yellow or grayish in color. One way of preparing it is by treating deerskins in oil.
Buff. A split side leather, coarser than glove grain, but otherwise similar. It is used for cheaper grades of shoes, principally for men.
Buffing. The same as bottom scouring.