kind of tape coated with weaker adhesive, so as to avoid peeling off finishes or leaving sticky residue
Some makers use low-tack to reinforce covers at and above the featherline before outseaming and finishing, to further protect the uppers. Extra layers of protective material can be helpful absorbing nicks and impressions from tools like outseaming awls.
Low-tack tape, even low-tack tape designed for delicate wood and painted surfaces, can still leave residue and lift grain of upper leathers. Applying tape directly to uppers for protection is often counterproductive.