Essential Man skills – Shoe care
Gabe Alonso Every man needs to know how to take care of his things. Especially when you’re spending mad bills, you want to make sure your purchases last. Here’s a few tips on how to make sure your shoes stand the test of time.
I’m not saying you need to go H.A.M. on your kicks like the dude in the above video (though by all means go for it if you feel so inclined). What I am saying is that every guy should know how to shine and take care of his shoes. Hopefully, most of you will continue to succeed in your careers and earn greater salaries. As you have the money to buy more expensive things, I would like to think that shoes and clothes are included in your purchases. Most times, the price of a pair of shoes is on par with the quality. That means that the more expensive they are, most likely the longer they’ll last. The better you take care of them, the better your shoes will withstand the rigors of weekly use. I’m not saying they’re an invest, but the longer they last the less you’ve paid per wear, thus giving you a great bang for the buck. So, here’s some tips on making sure your brogues always look good enough to eat off of.
Shoe Trees
These are essential for keeping the shape of your shoe and fighting off the stank. If you can, opt for the unfinished cedar wood shoe trees with the split toe. These will ensure the closest fit between your shoe the tree. You don’t need tons of shoe trees, as you really just need to utilize them within one to two hours after removal. Past that time, and the shoes will have already returned to their natural shape.
Rochester Men’s Shoe Trees – $24.95
Shine Kit
You’ve put in all this effort to make sure your shoe doesn’t lose it’s shape, you better make sure it’s as shiny my great uncle’s bald head. To do that, invest in a shine kit. Here’s what you need – Shoe wax (I’ve been using Kiwi since I can remember. My Dad always did, too.), a welt brush (looks like a tooth brush, which you can use instead), polishing cloth, polishing brush, and sole dressing.
Kiwi Shoe Shine Valet – $40.99
General Tips
1. If your shoe is wet, stuff newspapers, or other outdated print media, into your shoes. Before they’re completely dry, remove the paper and shove the shoe trees inside. This way they’ll dry more thoroughly and maintain their shape.
2. For salt stains, a little vinegar and water (not a lot) should do the trick.
3. Find a cobbler you trust and use him for any and all repairs. Have him (or her) resole or reheel your shoes before it’s too late. Better to repair those things before it gets too late.
4. Try not to wear the same shoes 2 or 3 days in a row. Giving them ample rest and allowing the shoe to air out, will reduce odor and decrease the risk of wearing out the sole/heels too soon.
Shoe Protection – [Esquire.com]
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