Understanding Shoe Trees

As someone relatively new to Goodyear welted footwear, I vividly remember a time when I had questions about whether or not something like a shoe tree was even necessary. A shoe tree is intended to be a replica of the wooden last that the shoemaker designs and creates the shoe around. The wooden last is the three-dimensional shape that replicates the foot, and the shoe tree is meant to maintain that shape and structure for the lifetime of the shoe.

The Benefits of Using Shoe Trees

Inserting a shoe tree helps to keep the leather upper taut or stretched out over the original shape, which minimizes creasing, rolling, and flexing in highly stressed areas such as the vamp. It also helps to keep the outsole flat and wicks away moisture much faster than if you don't use them. Without a shoe tree, the shoe can start to curl and develop more pronounced creasing and flexing, which only becomes more unsightly over time.

Some of the other benefits of using shoe trees include increased moisture-wicking properties, improved airflow, and better preparation for the next wear. The quicker the shoe can dry in its natural state without applying extra heat, the more readily available that pair of dress shoes will be for the next day's wear.

Common Questions and Issues with Shoe Trees

In a recent poll on my Instagram account, I asked about common questions and issues people have with their shoe trees. The responses spanned from the price of shoe trees, difficulty finding a shoe tree that fits properly and doesn't wiggle around, to the overall user experience and joy of using them.

Different Types of Shoe Trees

There is a wide range of shoe tree options available, from budget-friendly to high-end bespoke designs. Let's take a closer look at some of the different types:

Gifennse Shoe Trees

These shoe trees are cheap, costing $50, but when you consider the investment in a $200 or $1,000 pair of shoes, the additional cost is worth it to get the most out of your leather footwear. The gifennse shoe trees have a spring-loaded design that makes it easier to get the optimal fit and pressure against the heel to flatten it out.

Branded Shoe Trees

Shoe trees from specific shoemakers, are often based on the shape of the original last or one of the most versatile lasts used for their shoes. These shoe trees are more detailed and accurate in their shape, providing a better fit for the corresponding footwear.

Bespoke Shoe Trees

At the highest end of the spectrum are bespoke shoe trees, which are exact copies of the wooden last used to create a specific pair of shoes. These include the hinge-style shoe tree from Blazing Wonders and the adjustable model from Ichigo, which allows you to fine-tune the fit as the shoe stretches over time.

Maximizing the Value of Your Shoe Trees

If you have a pair of shoes that doesn't quite fit perfectly, you can repurpose a shoe tree from a well-fitting pair to help reshape and slightly stretch the other shoes. This can be a great way to optimize the fit and get the most out of the shoe trees you already own.

Some other common questions and issues addressed in the Instagram poll include packing shoe trees when traveling, remembering to put the shoe trees in after wearing the shoes, and finding the right fit for the specific last shape of a particular pair of shoes. While there may be some challenges, the benefits of using shoe trees far outweigh the drawbacks, and they are an essential tool for maintaining the longevity and appearance of your investment in quality leather footwear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, shoe trees are a crucial accessory for any gentleman who values the long-term care and preservation of their Goodyear welted leather shoes. By understanding the different types of shoe trees, their benefits, and how to maximize their use, you can ensure your footwear maintains its shape, fit, and overall appearance for years to come. Whether you're new to the world of high-quality leather shoes or a seasoned enthusiast, incorporating shoe trees into your routine is a simple yet impactful step towards maintaining a well-dressed and polished look.