Abstract: A method of making an article of footwear includes attaching a connecting strip to forward and rearward portions of the upper on the uppers medial and lateral sides. A sole is provided having recesses adjacent the medial and lateral sides. The footwear is assembled by movement of the connecting strips in a direction perpendicular to their length and into the sole recesses. The connecting strips may alternatively contain recesses so that the connection between the upper and the strips renders the components flush.