SHOE CARE

A few simple habits keep your shoes in shape and their color fresh. Below are our tips for each material. For most styles, the material is listed in the Materials section on the product page; if you're not sure, email us.

Every day

Use a shoehorn so the back of the heel isn't crushed.

After wearing, put a wooden shoe tree inside. It absorbs moisture and keeps the shoe's shape.

Rather than wearing the same pair every day, let it rest in between so the leather can dry.

If your shoes get wet, stuff them with paper and let them dry at room temperature. Don't use a radiator, heater or hairdryer: the leather can harden and crack.

Calf leather

Remove dust with a soft brush or a dry cloth.

From time to time, apply a thin coat of leather cream, neutral or matching the color of your shoes.

Once the cream is dry, brush or buff with a soft cloth.

Test any new product on a small, hidden spot first.

Suede

Brush lightly in one direction with a suede brush.

Before wearing, you can apply a suede protector spray; it helps against water and stains.

Remove small marks with a suede eraser.

Don't use cream or polish on suede.

Patent leather

Patent leather has a glossy coated surface, as on Tolima.

Wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth, then buff with a dry cloth.

Don't use regular shoe cream or polish; choose a cleaner made for patent leather.

When storing, keep patent surfaces from touching: put each shoe in its own cloth bag.

Soles

If a leather sole gets wet, lay the shoe on its side and let it dry at room temperature.

Rubber or EVA soles can be wiped with a damp cloth.

Most of our Blake-stitched styles can be resoled. Your model's construction is listed in the Manufacturing section on the product page.

Storage

Store your shoes in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

If you won't wear them for a while, put shoe trees inside and keep them in their box or a cloth bag.

Don't store them in plastic bags; leather needs to breathe.

Not sure?

If your model has a different leather or a fabric, or you're unsure about a stain, email a photo to info@zerbayshoes.com and we'll find the right care together.