There are four main kinds of shoes depending on their use:

• casual shoes (dress shoes)
• sport shoes
• work shoes
• corrective shoes

Casual shoes and dress shoes are made for almost all everyday occasions. Most casual shoes are based on such low-heeled styles as the loafer, moccasin, oxford, and pump. Most dress shoes, or evening shoes for women are based on the pump or sandal style and have high or medium heels. Materials used for these shoes include brocade, satin, silk, tapestry, and velvet. Most men’s dress shoes are pump and are made of leather or patent leather.
Sport shoes have different features for various sports. Basketball shoes and tennis shoes have rubber soles that keep the player from slipping. These shoes also prevent the shoes from damagingthe playing surface. Baseball shoes have metal or synthetic-rubber spikes that enable the wearer to start and stop quickly. Football shoes have synthetic, rubber cleats for the same purpose.
Work shoes are worn for safety and comfort in many kinds of jobs. Most types of work shoes are sturdy and long wearing and are made of leather. Workers in some factories wear shoes equipped with a steel section inside the toe for protection against injury. People in many trades require shoes especially designed to prevent slipping.
Most mail carriers, restaurant workers, and others who must stand or walk for long periods wear shoes that have a cushioned sole.
Corrective shoes are designed to provide relief from such foot conditions as bunions and corns. They also are used for hammertoes and other disorders. Some corrective shoes are ready-made products that have built-in corrections for the most common foot problems.