pattens

Pattens are a type of shoe or overshoe designed to elevate the wearer's feet from wet, muddy, or dirty ground. They typically consist of a wooden or metal sole attached to a leather or fabric upper. The sole of a patten is often significantly thicker than that of a regular shoe, and some designs incorporate a raised heel or even a metal ring to provide even greater elevation.

Historically, pattens were most commonly worn by people of all social classes, particularly in urban environments where streets were often unpaved and poorly drained. They were especially useful during rainy or muddy conditions, protecting the wearer's shoes and feet from being soiled or damaged. Pattens could be secured to the wearer's shoes with straps or buckles, or they could be worn independently.

The design and materials of pattens varied widely depending on the era and region. Some were simple wooden clogs, while others were more elaborate, featuring metal frameworks and decorated uppers. By the 19th century, with the improvement of road surfaces and footwear materials, pattens gradually fell out of common use, replaced by more practical and comfortable footwear options. However, they remain an interesting artifact of historical fashion and urban life.