The advantage of shoes to early man was to protect their feet from harsh weather and sharp objects. The first crude footwear consisted of materials readily available to them and had little to do with looking good. Technology, design and engineering have entered the world of footwear and specially designed foot gear is available and far superior to the early crude protective wraps.

While fashion isn't entirely ignored with specially engineered footwear for particular purposes it is not the entire focus. Some examples are work boots, beach sandals, or running footwear which look good but serve a very specific purpose as well. Beach sandals may not seem very much like protective gear for the feet but they protect against sharp objects and hot sand very well.

Specially built running footwear has benefited from modern engineering and materials and have become almost a necessity for athletes and amateur runners. Training without specially built running shoes is almost unheard of for serious athletes. Marathon runners would not dream of training or competing without specifically built footwear to avoid injury.

Boots designed for work situations are engineered to protect the worker against specific hazards that might be encountered in different employment situations. Steel toed work boots are the most commonly seen boots and help protect the vulnerable toes from crushing. Construction workers very frequently are required to wear these specially designed work boots by their employers.

Not all work boots are designed to protect only against heavy objects falling. Workers who are employed outdoors in severe weather areas require work boots which are rated to withstand below freezing temperatures. Generally this type of boot also is sealed against moisture to protect the feet.

Leisure footwear may often be more elaborate than everyday work shoes but even leisure footwear provides protection against some potential hazards. Casual shoes meant for water or beach wear provide protection as well as can be fashionable and utilize modern materials. Most shoes for leisure activities are designed to provide good air flow in the summer, provide good foot support and still look good.

Shoes for the office situation almost always accent style but comfort is a big plus. High quality material and a comfortable fit may be the criteria for choosing this type of shoe. A busy office worker who is constantly on their feet delivering materials or ushering visitors in may require low heeled office shoes with a well padded sole.

Footwear designed to meet particular needs is common today and available in a tremendous array of styles and price ranges. Fashionable footwear can be protective, durable, and built to serve a specific purpose far better than those primitive foot wraps our ancestors wore. Whether the need is for stylish sandals, sturdy work boots or water and beach wear, there is a specially designed shoe available to fit the foot as well as the budget.