7 Ways to Care for Your Corkys Shoes

Corkys shoes have become a popular footwear choice for many reasons. Their comfortable insoles, durable materials, and versatile styles make them a wardrobe staple. However, like any shoe, Corkys need proper care and maintenance to stay looking and feeling their best. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore seven key ways to care for your Corkys shoes so they stand the test of time. Whether you just bought your first pair or have been a Corkys fan for years, these tips will help you protect your investment and keep your shoes in top condition.

1. Break Them In Properly

New Corkys shoes need to be broken in gradually to mold to your feet. Wear them around the house for short periods at first. Try wearing them with socks if they feel stiff or rub anywhere. As they loosen up, start wearing them for longer periods and begin breaking them outside. Please don't overdo it too fast, or you may get blisters. Give your Corkys time to conform to your feet properly. The patience pays off in the long run with shoes that feel like they were custom-made for you.

2. Use Shoe Trees

Shoe trees are designed to absorb moisture and maintain the shape of shoes when you're not wearing them. They're ideal for leather Corkys shoes. The cedar wood helps wick away sweat to cut down on odors. Shoe trees hold the shape of the toe box and prevent creasing. This keeps leather from deteriorating and cracking prematurely. Invest in a set of adjustable shoe trees to fully see the benefits. It's one of the simplest ways to extend the life of your leather Corkys.

3. Rotate Different Pairs

It's tempting to find a perfect pair of Corkys and wear them every day. However, rotating your shoes helps them last longer. Rotating gives the materials a chance to fully dry out between wears, which prevents moisture damage. Rotating also redistributes wear more evenly across your collection, preventing excessive stress and deterioration to any single pair. Aim to switch off wearing different Corkys at least every other day.

4. Apply Protective Sprays

There are sprays designed for use on leather and suede that provide a protective barrier against stains and water damage. Before wearing new suede Corkys, use a suede protector spray. Reapply every few months for continued protection. Western boots protection sprays seal the surface of smooth leather. This makes the shoes more resistant to salt stains during winter and liquids the rest of the year. Proper waterproofing sprays are a worthwhile investment for preserving your Corkys.

5. Clean Properly

General cleaning is important for keeping Corky's shoes fresh and well-maintained:

For Canvas Corkys:

• Hand Wash canvas shoes in cold water using a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid hot water as it can shrink or damage the material.

• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently scrub dirt and stains from the shoes. Focus on the rubber soles and creases/seams where grime builds up.

• Rinse shoes thoroughly with cold water to remove all soap residue, which can yellow the canvas over time.

• Stuff shoes with paper towels or a shoe shaper to hold their shape as they dry. Air dry canvas shoes naturally rather than machine drying.

• Once fully dry, use a canvas sneaker protectant spray to add a water-repellent coating and help prevent future stains.

For Leather Corkys:

• Wipe leather shoes down with a damp microfiber cloth to remove surface dirt. Avoid submerging them fully in water.

• Use a leather cleaner or mild soap solution applied with a soft cloth to gently clean leather uppers. Avoid harsh chemicals.

• Buff and polish leather with a horsehair shine brush once dry. This helps condition and protect the leather.

• Disinfect leather insoles by spraying lightly with a 50/50 vinegar and water solution. Let it sit for 5 minutes before wiping it dry with a cloth.

• Treat leather scuffs or scratches with a leather filler balm applied sparingly to just those areas. Buff gently once dry.

• After cleaning, use cedar shoe trees to draw out moisture and maintain their shape as they fully dry.

6. Store Properly

Proper storage is crucial when it comes to preserving the quality of your beloved Corkys. It is recommended to store them in a cool and dry area, away from direct sunlight. You can use the original shoe boxes or cloth shoe bags to protect them from dust and other elements. Additionally, placing cedar blocks inside the storage space helps absorb excess moisture and keeps your shoes smelling fresh. It is also advisable to clean your Corkys thoroughly before storing them for an extended period and stuffing them with tissue paper to retain their shape. By adopting these storage practices, you can increase the longevity of your favorite Corkys and ensure they remain in top-notch condition.

7. Repair When Needed

It is important to note that even with the most attentive care, Corky's shoes may eventually begin to exhibit signs of wear and tear. However, it is reassuring to know that many types of damage can often be repaired if addressed in a timely manner. For instance, scuffs on leather can usually be remedied with a bit of shoe polish, while more serious scratches may require professional assistance. Suede can be refreshed with the use of sealants and suede brushes. If you experience sole separation, it is advisable to take your shoes to a cobbler immediately for re-gluing. Rest assured that investing in repairs for your cherished Corkys shoes is certainly a wise decision.

Conclusion

Caring for footwear properly helps ensure they stand the test of time. Use these seven tips to get the longest lifespan and best wear from your shoes. Break them in gradually, use shoe trees, rotate pairs, apply protective sprays, clean gently and properly, store in ideal conditions, and repair when needed. With the right care, your Corkys can become comfortable old friends supporting you stride after stride. Remember to check out our wide selection of Corkys shoes at the Rods.com online store.