Heritage & Craft
Investing in quality shoes is not just a style statement, it is a commitment to elegance, comfort, and durability. Lachoix shoes, meticulously crafted with premium materials and made in Portugal by local artisans reflect this philosophy. However, like any premium product, they require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Here's how to care for your shoes:
Shoes are made to be worn: Over time, soles will naturally show signs of wear. Periodically refreshing or replacing the soles will keep them in excellent condition.
Protect from extreme conditions: Avoid exposing shoes to high humidity or direct heat sources (like radiators or heaters). Heat can dry out the materials, causing cracks in the leather or loosening the sole.
Maintain shape: Always use shoe blocks or shoe trees to preserve the original shape and prevent creasing.
Leather
Leather is durable but needs care to maintain its supple texture and elegant finish:
Cleaning: Wipe off dirt with a soft, damp cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a leather cleaner suitable for the type of leather.
Conditioning: Use a leather conditioner to keep the leather moisturized and prevent cracking. Apply sparingly to avoid a greasy finish.
Protection: Treat with a leather protector spray to guard against water and stains.
Polishing: Use a neutral or color-matched shoe polish to restore shine and remove scuffs.
Suede
Suede is delicate and requires special care to maintain its soft, velvety finish:
Cleaning: Brush gently with a suede brush to remove dirt and revive the nap. For stubborn stains, use a suede eraser or a specialty cleaner.
Protection: Apply a suede protector spray to repel water and stains.
Avoid water exposure: Suede is particularly sensitive to moisture, so avoid wearing it in wet weather.
Hair-on-Leather
Hair-on-leather adds a luxurious texture but requires careful handling:
Cleaning: Gently brush in the direction of the hair with a soft brush. Avoid scrubbing to prevent damage.
Protection: Use a non-silicone-based water and stain protector suitable for hair-on-leather.
Avoid humidity: Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the hair to curl or shed.
Velvet
Velvet exudes elegance but is highly sensitive to dirt and moisture:
Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth or a velvet brush to gently remove dirt. For deeper cleaning, consider a professional service.
Protection: Apply a water-repellent spray designed for velvet. Test it on a small area first.
Handle delicately: Avoid rubbing the fabric to prevent crushing the pile.
Managing Odors
To keep your shoes smelling fresh:
Allow shoes to breathe: After wearing, remove them and allow them to air out. Avoid storing them in damp or poorly ventilated spaces.
Odor absorbers: Use natural deodorizers like cedar shoe inserts or sprinkle a small amount of baking soda inside the shoes overnight (shake it out before wearing).
Hygiene matters: Always wear clean socks and ensure your feet are dry before putting on shoes.
Humidity and Storage
Avoid damp areas: Humidity can damage delicate materials like velvet and hair-on-leather. Store shoes in a cool, dry place.
Use dust bags: Keep shoes in dust bags when not in use to protect them from dust and light exposure.
Regular checks: Periodically check for signs of mold or material degradation, particularly if stored for a long time.
Leather Soles: A Touch of Elegance and Care
Some of our shoes are crafted with leather outsoles, a hallmark of quality and sophistication. Leather soles are not only visually appealing but also breathable, thanks to the natural properties of leather. However, leather is less resistant to wear and can be vulnerable to damage, particularly in wet conditions.
To extend the life of your leather soles and enhance their durability, we strongly suggest visiting a professional cobbler to add a protective rubber layer before your first wear. This simple step will safeguard the sole from potential damage, improve traction, and ensure your shoes remain in excellent condition for longer.
Caring for your shoes ensures they remain a valuable part of your wardrobe for years to come. By following these guidelines, your Lachoix shoes will continue to embody quality, elegance, and style—just as they were designed to do.