how to clean shoes soles

Sole & Heel Edge Dressing – Keep Your Shoes Looking Sharp But Not forgetting About The Edges

If you're a shoe guy like me, you're interested in keeping your dancers in tip-top shape! If you're not a shoe guy, you should be! One's footwear is a leading indicator of over-all style. It's a known fact that many women scope out a man's shoes first. In fact, a recent study published in the Journal of Research in Personality found that age, income level, and "attachment anxiety" (how clingy you'd be as a boyfriend!) could all be accurately judged simply by inspecting someone's shoes! Now that I have your attention, let's proceed.

Crack Down On Sloppy Edges!

One of the first things to get out of line for me is the shoe's welt, as I have a propensity to find every bloody pavement crack known to man. It's especially prevalent here in the USA, where many "sidewalks" are made from concrete, with a 1/2″ divider line. There are two quick fixes for this that make a world of difference.

Old School – Shoe Polish & Rag

Black Shoe Polish And Rag Simply get a polish that matches the color of your welt, apply a small amount to a rag and work across to the damaged area.

The main drawback of this method is that the polish may not dry completely, and can rub off on clothing, shoe bags, etc… Further, it's not overly travel-friendly. That being said, if you're already polishing your shoes it's a natural extension.

New Game In Town – Shoe Dressing

Allen Edmonds Sole Edge Stain

I recently invested in a new collection of Allen Edmond shoes, and took the opportunity to browse their shoe care collection. I came across these "Travel Size Heel & Sole Edge Dressing(s)" that are perfect! They come in the four Allen Edmond shoe welt colors and are travel-friendly (hence the name!). Super easy to apply: just shake the bottle, rub the application pad on the welt, let it dry for a few minutes, and you're good as new!

All in all, it's the best $4 you will ever spend on your shoes. I have bought three of each color and scattered them across my main areas of business and leisure.

Paul Anthony is the founder and creative director at Bespoke Unit. He has had a life long affair with design, watches, fragrance and clothing. Originally from England, he now lives in the USA splitting time between NYC & Philly. Favoring "British Style", but has an overall eclectic taste.

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