In blackjack, a "shoe" refers to a device used to hold multiple decks of cards, typically ranging from one to eight decks. This setup is commonly employed in casinos to facilitate the dealing process and speed up gameplay, as the dealer can draw cards from the shoe without having to shuffle after each round. Using a shoe also helps maintain game speed and enhances security by making it more challenging for players to count cards. The shoe is an integral part of the blackjack experience, influencing the game's dynamics and strategy.