Proper care and maintenance of your shoes will help to extend their lifespan, so you can wear them for longer. If you follow the guidelines below and care for your shoes properly, there is no reason why your shoes shouldn’t last for many years.
The leather upper of a shoe requires regular polishing with good-quality wax polish to protect the leather and maintain a high-shine finish. This should help to prolong the life of the upper and preserve its appearance.
The shoes should be dry before application. Try to avoid using unsuitable liquid polish applicators, as these can potentially damage the surface of high-quality leathers and often create a lacquer that is hard to remove.
Suede and nubuck uppers can be treated using a suede protector spray. Using a rubber suede brush can help to lift any dirt and debris, however, stubborn stains may require treatment with a suede shampoo. Suede can often be revived by using steam from a kettle and gently cleaning with a rubber suede brush.
Brush clean, follow with a wax polish
Using a wooden shoe tree will help to absorb moisture and maintain the shape of the shoes as they dry out.
Using a shoehorn prevents damage to the heels, counter and top line.
Use shoe trees and a shoehorn
Leather soles can expand when wet, so it is best to avoid very wet conditions when wearing your new shoes out for the first two or three times.
In the event that your leather soles get soaked, make sure that you dry them out slowly and naturally, away from direct heat (e.g. radiators).
Leather shoes can often take a day to fully air-dry. Whenever possible, alternate daily with other shoes.