How long should shoe trees be left in unworn shoes?

[Guest]

Hello all,

I recently read that leaving shoe trees in shoes for more than a day or two isn't a good idea as it can stretch the leather. Has anyone else heard this? What are your best shoe tree practices?

[Guest]

Hello all,

I recently read that leaving shoe trees in shoes for more than a day or two isn't a good idea as it can stretch the leather. Has anyone else heard this? What are your best shoe tree practices?

It depends on the workings and the size of the tree. When using a three-piece shoe tree that is the correct size for the shoe, I see no harm in leaving them in the shoes for an extended period of time.

Kind regards,
DonB

[Guest]

Yes, I agree with DonB. I would go one further and suggest that shoes should never be without their trees whilst lying in wait - as long as they are the original wooden shoe trees (i.e. basically, replicas of the last) that came with the shoe. This is an important proviso because I have discovered that generic shoe trees can indeed stretch the leather, usually at the heel with the result that the shoe slips a little when walking. Annoying.

One other tip - I usually wait until the morning after before I re-insert the trees, allowing time for any moisture to evaporate. This will probably be disputed by some members as I have read recommendations that the trees be re-inserted immediately after taking the shoes off at the end of the day - something about the moisture being beneficial and that it is absorbed by the tree anyway. However, it's my personal preference to wait.

Dominic

[Guest]

For shell cordovan shoes in particular, it's recommended that the shoes be allowed to "cool down" for a few hours before inserting trees.

[Guest]

Thanks for the responses. I thought that part of the reason for using shoe trees (cedar ones anyway) is to absorb moisture, so it would make sense to put them in right away, no?

[Guest]

The moisture comes out of the leather over a long period. Trees serve this purpose and also provide a means for the shoe to keep its shape. for leathers that can take a "set" easier-like shell, it's better to allow the leather to cool and lose some flexibility before setting trees. For calfskin, it's not an issue.