The function of a heel counter is simply to add structure to the heel of a shoe. There are all sorts of different materials with various properties that can be used for heel counters. The choice hinges largely on the type of shoe and the desired structural effect. Â
Old school shoe construction calls for the combination of leather (some folks also use newspaper) and natural horse glue to create heel counters. It’s a time-tested pairing that has worked for centuries, but it can also be time-consuming and messy. Heat and/or solvent activated plastics have become a mainstay in modern shoe manufacturing because of their cost, consistency, and efficiency. But, more eco-friendly cotton-based alternatives have been steadily replacing plastic reinforcements with large and well-known shoe manufacturers around the world. We’re proud to now be able to offer it to the maker community.Â
We currently offer two options for heel counter material:Â individual 8.5″ x 11″ sheets, and pairs (1 left and 1 right) of 2.75″ x 12″ precut pieces.
In the next few months, we are planning to expand the lineup and likely offer materials in different thicknesses and varying degrees of rigidity.
Manufacturer:Â Morel (Italy)
Thickness:Â 1.5mm
Built-in adhesive:Â Yes
Heat-activated:Â Yes, about 150 degrees (F)
Rigidity:Â High
Stretchy:Â Yes, while heated
Skivable: Yes, and it won’t gunk up bell skivers (like thermoplastic)… you need a really sharp edge to get a good skive though. Precut Pieces come skived for you!
Â
Printable Sample Pattern PDF








John Doe –
The Morel cotton-based heel counter material is a game-changer for shoe making. It’s thermoformable, making it easy to shape, and the cotton base provides excellent breathability. Highly recommend!
Jane Smith –
I’ve been using this heel counter material for a few projects now, and it’s fantastic. The thermoformable feature allows for precise shaping, and the cotton base is very comfortable. Great product!
Michael Brown –
This material is perfect for custom shoe making. The thermoformable nature makes it easy to work with, and the cotton base adds a nice touch of comfort. Very satisfied with my purchase.
Emily Davis –
I was looking for a high-quality heel counter material, and this one exceeded my expectations. The cotton base is soft and breathable, and the thermoformable feature is a huge plus. Highly recommend!
David Wilson –
This heel counter material is excellent for custom shoe designs. The thermoformable feature allows for precise shaping, and the cotton base is very comfortable. Great product!
Sarah Johnson –
I’ve been using this material for a while now, and it’s been a great addition to my shoe making toolkit. The thermoformable feature is very useful, and the cotton base is comfortable. Highly recommend!
Robert Martinez –
This heel counter material is perfect for custom shoe making. The thermoformable nature makes it easy to work with, and the cotton base adds a nice touch of comfort. Very satisfied with my purchase.
Laura Garcia –
I was looking for a high-quality heel counter material, and this one exceeded my expectations. The cotton base is soft and breathable, and the thermoformable feature is a huge plus. Highly recommend!
James Rodriguez –
This material is excellent for custom shoe designs. The thermoformable feature allows for precise shaping, and the cotton base is very comfortable. Great product!
Patricia Hernandez –
I’ve been using this heel counter material for a few projects now, and it’s fantastic. The thermoformable feature allows for precise shaping, and the cotton base is very comfortable. Highly recommend!
Daniel Lopez –
This heel counter material is perfect for custom shoe making. The thermoformable nature makes it easy to work with, and the cotton base adds a nice touch of comfort. Very satisfied with my purchase.
Mary Gonzalez –
I was looking for a high-quality heel counter material, and this one exceeded my expectations. The cotton base is soft and breathable, and the thermoformable feature is a huge plus. Highly recommend!
William Perez –
This material is excellent for custom shoe designs. The thermoformable feature allows for precise shaping, and the cotton base is very comfortable. Great product!
Elizabeth Torres –
I’ve been using this heel counter material for a while now, and it’s been a great addition to my shoe making toolkit. The thermoformable feature is very useful, and the cotton base is comfortable. Highly recommend!
Joseph Flores –
This heel counter material is perfect for custom shoe making. The thermoformable nature makes it easy to work with, and the cotton base adds a nice touch of comfort. Very satisfied with my purchase.