This article addresses the possible future direction of footwear examination by presenting an understanding of the four basic components of a successful examination. The successful examiner must first have a good working knowledge of the human foot: Morphological (visible form and structure); Biomechanical (function); and Papillary ridge formation (components that can provide positive identification based on the formation and unit relationship of the ridge). Second, the examiner must understand the basic footwear manufacturing process. The third component of a successful examination is the examiner's understanding of and skillful implementation of the comparison process. The final component is courtroom testimony. This involves keeping up to date on the latest developments and techniques in footwear impression evidence and crime scene management, and presenting a good appearance in court. Bibliography