When it comes to leather shoes, the first step is knowing how to wear them, but the real secret lies in understanding how to take care of them.

Each pair of leather shoes is a unique, handmade artifact that deserves proper attention. Men must learn not only how to select leather shoes but also about the various tools and products essential for their care.

It's crucial to recognize that leather shoes, representing a gentleman's style, shouldn't deteriorate or wear out easily. Contrary to common belief, worn-out leather shoes don't solely result from neglect but also from the lack of regular maintenance.

Daily care is vital to protect the leather, and dedicating a few minutes each week with a handful of simple tools can make a significant difference.

Essential tools for maintaining leather shoes include a shoe brush, cleaning oil, shoe polish, cloth, and waterproof spray. It's advisable to use a horsehair shoe brush, having at least two – a large one for overall cleaning and a smaller one for intricate details.

Choose shoe polish that matches the shoe color; teal for teal shoes, black for black shoes. Verify the polish on inconspicuous areas initially, as shoes may not change color if the polish doesn't match.

New leather shoes require an initial application of oil, filling the capillaries on the leather surface, providing longevity and making subsequent polishing easier.

For older shoes with wrinkles and cracks, frequent oiling – about four or five times a month – is necessary to maintain the surface and protect the upper leather. A mixture of shoe oil, a soft brush, a cloth, and a drop or two of vinegar can enhance the luster and durability of leather shoes. Apply the oil at night and gently wipe it the next morning for optimal protection.

When leather shoes experience color loss, use fine gauze leather to gently polish away the discoloration or roughness. A mixture of egg white, shoe dye or polish matching the shoe tone, and subsequent polishing can restore the shoes' appearance.

Consistent shoe polishing is vital. Begin by wiping off surface dust with a clean, soft cloth, followed by an even application of oil. During rainy or snowy weather, avoid wearing leather shoes if possible, or use shoe covers to protect them. After exposure to moisture, dry the shoes in a ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight and keeping them flat to prevent deformation.

When storing leather shoes, wipe them with oil, place them in a dry spot, and avoid squeezing to prevent deformation. For colorful leather shoes, especially white ones, avoid contact with sewage, dirt, and tea stains. When not in use, ventilate and wipe them clean to prevent mold growth.

When wearing shoes, loosen the laces first and use a shoe puller to prevent damage, particularly at the heel. Use shoe lasts to maintain the shape of your shoes, preventing deformation caused by factors such as body temperature, moisture, and rain. Immediate maintenance, including applying shoe care oil, polishing, and waterproofing, is crucial after purchasing new leather shoes.