These are foot-shaped devices that are inserted into shoes to reduce moisture and help hold their shape when they’re not being worn. These are most commonly made of wood or plastic.
Typically this gadget has a two or three-piece design, consisting of a front half resembling the forefoot and a back piece resembling the heel. These two pieces will be spring-loaded to accommodate varying sizes and to provide a customized type of fit.
With some models of shoe trees, the forefoot section will be a two-piece design with a split down the center. The two halves (left and right) will also be spring-loaded to provide a more customized fit to the front of the shoe.
Shoe tree using and purchasing necessary guide
All of this information that we are going to discuss is very helpful for you if you want to purchase and use a shoe tree.
How to use shoe trees
Install it shortly after wearing your shoes, and leave them in place whenever they’re not being worn. This will allow this gadget to absorb moisture and continue to hold the shape of your shoes. If your shoes are wet, give them some small time to dry that is 20 to 30 minutes before installing the shoe trees.
First, insert the front of this gadget (shoe tree) into the shoe and slide it as far forward as possible. If the shoe tree gadget has a split toe, pinch the outside of the shoe to push the two halves together and continue the tree sliding into the shoe until it bottoms out on the toe. This doesn’t require any kind of much force, and if this gadget doesn’t easily slide into the shoe, you’re likely using the wrong size.
Next, compress the gadget lengthwise and slide the back half into the heel of the shoe. When the spring goes to decompress, it should fill the shoe adequately with no room for movement. If the gadget (shoe tree) still doesn’t fit after the spring compressing, it’s likely too big for the shoe.
Best shoes tree
This gadget comes in different materials like wood or plastic. The shoe trees of plastic are one of the cheapest, and in weight, they are very light, which makes them good for traveling. But they don’t absorb moisture, so they will do only half the job.
That’s why we recommend using cedar-made shoe trees. This wood is one of the lights, plus it easily absorbs any kind of moisture which could lead to fungal and bacteria growth.
What shoe tree size do I need?
This gadget typically comes in sizes that will be fitting a range that is up to 2 different shoe sizes. The following of the ranges are shoe tree sizing examples: 6-7.5, 8-9.5, 10-11, 11.5-13, etc.
If you’re between these sizes, it’s best to try out both of these and check which fits. Each shoe tree brand will differently fit and it’s very important in order to get the right size. Too small will move around too much. Too large stretch the shoe out.
How much do shoe trees cost?
A kind of great quality pair of cedar-made shoe trees will cost almost $15-25, which isnot expensive enough to buy one pair of nice shoes that you own.
How long do shoe trees last?
A cedar-made good shoe tree will last a lifetime with very little attention or maintenance. Once a year it’s a good idea to give the cedar a sanding light in order to open the grain opening.
Shoe tree designs & materials
The great quality of this shoe gadget will have a three-piece design that includes a split forefoot and a rounded heel section that resembles an actual human foot. Shoe trees at lower cost (or travel shoe trees) often omit the section of heel in favor of a simple rounded end. The rounded end is not ideal as it can place extra pressure on the heel one part, leading to deformation or stretching.
Wood vs. plastic
For shoe trees wood is the best material because it helps remove the amount of moisture in addition to holding the shape of the shoe. Cedar is one of the most common types of wood because it works better in removing moisture than other species of wood, and it has a pleasant kind of smell.
Sometimes plastic is used for this gadget because it’s less expensive, and also one of the lighter. For traveling purposes, shoe trees are often made of plastic because it weighs less. These gadgets aren’t intended for long-term use, so they make compromises in order to save weight.
Cedar vs. other woods
Most of these shoe gadgets are made of cedar because of their ability to remove moisture. But they do come in other types of wood too (like beech wood). Whenever possible, also stick to cedar. Make sure to avoid the shoe trees varnishing, because the coating of lacquer prevents the wood from absorbing moisture.
Will shoe trees stretch shoes?
While they may have a look of similarity, these shoe gadgets called shoe trees are not stretchers of the shoe, and when used correctly, so anyway shoe trees will not stretch shoes.
Will shoe trees prevent or remove creasing?
Yes, one of the main purposes of shoe trees is to prevent shoes from creasing. And making use of them regularly helps to prevent the creases from developing. If your shoes creased already, shoe trees may go to reduce the creasing appearance. But won’t go to eliminate it entirely.
For boots shoe trees
This gadget is available for ankle boots too, with a heel that’s going to be taller than on a typical shoe tree. For the taller kind of boots, there are inserts that can be used in order to help them hold their original shape. Usually made up of plastic or other synthetic materials.
Conclusion
These gadgets are beneficial when it comes to the lifespan expanding of your shoes. They will also save you a big amount of money in the long run.
Cedarwood is one of the best for shoe trees and also for home furniture like automatic sliding doors and others. So buying a shoe tree after getting a good pair of shoes is certainly going to be a great wise decision.
