Abstract: Footwear comprising a sole, an upper, and a lace-binding system comprising a plurality of replaceable eyelet extenders. Replacing eyelet extenders, or components thereof, with others of a different color facilitates switching footwear from one color pattern to another. Replacing eyelet extenders, or components thereof, with others of a different length, flexibility, or elasticity facilitates modifying flexibility between eyelets and lace.

Abstract: Footwear with single or double vamp sections comprising a split tongue including a rearward tongue portion which is firmly attached along one side thereof to a medial vamp section of the shoe. While the rearward tongue portion is firmly connected to a medial vamp section, the connection may be permanent or replaceable. A forward tongue portion may be integrally formed with the forward upper, or be an extension of the forward upper, or be secured to the forward upper along a transverse edge and/or to one or both of the vamp sections, or be secured to one of the vamp sections only. One or both tongue portions may be formed to have pockets for receiving cushioning members and/or saddle members to reduce pressure on the instep. The forward edge of the rearward tongue portion overlies the rearward edge of the forward tongue portion in the working position.