Shoe Care / Shoe Shine

[wackyvorlon]

I'm interested in hearing people's methods for shoe care. Myself, I prefer leather-soled shoes. As such, I polish them with Kiwi, brush them, then finish off the shine with an old, soft sock. I've heard panty hose work well for this, too. Lastly, I apply a coat of mink oil to the soil, to keep it supple.

So, what does everyone else use?

[scotrace]

I do the same (without the mink oil), but use black edge dressing on the edges of the soles. Looks and acts like ink.

I also try to slather them with leather treatment. I've used Lexol, a German product called Lederbalsam, and my current favorite, Leather CPR.

I have one pair of bison hide shoes in my closet that are 6 years old and look like the day I bought them. Bison hide is pretty much indstructible.

[wackyvorlon]

Actually, properly cared for leather dress shoes are supposed to last you the rest of your life. These things can be completely repaired, and survive centuries.

[Mycroft]

I polish my shoes ever so often, I recomend taking out your laces when you do it, and if the polish etc. gets in the eyelets, use a Q-tip to get it out. Here is my shinning process, a family tradtioal way with some twists.

1. Get the shoes on a clean counter, and remove the laces.
2. Clean 1 shoe with saddle soap, then the other.
3. Wipe down the 1st shoe you cleaned, then the other.
4. Scrub polish on the 1st shoe wiped down with a brush(1 brush per color), then let it sit.
5. Do the same for the next shoe.
6. Buff the first shoe you polished, with a special wool cloth, let sit, and use a rig if possible.
7. Repeat with other shoe.
8. Then with the first shoe do touch-ups(especally the heals, in steps, and toes), buff touch-ups.
9. Repeat with other shoe.
10. Clean out eyelets and restring shoes.

[Merlin]

And of course, it goes without saying that a pair of cedar shoe trees are indispensible.

[Mycroft]

And of course, it goes without saying that a pair of cedar shoe trees are indispensible.

And a well-stocked and good quality shoe shine kit. Also, a shoe horn.

[Chad Sanborn]

Thanks for tip on q-tips. I have always hated trying to clean the eyelets.

Chad

[android]

I've used Meltonian shoe cream for years. It give a nice soft shine on most shoes. If I want a military shine on black shoes, I'll use the Kiwi wax. I put on fresh edge dressing as needed.

Rotate your shoes and try to give them 2 days off between wearing with the shoe trees in. After 2 days, I'll take the trees out and stick them in something else if necessary. I think I am about 3 or 4 pair of trees short for 15 pair of shoes, so I just move them around.

I'll unlace the shoes if the tongue is looking dry, but I usually just work polish between the holes. That part of the shoe doesn't get much wear anyway.

I've tried panty-hose, shoe bags and soft buffing clothes for shining. They all seem to work equally well for me. A very nice shine can be obtained by lightly misting your soft brush with a water spray bottle, wiping the excess on your hand and then brushing the shoes.

[Mycroft]

Thanks for tip on q-tips. I have always hated trying to clean the eyelets.

Chad

Be Careful, the fuzzy(cotton) part of the Q-tips get stuck on polish or in the eyelets, use a toothpick to push it out or tweezers.

[Hemingway Jones]

I cannot add to the shining methods listed above, except to say that they sleeve from an old fleece shirt or jacket makes for an excellent polishing cloth.

Also, cedar shoe trees should be in every pair of nice shoes. I also keep them in the shoe boxes they came in. Some of the nicer pairs have cloth bags as well. So, the shoe trees go in the shoes, the shoes go in the cloth bags, and the bags go into their boxes. Not that I'm obsessive or anything.

[wackyvorlon]

Shoes only start to look their best after about twenty years. They develop this deep, rich patina, and a certain softness to their formerly hard lines. Unfortunately, there is exactly one way to get that patina on a shoe: Caring for them, and wearing them for twenty years.

[The Wingnut]

I'm very picky about my shoe shining methods. My dark shoes recieve a spit shine with matched polish. I use cotton balls and a lot of water. I can get a shine good enough to see yourself in.

My light shoes are a different story. I use lighter fluid to strip off all of the previous coats of polish, apply mink oil, let them dry for a day, and then apply a neutral, untinted polish. I find that tinted polishes darken the leather too much. A pair of light brown shoes look terrible with dark brown wax on them. I brush off the polish, buff lightly, and I'm finished. Dark shoes look good with a high gloss, but for some reason, it doesn't work for me on light shoes. I get a little luster on them and I'm done.

Shoes trees and horns are indispensible. Every gentleman needs them.

[matei]

The bit about the pantyhose is correct. While not my favourite technique, it can add a bit of lustre to an already shined shoe.

I used this trick when I was in the Army when I was in a hurry. Worked great! However, said hose made for an embarrassing moment during a snap inspection... Apparently it isn't as widely known in the service as I'd thought.

[Doug C]

I've been searching for Kiwi Shoe polish locally and can only find black, brown and cordovan.. but I'm specifically looking for their Oxblood and Dark Tan. I thought this stuff was everywhere, but can't find it : Walmart,Target,grocery stores,etc. So, I thought I'd get on-line and just order it but can't find a place that carries both (in the US anyway). A site called heelingtouch.com has the oxblood but no dark tan. Anyone know of a place that's got a full selection?

Doug C

[Pilgrim]

Doug, I think Cordovan is just a modern re-naming of Oxblood. It probably would work nicely.

Personally, I like the shoe creams because they put some moisture back into the leather, which I believe prolongs the life of the shoe.

[Marc Chevalier]

Anyone know of a place that's got a full selection?

Look in the phone book for "shoe supplies" or "shoe care supplies." These places, which cater to the trade but sometimes allow regular folks in, are usually located in the industrial areas of bigger cities. They have products that you will practically never see in stores, such as Kiwi edge dressing in brown.

.

[Flying Scotsman]

Look in the phone book for "shoe supplies" or "shoe care supplies." These places, which cater to the trade but sometimes allow regular folks in, are usually located in the industrial areas of bigger cities. They have products that you will practically never see in stores, such as Kiwi edge dressing in brown.

.

Are there any different shades of brown edge dressing? Or are they all just "brown"? I've noticed the brown I have is quite dark, and I'd prefer something lighter on some of my shoes...not really light, just lighter...

[Marc Chevalier]

Are there any different shades of brown edge dressing? Or are they all just "brown"?

They're all just one shade of brown, but they vary in viscosity. Some edge dressings are more like lacquers or shellacs (thick), while others are more like stains (watery). To achieve a lighter shade, use a more watery edge dressing (which tends to come in a glass or semi-hard plastic bottle). For a darker shade, you'll have an easier time using thicker edge dressing (Kiwi) that comes in a squeeze bottle with a round sponge applicator on the opening.

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[Bill O'Rights]

Find a "real" shoe store. Not one of those chains, but a real honest to goodness family run...shoe store. They're still there. We have Haney Shoes. If you don't soon have any luck, or if you just want to throw in the towel, let me know, and I'll call 'em and see if they've either got it, or can get it.

[DeeDub]

I was a longtime Kiwi user, but I've since grown fond of Lincoln shoe polish. I find it easier to work with. They have a variety of colors, in waxes and creams.

Take a look at http://www.lincolnshoepolish.com/

[Flying Scotsman]

They're all just one shade of brown, but they vary in viscosity. Some edge dressings are more like lacquers or shellacs (thick), while others are more like stains (watery). To achieve a lighter shade, use a more watery edge dressing (which tends to come in a glass or semi-hard plastic bottle). For a darker shade, you'll have an easier time using thicker edge dressing (Kiwi) that comes in a squeeze bottle with a round sponge applicator on the opening.

.

Hmmmm...is there a difference between "edge dressing" and "edge ink"? I can imagine that stuff called "edge dye" actually dyes the sole. What about these other two incarnations of stuff?

[Marc Chevalier]

Hmmmm...is there a difference between "edge dressing" and "edge ink"? I can imagine that stuff called "edge dye" actually dyes the sole. What about these other two incarnations of stuff?

Here in the U.S.A., I've always seen it referred to as "edge dressing," no matter how thick or how watery it is. So far, I've not come across bottles labeled as "edge ink" or "dye." [huh]

.

[Flying Scotsman]

Here in the U.S.A., I've always seen it referred to as "edge dressing," no matter how thick or how watery it is. So far, I've not come across bottles labeled as "edge ink" or "dye." [huh]

.

I noticed it last week...I actually have a bottle of black "Edge Dressing" and a bottle of brown "Edge Ink", both from Fiebings. (For all I know, the stuff is junk and I should toss it and get something better, but what the heck did I know? All opinions/comments/assistance here are welcome).

A quick Internet search seems to (perhaps) indicate that the Edge Dressing is for leather soles, and the Edge Ink is for rubber/composite/stuff-that's-not-leather...maybe?

Weird...whoda thunk there was all this different stuff for making the edges of your soles look nice? Next thing you know, I'll find out that there's stuff for polishing the *inside* of the shoe!

[Marc Chevalier]

Weird...whoda thunk there was all this different stuff for making the edges of your soles look nice?

I know ... how arcane can we get? (Don't answer that. ;))

But seriously: repainting the edge of soles and heels goes a LONG way toward making them look, well, new. Until you've done it, you can't imagine how much of a difference it makes. Before I sell any pair of vintage shoes on eBay, I always use edge dressing on them first. Only then do I take photos.

.

[Flying Scotsman]

I know ... how arcane can a thread get? (Don't answer that. ;))

But seriously: repainting the edge of soles and heels goes a LONG way toward making them look, well, sharp. Until you've done it, you never imagine how much of a difference it can make. Before I sell any pair of vintage shoes on eBay, I always use edge dressing on them first. Only then do I take photos.

.

I agree absolutely...once I started doing it, I was embarassed that I hadn't done it before. I just want to make sure that now that I'm acquiring some fairly pricey footwear, that I don't do something that's bad for the shoes (even the soles) by putting something nasty on them (or something that is incompatible, etc.).

[J.S.Udontknowme]

I've been searching for Kiwi Shoe polish locally and can only find black, brown and cordovan.. but I'm specifically looking for their Oxblood and Dark Tan. I thought this stuff was everywhere, but can't find it : Walmart,Target,grocery stores,etc. So, I thought I'd get on-line and just order it but can't find a place that carries both (in the US anyway). A site called heelingtouch.com has the oxblood but no dark tan. Anyone know of a place that's got a full selection?

Doug C
This place has a good selection. www.joesshoeservice.com

[Mike in Seattle]

I've been searching for Kiwi Shoe polish locally and can only find black, brown and cordovan.. but I'm specifically looking for their Oxblood and Dark Tan. I thought this stuff was everywhere, but can't find it : Walmart,Target,grocery stores,etc. So, I thought I'd get on-line and just order it but can't find a place that carries both (in the US anyway). A site called heelingtouch.com has the oxblood but no dark tan. Anyone know of a place that's got a full selection?

Doug C

Googling, I can across this one (http://www.joesshoeservice.com/products.cfm?sid=77640937S15740250307002P117315647 1808I67V168V87V166Z20176531B106) that carries the full line.

[Tomasso]

I've been searching for Kiwi Shoe polish
It's good to use both a cream polish (to condition the leather) and a wax polish (for a high gloss shine and water resistance). I first use Meltonian cream and then Kiwi wax.

[Bill O'Rights]

Weird...whoda thunk there was all this different stuff for making the edges of your soles look nice? Next thing you know, I'll find out that there's stuff for polishing the *inside* of the shoe!
I think that I still have a glass bottle of edge dressing, with applicator under the lid, left over from my days in the military, over 20 years ago. It didn't matter the gloss of the spit shine, if the welts had dust, or the sole edges were scuffed and dull. It's all in the details.

[Doug C]

Thanks for all the suggestions and offers I got on this question guys, very helpfull and informative..actually it's kind of inspiring too. I'm actually looking forward to shinning my shoes now. I think that I'll try the Tarrago Shoe cream found on the site that both 'Mike in Seattle' an 'J.S.Udontknowme' posted. I like it because they have a nice color chart and the color that looks closest to what I'm going for "Russet Brown" is actually labled as such. Here's the chart check out the color: http://www.joesshoeservice.com/product.cfm?sid=48208002J95307060307002Y1173193439 718G65T175T4T226E50805408I6831&p=214&i=1&cs=products%2Ecfm%3Fsid%3D48208002J95307060307002Y 1173193439718G65T175T4T226E50805408I6831%26c%3D4%2 6kys%3D%26pg%3D1

I like the idea of Meltonians because people always recommend it but I'm gonna pass on it this time because I'm not quite sure on there color chart, though "mohagany" looks closest. I'll see what the Tarrago is like. Thanks again!

Doug C

[fphaase]

My horse hair shoe shine applicator is getting gummed up with shoe polish.

How do you clean it?

Phil Haase

[Feng_Li]

What have you tried? I'd start by immersing your hand in warm, soapy water and scrubbing your hand with the brush.

[Teacher]

Simple: shampoo! It's hair, isn't it? Just use warm water and shampoo, and the old cream/wax will come out in moments. Rinse, allow to dry, and it will be as good as new. Do this frequently; you aren't going to hurt the brush as long as you don't soak it.

[Undertow]

Honestly, is shampoo and warm water the answer? Does anyone else back this up? It seems too simple. If this actually works, I would like to know because I have a few brushes in need of a clean!

[Orgetorix]

Yep, shampoo is the answer. Just make sure you rinse it all out.

[jamespowers]

Yep, shampoo is the answer. Just make sure you rinse it all out.

and don't forget the conditioner. ;)

[The Wingnut]

They're cheap and easy to find. Get another if it's getting clogged.

They should only be used to removed dust and light dirt anyway. If you're using them to 'shine' the shoe after applying polish, you're not polishing your shoes in the most effective manner.

The most use I got out of a shoe brush was dusting the floors of the dorm in basic training. I used cotton balls on my boots and service shoes.

----

Edit: I didn't read this properly the first time, it's an applicator you're asking about...I thought you meant the large buffing brush. Still, if your brush is getting too clogged, just get another one. Brushes aren't the best applicator to use anyway, an old sock over the hand works best, and doesn't leave behind swirl marks or bristles. Getting an even, smooth initial coat is critical to a good shine, and brushes just don't cut it.

[Feng_Li]

And what, if you please, is the most effective manner? ;)

[The Wingnut]

See edit.

[magneto]

For stubborn gunk build-up on brushes, a few drops of ammonia in the wash water is very effective too.

[Ande1963]

I just got THIS (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=001&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWN%3AIT&viewitem=&item=110130291470&rd=1&rd=1)for Father's Day. I had a lot of fun shining my two pairs of dress shoes this morning. The buffer is easy to use, does a good job, and even conjures up distant memories as the faint smell of ozone drifts up from the old motor.

So, while I did a good enough job with just polishing and buffing, using simple black and brown polish, I wondered if there are other steps that might help me get a better shine, or one that will last longer. I thought some of you vintage shoe-wearers might have some tips.

By the way, I don't wear vintage shoes myself. My horribly flat feet require good support, and I wear orthotics. I favor simple modern shoes... usually as plain as they come, and almost always without laces.

Thanks,
Anj

[Cicero]

You can polish your shoes with a plain nylon stockings/pantyhose.
For exampla a 'used' one your lady doesn't need anymore.
Use the method on yourself like a shoeshineboy do with a cloth wrapping your shoes.
It gives a nice shiny result.
We do this all the time in the military.

[BegintheBeguine]

Nice Father's Day gift, Ande1963. If more stuff said in their advertisements "It's fun!" I would buy more advertised stuff.
I didn't know that about the old stocking technique. My husband who had to shine his boots last year in the Army (he's in Iraq now wearing suede) suggests Kiwi Parade Gloss. He was crazy about that stuff. Available in the shoe care section of the drugstore, supermarket, discount store or PX.
Thoughts on Parade Gloss, Loungers?

[cookie]

I just got THIS (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=001&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWN%3AIT&viewitem=&item=110130291470&rd=1&rd=1)for Father's Day. I had a lot of fun shining my two pairs of dress shoes this morning. The buffer is easy to use, does a good job, and even conjures up distant memories as the faint smell of ozone drifts up from the old motor.

So, while I did a good enough job with just polishing and buffing, using simple black and brown polish, I wondered if there are other steps that might help me get a better shine, or one that will last longer. I thought some of you vintage shoe-wearers might have some tips.

By the way, I don't wear vintage shoes myself. My horribly flat feet require good support, and I wear orthotics. I favor simple modern shoes... usually as plain as they come, and almost always without laces.

Thanks,
Anj


This seems to be surprising thing to do...orthotics require a special lacing.

[Riposte3]

Nice Father's Day gift, Ande1963. If more stuff said in their advertisements "It's fun!" I would buy more advertised stuff.
I didn't know that about the old stocking technique. My husband who had to shine his boots last year in the Army (he's in Iraq now wearing suede) suggests Kiwi Parade Gloss. He was crazy about that stuff. Available in the shoe care section of the drugstore, supermarket, discount store or PX.
Thoughts on Parade Gloss, Loungers?

Parade Gloss is ok occasionally, but using it every time can dry and damage the leather. The best polish is actually a cream polish. You don't get quite the same shine as with paste polishes, but it moisturizes and restores the leather. I usually use a cream, and occasionally will use a paste to "brighten" the shine again. On my black shoes (which I also wear with my EMS dress uniform) I'll sometimes use Parade Gloss and a good buffing cloth to really brighten them up.

-Jake

[Orgetorix]

So, while I did a good enough job with just polishing and buffing, using simple black and brown polish, I wondered if there are other steps that might help me get a better shine, or one that will last longer. I thought some of you vintage shoe-wearers might have some tips.

This may be helpful: http://styleforum.pbwiki.com/MirrorShine

[dr greg]

I attended a 50th birthday party on the weekend and a young girl..well she was 21, came up and was raving about my boots, or more specifically, the shine thereon, "how do THEY get them like that" well actually says I: "it's an ancient and secret ritual involving rare implements and lotions and must be performed every time they are worn or the spell will be broken".
I realised she had probably never seen a well-cared for pair of shoes or boots before even though she works in an executive headhunting company, and as I checked out the footwear of the 40-odd other people present, I was obviously the only one who shined his shoes on a regular basis. Most of the footwear was either dull in original finish, or plain neglected, not taking into account the running shoes etc.
Footwear seems to be entering the disposable bracket.
http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/1286/shu001ih5.jpg

[thunderw21]

People have no need to shine their shoes since most (men anyways) only have 1 pair of dress shoes or less. Quite unfortunate.

[Matt Deckard]

They look great and I've been lackadaisical about shining mine.

Good job I need to hit the pollish

[kschurch]

I quite enjoy shining my own shoes and you're right...most men don't seem to care. Why ruin a perfectly good suit combination with dirty shoes!

I'm assuming those are a well worn pair of RM Williams?

[dr greg]

Of course they are, but I only got them about a year ago for $10, they were a size too small, so I did the old trick of filling them with methyl alcohol until soaked, wearing with thick socks until dried out, then given lashings of neatsfoot oil, after that dried again in the sun, polished with Angelus cordovan shoe wax, and worn in, they now fit like kid gloves.
I've worn RM's for over 30 years now new and old, and they still command respect and admiration wherever in the world they've trod.

[kschurch]

I agree. I went to Australia a few years back and brought home two pairs. I love them!

[jgilbert]

Nice looking shine! It is sad to think that a pair of shined shoes or boots is a lost art. I see this daily here at our office.

[dhermann1]

I must confess, exposure to the Lounge has made me pay a little more attention to the state of my shoes. Another reason to appreciate the Lounge.
One thing I've noticed lately, that's actually been going on for a long time, is that United States Marines in their DRESS BLUES now wear PATENT friggin' LEATHER SHOES instead of spit shining their regular dress shoes! Speaking as an ex Marine I can only deplore this trend. Spit shining is an arduous process, and an art that must be learned. But it creates a shine that nothing else, including patent leather, can rival. :rage:

[Marc Chevalier]

Presumably, Marines have better things to do than spitshine their shoes. :rolleyes:

.

[Marc Chevalier]

It is sad to think that a pair of shined shoes or boots is a lost art.

Art my eye. If it were such a cherished 'art,' then shoeshine 'boys' would have made a better living out of it.


:rage: I hate polishing. It's a necessary evil. And yes, I do it the right way: with an open flame, hot water, cotton balls and q-tips, brushes, a chamois cloth and nylon hose. Thanks for brainwashing me, U.S. Navy. :confused:


.

[scotrace]

And yes, I do it the right way: with an open flame, hot water, cotton balls and q-tips, brushes, a chamois cloth and nylon hose.
.


We really need a "Shoe Shine 101" thread. I'd do it, but I don't think my method is up to snuff.

(open flame???)

[Marc Chevalier]

Yes, open flame. You know those cans of hard wax polish? Well, pop one open and light it up. Let the wax burn for several seconds, then blow it out. Dip the cloth into the melted polish --DON'T scoop up too much of it!-- and gently rub the still-hot stuff into the shoe leather, preferably in small circular motions ... as if you were polishing your car.


Fun stuff, huh? :p


To be continued ...

.

[WildCelt]

One thing I've noticed lately, that's actually been going on for a long time, is that United States Marines in their DRESS BLUES now wear PATENT friggin' LEATHER SHOES instead of spit shining their regular dress shoes!

No, they don't. They wear corfram shoes; you know, plastic. I still have a pair.

[dhermann1]

Corfam! They were experimenting with that back when I was in. UGLY! I didn't realize it was still around. Anyway, I still think the a real spit shine looks a million percent better than all those other artificial things.

[The Wingnut]

Yes, open flame. You know those cans of hard wax polish? Well, pop one open and light it up. Let the wax burn for several seconds, then blow it out. Dip the cloth into the melted polish --DON'T scoop up too much of it!-- and gently rub the still-hot stuff into the shoe leather, preferably in small circular motions ... as if you were polishing your car.


Fun stuff, huh? :p


To be continued ...

.

Sheesh. That's way more work than it's worth. I acquired a contraband heat gun while in tech school and simply heated the polish into the pores after application. Kept the heat gun hidden under my dresser during inspections. Managed to smuggle it out when I shipped home, so it's still getting use.

I ditched my issue dress shoes when I got home in favor for my Stafford cap toes, which are within regs. Much lighter, better support, leather soles, and the cap toes don't have any brouging, so it's very subtle, yet different.

[WildCelt]

I still think the a real spit shine looks a million percent better than all those other artificial things.

It does, but you have to be a SNCO to get to wear real leather shoes in service or dress uniforms (or so I was told).

[Marc Chevalier]

I acquired a contraband heat gun while in tech school and simply heated the polish into the pores after application. Kept the heat gun hidden under my dresser during inspections.

Good work! :eusa_clap I wish we could have done the same, but our inspections were insanely thorough.

.

[Gideon Ashe]

"You miserable, low life form, maggots. You incomparable bitsa boot bottom shit!!!!" "Shine them dress lows the right way, ******it!!
An' NOT with no fu-kin' Hershey bar!"
"You will ALL suffer the lowest n'bitter reaches v' Hell a' MY making; and I make the Devil cry wi' envy!
"Get that Kiwi on right, asshole!"
"You aint paintin' no ******n barn!"
"Yore Momma aint here to do it for you, and I sure as shit aint yore Momma!"

"I wanna be able to see th' red second hand a' my watch in them low quarters, or you will ALL Trail arms until 1960 comes draggin' along. GOT THAT Maggots!!!???"

Answer: "Yes SIR!"

Reply: "SIR!!!? " SIR!!!!!!!!???" "I aint no ******n Officer"

Answer: "Yes Gunnery Sergeant!!"

Reply: "That better. Now get to it and get er done Godamn it!!!!"

Note: Those were the Cordovan Low quarters days on the early 1950's of the U.S.M.C. Still I would'nt trade it for a sack of gold, lets go on with the show.

[chuckknight]

Living in Texas, I often find boots on discount sales, or even at thrift stores. OR, like I did yesterday, just buy a pair of elephant boots on a lark.

Well, I've never really done much with exotics. And, upon getting them home, I realized that I genuinely don't know how to care for them!

Obviously I don't put a mirror shine on them like some...I don't even polish them as I understand, but they need conditioning and a color polish occasionally?

Thought I'd better ask...and where better, than here...before I ruin them unintentionally!

HELP!

HOW DOES ONE TAKE CARE OF ELEPHANT (or other exotic) BOOTS?

-- Chuck Knight

[cookie]

Living in Texas, I often find boots on discount sales, or even at thrift stores. OR, like I did yesterday, just buy a pair of elephant boots on a lark.

Well, I've never really done much with exotics. And, upon getting them home, I realized that I genuinely don't know how to care for them!

Obviously I don't put a mirror shine on them like some...I don't even polish them as I understand, but they need conditioning and a color polish occasionally?

Thought I'd better ask...and where better, than here...before I ruin them unintentionally!

HELP!

HOW DOES ONE TAKE CARE OF ELEPHANT (or other exotic) BOOTS?

-- Chuck Knight

From my observation that stuff is near indestructible - probably a bit of leather conditioner at most.

[chuckknight]

Thanks! I've spoken to several cobblers, and they gave me some conflicting information...but most said nothing more than an occasional conditioning and maybe, IF I managed to scratch them, some color matched boot cream.

Now...what about other exotics? Others might benefit from such a thread. I know that in my own case, I intend to keep my eyes open for ostrich, stingray, etc...now that I've been initiated into the wonderful world of exotic boots.

-- Chuck Knight

[tonyb]

Yeah, I'm right with you, Chuck. I've developed a cowboy boot habit, too. And I'm all to familiar with that "conflicting information" of which you speak. I am certain that people who really now their stuff can be found at the western wear stores, but it seems that whenever I drop in there's some pleasant but uninformed young person watching the shop.

How about eelskin? I happen to have a pair. A deep red color. Way cool, you know, but I fear they just won't hold up to much "real world" wear. So they come out only for occasions that aren't likely to involve dirt or much by way of physical activity.

[funneman]

My only experience is with snakeskin and shark.

They're both as tough as nails. I can't think of anything I could do to these boots to improve on Mother Nature.

I did get caught in the rain in the snakeskin boots and noticed that they turned from creamy white to a pale yellow color, but other than that, they've both held up very well to anything I could dish out.

Wear 'em and enjoy 'em.

[ideaguy]

ouch. snakeskin doesn't like getting wet. neither do snakes, for that matter.
but to the subject-with pedestrian exotics like lizard and ostrich, a good polish
like Meltonian should suffice-it feeds the skin, helps keep it elastic, which is probably the most important thing, and will help preserve the color some...
I've used Kiwi polish on ostrich boots-just a little dab-size of my fingernail-and gloss over the high spots-this done after laying down a base coat of a lighter shade polish or a neutral conditioner; using the Kiwi in a slightly darker color than the base color will really make the "eyes" pop. have used Kiwi on lizard, to help match color, and it really works the skin well-it's not so liquid that it changes the hue of the skin to a blah dark brown with black "scales" showing-the Kiwi polish has enough wax in it to penetrate some,and leave a protective coating on the surface, as well as color; then a quick hit with a good quality soft shoe brush will help get it in the little cracks of the exotic skins. Elephant-well, rather not go there. Too mean of a subject and practice.

[chuckknight]

Elephant-well, rather not go there. Too mean of a subject and practice.

Can you say sustainable harvesting? Happily, we've moved beyond the days of the widespread massacre of species like elephants, just for the hide and tusks. Same reason I don't oppose cow leather...we use the entire resource.

That's why elephant is available again...managed sustainable harvesting and a responsible use of the resource. And, it's awfully good looking, too!

My new boots are new Tony Lamas, with the proper stamps on them. Not worried about their origin, in the slightest.

Now...a joke about endangered species, to lighten the mood.

On the old TV show "Frasier." Nils said that his wife, Maris, "always goes to those events"...and that she is very interested in preserving endangered species. "She, after all, has shoes made from almost all of them!"

It was the perfect straight line. :-)

-- Chuck Knight

[kenji]

I've been bitten by the bug, too. Went from 0 to 7 pairs of cowboy boots in the past 3 months. Not sure why.

The subject of exotic leather care has come up a few times on Jennifer June's site, dimlights.com (currently down). Bick 4 is often prescribed for cleaning and Meltonian delicate cream (#170) for finishing. I've used both on ostrich, calf, and lizard with good effect.

Stay away from the drugstore wax-based stuff.

[GentlemanFarmer]

I have a pair of cordovan Dan Post lizard-skin boots. I have used Meltonian, not only on that pair, but on all my boots. Meltonian has, I've been told, some sort of leather "dye" that can color nicks and cuts on smooth, thin leather. I have a pair of plain brown Justin ropers that I wear to work with khakis. I stubbed the toe on one of them. I put a heavy dab of the cream on the small nick and let it dry overnight. The next morning I buffed the toe and had to get right up on it to barely see the nick. It was a perfect color match. The cream really penetrates the leather.

[Mark George]

I like Bick 4 conditioner for all smooth leathers (not suede or rough-out). It really moisturizes the leather, and won't darken light colors. I also make sure to condition the leather lining inside the boots, as well as the soles. I like Bick 4 because I only need one product to condition all my boots - work and dress.

None of the reptile hides (snake, lizard, gator, and croc) are considered to be particularly durable, and are sometimes laminated to sturdier leather before they are made into boots. The typical failure mode for reptile boots is the area between the scales, and I have read accounts by others that indicate that keeping that part (the hinge) well-conditioned increases the longevity of the boots.

I have also been told (by people that profess to know such things) that boot creams are the way to go for touching up color, rather than the waxy stuff in tins. Either way, buffing with a horsehair brush does wonders, especially over time. I try to brush my dress boots, tops and bottoms, after each time I wear them, and they seem to to have a deeper luster than they used to. And, a nice shine.

Mark

[jamespowers]

My last pair of Tony LLama brown snakeskins ripped like paper after getting wet so I caution against getting snakeskin wet. My Dan Posts are still in very good condition for their age. They get treated with Lexol every once in a while and it keeps them supple. My stingray boots are cleaned with the Lexol cleaner once in a while and treated with the Lexol conditioner after that. Stingray is durable as heck and can get wet without worry---they live in water after all. ;)
I have a pair of Elephant boots from the old Palace Boot shop. They get treated the same as the Stingray. They are extremely durable and water proof as well. Probably tied with the stingray as my favorites.
I am wearing my Tony Lama Shrunken Shoulder black Inca goat today. They are faily durable but scuffs on them stay noticeable as the color is mottled. I just keep them clean and well treated with Lexol. They are boots so a little wear gives them character. ;)

Regards,

J

[Mary]

These aren't boots!

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh3/marie_johans82/shoehelp/2008_0420skorhjlp0004-1.jpg


But maybe snakeskin? How should I look after them?

I'm also looking for treads on the fedora lounge that's about shoecare, or books or other websites. We ladies have a tread in the powder room but I want to know more!

M

[Erik]

Your snake skin shoes need to be regularly conditioned. I recommend visiting your local western wear store for advice and options.

***Which... Will be a pretty neat trick in Sweden! ***

So...

First clean them using a damp cloth or soft brush. Then, apply a wax free conditioner* in several thin layers. Polish may be used at this point, but sparringly. Finally, a non-silicone water and stain protector may be applied. I skip the last step, having found it unecessary.

*I've used a variety over the years and would be hard pressed to recommend one, as they all worked as advertised. Currently I've got a bottle of Meltonian All Purpose Conditioner someone gave me a few years back. An internet search for "snake skin boot conditioner" should provide you with plenty of options.

Best,
Erik

[BellyTank]

Well your definitely spoilt for choice there...
Western shops in Malmö, Sweden?

But then...


B
T

[Mary]

Thanks Erik and BellyTank! Thought there weren't any gentmen here ready to come to my rescue!

There's a western boots cobbler opposite the cinema.:) Have been there before looking for other stuff but wasn't impressed then. But maybe he'll know his reptiles.

I went to this other cobbler for dancing shoes. He said to use Mink oil. What do you think Erik? I'll definitely search the internet some more as you said.

Do you know where I can find all I need to know about cleaning and shoecare of old shoes. Is there a tread amongst you gents? Or a good webpage to trust?


Thanks again for answering!

M

[Erik]

Mary,
I like leather and exotic products and take the time to ask folks in the know the does and don'ts of caring for them. Repeatedly, various leather craftsmen and/or people dealing in leather products have warned me away from mink and similar oil-heavy conditioners. Your mileage may vary and likely somone will come along citing years of use with out problems, however, I'll continue to avoid them and recommend to others to do so as well.

Best,
Erik

Edited to denote "oil-heavy," instead of "oil-based."

[Mary]

I believe in you! Have been looking around on the internet and no one has said use minkoil on any of the pages I've visited.

What most people say is

Clean with a cotton cloth with some water on it.
Use a conditioner made for these types of skins. Like the one you suggested.

And the don't so far.

Don't use saddle soap.
Don't use waterproof spray.
Don't use colored shoepolish but not everybody said that.

Don't you think it's a bit strange that you can't see the ingredients on shoepolish? You simply have to trust them that their product is as good as they say. Only a few say what it contains and some only what not inside.

Just out of curiosity. What do you think the Meltonian All-purpose clener and conditioner contains. (I'm a bit of a knowledgefreak)

M

[Erik]

I've also noticed that manufacturers tend to treat their ingredients like closely guarded secrets. They'd probably claim that it is to protect themselves from the competition, but I believe it is to keep the consumer from being confused, as inevitably they proabably use oils and waxes in the production process and do not want to confuse folks who are looking for certain products "free" of oils and waxes.

Take the Meltonian product I have: I have no idea what, specifically, the oil content or blend in it is.

Likewise, I have had wax based products which certainly had some oil content in them, yet right on the box the maker purported the product to be an alternative to oil based products.

It probably comes down to what the lawyers demand, or haven't yet.

I hope that makes sense.

[jamespowers]

I believe in you! Have been looking around on the internet and no one has said use minkoil on any of the pages I've visited.

What most people say is

Clean with a cotton cloth with some water on it.
Use a conditioner made for these types of skins. Like the one you suggested.

And the don't so far.

Don't use saddle soap.
Don't use waterproof spray.
Don't use colored shoepolish but not everybody said that.

Don't you think it's a bit strange that you can't see the ingredients on shoepolish? You simply have to trust them that their product is as good as they say. Only a few say what it contains and some only what not inside.

Just out of curiosity. What do you think the Meltonian All-purpose clener and conditioner contains. (I'm a bit of a knowledgefreak)

M

I would treat them the same way I treat my snake skin boots. Keep them away from water. If you clean them use something like Lexol cleaner followed by Lexol conditioner. Clean carefully with the grain of the scales. After cleaning, immediately apply the Lexol conditioner. You don't want to let it dry out. My snakeskin is natural so I don't use polish. You have got me there. [huh]
Waterproof spray might be a good idea but then I wonder how you would treat it occasionally with Lexol. I would err on the side of caution. :D
I even treat the soles of my vintage leather shoes to keep them from cracking with use. Apply liberally and let it soak in.

[Mary]

Erik. It still doesn't make sence to me, I only get annoyed.

So leather conditioner is either wax or oil? Then I belive there are some made of petrolium. Is the oil you're thinking of made from petrolium, animals or things that have grown in the soil? Some have said to keep away from petrolium but I don't really know why.

Since you seem to know so much. Are the oil-ones best for everything?


JamesPower. Thanks for sharing your shoecleaning routine! I won't put any water on them now! Good that you pointed out that I shouldn't wait between the cleaning and the conditioning.

And do you use the same thing on the soles? And how often?

And if you have an opinion of what I write above to Erik, please post it.

You see I'm trying to make a routine of my own that I can stick to for life!:)

M

[jamespowers]

JamesPower. Thanks for sharing your shoecleaning routine! I won't put any water on them now! Good that you pointed out that I shouldn't wait between the cleaning and the conditioning.

And do you use the same thing on the soles? And how often?

And if you have an opinion of what I write above to Erik, please post it.

You see I'm trying to make a routine of my own that I can stick to for life!:)

M

I don't clean the soles first as it just seems too finicky. ;) I just apply the Lexol conditioner monthly.
Polish for dress shoes is pretty simple for me---Kiwi:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31AxH21664L._SL160_AA115_.jpg
I have no idea what they put in it but it works. :p

[Erik]

It is apparently a multi-wax blend with more carnuba wax than regular paste polishes. It is neat stuff.

But...

"Since you seem to know so much."

No, no, no. Not true. I've just been advised along the way and that advise has worked for me.

"Are the oil-ones best for everything?"

I'm sure there are exceptions, but they'll do for most of your uses, applied sparringly as necessary, of course. Now that I think of it, I condition my regularly worn shoes and boots every one to three months, and rely on polishes the rest of the time.

[Teacher]

Mary, are Meltonian creams available where you live? The leather dealer where I live recommended Meltonian Delicate Cream (#170), and it has worked wonders. I have purchased snake and crocodile watchbands from the 1950s and 60s that were dry as paper when I got them, so dry that when I flexed the snake band just the SLIGHTEST, a tiny crack formed. I used the Delicate Cream, and now these bands are good as new. It's astonishing, really...and the aroma is heavenly, sort of a light citrus with faint vanilla tones.

[Mary]

Oh, teacher, that soulds lovely. You should be a salesman if you're not. My shoes aren't as dry as that but that sounds great. Shoes can't be too soft! I want to try it but I'll have to see what I can find.

I went to the cowboybootshop today but the guy was on holiday for a week so I have to have some patience.

Thanks Erik. You have to explain this:

"Now that I think of it, I condition my regularly worn shoes and boots every one to three months, and rely on polishes the rest of the time."

What does this mean? How often do you use polish? And why polish and not conditioning? So you can condition something too much?

And James Power. Once a month seems fine by me. Will do as soon as a get some good stuff!

If you have any advice on how to care for suede shoes I've posted in the suede shoes thread too.

But I have to thank you again for your response here. To many cobbler have tried to sell me all kinds of things when I've been asking for something for my shoes and I probably would have ruined them by now if it wasn't for you.

Send you some sunshine from sunny Malmö! :)

M

[jonbuilder]

I use leatherique oil on all my leatherwear including fine western boots and leather jackets. I use the leatherique on boots when I want to clean and condition. The oil soaks into the leather and raises dirt to the surface. I use a shoe brush to work the oil in than a soft cloth to wipe the excess oil and dirt off. For touch up on clean boots I brush in Pecard leather dressing.
http://www.leatherique.com/

[Justdog]

Living in Texas, I often find boots on discount sales, or even at thrift stores. OR, like I did yesterday, just buy a pair of elephant boots on a lark.

Well, I've never really done much with exotics. And, upon getting them home, I realized that I genuinely don't know how to care for them!

Obviously I don't put a mirror shine on them like some...I don't even polish them as I understand, but they need conditioning and a color polish occasionally?

Thought I'd better ask...and where better, than here...before I ruin them unintentionally!

HELP!


HOW DOES ONE TAKE CARE OF ELEPHANT (or other exotic) BOOTS?

-- Chuck Knight

Take a read up on mink oil. I use it on my boots. Very nice.

[Carlisle Blues]

Bick 4 Leather Conditioner


I use this for my Elephant and Crocodile Lucchese Classics.

http://www.bickmore.com/bickmore/Leather%20Care/Bick4.html

[cookie]

I don't clean the soles first as it just seems too finicky. ;) I just apply the Lexol conditioner monthly.
Polish for dress shoes is pretty simple for me---Kiwi:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31AxH21664L._SL160_AA115_.jpg
I have no idea what they put in it but it works. :p

Don't use the Kiwi Parade Gloss... it is too vicious ...just regular standard KIwi my shoe repair guy reckons.


Take a read up on mink oil. I use it on my boots. Very nice.


Another no no with leather...FWIW destroys the leather...use proper leather conditioner...

[jonbuilder]

Is any one experienced with sea turtle as a boot / shoe leather I am thinking it might be fragile like snake and reptile skin. I am also curious about anteater being I just picked up a pair of M. L. Leddy anteater boots
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y185/jonbuilder/Leedyanteater.jpg

[Justdog]

Don't use the Kiwi Parade Gloss... it is too vicious ...just regular standard KIwi my shoe repair guy reckons.




Another no no with leather...FWIW destroys the leather...use proper leather conditioner...

Exactly why does mink oil destroy leather?
http://www.emocs.com/shoeshine_2.htm
http://www.cabelas.com/p-0048711812594a.shtml

[Justdog]

Living in Texas, I often find boots on discount sales, or even at thrift stores. OR, like I did yesterday, just buy a pair of elephant boots on a lark.

Well, I've never really done much with exotics. And, upon getting them home, I realized that I genuinely don't know how to care for them!

Obviously I don't put a mirror shine on them like some...I don't even polish them as I understand, but they need conditioning and a color polish occasionally?

Thought I'd better ask...and where better, than here...before I ruin them unintentionally!

HELP!

HOW DOES ONE TAKE CARE OF ELEPHANT (or other exotic) BOOTS?

-- Chuck Knight

Might want to take a read on this as well.
http://www.cabelas.com/p-0048711812594a.shtml
Not as harsh on the stiching

[Justdog]

Living in Texas, I often find boots on discount sales, or even at thrift stores. OR, like I did yesterday, just buy a pair of elephant boots on a lark.

Well, I've never really done much with exotics. And, upon getting them home, I realized that I genuinely don't know how to care for them!

Obviously I don't put a mirror shine on them like some...I don't even polish them as I understand, but they need conditioning and a color polish occasionally?

Thought I'd better ask...and where better, than here...before I ruin them unintentionally!

HELP!


HOW DOES ONE TAKE CARE OF ELEPHANT (or other exotic) BOOTS?

-- Chuck Knight

For elephant boots

That is not based on fact. Mink oil is not always the best for every leather
but it should be fine for those boots. Cream or lotion based products will
be better than using a paste.
The best thing to do would be to check with the manufacturer if you have
specific questions about their product.

Georges Shoes & Repair
3673 Lexington Ave N
Arden Hills, MN 55126
651.636.1312
1.800.298.9896
www.emocs.com
www.georgesshoes.com

[PoohBang]

I looked for a thread on Shoe Shine Kits but didn't find any.

This is my Shoe Shine kit... I've put it together over they years and have about everything I need for my shoes and boots...

http://i379.photobucket.com/albums/oo234/happyhooligans/DSC05234.jpg

http://i379.photobucket.com/albums/oo234/happyhooligans/DSC05236.jpg
as always more pics on my blog...

Now lets see your shoe shine kits...

[sfend002]

Good thread. I have been looking at one of those shine boxes with the step made on stop. Been wanting one for years. Would love to find one locally to avoid shipping a big wood box.

On a side note I went to three stores today trying to find a shoe horn. Who would have thought it would be so hard to find [huh]

[Matthew Verge]

I still have my shoe shine kit from the army. I keep it all in a shaving kit-style bag. I will post a picture when I get back from sea.

[Hexenmeister]

I recently bought what is really my first pair of "professional" or "dress" shoes (http://www.dsw.com/dsw_shoes/catalog/product.jsp?productRef=SEARCH&category=&prodId=194015) to try and look more professional at work. (I try to dress by the saying, "Dress for the job you want," and thus like to look sharp for work, even though I'm merely selling cameras in a specialty retail environment.) My only concern about the shoes is that they will undoubtedly require a regular shine and polish.

I went looking for shoe shining kits, devices, etc, but they all say that they will give your shoes "that glossy, mirror" look, or some such thing. My shoes are shiny and somewhat glossy (kind of a matte shine), but I do not want to be wearing mirrors on my feet.

Is that super shiny finish on shoes a matter of what kind of product you use to shine them, or is it the result of how the shoes were manufactured and how the leather was originally treated?

[John in Covina]

I keep getting candle wax on my shoes.

I think that Goof Off is supposed to get it off but wonder what it may do to the shine.

(The wax is from the Lighter/snuffer thingy we use in church for lighting the candles. We bring the Light in and carry the Light out and it's the walk up and down the aisle that has the wax dripping on my shoes!)

[bbshriver]

For maintenance of the leather itself my preference is
http://www.leatherique.com/

Recommended by the Rolls Royce owners club, I've been using this in cars, and on shoes, and other leather items (hat sweatband) for years, and love it. Friendly family business too.

As for acheiving the perfect shine, I'm still working on it!

[Scotus]

...I polish them with Kiwi, brush them, then finish off the shine with an old, soft sock.

Pretty much the same here too; however, I will many times use a soft white t-shirt for the final buffing.

[High Pockets]

For what it's worth,....the guy that hand makes my boots for me, (one of the best in the country), told me Kiwi Wax was not good for leather,..... it's tolerated by leather, but only good for a shine.

He recommended a good cleaning with saddle-soap followed by an application of Meltonian Boot and Shoe Cream Polish.
He also recommended an occasional application of Kelly's Lynn Stain Polish to cover any minor scratches. Kelly's has waxes in it but allegedly they aren't as harsh as Kiwi's.

I've been following his directions for years now and my footwear looks great and has never shown one of those little stress cracks that used to show up in my boots and shoes every now and then.

[Mid-fogey]

For what it's worth,....the guy that hand makes my boots for me, (one of the best in the country), told me Kiwi Wax was not good for leather,..... it's tolerated by leather, but only good for a shine.

He recommended a good cleaning with saddle-soap followed by an application of Meltonian Boot and Shoe Cream Polish.
He also recommended an occasional application of Kelly's Lynn Stain Polish to cover any minor scratches. Kelly's has waxes in it but allegedly they aren't as harsh as Kiwi's.

I've been following his directions for years now and my footwear looks great and has never shown one of those little stress cracks that used to show up in my boots and shoes every now and then.

...High Pockets on this one.

While the oil in Kiwi (the stuff that Marc C is burning off) helps, the creme is better in the long run.

[bbshriver]

I believe this is true as well.. I contacted Leatherique a while back on this same subject, as anything petroleum based will eventually hurt leather. I was concerned that the polish would eventually break down the leather. Here was their reply.

"You are doing 100% perfect with your leather care. Remember that the Rejuvenator is formulated to plump and maintain the hides. You are doing great in using wax on your shoes to maintain the surface appearance. The Rejuvenator does not contain any wax, petroleum oils or anything to improve the surface appearance, only nourish the hide.

You are not counteracting your procedure and are doing the right thing. Just continue to remember you are working with two stratas, the actual hide, and the surface colorant or coating. It's important to keep the coating intact as that's what protects the nice plump hide."



For what it's worth,....the guy that hand makes my boots for me, (one of the best in the country), told me Kiwi Wax was not good for leather,..... it's tolerated by leather, but only good for a shine.

He recommended a good cleaning with saddle-soap followed by an application of Meltonian Boot and Shoe Cream Polish.
He also recommended an occasional application of Kelly's Lynn Stain Polish to cover any minor scratches. Kelly's has waxes in it but allegedly they aren't as harsh as Kiwi's.

I've been following his directions for years now and my footwear looks great and has never shown one of those little stress cracks that used to show up in my boots and shoes every now and then.

[Lefty]

This post on styleforum is the best post on shoe care ever, because it's by a guy who makes beautiful shoes. (http://www.styleforum.net/showpost.php?p=130128&postcount=15)

I love Saphir Renovateur.

[bbshriver]

Question:

I hear lots about cedar shoe trees. I've never used these, but have now ordered some since people talk about them so much. If nothing else it should make a shoe easier to polish with something holding form in it.

But my question is for those of us who can't justify to spend $100+ right off the bat to properly outfit all of our shoes with shoe trees...

When I travel I will stuff my shoes or boots with socks/underwear/t-shirts anything that can get wrinkled. It would seem that this method would also serve a lot of the purpose of the cedar tree, since most undergarments are designed to wick moisture, and this helps hold the shape. Might this be a good "budget" option as I build up a tree collection?

[Lefty]

Newspaper might be better. You can really stuff it in to fill out the shoe.

[John in Covina]

Shoe care items often become more available as we get closer to the Christmas season, a lot of specialty care items return to the shelves as gift selections then.

[Highlander]

Bought these "Dexter Varsity" back in 1977. Wore them regularly for several years, and still wear them a few times a month. One of my favorite pairs, just had them half soled and heeled.http://images41.fotki.com/v305/photos/8/848245/6026081/Shoes-vi.jpg

Always try to wear overshoes in bad weather and polish them regularly. I had a burgundy and black pair that I wore about every day, that finally just cracked so bad I couldn't wear them.

[KILO NOVEMBER]

Over several years I bought about a dozen pairs of Allen Edmonds shoes. The heels are fairly standard, the part nearest the foot consists of stacked leather layers and the business end is some sort of rubber. I am hard on the heels, and even though I generally wear a pair once in two weeks, in six months or so the rubber wears noticeably. I have been taking them to a local shoe repair shop when the rubber gets close to the leather stack and get the rubber replaced for about $20 (US). Does anyone have a favorite brand of after-market rubber or synthetic replacement heel?

[Mid-fogey]

...good luck with Cat's Paw. Really though, I don't specify and use whatever the repair place puts on. Over the last 30 or so years of dress shoe wear I've learned to live with a certain amount of wear before I replace them. Typically I put a standard wood pencil eraser end up to the heel. When the curve of the heel is more than the thickness of the eraser I replace them.

I'm not a fan of the worn down, run down look, but I do think a bit of wear before your replace them shows a bit of thriftiness.

[Highlander]

Mid Fogey, I agree to an extent, and I love seeing good looking shoes that have been half soled and heels. Not only thrift, but just plain, I care and I take care of my things. A sign of a gentleman. :) My Dad was very much into shinning the shoes. He always said you could tell a lot about a man (and a woman too I believe) about how their shoes look. (He always said, "Clothes don't make the man but the do give some indication of him and his values"). And keep your gig line straight!

[Tomasso]

This is my Shoe Shine kit... I've put it together over the years and have about everything I need for my shoes and boots...


http://i379.photobucket.com/albums/oo234/happyhooligans/DSC05234.jpg
But, that box could be upgraded. ;)

Possibly one of these would meet your needs:

http://www.ephtee.com/Photos/D.%20Coffret%20Pro.jpg

http://www.ephtee.com/Photos/Fig%201%20ouvert%20en%2072%20dpi.jpg

http://www.ephtee.com/Photos/B.%20Malle%2012%20Paires%20Cab%20de%20cir%20Ouvert e.jpg



More at Ephtée (http://www.ephtee.com/1.aspx) ......if your heart can take it.

[Feraud]

It's heaven on earth..
:)

http://www.ephtee.com/Photos/B.%20Malle%2012%20Paires%20Cab%20de%20cir%20Ouvert e.jpg



More at Ephtée (http://www.ephtee.com/1.aspx) ......if your heart can take it.

[Lefty]

I don't have anything nearly that nice. My Saphir, Kiwi, brushes and such all reside in the bottom drawer of one of these.
http://www.professionalequipment.com/product_images/96922_craftsman-storage.jpg

[Scotus]

I just took this photo of my humble shoe shine box:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/4013227271_c85f34e47c.jpg

It's one of those replica trunks you can get at Hobby Lobby. It's handy, but now that I'm looking at some of these posted in the last day, I'm thinking I need to step it up. :)

[Boodles]

[QUOTE=Lefty]I don't have anything nearly that nice. My Saphir, Kiwi, brushes and such all reside in the bottom drawer of one of these.
http://www.professionalequipment.com/product_images/96922_craftsman-storage.jpg[/QUOTE
]
I trust that it's a Craftsman!

[Lefty]

Mine is black and not quite the same, but yep.

[Ethan Bentley]

I recently saw this at Marylebone Train Station recently.
It came complete with Financial Times & Wall Street Journal.

http://www.dailydooh.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/shoeshine-booth.png

[jimiez]

i have several pairs of nu-buck shoes. have been using chalk and a brush to clean. i remember there use to have a little chalk duster when you bought the shoes. any advice on cleaning. jimiez

[Tomasso]

i remember there use to have a little chalk duster when you bought the shoes.


Buck Bag. (http://www.robertsshoestore.com/mbassaddle_1.htm)

http://www.robertsshoestore.com/bassimage/bucbag.jpg

[KILO NOVEMBER]

I have a plastic eraser that does the trick. It's the sort of thing that formerly was used on technical drawings, before vellum, T-squares, and triangles where replaced by computers.

[Lefty]

But, that box could be upgraded. ;)

Possibly one of these would meet your needs:

More at Ephtée (http://www.ephtee.com/1.aspx) ......if your heart can take it.

This still kills me. (http://www.styleforum.net/showthread.php?t=121126) A custom cabinet filled with Lobbs and Greens, and a SAB umbrella and case just for fun. Unlike most SF guys, he clearly wears them all. :eek:

[jimiez]

thanks for the lead on the buck bag. bibnt no they still made these. jimiez

[Widebrim]

I must confess, exposure to the Lounge has made me pay a little more attention to the state of my shoes. Another reason to appreciate the Lounge.
One thing I've noticed lately, that's actually been going on for a long time, is that United States Marines in their DRESS BLUES now wear PATENT friggin' LEATHER SHOES instead of spit shining their regular dress shoes! Speaking as an ex Marine I can only deplore this trend. Spit shining is an arduous process, and an art that must be learned. But it creates a shine that nothing else, including patent leather, can rival. :rage:

This was posted two years back, but I just saw it. Yes, dhermann, the use of patent leather shoes with Marine and Army Dress Blues has been going on for some time. The Army even authorized them for the "old" Dress Greens (currently being phased out). And although you are right about spit shining, I actually do like the way patent leathers look with Blues...[huh]

[armod]

kiwi polishes are easy to find and of decent quality but I've never used anything else.

what other brands do people use and what sets them apart from kiwi or any others?

[John in Covina]

Lincoln for black is very good, but mostly I use Kiwi too.

[Highlander]

I usually alternate (that is if I can remember which I used last) between Kiwi which gives a great high wax glossy shine, and Meltonian Creme which seems to have moreof the Lanoline type. I wonder sometimes though, does the lanoline pentrate the prior waX??? HMMM. Now I am wondering.

[mannySpaghetti]

This might seem like a funny question, but I've never owned a pair of brown dress shoes before. Black and oxblood has always covered my bases. This pair of used shoes is gonna be gettin' the old treatment from me; "spit-shine", new laces, edge dressing, heel taps, the works. Anyways, my question is this, "Should I go with regular brown wax for these or dark brown?"

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/colehaan.jpg

[Highlander]

My thought is try the "regular" brown first, I like the patina, and if it isn't right, you can always darken them with the "dark" brown.

[Canadave]

I agree. Hope you'll show them again when they're done.

[Tomasso]

http://www.shoestuff4less.com/catalog/fie06-2.jpg

[Creeping Past]

How would I go about getting a slightly darker brown, almost burnished, toe on a lighter brown shoe? Like this (http://www.pediwear.co.uk/grenson/products/1440.php), I mean?

[Tomasso]

How would I go about getting a slightly darker brown, almost burnished, toe on a lighter brown shoe?
For your perusal (http://www.styleforum.net/showthread.php?t=45530).

[mannySpaghetti]

My thought is try the "regular" brown first, I like the patina, and if it isn't right, you can always darken them with the "dark" brown.

I agree. Hope you'll show them again when they're done.
http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/colehaan.jpg

Well I got my Cole Haan's in today and what a great pair of used shoes! The heel and soles are only slightly worn and it'll be quite some time before this pair sees the local cobbler, but the uppers are in fantastic condition. There was a bit of wax chunked up on it as seen on the above pic. Some areas, namely the creases, were just too much to bare so I scraped the excess wax off, gave the shoes a real good reapplication of regular brown wax like "Highlander" suggested and then a vigorous brush off. I then "spit-shined" the toe caps only. Something I normally do because that's the most prevelant part of the shoe that everyone sees. Came out pretty good too, though it's a wee bit darker then the rest of the shoes. Overall, I'd say this was a good ebaY victory; got these for $33 and that included shipping. Now I'm just waiting on some black "Cap-toe" Bostonians and hopefully soon I'll find some nice Johnston Murphy "Wingtips".

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2780.jpg http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2781.jpg

[Canadave]

Nice job!

[Creeping Past]

For your perusal (http://www.styleforum.net/showthread.php?t=45530).

Thanks, T. Now it seems obvious. Well, I suppose it is...:o

[cookie]

For your perusal (http://www.styleforum.net/showthread.php?t=45530).


Black shoe cream - not wax for antiquing high points. Cream adds colour - wax is essentially clear and lies on the surface. Cream penetrates and colours a shoe. Another trick is for the cobbler to put them on the buffer which slightly burns the leather and leaves an antiqued finish. But the cobbler has to know what to do.

I like Angelus wax ...others like Saphir shoe creams on styleforum.net...most cobblers recommend Kiwi (not Parade Gloss which has hydrocarbons).

Here are my my EG Monmouths which are factory antiqued: http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/9805/edwardgreenmonmouth1.th.jpg (http://img217.imageshack.us/i/edwardgreenmonmouth1.jpg/) http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/7871/edwardgreenmonmouth2.th.jpg (http://img504.imageshack.us/i/edwardgreenmonmouth2.jpg/)

Don't take the pictures as gospel as they were uncared for when I bought them. All I do now is wax them to a spit shine. I don't want a cream to interfere with the original antiquing.

[filfoster]

Mycroft and Wingnut have described the best practices to maintain shoes for the long walk. I would distinguish the care given work/outdoor shoes and dress/dress casual shoes. You may want your 'work' or knockabout shoes to get pretty tatty before giving them a good stripping, oiling/lotioning and polish again. I may only do this a few times a year and it's enough.
My daily work shoes, cap toes or plain toed oxfords, I spit shine. The recommendation to strip with lighter fluid is correct but I am lazy and may only do this once a year because the spit shine, with several layers of polish and a layer or two of neutral over that, buffed with a lady's nylon stocking, is tedious. It is also, besides eating too fast and calling the floor the deck, the only vestige of my military experience.
The amorphous category, "dress casual", seems best tended by the regimen Mycroft describes.

[cookie]

http://blog.leffot.com/2009/08/13/shine-time-2/ http://www.dimitribottier.com/3en.aspx
http://www.styleforum.net/showthread.php?t=55732

[mannySpaghetti]

That was an informative post, though I'm set in my ways. I happen to like a high gloss on the toes though, it's an old Army habit. I'm finishing up the used Bostonians I mentioned a couple posts up and will post pics soon.

[jamespowers]

Bulling seems to be a nice civilized way of putting it with an accent. ;) :p

[mannySpaghetti]

I scored these off of ebaY a few days ago for like $24 and received 'em just yesterday.
http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2782.jpg
Straight out of the box the uppers are in great condition though scuffed up pretty good. Polishing the shoes probably wasn't something the previous owner did often. The soles are slightly worn, not too bad at all. It came with what looked like "sport" or "casual" laces; definately changed out to replace the old ones, but totally wrong for dress shoes, so they went into the wastebasket soon as I got 'em.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2783.jpg
Now on with the resurrection! I used an applicator brush to put the wax on, just 'cause I was lazy and wanted to be quick about it. the left shoe is in it's previous condition in each pic so yous can follow what I'm doing and compare. Left: straight out of the box.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2784.jpg
Then a vigorous brush shine making sure every nook and cranny gets some horse hair across it. Just a little effort makes a ton of difference already.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2785.jpg
Of course once I'm satisfied with the brush shine I "Bull" the toes.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2782.jpg http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2786.jpg
A big step up from how they looked.

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2788.jpg
Added new waxed black 30" dress laces and voila', almost as good as new. I'm just waiting on some "Fiebing's sole edge polish" as Tomasso suggested and it should be totally complete, but they look great already. :D

[EmergencyIan]

^ Very nice outcome!


- Ian

[jamespowers]

Excellent. I am sending five pairs for the same treatment, ;) :p

[filfoster]

http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2783.jpg
Now on with the resurrection! I used an applicator brush to put the wax on, just 'cause I was lazy and wanted to be quick about it. the left shoe is in it's previous condition in each pic so yous can follow what I'm doing and compare. Left: straight out of the box.



[http://i183.photobucket.com/albums/x192/Mod-Zoo/Roaring20s/HPIM2788.jpg
Added new waxed black 30" dress laces and voila', almost as good as new. I'm just waiting on some "Fiebing's sole edge polish" as Tomasso suggested and it should be totally complete, but they look great already. :D[/QUOTE]

That is one fine polish job. I must look back through the thread to see if 'bulling' means what it implies: polish and spit applied with much brio

[filfoster]

You can polish your shoes with a plain nylon stockings/pantyhose.
For exampla a 'used' one your lady doesn't need anymore.
Use the method on yourself like a shoeshineboy do with a cloth wrapping your shoes.
It gives a nice shiny result.
We do this all the time in the military.

My recruiter gave me the tip on the nylons and I managed to get a small patch into the barracks. He also mentioned the lighter fluid for stripping off the quartermaster but we didn't have that and no one could collect enough of the platoon sergeant's spit to substitute.

[HoundstoothLuke]

Good evening gents,

I have a pair of rather beautiful brown shoes, which normally require the use of kiwi Light Tan polish. However, in a fit of stupidity a fortnight ago, I used dark tan polish on them. Although they have largely recovered as it was only a small amount of polish, there are still dark patches around the bottom of the toe cap.

Is it possible to remove polish after applying it using chemicals, or should I just polish them all with dark tan and keep on doing so until the shoes are that colour?


I don't own a digital camera, so I'm afraid there are no pics. Essentially, the shoe remains light tan, but just above the instep there is discolouration caused by the other polish.

[Orgetorix]

I'd try a leather cleaner/conditioner like Lexol, Saphir Renovateur, or the stuff that Allen-Edmonds sells. If that doesn't work, a very small amount of acetone, used very sparingly, should take it off. Make sure you condition the leather after using acetone, as acetone is harsh and can dry it out.

[Speedbird]

Hi Luke,

There are a number of different ways to strip back old polish ... some more aggressive than others!

I would suggest you use saddle soap first as it is the least aggressive .... but it involves a little time and effort - rub it in and rub off with a damp cloth - repeat until discolouration removed. You will need to do the rest of the shoe as well (and the other one), to make sure you end up with an even colour all over.

You could try steam from a kettle to soften the polish before rubbing.

There are other ways - white spirits, lighter fluid etc - I have even heard toothpaste works for stripping old polish. These might be a bit harsh for old delicate or valuable leathers .... these type of tricks are used on army boots to bring them up to scratch but in this case longevity is rarely a consideration.

Whatever you use, you will need to re-polish the shoes thoroughly to get an even colour.

As an aside, you could just leave it well alone and polish as normally with your light tan. After a while you will get an interesting look. On all my brown shiny shoes/boots I alternate using dark tan and ox blood (sometimes a little black) to build up a characterful patina.

[HoundstoothLuke]

Thanks for all the advice gentlemen. These shoes are very new, I only purchased them last month, and they're not vintage so I don't have to worry as much about the treatments being too harsh.

I'll try the saddle soap first.

Thanks again!

[daizawaguy]

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll134/daizawaguy/Jan2010002-8.jpg

Lefty had commented in the Hats section about my polish technique, and asked for a few tips. Here goes:

1. Make sure polish is warmed up (place on radiator in winter for a few min)
2. Apply in small circles
3. Use a coarse brush (pig bristle) to distribute/take off
4. Use a softer (horse hair) to final brush
5. Occasionally use a wet cloth and apply small cirles to the toe cap.
6. Condition with cream a few times a year
7. Mix colors - dont be afraid - even a black occasionally for antique look
8. Polish often!

[Alex Oviatt]

Great advice--as straight-laced as your beautiful shoes.

[cookie]

For finally polishing and to get a blistering shine use a pair of old panty hose!

[Geesie]

Color matching - there are countless shades of brown shoe sold, but only a handful of shoe polishes.
[huh]

[Orgetorix]

A while back, I Ebayed a pair of AE's discontinued Brantley bal boots. While I'd been looking for a pair of bal boots for a while and was happy to snag these after a long time looking, I'd never been terribly happy with the color, an orangey tan that I think AE calls brandy:

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q163/jccavanaugh/Sep09Shoes-Copy-1.jpg

I'd tried darkening them with creams and waxes, but the color change wasn't substantial enough. I also burnished the toes a bit with a buffing wheel on my drill. Since they're only AEs and I'd gotten them for about $40, and since I wasn't wearing them much in the orange color, I was willing to experiment with them.

So I finally got around to working on them over the course of the last week. I stripped the top layer of the finish off with acetone, though I didn't take all of the old color off.

I then moisturized with a couple applications of Saphir Renovateur, to feed the leather after the harsh acetone.

Then I used Fiebing's Leather Dye in Dark Brown, using the little wool dauber that comes in the box. I put on several coats, with applications of Renovateur in between to strip off the dye that didn't penetrate the leather and stayed sitting on top.

I'd say I ended up with about 5 or 6 coats of dye overall, and maybe a couple more on the toes. I finished with a couple coats of Saphir #05 dark brown cream and Kiwi dark brown wax, putting a low-grade spit shine on the toecaps.

I'm fairly pleased with the results. The finish is a bit more uneven than I could wish; there are a couple of spots where the old orange color shows through a bit. You can kind of see one of them on the heel counter in one picture. I'm going to keep polishing with dark brown cream and wax, and hopefully the finish will even out with time.

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q163/jccavanaugh/DSCF6088.jpg http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q163/jccavanaugh/DSCF6089.jpg http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q163/jccavanaugh/DSCF6090.jpg

[davestlouis]

Nicely done, I like the antiqued finish a lot more than the original...looks like a lot of work though.

[The Good]

I'm fine with the way it was originally, myself, but the second photo, with your antiquing done on them, looks better for sure!

[cookie]

You are getting there but I think the antiquing needs to be more overall and seems concentrated on the front section.

[Orgetorix]

That was deliberate. My shoes that have been "naturally" antiqued over time with regular polishing have gotten darker on the toes than the rest of the shoes, and that's what I wanted to imitate.

I was going for something like Edward Green's Dark Oak color. While these pictures don't show it, under some light the boots almost look more like John Lobb Paris' Museum Red. There is a pronounced redness to the finish that doesn't come through in these shots, and I'm not sure if that's because the Fiebings has a red tint or because of the base color or both.

[cookie]

I like red undertones if that is what happened.

[Hexenmeister]

Watching this makes my shoe shining routine look...juvenile. He makes it seem so meditative and precise; and he makes my shine jobs look like crap in comparison. lol

Io2KFwZ5B8w

[Bruce Wayne]

Good find!!! :eusa_clap :eusa_clap :eusa_clap

What is that thing he keeps tapping? It appeares to contain water.

[WolfeMan]

I use kiwi polish. I do a thick base coat of black first, let it dry, and brush it with a horsehair brush. Then i get a small amount of polish on a cloth on 2 fingers, and rub it in circular motions until the fog disappears. I do black first, then parade gloss, and an outer coat of neutral. Shines them up pretty nice, good enough to pass inspection for my NJROTC class. I also shine my Corcorans, that i use for daily wear. Keeps them looking sharp.
(thanks for moving)


Wolfe

[CC-1]

I strongly second that opinion. Lincoln smells a lot better too.

[WolfeMan]

Hello, i was recently polishing a new pair of service shoes from ATF. I noticed a dark spot appeared on one, and quit polishing, tried a couple ways of removing, nothing. When i moved to the next shoe, suddenly the same thing happened. I'm using neutral kiwi, i applied saddle soap earlier, and i used a little rubbing alcohol on the first one, i'm hoping the stains will disappear, but does anyone know what could have caused this, or how i can fix is short of trying to darked the rest of the boot?
Thanks, Wolfe
Edit- the stain seems to have turned light, but when i apply more polish it turns dark again.

[John in Covina]

Hello, i was recently polishing a new pair of service shoes from ATF. I noticed a dark spot appeared on one, and quit polishing, tried a couple ways of removing, nothing. When i moved to the next shoe, suddenly the same thing happened. I'm using neutral kiwi, i applied saddle soap earlier, and i used a little rubbing alcohol on the first one, i'm hoping the stains will disappear, but does anyone know what could have caused this, or how i can fix is short of trying to darked the rest of the boot?
Thanks, Wolfe
Edit- the stain seems to have turned light, but when i apply more polish it turns dark again.

On some new shoes the manufacturer puts a coating of a laquer type shine on the outside. If the laquer is removed in a specific area then the leather is open to pull in the various applied polishes , etc. Often a leather will darken as the more liquid portion of the polish is absorbed into it. Some may stay darkened others may lighten as it dries out.

[WolfeMan]

On some new shoes the manufacturer puts a coating of a laquer type shine on the outside. If the laquer is removed in a specific area then the leather is open to pull in the various applied polishes , etc. Often a leather will darken as the more liquid portion of the polish is absorbed into it. Some may stay darkened others may lighten as it dries out.
The affected area does not seem to take a shine, and stands out from the rest of the boot. Also, they weren't very glossy or anything when they arrived. If i got some brown polish and used it over the areas instead of neutral, is it possible that would help with the problem? The rest seems to shine up fairly nicely.

[WolfeMan]

Hello again. I'm sorry to keep posting, but Ive been looking around on the internet trying to find an answer to my question. I'm sure somebody will direct me somewhere and make me feel a fool. :)
Anyways, i was wondering if polishing my brown boots with cordovan polish will darken them? The toe cap of the left one is darker than the rest of the boot, and no amount of saddle soap and scrubbing will correct it, so i want to try and use polish to match the toe cap to the rest of the boot, and to the right boot.
Thanks,
Wolfe

[Big_e]

I have a pair of snakeskin shoes I bought about 3 months ago. I've managed to wear them about 2-3 times a month and have been looking for a regular treatment to keep the scales shiny and from drying out. I've bought a plastic bottle of Bickmore leather conditioner. Upon reading other threads in the interwebs I tried a spray can of Pledge furniture polish. I find that my snakes benefit just fine with a spray and wipe down with Pledge and smell lemony. I spray a small dab and rub along the direction of the grain/ scales. It contains water, mineral oil, silicon oil and naphtha. It'll feel greasy for a few minutes but by the time I put my shoes back on the rack, they're dry to the touch.
I now save the leather conditioner for my saddle oxfords and spectators. I've been using neutral polish on them and hate the flaky look of neutral polish when it dries.
Ernest

[John in Covina]

A caution regarding silicon, if it's the slippery stuff, rumor has it that it may cause stitching to undo itself because it is so slippery.

[Big_e]

Thanks for that John. It's supposed to be the defoamer agent. In the health & Human services database the same stuff (polydimethylsiloxanes) is also used in range of stuff from anti-perspirant products to deep gloss waxes. Even Armor All uses it as well as Right guard and Softsoap Body Wash. But still that may be something to consider if one is going to use furniture polish on shoes. I don't think it's the lubricant type of silicon.
Ernest

[HodgePodge]

Good find!!! :eusa_clap :eusa_clap :eusa_clap

What is that thing he keeps tapping? It appeares to contain water.

Definitely some kind of water container. Looks to be some super-nifty kind that has a pump similar to a soap dispenser.
From that video it looks as though I need to add a few more brushes to my shoe shine kit.
Wish I could pull off that nice a job, that effortlessly, in that amount of time.

[WolfeMan]

Where can one buy mink oil without going online? Would somewhere like Walmart, CVS, or Publix (a supermarket for those who don't have them) carry it, or will i have to look elsewhere?
Thanks,
Wolfe

[John in Covina]

Where can one buy mink oil without going online?

Mink Oil was a waterproofing agent used on hiking and serious work boots. I'd try a camping supply store or a place that carries a lot of work boots like what loggers use. Also some surplus stores may have it too.

[cptjeff]

Where can one buy mink oil without going online? Would somewhere like Walmart, CVS, or Publix (a supermarket for those who don't have them) carry it, or will i have to look elsewhere?
Thanks,
Wolfe
I have a tin of kiwi purchased at my local drugstore. The great local hardware store at school stocks two brands, and I've seen it stocked in most grocery stores.

I have NOT seen it at most outdoor stores though. Shoe stores that sell heavy duty boots would, and your local shoe repair guy would quite certainly have a tin or two in stock.

It's not hard to find, nor particularly expensive.

[WolfeMan]

Thanks, ill probably ride my bike down the road a bit tomorrow and check out a few stores that are all at the same intersection, didnt want to make the trip unless i knew there was a chance of getting it. If that fails, ill check the surplus store.
Wolfe

[MB5]

Definitely some kind of water container. Looks to be some super-nifty kind that has a pump similar to a soap dispenser.
From that video it looks as though I need to add a few more brushes to my shoe shine kit.
Wish I could pull off that nice a job, that effortlessly, in that amount of time.

It is a solvent dispenser, though it does likely contain water. There are quite a few available, but I think I stumbled upon the same one here:
http://www.micro-tools.com/store/item_detail.aspx?itemCode=94017

[57plymouth]

Where can one buy mink oil without going online? Would somewhere like Walmart, CVS, or Publix (a supermarket for those who don't have them) carry it, or will i have to look elsewhere?
Thanks,
Wolfe

I get it at Wal-Mart. It's in the shoe section. I have a pair of Doc Martens and a pair of Sperrys that I use it on. It does not give much shine, but it protects the leather if they get wet often. Those two pair are the ones I wear in the rain, so they get the Mink Oil.

[WolfeMan]

Picked some up at Wal-Mart today, application is in progress. However Ive noticed one toe is significantly darker than the other, going to try a few things to fix it.
Wolfe

[Herzen]

I have a question, and this seems as good a place for it as any:

I just won a used pair of Allen Edmonds Byrons on ebay. They were advertised as black, and now that they have arrived it appears to me that they were once brown and someone has been using black polish on them. At a casual glance, they indeed appear black. There are places, however, where brown seems to be showing through, and the edges of the leather (and parts of the tongue) look brown.

My question is, and forgive me if I am terribly ignorant here, should I just keep using black polish and treat them as black shoes, or is there a way to "strip off" the added color and restore them to their original shade?

Keep in mind, they are in great shape and fit me perfectly, so I in no way regret my purchase. I was just curious...

[Qirrel]

You could remove the black polish (with alcohol), but that would remove the original colour, which also comes from some type of polish. If you want them to be black, you can keep using black polish on the areas which still appear brown.

[Herzen]

You could remove the black polish (with alcohol), but that would remove the original colour, which also comes from some type of polish. If you want them to be black, you can keep using black polish on the areas which still appear brown.

That's kind of what I had been thinking. Thank you.

[Ed88]

Sorry to barge in but I guess it depends on what colour you want these. If its the brown your after, you can get certain products to help remove the wax/ polish layers to restore the former glory but restoration to the previous colour will still be difficult. I would suggest use of a black cream and black polish to darken the lighter pigmented areas.

[Undertow]

Herzen, I think this is an interesting situation. I've known fellas to slap cordovan on brown shoes, or brown on cordovan shoes, but I've not seen anyone using black on brown. Can you post pictures for review?

I don't want to speak too soon, but it might be useful to see pictures in order to determine if this was an error on part of the shoemaker (e.g. incomplete dying process), an error on part of the previous shoe owner (i.e. wrong color polish), or perhaps a result of contact with a damaging substance.

I would not recommend alcohol on any pair of fine leather shoes. Some folks of years past used to "spit shine" their toes with a cotton ball and some rubbing alcohol, and certainly it gave a shine, but I wouldn't put that stuff anywhere near the shoe if you can help it, for any reason.

[Isshinryu101]

Herzen, I think this is an interesting situation. I've known fellas to slap cordovan on brown shoes, or brown on cordovan shoes, but I've not seen anyone using black on brown. Can you post pictures for review?

I don't want to speak too soon, but it might be useful to see pictures in order to determine if this was an error on part of the shoemaker (e.g. incomplete dying process), an error on part of the previous shoe owner (i.e. wrong color polish), or perhaps a result of contact with a damaging substance.

I would not recommend alcohol on any pair of fine leather shoes. Some folks of years past used to "spit shine" their toes with a cotton ball and some rubbing alcohol, and certainly it gave a shine, but I wouldn't put that stuff anywhere near the shoe if you can help it, for any reason.

Black polish on brown shoes is a perilous venture.

[Fifty150]

I checked out the footwear of the 40-odd other people present, I was obviously the only one who shined his shoes on a regular basis. Most of the footwear was either dull in original finish, or plain neglected, not taking into account the running shoes etc.
Footwear seems to be entering the disposable bracket.
http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/1286/shu001ih5.jpg


With most people today buying cheap shoes for $100 or less, why would these people put any effort into maintaining disposable shoes? You could even buy shoes for less than $50.

I recently picked up a pair of Sears Diehard oxfords for $35. Made in China. Cushioned insole. Full leather lining. Goodyear welt. Padded collar around the ankles. Steel toe. Steel shank. Non-slip rubber sole. Polishes to a spit shine with no effort. Actually, a very well made shoe. Well worth the $35 for a pair of shoes that are comfortable, and that I intend on abusing at work. And the Diehard line comes with a 2 year warranty from Sears.

Not that these will replace my good shoes. But I can see why people buy cheap shoes, and don't bother caring for them.

Yet, I shine my cheap shoes regularly, and will re-sole them if the shoes hold up. I've already worn them for 3 years, and they are still in great condition.

[Fifty150]

Clean shoes with saddle soap. Wipe off with a soft cloth.

Apply mink oil, neatsfoot oil, or even flax seed oil. Apply a liberal coat. Wipe off excess with a soft cloth. Do this once a day for 3 - 5 days, so that your leather is well oiled.

Then apply a light coat of shoe cream such as Meltonian brand. Allow at least 30 minutes to dry. Brush off excess with a horsehair brush. Repeat process until you have at least 3 good coats.

Now apply a couple of light coats of paste wax, such as Lincoln or Kiwi brand. Allow time to dry, and brush, between coats.

Use a spray bottle, and spray shoe with a light mist of water. Then buff to a shine with a shine cloth.