Care advice for leather shoes

Well designed and made leather shoes will boost more or less any outfit, and will if you take proper care of them last you probably for a lifetime. Follow this simple advice to take care of your leather shoes.

Like a sandwich, a shoe consists of an upper and lower, with the welt being the sturdy layer holding the two sections together. The shoe upper, or body, is further divided into the front portion (the vamp) and back (the quarter), and is traditionally wrought from leather. Different leather types and other materials such as coated canvas or even neoprene may be mixed and matched on the upper to offer textural interest and aesthetic flair. The lower (commonly thought of as the heel) is in fact composed of the outsole (the bit that makes contact with the ground); the shank (a rigid intermediary which prevents the shoe from buckling with use); and the heel proper, a raised platform that cushions your feet from impact. The outsole of the plushest of dress shoes and stilettos may be swathed in leather.

.clean

Always take the laces off your shoes. Use a soft bristled brush to sweep off preliminary dirt and dust. Keeping your hand under the flap to keep the upper firm and flat, use your other hand to apply a suitable cleaner or saddle soap all over the leather parts of your shoe. Use the same brush to gently work the cleaner into the skin. Pay particular attention to any noticeable scuffs or marks.

Let dry for about 20 minutes before proceeding to polish.

Some stockists offer in-house cleaning & repair service

.polish & condition

Think of conditioning as moisturizer for your shoes, which will dry out over time. To prevent flaking and wrinkling, dab a dollop of conditioner on a soft cloth and rub gently all over in a circular motion. Choose a polish in a hue that matches your shoe. Experts generally recommend a lanoline-based beeswax polish, which will soften and protect at the same time.

Wipe off excess polish with a soft clean cloth, and buff the shoe with a pair of nylon panty hose for a perfect shine.

.weatherproof

A spray-on water repellent is an essential, fool-proof way to safeguard against the elements. Before application, use a warm sponge to prep your shoe. The gentle heat will increase the porosity of the skin, allowing for better absorption.

Look for "breathable", water-based repellents, which will allow excess moisture to dissipate for pliable, butter-smooth shoes.

.store

A quality shoe tree is a worthwhile investment. Unfinished cedar is best, because it sponges up moisture and any disagreeable odors. Once you're home, stuff your boot toe with butter paper, then string them up on the tree immediately.

Regular use of a tree will maintain your shoe's original shape, and will go miles towards preventing shrinkage and creases.

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