p. 2 | Substitutes for Leather Shoes

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Aug 3, 1916

Substitutes for Leather Shoes

— Shoe manufacturers are in search of a successful substitute for leather, which is becoming more scarce and higher in price with each season. And on top of the shortage of hides, the height of the boot tops of women's shoes has climbed faster than the price, in a vain effort to keep shortening skirts to shoe-top length. Every day is said to bring nearer the higher-priced shoe, and nearly every day sees a new substitute for leather. Rubber has been accepted as a substitute, and one tire manufacturer is even now advertising widely a special brand of rubber soles for shoes. Certain fabrics have also given good service in shoe tops. Imitation leather, such as has been used for upholstery for a number of years, is now being used in shoes, and has endured severe tests. A composition material is being used for shoe soles which is declared to wear better than leather and to cost less, to be more flexible than leather, and in addition, to be waterproof and noiseless. The heels of women's shoes in recent seasons have required considerable leather. A substitute for real leather has been offered in fiber board, which can be shaved and burnished and is waterproof.