What was a loop on the back of a shoe originally meant for?
The term 'bootstraps' appears to have originated in the early 19th-century United States (particularly in the phrase "pull oneself over a fence by one's bootstraps").
Tall boots may have a tab, loop or handle at the top known as a bootstrap, allowing one to use fingers or a boot hook tool to help pulling the boots on. The saying "to pull oneself up by one's bootstraps" was already in use during the 19th century as an example of an impossible task.
Today it is also used as a design element and to hang shoes out to dry.
More Info:
en.wikipedia.org
What are your thoughts on this subject?
8 Comments
Alicia Szot
Isn't that what it's STILL used for?
Cheryl Perkins
I think they mostly go on work and tramping boots.
Richard G Schwartz
Need a shoe horn for loafers.
Stephen Illich
The bootstraps on my cowboy boots are on each side, not in back.
Chandran David
It helps to handle shoes easily !
Wendy Petty
They don’t last very long if that’s the purpose!
docluci
I do not seem to have a loop on the back of my shoes!!!!!
David Colloby
It helped to 'Put Your Foot In It'