Abstract: A shoe (10) is disclosed including a pin member (18) projecting outwardly from a head portion (20) secured to the sole (12) by a screw (256) extending through a bore (254) and threaded in a nut (252) imbedded in the head portion (20), with the bore (254) and the screw (256) being preferably at an obtuse angle to the pin member (18). An exchangeable heel (16) includes a preassembled capsule lock (200) secured in a bore (24). The capsule lock (200) includes a housing formed by a bottom cup (202) being press fit in a top insert (222). A washer member (214) of a lock member (50) is biased against the lower surface of a plate (230) integrally formed in the cylindrical portion (224) of the top insert (222) by a compression spring (48), with the plate (230) being at an acute angle to the axis of the housing and to the pin member (18).

Abstract: An article of footware comprising a shoe having a removable and replaceable heel. Attached to the sole surface of the shoe's upper is a outwardly projecting shaft which is adapted to fit into an internal bore formed in the core of the shoe's heel member. A latch mechanism is provided for inhibiting unintended separation of the heel from the upper.