An outer layer of a shoe (10), adapted to receive a variety of outsoles or portions thereof, said outer layer comprising: a base having a bottom surface, at least one cleat (14); at least one receptacle (12) provided in said base, said at least one receptacle adapted to receive the at least one cleat; an outsole (16) or outsole portion, wherein said outsole or portion thereof is positioned over said base and held in position with said at least one cleat and receptacle. An alternative technological device may be attached to the shoe by at least one cleat and at least one receptacle. The alternative technological device may include mountain bike bindings, puncture proof plates, river wading pads, parachute or jump pads.