The Golden Rules of Shoe Care
Updated: 1 day ago
Shoe care: the golden rules
Some choose shoes carefully, others collect them or make them a signature of their style. Without regular care, shoes can quickly lose their elegance and function. Consistent maintenance extends their life and preserves their beauty. Caring for shoes means respecting their materials, understanding their construction and adopting simple daily habits. Here are our recommendations.
Avoid wearing the same pair two days running. Rotating shoes gives them time to dry and rest, helping prevent cracks, distortion and odours.
Repair promptly. Repair heels and soles as soon as they begin to wear, for appearance as well as posture and back comfort.
Air out wet soles. If the soles are damp, place the shoes on their sides or hang them to allow air to circulate. Place crumpled newspaper in the toe to absorb excess moisture.
Dry at room temperature. Never dry shoes by a fire, radiator or hot pipes. Heat can dry out leather, encouraging cracks and premature wear.
Use shoe trees. Insert shoe trees after wearing to help maintain shape, prevent creases and support drying. Natural wood absorbs moisture and releases a subtle scent.
Use a shoehorn. A shoehorn helps protect the heel counter. Horn is an elegant choice, but wood, plastic and metal also work well.
Store shoes properly. Choose a breathable, well-ventilated wooden shoe cabinet away from heat. Avoid excessively damp or dry spaces.
Break in new shoes gently. Wear them for a few hours at a time during the first few days, giving your feet time to adjust.
Untie your laces. Always untie them before taking shoes off to avoid damaging the upper and heel.
Clean regularly. Even if they look clean, brush or polish shoes after use. When storing them for the season, use fabric bags and protect leather with a restorative lotion.
Keep shoes personal. Every foot has its own shape. Lending shoes can change their fit.
High-heeled shoes. the higher the heel, the more the center of gravity shifts forward. This can lead to pain in the calves and back. Using cushions to provide extra padding for the metatarsal area can be helpful.
Avoid rubber soles. they facilitate the buildup of static electricity, which can accumulate in significant amounts. Opt for soft, flexible soles that allow for proper joint movement.
Custom-made shoes. ensure that the shoemaker takes your measurements while you are standing. Both feet should be measured.
When your feet hurt. help the shoe expand by softening the upper at the pressure points using a shoe-stretching spray.
