How to use a shoe tree
Co-authored by Rio Jongsae Kim
Last Updated: feb 24, 2025 ⊜References
Last Updated: feb 24, 2025 ⊜References
One of the best tools for maintaining your shoes is a shoe tree. If you’ve ever wondered why some of the same shoes you buy last longer while others wear out or lose their shape within a few months, the secret lies in using a shoe tree. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about shoe trees, including what they are, the different types, and how to use a shoe tree.
What Is a Shoe Tree?
A shoe tree is a device, usually made of wood or plastic, that helps maintain the shape of your shoes, prevents them from wrinkling, and absorbs moisture. This increases the lifespan of your shoes and prevents unnecessary spending on replacements. While you may think of them as a small accessory, shoe trees play an important role in shoe care, especially when it comes to leather shoes.
Types of Shoe Trees
If you want to know how to use shoe trees properly, it is important to understand the different types. Not all shoe trees are created equal, and they serve different purposes. Knowing the various types will also help you choose the right one for your needs.
1. Spring Shoe Trees
Spring shoe trees are budget-friendly and the most common. They consist of a forefoot and heel section connected by a coiled metal spring. While they provide some level of shape retention, they do not offer the best fit because the tension is not adjustable.
2. Full-Toe Shoe Trees
These shoe trees cover the entire toe area and extend all the way to the heel of the shoe. They offer superior shape retention and are often used for high-end dress shoes. Made of wood, they also absorb moisture, keeping the shoes fresh.
3. Combination Shoe Trees
Combination shoe trees use both a split-toe design and a heel that expands for a better fit. They provide excellent shape retention and are usually made from cedar wood, which helps absorb moisture and control odor.
4. Split-Toe Shoe Trees
A split-toe shoe tree has an adjustable toe section that expands outward, providing a snug fit inside the shoe. This type of shoe tree is ideal for leather shoes, as it helps maintain the shoe’s shape effectively.
5. Lasted Shoe Trees
Lasted shoe trees are custom-made to fit the exact shape of a specific shoe model. While they are the most effective option, they are also the most expensive and are usually used by high-end shoe manufacturers.
Why Use a Shoe Tree?
Using shoe trees is not just about keeping your shoes looking good; they have several practical benefits:
- Prevents creasing: Shoe trees help maintain the shape of your shoes, preventing deep creases from forming over time.
- Absorbs moisture: Sweat and humidity can damage leather. Wooden shoe trees (especially cedar) absorb moisture and help prevent odors.
- Extends shoe life: By maintaining shape and absorbing moisture, shoe trees can add years to the lifespan of your shoes.
- Reduces odor: Moisture buildup causes bacteria to grow, which leads to odors. Wooden shoe trees help mitigate this problem by absorbing moisture.
- Makes polishing easier: Shoes in good shape are much easier to clean and polish than warped and wrinkled shoes.
How to use a shoe tree
Using a shoe tree is easy, but doing it correctly ensures maximum benefits:
- Let your shoes air out for 20–30 minutes after wearing them. Before inserting the shoe tree, make sure your shoes are not too wet.
- Insert the front part of the shoe tree into the toe box of your shoe. Make sure it fits snugly.
- Press the heel down. If your shoe tree has an adjustable heel, press it firmly so that it fills the heel cup.
- Leave the shoe tree in place. For everyday shoes, leaving it in for a few hours or overnight is sufficient. For long-term storage, always keep the shoe tree inside the shoe.
Vedio
When Should You Use Shoe Trees?
To get the most out of your shoe trees, timing is important. Here’s when you should use them:
- After 20–30 minutes of removing your shoes: Your shoes are warm and slightly damp from sweat. Inserting a shoe tree too soon may not allow proper moisture absorption, which can later cause odor. Wait at least 20 to 30 minutes before inserting them.
- Overnight storage: Leaving shoe trees in your shoes overnight ensures they dry properly and maintain their shape.
- Long-term storage: If you are storing your shoes for an extended period, place shoe trees inside to prevent deformation and shrinkage. You can also use a shoe bag to keep dust away.
More Shoe Care
About This Article
Co-authored by:
Rio Jongsae Kim
Designer Shoe & Bag Care Specialist
Rio Jongsae Kim is a Designer Shoe and Bag Repair Specialist and the Owner of Kim’s Shoe & Bag Repair in Vancouver, BC, Canada. With over 40 years of experience, Rio and Kim’s Shoe & Bag Repair specialize in the repair and reconstruction of leather and luxury goods including shoes, handbags, and accessories. Rio’s experience and dedication to quality repair and restoration have led to his work being featured on Yahoo, Insider, and MSN.
Co-authors: 2
Updated: February 12, 2025
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