Fine leather shoes are not just footwear. They are an investment in craftsmanship, presentation, and longevity. Whether you choose from our Made to Measure Shoes or explore our Ready to Wear collection, proper polishing does more than add shine. It nourishes the leather, protects it from moisture and cracking, and extends the life of the shoe significantly.

Fine leather responds to care with longevity. A disciplined polishing routine strengthens the fibres, maintains suppleness, and protects against environmental damage. The following method ensures you treat quality footwear the way it was intended. For more care insights and footwear guidance, you can also explore our Blog.

Insert cedar shoe trees before you begin, as they stabilise the upper and gently stretch the leather. Remove the laces to avoid staining them with polish. Brush the entire shoe firmly for at least one full minute to remove dust and surface debris.

If there is old wax build-up, apply a small amount of leather cleaner and wipe gently. Allow the shoes to dry completely before moving to the next step. Never apply polish to dirty leather.

Apply a small amount of colour-matched cream polish using tight circular motions. Focus especially on creases and flex points, where oils are lost first. Avoid overloading the surface, as excess product prevents proper absorption.

Allow the cream to absorb for 5 to 10 minutes. Then brush thoroughly to distribute the product evenly and restore the leather’s natural finish. At this stage, the shoe should look healthy and revived, not glossy.

Using a clean cloth or applicator brush, apply a very thin layer of hard wax polish in small circular motions. Keep the layer light and controlled. Thick wax suffocates leather and reduces clarity.

Allow the wax to settle for a few minutes, then buff firmly with a horsehair brush. If additional shine is required, repeat with another thin layer rather than applying more product at once.

Only apply this technique to the toe cap and heel counter. Avoid flex areas, as hardened wax will crack when the leather bends.

Use a minimal amount of hard wax and add a small drop of water to your cloth. Apply ultra-thin layers, buffing lightly between each application. Gradually build 5 to 10 thin layers until the surface becomes reflective. Patience is essential for achieving a true mirror finish.

For fine leather shoes:

• After every 5–7 wears for regular use

• Immediately after exposure to rain

• Before long-term storage

Condition more frequently if you live in a dry or low-humidity environment, as leather loses natural oils faster in these conditions.

Polishing fine leather shoes is not about surface shine. It is about protecting structure, maintaining suppleness, and extending lifespan.

With proper care, a quality pair can serve you for decades. Without it, even the finest leather will fail prematurely.