Why use shoe trees?

When the shoes are not used and resting on the shoe shelf, the shoe trees can have a big impact on how long a pair of shoes last. The purchase of a pair of shoes is something that we think should be a long-term investment and therefore the care of them is of great importance.

Text: Mimmi Ljungblad
Photos: Ted Olsson

Published 2022-01-01

How to choose the right shoe trees:

The material

The function of the shoe tree is to restore the shape and absorb moisture from the inside of the shoes. The best for this task are a couple of trees that are made from cedar, partly because they have a certain antibacterial effect and because they help to spread a nicer smell in the wardrobe. Shoe trees made from lacquered wood or plastic are mainly used for signage in shoe stores. Plastic shoe trees trap the smell and do more harm than good.

The form/model

Choosing a model can often feel difficult. Simplified, there are two types of shoe trees, spiral or spring trees with a fixed shape and trees with a split toe. The advantage of trees with a split toe is that they stretch the shoes in both depth and width. We had recommended that you avoid so-called spring or spiral trees that consist of a front piece and a spring that bends at the back of the shoe. This type of shoe block risks destroying the heel area and the natural shape of the shoes. Then they press the seams unnecessarily hard from the inside, rather than supporting.

The trees usually fit in most shoe models, but if you have chosen to invest in a pair of more exclusive shoes, you should consider acquiring loaded shoe blocks to get the best fit.

The price

Investing in shoe trees can feel like a boring expense, but if you turn it around, they can double the life expectancy of your shoes. The cost of shoe trees should of course rhyme with the price of the shoes themselves. If you have invested in an entry-level shoe for 100 – 150 euros, it is understandable if you do not wish to add a fortune on shoe trees.

WHY SHOE TREES?

Imagine two pairs of newly purchased leather shoes in good quality that are to be used frequently. In one pair, shoe trees are used after each use, while in the other pair it is not. After a period of use, the shoes without trees will have small folds and their natural shape will begin to change. On the other hand, the leather shoes that have had shoe trees in them after each use will probably have retained their aesthetics. Therefore, it is important to use shoe trees regularly so that you do not end up in wear and tear behaviour.

There are no shoe care products that can affect the longevity and appearance of the shoes as a pair of shoe trees. The function of the shoe trees is to restore the shape and absorb moisture from the inside of the shoes.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I USE SHOE TREES?

We recommend that you insert shoe trees in your shoes immediately after use while the leather is heated. A good rule is one day on, two days off. You should therefore not wear your shoes for more than two days in a row. This has mainly to do with each person sweating several centilitres per foot and day, so the shoes need time to dry between uses. You should also put shoe trees in the shoes before you take care of them. Read more about how to care for your shoes in our shoe care guide.

When the season is over, it is at least as important to keep the shoe trees in the shoes as they will not be used for a long time.