Shoe tree (device)

Shoe Trees in action

A shoe tree is a device approximating the shape of a foot that is placed inside a shoe to preserve its shape, stop it from developing creases and thereby extend the life of the shoe. It is a reusable alternative to wadded rags or newspapers.

Perhaps more important than maintaining the shape, shoe trees also play a crucial part of wicking away leather-damaging moisture from the inside. This is especially important when shoes are worn without socks, as the sweat absorbed by the leather can lead to lining rot.

Higher quality shoe trees are made from solid wood, usually cedar, which helps control odor and absorb moisture.

Types

Among wooden shoe trees, there are generally three categories, which correspond to price and quality.

Spring shoe trees

Spring shoe trees

The cheapest are wooden shoe tree without a full heel. Although they help with odour, and will help preserve the original shape at the front of the shoe, the narrow knob on the heel puts excess pressure on one section of the heel and prolonged use may deform the shoe. Notwithstanding, this style of shoe tree is popular with high heels because of its flexibility.

Generic shoe trees

Popular in the U.S., the split-toe shoe tree

Generic shoe trees are non-lasted shoe trees that are designed to fit a wide range of footwear styles. Generic shoe trees come in many styles; two of the more popular ones are the twin-tube and single-tube shoe tree. The twin-tube shoe tree, cut from a generic last and featuring a fully articulated (round heel), a spring toe and ventilation holes. This style is most popular in England and Europe customers. The single-tube, split-toe shoe tree with overhand handle, works on a spring-spreader mechanism, causing the split toe to expand into the shoe when inserted into the shoe. This style is most popular in the United States.

Lasted shoe trees

Lasted shoe trees

At the highest range are lasted shoe trees, which accompany the shoes for which they have the same last.

Plastic shoe trees

Shoe trees may also be made of plastic or stamped sheet metal, with or without a coiled steel spring stem; these are typically cheaper, lighter, and are better suited for travelling. Types lacking a flexing steel spring may use extension springs or adjustable two-piece stems having an over-centre mechanical action to wedge them in place. Plastic shoe trees maintain the shape of your shoes but lack the moisture absorbing qualities of wooden shoe trees. Because wooden shoe trees can damage the leather when stored in luggage, plastic shoe trees are often used when travelling, as well as having the added benefit of being lightweight.

When to use

The best time to insert shoe trees is as soon as you take off your shoes. After a day of wear, your leather shoes are stretched and contain moisture due to sweat. By inserting shoe trees, the leather will reform back to its natural shape, and - depending on the wood or material - will wick away moisture, which is known to rot the lining and crack the leather.

Cedar Boot Trees

Boot trees

Boot trees are shoe trees for boots. Boot trees are often used on ankle-high boots and are similar to standard shoe trees but have a higher ankle area. Their main function is to support the heel counter, which helps preserve the integrity of the higher heel and prevents it from creasing or folding over. The fore part of the boot tree acts like a standard shoe tree and works to gently stretch out the vamp and prevent creasing.

Creases that form in the calves of boots can affect comfort when walking. For zip boots, creasing may eventually cause the zip to break. By investing in a pair of boot trees a repair like this can easily be avoided.

A boot shaper, on the other hand, has wooden or plastic formers with a centre support or wedge that expands to provide the ideal tension for your boots. Some boot shapers come with a trigger that allows easy fitting and hanging.