Abstract: A compressed batt of fibers is fed against a rotating toothed roll for dispersion of the fibers from the batt and this dispersion of fibers is fed through the point of closest clearance between the toothed roll and a feed roll rotating in the opposite direction. Downstream of this point of closest clearance, a stationary shoe is provided spaced from the surface of the toothed roll to permit the dispersion of fibers to follow the surface of the toothed roll. The shoe is closely fitted to the surface of the feed roll which has the effect of forming a pinch point where the feed roll enters beneath the shoe. In accordance with the invention, the shoe is equipped with passages for the flow of air to exit at the pinch point to prevent fibers from entering the pinch point, i.e., between the feed roll and shoe.