heeltap

A heeltap is a small, horseshoe-shaped piece of metal or plastic attached to the heel of a shoe, primarily for men's dress shoes. Its main purpose is to protect the original heel of the shoe from wear and tear. When the heel of the shoe is exposed to the ground, friction gradually wears down the leather or other material. The heeltap, being a harder and often replaceable component, absorbs most of this friction, thereby extending the lifespan of the shoe's heel.

Heeltaps are typically made of durable materials like metal, such as brass or steel, or hard rubber. Metal heeltaps are known for their durability and provide a distinct clicking sound when walking on hard surfaces. Rubber or plastic heeltaps offer a quieter and sometimes more shock-absorbent alternative.

The attachment of a heeltap is usually done by a cobbler or shoe repair professional. They nail or glue the heeltap securely to the bottom of the existing heel. When the heeltap itself becomes worn down, it can be replaced by a cobbler, allowing the original heel to remain largely intact. This practice is a common method of shoe maintenance, contributing to the longevity and preservation of quality footwear. The term "heeltap" can also sometimes refer to a small amount of alcoholic beverage remaining in a glass.