Shoe Care

Try to always use a shoehorn. This practice protects the heel counter—the rigid component that shapes and reinforces the heel—which is essential for maintaining a proper fit.
Loosen the laces as much as possible when putting on or taking off the shoes to prevent them from losing their shape.
Do not wear the same pair of shoes for two or three consecutive days. It takes more than 24 hours for foot perspiration to evaporate from the shoe; excessive accumulated moisture contributes to the leather cracking as it dries. Furthermore, for anatomical reasons, it is recommended to alternate your footwear from time to time.
Do not dry your shoes near a heat source after a rainy day; the leather could become stiff and brittle, causing the grain (the outer surface) to crack. They should be allowed to dry naturally, though stuffing them with newspaper can help speed up the process. Remove any mud with a damp sponge. Once the shoe is dry, apply a thin layer of cream using a cloth and spread it evenly with a soft brush.
Use shoe trees or expandable lasts. Cedar wood ones are the best. They help eliminate creases in the vamp and maintain the volume and shape the last gave the shoe.
Use a high-quality cream or polish for maintenance. Both products are equally effective, though polish tends to yield a slightly higher shine when buffed. The golden rule is to apply a small amount of product using a used cloth, followed by brushing and a final buff with a chamois cloth. For a high-gloss finish, lightly dampen the cloth with a few drops of water.
For oiled leather shoes, the leather is nourished and revitalized by applying a thin layer of cream. Afterward, a small amount of neatsfoot oil (or a similar product) can be applied using a small sponge.
For suede, there are brushes with copper bristles and others with mixed bristles—copper and nylon—that are somewhat less abrasive and will help maintain the nap of the leather.