In order to know the meaning of the term last, we are going to proceed, first of all, to discover its etymological origin. In this case, we have to emphasize that it is a word that derives from Latin, exactly from “forma” which can be translated as “form” and even as “last”.
The concept of last refers to the mold that is used to make something or give it shape . It is an instrument that was commonly used in the production of hats and shoes .
Years ago, hatters and shoemakers used to introduce a wooden last into the product they were developing to give it or preserve its shape. The last was also used to take measurements .
As you can see, using this utensil is linked to artisanal production . Currently, manufacturing is usually industrial and does not use lasts, although there are artisans who still carry out personalized work .
The first shoemakers did not use molds. It is estimated that lasts began to be used in the 16th century : they were generally standard molds, although a different and unique last was made for the most demanding and wealthy clients.
In any type of footwear it is essential to take into account its last. However, we cannot ignore that this also extends to choosing a shoe for cycling. In this case, it is recommended that cyclists opt for an extra wide last because if they opt for a narrow last they may have problems such as the following:
-Chafing in the area of the knuckles of the fingers.
-Pain in the bunion area.
-Pain also in what the goals are.
-Numbness of one or more of the toes.
It is also true that in the field of cycling it is considered that wide lasts are less attractive, but we must bear in mind that rather than being carried away by aesthetics, we must think about comfort and, above all, health. And these do not bring with them any type of problem or discomfort.
This meaning of last gave rise to a symbolic use in colloquial language. The idea of “finding the right fit” refers to what happens when someone finds what they want or need. For example: “When I met my girlfriend, I met my match,” “For my cousin, that job was his match.”
The notion of last is also used in the field of food . Molded bread or sliced bread is bread that is made in a rectangular container and is generally used to make sandwiches and toast. Cheese is another food that can be produced on molds.
In the same way, we cannot overlook that Horma is also the name of a company from León (Spain) that was launched in 2006 and is specialized in the boilermaking sector.