welted

Welted is an adjective describing something that bears a welt or is edged with a welt. A welt is a narrow, raised strip of leather, fabric, or cord used to finish a seam or edge and to provide structure or decoration.

In footwear and leather goods, welted construction refers to attaching the upper to a welt, which is then stitched to the outsole. This method, including variants like the Goodyear welt, enables the sole to be replaced and generally offers durability and potential water resistance. Shoes described as welted emphasize the presence of a continuous edge strip or stitched seam that joins components.

In upholstery and textiles, welted describes edges finished with a welt cord. Cushions, sofas, and other upholstered furniture may be described as welted when such piping or edging is present, contributing to a defined outline and added reinforcement at seams.

In medical or dermatological usage, welts are raised, often itchy marks on the skin caused by bites, allergies, or irritants. The term welted can describe skin that bears welts.

Etymology-wise, welted derives from the noun welt, meaning a raised ridge or border, with the typical English participle suffix -ed to form an adjective. The sense is primarily applied to crafts and materials, as well as to dermatological descriptions, rather than as a general-purpose descriptor.