How to Keep Your Shoes Crease-Free
Nothing ruins the fresh-out-of-the-box look of a pair of new shoes quite like deep creases and wrinkles. Not only do they make shoes look old and worn out, but constant creasing can also reduce their longevity. Luckily, there are several simple steps you can take to prevent shoe creases and keep your footwear looking like new for longer.
Why Shoe Creases are Bad
Shoe creases are unsightly and can quickly make new shoes look old and worn. Prolonged creasing can also cause leather to crack and degrade over time, leading to a shorter lifespan for your footwear. Preventing creases can help you get more mileage out of your shoes and keep them looking fresh.
Using Shoe Trees to Prevent Creasing
Shoe trees are one of the most effective ways to prevent shoe creases. These devices are inserted into shoes when they are not being worn, and they help to maintain the shape and structure of the shoe. Shoe trees are particularly useful for leather shoes, which tend to crease more easily than other materials. When selecting shoe trees, opt for ones made from cedar, which can absorb moisture and odor and keep your shoes smelling fresh. Other types of shoe inserts, such as foam pads or crumpled up tissue paper, can also be effective in preventing creases.
Proper Shoe Storage
Proper shoe storage is essential for preventing creases. Avoid stacking shoes on top of each other, which can cause pressure and deformation. Instead, consider using shoe boxes or a shoe rack to keep shoes organized and prevent them from getting crushed. When storing shoes in shoe boxes, be sure to stuff them with tissue paper or shoe trees to help them maintain their shape. Additionally, always store shoes in a cool, dry place to help prevent moisture buildup.
Techniques for Lacing Shoes to Reduce Creasing
The way you lace your shoes can also impact creasing. Try high instep lacing, which involves crossing the laces over the highest point on your foot, to help reduce pressure on the toe box and prevent creasing. Additionally, opt for softer laces made from materials like cotton or silk, which can lessen pressure on shoes and prevent unwanted creases.
Considering Shoe Materials
Certain materials are more prone to creasing than others. Leather, in particular, tends to crease easily and quickly lose its shape. To keep leather shoes looking their best, invest in a quality leather conditioner that can keep the material soft, supple, and less prone to creasing. Additionally, avoid buying shoes that are too tight or restrictive, as this can cause the leather to bunch and crease.
Preventing Creases While Wearing Shoes
While it’s impossible to prevent all shoe creases, there are several things you can do while wearing shoes to minimize creasing. Wear thicker socks, as they can cushion your feet and reduce pressure on your shoes. Take shorter steps, at least while breaking your new shoes in, to avoid putting too much weight and flexing on the footbed. Finally, aim to alternate between different pairs of shoes every day to give them time to rest and recover between wears.
Conclusion
Shoe creases are not only unsightly, but they can also diminish the lifespan of your shoes. Fortunately, there are several simple things you can do to prevent creasing, from using shoe trees to changing the way you lace your shoes. By following these tips, you can extend the life of your shoes and keep them looking their best for longer.
