Melded footwear and process for manufacture of footwear. This enhanced
shoe can be formed and assembled with a limited number of steps and
without the need for much stitching. The shoe has a durable polyurethane
shell, which is an integrated upper and outsole. The shoe contains a
textile upper portion which is attached by direct injection molded.
Molding the textile to the outsole eliminates the need for the use of
adhesives. A locking plug element is provided that serves the dual
function of providing cushioning around the heel and locking certain
elements together.