Choose the Right Fit
- Proper Sizing: Shoes that fit snugly but not too tightly reduce excessive bending, which causes creases.
- Avoid Oversized Shoes: Loose shoes create more room for unnecessary flexing.
2. Use Shoe Trees
- Wooden Shoe Trees: Insert after wearing to help maintain the shoe’s shape and smooth out creases.
- Cedar shoe trees are particularly good as they absorb moisture and maintain the leather.
- Plastic Shoe Trees: A budget-friendly option to prevent creases during storage.
3. Rotate Your Shoes
- Give Them a Break: Avoid wearing the same pair daily to allow the leather to recover its shape.
4. Wear Properly
- Use a Shoe Horn: Prevents damage to the heel area while putting on shoes.
- Lace Properly: Ensure the shoe is securely fastened to reduce unnecessary flexing during wear.
5. Condition and Polish
- Leather Conditioner: Keeps leather supple and prevents cracks and creases from deepening.
- Shoe Polish: Adds a protective layer to minimize visible creases.
6. Store Properly
- Cool, Dry Environment: Avoid exposure to excessive heat or humidity, which can warp leather.
- Keep in Shoe Bags: Protects the shoes from dust and damage during storage.
7. Limit Bending
- Use Insoles: Inserts can help distribute pressure evenly, reducing excessive bending at the ball of the foot.
- Walk Carefully: Try to avoid crouching or bending your toes too much.
8. Use Crease Protectors
- Toe Inserts: Specially designed plastic or silicone inserts can be placed inside the shoe to prevent creasing during wear.
9. Opt for Quality Leather
- High-Quality Leather: Better leather tends to resist creasing more effectively than lower-quality options.
10. Regular Maintenance
- Moisturize Leather: Dry leather is more prone to creases, so regular conditioning is essential.
- Avoid Water Exposure: Moisture weakens the leather structure, making it more susceptible to creasing.
