The toe box is the section of footwear that surrounds the toes on closed-toe shoes. Toe boxes that are too tight can cause injuries and foot deformities, whereas wider toe boxes may be used to treat or prevent common foot conditions such as Morton's neuroma. Toe boxes come in a variety of shapes and styles of construction, some of which are a matter of fashion, and some of which are designed for specialized functions.
Shoes with a variety of differing toe boxes
A pair of boots with symmetrically-pointed unstructured square toe boxes.
The internal and external shape of a wooden clog allows the shoes to rock forwards, so the foot can push off in a fairly normal gait.
The shape of an adult foot which has never worn shoes (left), contrasted with a foot with mild bunion.[citation needed] The longitudinal line is "Meyer's line", a measure of foot deformity.
A moccasin is a shoe, made of deerskin or other soft leather, consisting of a sole and sides made of one piece of leather, stitched together at the top, and sometimes with a vamp. The sole is soft and flexible and the upper part often is adorned with embroidery or beading. Though sometimes worn inside, it is chiefly intended for outdoor use.
Contemporary moccasins
Osage (Native American). Pair of Moccasins, early 20th century. Brooklyn Museum
A soft-soled moccasin
Hopi Pueblo (Native American). Dancing Shoes, late 19th century. Brooklyn Museum