This good photo has all the makings of a great photo, but stops a little short. Technically it's wonderful. sharp details, rich colours, lots of depth.
As an abstract/macro, I think a slightly tighter crop would work a little better. the background elements make me look for more context that isn't really available. As a 'shoe' shot, a slightly wider crop would give me the context I need to place them in their environment.
I love the diagonals, and I love the contrast. Overall a solid entry.
Pedro
ps as a sidebar to your processing notes...why use levels AND curves (since both do the same thing). obviously not a criticism...I'm just interested.