Taps and Non-Skid Pads

[beachape]

I've ordered some allen edmonds fifth avenues (check out the sale online) which are on back order. While I patiently await their arrival I've decided to try out some nylon taps (heel and toe) and some non skid pads. Specifically, I'm interested in trying out these two products:

http://www.cobblersupplies.com/servlet/the-181/Heel-Plates-Heel-Protective/Detail
http://www.cobblersupplies.com/servlet/the-549/J.-T.-Foote-Sure/Detail

Questions:
1) I wear a size 10b allen edmonds fifth avenue shoe. Which sizes
would you recommend for the plates (heel and toe)?
2) To change to a new heel/toe plate do you simply pry off the old
one? Does this damage the leather sole?
3) Do the plates stay on well without nails?
4) Any rule of thumb for where exactly to place the heel tap?
4) Do the anti slip pads damage the soles, or can they be removed and
replaced easily?

Thanks!

 

[DavyRay]

I remember when taps on shoes were common. I can't believe that they are still around. Are you a dancer? I just can't imagine anyone using taps now, unless they are dancing professionally.

I had taps on leather soled shoes back in the day. I think that was about 1967.

 

[beachape]

Not metal taps. Nylon taps to prevent wear. I really wear out the toes of my shoes and the very back corner of my heels. Its the way that I walk. These are just to prolong wear and save a little bit of money (not having to send into recrafting as often)

 

[beachape]

If anyone has nylon taps on their shoes they have numbers on them which tells you the size. They seem pretty easy to DIY, but I'm just curious which sizes people are using for their heels and toes. I should stop by a cobbler to ask, but its just so much easier to ask here