Kilt shoes are part of a proud Scottish tradition; that’s why they are preferably worn with traditional kilts. They work as an important part of kilt accessories to complete the Scottish look. To enhance this look, it is essential to properly care for them to obtain sharp aesthetics, and also letting them last longer. Many people remain confused about care tips for kilt shoes, and this discussion revolves around this topic. Landing on this page means you also need to know these caring tips. so, let’s overview the role of these shoes in Highland dress.
The Role of Leather Shoes in Highland Dress
Leather shoes, being one of the most important parts of kilt outfits, usually play two roles in Highland dress. The first one is their contemporary part in the modern era, where they serve as representatives of Scottish culture. In fact, this is the reason they are usually worn in formal events.
The second role is the traditional one that they played from the day of their invention to a few decades back. It was their practical role. The hilly terrains of the Highlands demanded something rugged and comfortable as footwear, and Ghillie Brogues were responding to this demand. Their unique design, including broguing meant to provide breathability, while the lack of tongue was for quick drying. Conclusively, kilt shoes were a practical part of the past and a sign of rich heritage today.
Caring for Leather Shoes
There are different types of leather that are used to make kilt shoes including the top-grain or full-grain leathers. They are the primary concern as they are durable. Over time, the use of synthetic materials and exotic leathers has also become popular options because of cost-effectivity and long-lasting features.
Without being concerned about the type of material, every pair of leather shoes needs an effort to maintain it. Some simple caring tips for kilt shoes are given below that you can adopt for their fresh look.
Clean Leather Kilt Shoes
The first step is always to keep your kilt shoes dust and debris-free. To do so, you must clean them before and after every wear. It is not challenging at all to clean them. Use a soft cloth to remove dust. To clean them deeply, damp this cloth in a mild detergent or a leather-specific cleaner.
Conditioning the Leather
The next caring tip is to condition your shoes. Markets have a number of leather conditioners, but you should buy the one that suits the leather. Conditioning is a basic and an essential step, as it maintains the moisture, overall quality of material, and flexibility, which guarantees reshaping after every mold. Other than these benefits, applying conditioner, once or twice in every 6 months, prevents shoes from cracking, drying out, and becoming hard.
Polishing and Shining
Cleaning and conditioning a pair of kilt shoes is not enough for their maintenance, as these approaches do not provide them a shine, which is a basic requirement for sharp looks. To provide leather kilt shoes with shine, you must consider polishing them each month or after 5-6 wears. While polishing footwear, consider the given points as an essential aspect.
Wax vs. cream polish: Usually there are two ways to polish them: using cream polish or wax polish. Both are important, as cream polish nourishes and recolors the leather, while wax leather provides it a shine and keeps material safe from minor scratches.
Mirror shine methods: Another technique is the mirror shine method, which is also known as glazing. This method builds up some layers of wax polish on specific parts of shoes, offering it a smooth and fair surface merging with a specific shine.
Handling Stains and Scratches
Gently dab stains with a damp cloth and mild soap to deal with stains and scratches on leather shoes. Make sure that you do not scrub the cloth as it can result in scratches. In case there are deep marks on shoes, look for an appropriate leather cleaner or a stain remover. Light scratches, on the other hand, do not require much effort and conditioning the leather is sufficient to remove them.
Waterproofing and Weather Protection
Some leather shoes types need work to become waterproof by using relevant sprays, beeswax, or leather conditioners like mink oil. Before applying the spray, make sure leather does not have dust or grime on it. Apply the chemicals carefully on the entire shoes. You will find footwear a bit shiny and wet, so leave them to dry completely, experts recommend to leave them for a night. The next morning, you shoes are ready for watery situations.
Proper Storage and Longevity
The last step is the proper storage of shoes, which also plays a specific part in increasing their lifespan. When you have already spent on leather shoes, also consider investing in a wooden or plastic shoe tree. It protects your shoes from getting deformed and maintains their shape. Above all, store footwear in a breathable portion of the house where direct sunlight may not reach to fade their color.
Common Leather Shoe Maintenance Flaws to Ignore
Some people who have not been dealing with leather products like shoes and leather kilts usually do not value the given caring tips. Instead they often make mistakes that lower their lifespan and impact the charm. You must know these mistakes for a long partnership with Scottish footwear.
Overuse of products: Overuse of the products here is a double-meaning phrase that reflects the excessive wearing of products (shoes) and using of cleaning products consecutively. Neither of these approaches is suitable for leather products.
Poor storage habits: If you find your leather shoes becoming dry or getting cracks, imagine checking the storage place. If any kind of heat or sunlight directly approaches them, do not blame the quality.
Infrequent maintenance: Experts recommend conditioning shoes after a gap of months because of some valid reasons. If an individual applies conditioner every week, it will definitely impact the health of the leather. It is just one example of infrequent maintenance.
Choosing the Right Leather Kilt Shoes
Following the above given caring tips becomes more beneficial if you choose premium-quality leather shoes. At the same time, buying a random pair of shoes may not benefit you, but a careful selection following the given tips will.
Types of leather: As leather has many types, you must prefer going with the one which is suitable in the contemporary weather conditions.
Style differences: Buy a pair of leather shoes according to the type of event. In formal events, pure leather-made shoes can be considerable options, while those made with synthetic materials are good to pair with kilts in relaxed events.
Comfort and fit considerations: Do not go with style only, but prioritize your comfort as well. For a comfortable event, choose an accurate fit.
Buy Quality Kilt Shoes from Utility Kilt UK
Are you looking to buy a pair of quality kilt shoes but low on the budget? Don’t worry because Utility Kilt UK provides you with the products that meet your requirements. We not only sell shoes but also all kinds of men’s kilts and their accessories. Our shoes and kilts are self-customized with premium-quality materials and available at very affordable prices. Explore our store right now and buy anything from quality kilts and shoes to a smaller pin. In case of any query, approach our team via the chatbox, +44 161 3991718, or email us at support@utilitykilt.co.uk.
FAQs About Caring for Leather Shoes
Can I wear leather kilt shoes with trousers instead of a kilt?
Yes, you can wear kilt shoes with trousers instead of a kilt. Make sure that the trousers are made with tartan patterns because kilt shoes are not appropriate to pair with regular trousers.
What socks are best to wear with kilt shoes?
The primary choice to pair with Scottish traditional shoes must be kilt hose that are longer, usually tartan patterned or plain-colored.
How long do leather kilt shoes typically last?
The robust construction of Ghillie brogues with durable leather has the potential to serve for decades. The elements of care and maintenance add more years to their lives.
Do I need to polish brand-new leather shoes right away?
Yes, polishing your brand-new leather shoes are highly recommended to get polished. This practice makes them capable of facing everyday wear and tear. Similarly, new shoes often have minimal protection, increasing the likelihood of damage from minor friction.
Are kilt shoes waterproof by default?
No, kilt shoes are not waterproof. They often have properties to absorb the water but to a minimal level. Prioritize using relevant sprays and wax to fully waterproof them.
