Abstract: An apparatus for supplying supporting force in a boot or the like having predetermined first and second sides, the apparatus having a force applying system including a plurality of first securing points mounted in substantially fixed relation on the boot on the first side, a second securing point mounted in substantially fixed relation on the boot on the second side and a force applying member linking through the system the first securing points and the second securing point and adapted to draw the first and second securing points substantially toward each other to apply a selected force capturing the foot in the boot.