Photo by furkanfdemir

A common question that gentlemen may have about their leather dress shoes in hot weather is: "How can I prevent my leather dress shoes from getting damaged if I sweat in the heat?"

Sweating while wearing leather shoes is a common concern, especially in hot and humid weather. Excessive moisture can lead to unpleasant odours, discolouration, and even damage to leather footwear. However, with the right care and precautions, you can keep your leather shoes looking and smelling fresh. 

• Choose the right socks: Choose moisture-wicking or breathable socks. These socks are designed to pull moisture away from your skin, keeping your feet drier and reducing sweat absorption by the leather. Avoid cotton socks, which tend to trap moisture.
• Use antiperspirant foot spray: Consider applying an antiperspirant foot spray before putting on your socks and shoes. This can help reduce excessive sweating and reduce the moisture that comes into contact with your leather shoes.
• Rotate your shoes: We know you love that special pair, but avoid wearing the same pair of leather shoes every day! Rotating your footwear gives each pair time to air out and dry, preventing the buildup of moisture and odour.
• Invest in moisture-wicking insoles: These insoles are designed to draw sweat away from your feet and into the shoe's padding, rather than letting it saturate the leather. Replace insoles regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
• Dry them properly: After wearing your leather shoes, allow them to air out and dry naturally. Avoid exposing them to direct heat sources like radiators or direct sunlight, as excessive heat can cause leather to dry out and crack.
• Use cedar shoe trees: Insert cedar shoe trees into your leather shoes when they're not in use. These not only help maintain the shoe's shape but also absorb excess moisture and odours, leaving your shoes fresh and ready to wear.
• Regular cleaning and conditioning: Clean your leather shoes regularly with a soft, damp cloth to remove sweat and dirt. After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to keep the leather hydrated and supple. Conditioning helps prevent drying and cracking.
• Store them properly: Store your leather shoes in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. Avoid putting them in damp or enclosed spaces that can encourage mould growth and deterioration.
• Address stains promptly: If you notice sweat stains or discolouration on your leather shoes, address them as soon as possible. Use a leather stain remover or a mixture of mild soap and water to gently clean the affected areas.
• Professional cleaning and repair: For stubborn stains or significant damage, you should consider professional leather cleaning and repair services. Expert leather care can extend the life of your shoes and maintain their pristine appearance.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your leather shoes without worrying about the damaging effects of sweat.

With proper care and precautions, your leather footwear will stay in great condition and continue to make a stylish statement for years to come.