Before I even get started on how to care for your shoes, I have to admit that I’m a big believer in spending a little extra money on good quality shoes. Cheap shoes just look cheap – and are generally uncomfortable. Also, most tend to be made of synthetic materials that don’t wear well and tend to smell bad after a few wears.
Leather on the other hand molds to the shape of the foot, is comfortable and if cared for correctly will give you years of wear.
If you’ve spent R500 upwards on a pair of shoes, you’ll want to care for them as best as you can. I’m always amazed at how many women (and men) will happily part with their hard earned cash on a pair of shoes, wear them regularly and not give a second thought to caring for them.
These are my tips on how to prolong the life of your favourite shoes and keep them looking pristine for years to come:
Before you wear a new pair of shoes, take them to be re-soled. This will add years to their life and give them extra grip so when you wear them for the first time, you won’t slip on any smooth surfaces. Expect to pay approximately R120 for this.
Use a foot spray or powder (especially when wearing closed shoes) to prevent any unpleasant odors.
After each wear, wipe any gunk off the inside and outside of your shoes with a wet wipe or soft, damp cloth.
Don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day – allow them some time to breathe and dry out.
Apply a leather cream to (leather) shoes once a month. Leave on for a few minutes then buff off with a soft cloth. This will feed the leather, add some shine and increase durability.
Suede shoes can be sprayed with a speciality spray and brushed with an old toothbrush to remove any dirt or scuff marks. A good dry cleaner should be able to get rid of any marks on fabric shoes.
Store your shoes in clear plastic shoe-boxes (you can purchase a pack of 10 from Builders Warehouse) – this will ensure they keep their shape and don’t get dusty. If space is an issue, canvas organizers that you can hang behind a door are a good option.
If your shoes get wet, avoid drying them close to a heater. This can shrink the leather and cause them to crack. Rather allow them to dry naturally in a warm, well-ventilated room.
Touch up any small nicks on coloured leather shoes with nail polish in a similar colour. I know, sounds odd – but you’ll be amazed at how close a match you’ll be able to find. As a bonus, you can match your shoes to your nail colour.
Some other tips:
If you find a pair of shoes you adore, but they aren’t available in your size (provided they are not strappy sandals), you can purchase one size larger and wear them with an inner sole. Purchase an inner sole (Green Cross do the best, in my opinion) in the SAME SIZE as the shoes, insert them and voila! The shoe should fit perfectly. You can do this with pumps, boots and any closed shoes.
Occasionally new shoes, especially during the first few wears, can rub against the feet causing blisters. Green Cross (stores nationwide) has the most fantastic range of special blister plasters that work for all the unusual angles on the feet.
Often, high heels can take their toll on the balls of the feet, causing discomfort. By inserting a pair of gel cushions into your shoes, your feet will be a little more comfortable thanks to the extra cushioning. Because they’re made of a gel-type material, they sit tight in the shoe without slipping and can also be rinsed.
You can stretch a pair of tight-fitting shoes horizontally, but never lengthways (obviously). Take them to a shoe repair shop so this can be done professionally. It should cost in the region of R30.
If you live in Cape Town, I recommend Rocksole (63 Wale Street Bo-Kaap 021 424-3858) for all shoe repairs.
Levingers Dry Clean & Shoe Clinic (shops countrywide) is also a good option. www.levingers.co.za
