Introduction
Nothing says attention to detail quite like a perfectly polished pair of shoes. Whether you're heading into an important meeting or simply running your daily errands, well shined shoes can leave a lasting impression. In fact, some studies have found that shoes are a critical part of a first impression! So, if you want to stand out for all the right reasons, knowing how to properly shine your shoes is an essential skill. This guide will take you through the process step by step, making sure your footwear is polished to perfection.
Why Shining Your Shoes Matters
Shining shoes isn't just about keeping them looking good, it's a statement of personal care and attention to detail. Like it or not, first impressions are made within just 7 seconds of meeting someone, and your shoes play a bigger part than you think. Some studies have shown that people often make judgements of people based on their footwear, associating polished shoes with professionalism, competence and trustworthiness. Beyond aesthetics, regularly shoe care will extend their lifespan by protecting from cracking, drying out or fading. A well shined shoe not only reflects your style but also your lifestyle. Polished shoes can set you apart, showing that you pay attention to the finer details - an essential trait for any elegant man.
Essential Tools for Shining Shoes
Shoe Care Essentials:
Prepping Your Shoes for a Shine
Before you start shining your shoes proper preparation is key to achieving the best results. Here's how to get your shoes ready for a polish:
- Insert Shoe Trees: Immediately after wearing, insert shoe trees inside your shoes, this will absorb any humidity, help to reduce odour and will minimise the impact of any wrinkles across the shoe.
- Remove Laces: Take any laces out of your shoes to avoid getting polish or lotion on them. This also gives better access to the tongue and the area around the eyelets.
- Brush Off Dirt and Debris: Use a firm bristle brush to remove any surface dust, dirt or grime that sits on the surface of the leather.
- Apply a Leather Lotion: Using a cotton cloth, rub a small amount of lotion into the shoe using circular motions. This will act as a gentle cleaner, as well as moisturising and nourishing the leather.
- Allow to Dry: After a gentle clean, allow your shoes to air dry completely before applying any further polish or creams.
These steps are also a really quick way to give your shoes a weekly refresh. If you are happy with the results or you are strapped for time you could always stop here.
Step-by-Step Guide to Shining your Shoes
1. Choosing the Right Cream
- Pick a cream that is closest to the darkest shade on the shoe. Don't forget to polish the welt of the shoe which may be a different colour. Creams are most commonly sold in glass jars.
2. Apply Cream Polish
- Use a rigid bristle brush to apply a small amount of shoe cream, working into the leather using circular motions. Less is more - too much is extremely counter productive, suffocating the leather.
3. Wait
- Allow the cream to soak in for 10-15 minutes before moving on to the next step.
4. Buff off the Cream
- Use a soft horse hair brush to buff off any excess cream. The friction between the bristles of the brush and the cream will start to develop a shine. If you are happy with the level of shine then stopping here is absolutely fine.
5. Apply a Wax
- Applying a wax will elevate the shine of your shoes and will begin to add some waterproof protection. Using a cotton cloth or a firm brush work a thin layer of polish into the shoe. A little polish goes along way - too much will increase the chance of cracking. Waxes are sold in metal tins. Wait another 10-15 minutes for the polish to fully set
6. Final Buff
- After the polish has fully dried, use a horsehair brush or a polishing mitt using moderate pressure until you achieve a natural shine.
Tips for Maintaining Your Shoe Shine
To keep your shoes looking sharp and extend the life your shine, follow these maintenance tips:
1.Regular Cleaning
- Dust and dirt can wear down the polish. Give your shoes a quick wipe down with a soft cloth after each wear to remove any surface grime.
2. Polish Regularly
- To keep the leather nourished and reduce the chance of cracking, go through this full routine every 2-4 weeks depending on how often you wear them.
3. Use Shoe Trees
- Insert shoe trees immediately after every wear to help maintain the shoes shape and absorb moisture.
4. Store Correctly
- Store your shoes away from direct sunlight and heat.
5. Refresh the Shine Between Polishes
- Lightly brushing your shoes with a horsehair brush before each wear, the friction will help extend the life of the shine.
By incorporating these steps into your routine, you'll keep your shoes looking freshly polished and extend the longevity of their shine.
Conclusion
A well made and properly looked after pair of shoes can provide a man many years of fine service. By following these simple steps, you'll not only make a lasting impression you will maintain the quality of your shoes making your investment last.