How To Keep Leather Shoes From Cracking? Easy Guide

Many of us have a favorite pair of leather shoes that we just can’t seem to let go of, even though they’re starting to show their age. If your once-glossy shoes are now looking dry and cracked, don’t despair – there are several easy ways to bring them back to life! 

By taking the time to care for your leather shoes, you lower your risk of ever having to deal with cracks. We’ll show you what to do in this guide to make sure your leather shoes never crack and always look like they just came from the store.

Here, we’ll explore how to keep leather shoes from cracking, so you can keep wearing your beloved favorites for years to come. Ready to learn more? Read on!

Tips on How To Keep Leather Shoes From Cracking:

There are a few easy things you can do to prevent your leather shoes from cracking and keep them looking great. Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Clean and Condition Regularly:

Another way to keep your leather shoes from cracking is to clean and condition them on a regular basis. Use a soft cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris, and then apply a leather conditioner. Be sure to use a conditioner that’s specifically designed for leather, as other products can actually damage the material. Apply the conditioner evenly over the surface of the leather and allow it to soak in for at least 20 minutes before buffing it off.

2. Lose Laces Before Taking On And Off Shoes:

When taking off your shoes, be sure to take off the laces first. This will help prevent unnecessary stress on the material that can lead to cracks and other damage over time. The same goes for when you’re putting your shoes on, always put the laces in first. Laces that are left in when you put your shoes on can also cause wear and tear to the edges of the shoe, so it’s best to always take them out first.

3. Avoid Long Exposure To Water:

Leather shoes are beautiful, but they’re not very good at resisting water. So if you want to keep your leather shoes in great shape, make sure that you avoid exposing them to water for long periods of time. Leather can quickly absorb liquids, which can cause serious cracks and creases. 

The most common cause of these cracks over time is thought to be rain, although sweat from walking is also frequently to blame. This means avoiding getting them wet during heavy rainstorms or walking through puddles.

4. Don’t Overexpose To Sunlight:

Leather can also be damaged by too much exposure to sunlight, so it’s important to avoid leaving your shoes in direct sunlight for extended periods of time. If you must store them in an area that gets direct sunlight, be sure to rotate them on a regular basis so that all sides get an equal amount of light exposure.

5. Proper Storage:

One of the best ways to prevent your leather shoes from cracking is to store them properly. Leather is a natural material that can dry out and crack if it’s not properly conditioned. When you’re not wearing your leather shoes, store them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. You can also stuff them with newspaper or shoe trees to help maintain their shape.

What Causes Leather Shoes To Crack?

There are many factors that can contribute to leather shoes cracking, including:

1. Poor Quality Leather:

One of the most common reasons why leather shoes crack is because they are made from poor-quality leather. Leather is a natural material that is subject to wear and tear, and it can be easily damaged if it is not treated properly. Poor-quality leather shoes are often made from thin, weak leather that is not very durable and is more susceptible to cracking.

2. Lack Of Conditioning:

Another common reason for leather shoes to crack is a lack of conditioning. Leather needs to be regularly conditioned in order to stay soft and supple. If leather shoes are not conditioned, the leather will become dry and brittle, which makes it more likely to crack.

3. Exposure To Sunlight:

Leather shoes can also be damaged by exposure to sunlight. UV rays from the sun can cause the leather to become dry and cracked. If you must store your leather shoes in a sunny spot, make sure to condition them regularly to prevent damage.

Conclusion:

I hope these tips on how to keep leather shoes from cracking have been helpful! By following these simple strategies, you can ensure that your favorite leather shoes will stay beautiful for years to come. So what are you waiting for? Start taking care of your shoes today and enjoy them for many years to come!