The Importance of Shoe Trees: Essential Care for Your Quality Footwear

What Is the Purpose of a Shoe Tree?

The primary function of a shoe tree is to maintain your shoe's shape during storage. By holding the shoe in its proper form, shoe trees help to smooth out any creases or wrinkles that form during wear. This not only keeps your shoes looking sharp but also ensures they remain comfortable. Additionally, shoe trees made of wood absorb moisture and odours, keeping your shoes fresh and extending their lifespan.

Benefits of Using Shoe Trees

1. Shape Maintenance: Shoe trees prevent your shoes from bending out of shape, ensuring they stay in their original form. This is particularly important for leather shoes, which can warp and shrink as they dry.
   
   
2. Moisture Absorption: Wooden shoe trees, especially those made of cedar, absorb sweat, acids, and salts from your feet. This prevents odours and helps to dry out any dampness, crucial in maintaining the integrity of the leather.
   
   
3. Odour Control: The natural properties of cedar wood also help to keep your shoes smelling fresh. The oils in cedar have antibacterial properties that inhibit the growth of unpleasant bacteria.
   
   
4. Ease of Polishing: Using shoe trees provides a firm structure against which you can polish your shoes, making the process easier and more effective.
   
   
5. Prolonged Lifespan: Regular use of shoe trees can significantly extend the life of your shoes, preserving their appearance and comfort.

How Long Should Shoe Trees Be Left In?

For optimal results, leave shoe trees in your shoes overnight after each wear. If your shoes get wet, leave the shoe trees in for at least 24 hours to ensure they dry correctly. There is no upper limit to how long you can leave them in if you wear your shoes frequently.

Consequences of Not Using Shoe Trees

Failing to use shoe trees can shorten the lifespan of your shoes. Persistent creases can become cracks, especially if the shoes dry out too quickly after getting wet. The absence of shoe trees can also lead to unpleasant odours and warped leather, causing the toe box to curve undesirably.

Potential Drawbacks

Shoe trees are beneficial, but improper use can cause damage. Ensure you use the correct size and shape for your specific shoe model. Wooden shoe trees are preferable over plastic ones, as they allow the leather to breathe and absorb moisture. Always opt for uncoated wood to maintain absorption capacity.

Can Shoe Trees Fix Creases?

While shoe trees cannot eliminate creases, they can significantly reduce their prominence. By regularly using shoe trees after every wear, you help the leather to return to its original shape, smoothing out creases and wrinkles.