Iron shoes are used at the bottom, and sometimes top, of an iron baluster. The concept behind an iron baluster shoe (other than being decorative) is that it hides the unsightly look of a square peg placed in a round hole. This is most noticeable at the bottom. This is not nearly as noticeable at the top, or underside of the handrail in most staircases. In some homes, and with some handrails that have large existing handrail holes, a top shoe is considered necessary by the home owner.