tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32922536492536592202024-03-18T21:40:51.678-07:00How to make your shoes act Tough and Look GoodThe ultimate shoe care guideUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-59862173393475415161999-12-30T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-13T03:09:15.655-07:00Introduction<div class="quote">Before you criticize someone, walk a mile in his shoes. That way, if he gets angry, he'll be a mile away and barefoot.<div class="quote-author">- Murphy's Law</div></div><br /><p/>One of America's full-time fashion freaks and noted celebrity once said, "When a person looks at you, they look you in the eye, then they move down to your feet... if you think about it, it's just automatic. Head to toe." So it's hardly surprising why shoe care has become an important part of male grooming. After all, it's the first step towards making a lasting impression.<br /><p/>Some statements are best spoken without saying a word. Take for instance, the understated elegance of Audrey Hepburn. The working class style of Rosie the Riveter. The flapper look of Rudolph Valentino. The color comfort of Bill Cosby. Or for that matter, the flamboyance of Elvis Presley.<br /><p/>Styles that speak for itself. The very styles that spawned entire generations of die-hard followers. And inspired a whole culture that lives and breathes fashion.<br /><p/>Interestingly, the fashion revolution opened up a whole new market for footwear. For every rising hemline there was a high-waisted heel. And for every plunging neckline, an ankle strap style. Shoes became more exotic and colorful as every conceivable material was incorporated into them. Bright fabrics and brilliantly dyed leather including metallics were used to create some of the most exciting shoes ever. The heels themselves were works of art.<br /><p/>A variety of materials were used in shoes including leathers mixed with colored canvas or gabardine. Some leathers were even reversed to form what we call today "suede".<br /><p/>It's also when shoe care came into its own. With shoe polish making an entry towards the middle of the nineteenth century. Caring for your shoes became as important as caring for your clothes. Simply polishing was always followed by other elaborate procedures. Sometimes people would wait for over half an hour for the shine to come through.<br /><p/>Fashion had finally set the stage for well-maintained, spotlessly clean shoes.<br /><p/>Today shoe care is an integral part of male grooming. There are a wide variety of shoe care products for different types of shoes. Or leather types, to be specific. Which means, taking care of one's shoes has become less painstaking and a lot simpler than before. To find out how and why, just click through the pages of this booklet as we take you through the A to Z of shoe care.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-84887571998712919001999-12-28T23:59:00.001-08:002007-07-26T02:49:33.662-07:00The fine art of polishing shoes<div style="float:left; width:237px; text-align:center; margin:0 10px 10px 0;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqqKWI3tvFkgYDCg8ttXgxkfj65w8V4eRtwDNS4sInG-2GTZXKv3h04kvTXWcPDS9ZF9e8_o6c2ptaicRXi9hCw6Q3XNt5kh0StRdct8X9Tz5daTe450B6SOT-f9wZNGglEULw5MWhRKe2/s320/Shoe_Care_Preparing_The_Cloth_Place_Fingers_on_Cloth.gif" alt="Shoe care - The fine art of polishing shoes - Preparing the cloth" title="Place fingers on cloth" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091439158888006738" /><br />Place fingers on cloth<br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNZ4_KxguDSty6iNn_oydxcZBv7K1rcjgf5qiC8Khp6l9fkoJoWWnWBaw0W4PKs7FjHhGDuQNFEIKDBek6z8jiSSUJ2r4gJJFmq17NdxUiVcYBVlkOIFZgi6D4vBaZxbWHlBngZ6QBOKKq/s320/Shoe_Care_Preparing_The_Cloth_Twist_cloth_over_knuckles.gif" alt="Shoe care - The fine art of polishing shoes - Preparing the cloth" title="Twist cloth over knuckles" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091439614154540130" /><br />Twist cloth over knuckles<br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDCCkTyb9PqGjcqYYIZ5DoYnqoq9k5kkJgvn8xirgRkNB6hQQtpl8DWxIG2Lp27izZw70L2VaGSZMzNCK0QdS19p7HHIljzumAk_5FgadQflHM7oQ60QBtfI2P0OICw7yZA4EydaRI-Pj/s320/Shoe_Care_Preparing_The_Cloth_Tuck_Under_Thumb.gif" alt="Shoe care - The fine art of polishing shoes - Preparing the cloth" title="Twist cloth over knuckles" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091440078011008114" /><br />... and tuck under thumb</div>With shoe polish making an entry towards the middle of the nineteenth century, shoe care was almost perfected to an art. The average shoe care toolbox contained:<br /><br /><strong>Polish</strong><br /><p/>To obtain the best finish two tins of polish, one for cleaning shoes and the other for buffing were used.<br /><br /><strong>Brushes</strong><br /><p/>A hand brush with hard bristles for applying polish and another with soft bristles for shining up.<br /><br /><strong>Old toothbrush</strong><br /><p/>A toothbrush was often used for applying polish in awkward areas.<br /><br /><strong>Cloth</strong><br /><p/>The perfect tool for the perfect finish. The standard yellow duster is an excellent choice. Old nylon socks were also used to buff the shoes after a simple polish.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-34428536069342747701999-12-26T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T02:51:02.444-07:00Technique of polishing<div style="float:right; width:237px; margin:0 0 10px 10px; text-align:center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2SYFsTGQAKManwHaEBNH2WzgANtAoC4dJHOhlKzAEsJE2FSD0aGD9dDYB9B4ZKFCMpwryogwIFgzZzO1u-rzwrd07MTd_AOvODAwILMGWKAZ-Zv8CIAIXxeiyBKfBNWxx2btQVJBbKnp/s320/Shoe_Care_Filling_Layering_Apply_Polish_On+_Fingers.gif" alt="Shoe Care - Technique of polishing shoes - Filling and layering" title="Apply sufficient polish on the scuffed portion with your fingers" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091434266920256562"/><br />Apply sufficient polish on the scuffed portion with your fingers<br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQmkfP93nH-xg7oRUA82xE6DsdkK-9ohzoIbll_a_FmGtRz4DfU_Is3Ily8MWjy6wEWDYvVwKMV9Q0fgwIXxttuDnFz86TFFTl8EMEW_KlOuY1MtIZUABBOY_ExuiyuagDgDNvp05SvTd/s320/Shoe_Care_Filling_Layering_Layer_up_polish_over_whole_shoe_rubbing_fingers.gif" alt="Shoe Care - Technique of polishing shoes - Filling and layering" title="Layer up polish over the whole shoe by rubbing it in with your fingers" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091435091553977410" /><br />Layer up polish over the whole shoe by rubbing it in with your fingers</div><br /><strong>Preparation</strong><br /><br /><p/>First check for mud, dirt and stones. Because if polish is applied over mud or dirt, it eventually dries and falls off.<br /><br /><strong>Simple polishing</strong><br /><p/>Dab the first brush into the first tin. And massage the polish gently into the leather. Once it dries, buff the leather with a 'shining brush'. The sheen can be worked on further by buffing the surface with a pad made of an old rolled up nylon cloth.<br /><br /><strong>Filling and layering</strong><br /><p/>The technique of filling and layering provide a quick, effective way of building up polish. After simple polishing, dab fingers into the second tin of uncontaminated polish. And then rub in a circular motion until the fingers begin to drag and squeak. This occurs due to the heat generated while rubbing the surface. The sheen and shine can be further improved by buffing with a nylon cloth.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-58344267249199331761999-12-24T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T02:51:35.441-07:00Did you know?<ul><li>Shoes need a day off. If you want fine leather shoes to last longer, never wear them for two consecutive days.<br /><li>Adding a sole protector prolongs the life of your shoes. Protective soles will make any pair of leather-soled shoes last a lifetime.<br /><li>In the early nineteenth century, shoe care was considered to be the prerogative of high society.<br /><li>In the nineteenth century, champagne was used to produce a glossy shine on the shoes.<br /><li>A walking shoe must have a heel height of one to two inches.<br /><li>A flat shoe, while being quite stable could cause knee pain. That's why, the heels on shoes are slightly raised to prevent this problem.<br /><li>When you buy a pair of new shoes, you must wear them in the house before using them outdoors.<br /><li>There is no guarantee that a snug shoe will stretch.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-45667135462589603901999-12-22T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T02:51:47.098-07:00Steps to better shoe careHere are a few ways to keep your shoes fighting fit:<br /><ul><li>Cleaning shoes regularly helps prevent dirt from accumulating.<br /><li>Polishing leather shoes regularly maintains their color and suppleness.<br /><li>Wet shoes must be dried at room temperature away from direct heat. Inserting a shoetree or ball of newspaper helps maintain their shape and absorb moisture.<br /><li>Shoetrees must be used to help maintain appearance and extend the life of leather shoes.<br /><li>Keep your shoes covered in a shoe bag.<br /><li>Always use a shoehorn when putting on your shoes.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-37544793250926303191999-12-20T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T02:51:58.838-07:00Shoe superstitions for Wealth<ul><li>By wearing holes in the soles of your shoes you will become wealthy.<br /><li>If you wear your shoes out on the toe you will spend money as you go.<br /><li>If you want to win at cards, you must put on the shoes you are going to play in before you eat.<br /><li>Never put on the shoes you are going to wear to a party after you eat or you will lose every time.<br /><li>Putting your stockings in your shoes before going to bed will cause you bad luck.<br /><li>Get a shoe from the oldest woman you can find. Take it to your place of business and burn it to a crisp. This will drive away bad business.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-28722370672542072561999-12-18T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T02:52:09.957-07:00Shoe superstitions on Love<ul><li>If you repeat "Hoping this night, my true love to see, I place my shoe in the form of a T" (place your shoe's heel against instep and do no speak again that night. You will marry the man you see in your dreams.<br /><li>Repeat at bedtime "Point your shoes toward the street, tie your garters around your feet, put your stockings under your head, and you'll dream of the one you're going to wed."<br /><li>On your birthday, when you go to bed at night, take off your shoe or slipper. Stand with your back to the door and throw the shoe over your head, you must not look at it before morning. If the toe points to the door, you will be a bride before the end of the year.<br /><li>A woman needs to steal her beloved's shoes, and wear them for eight days to make him love her.<br /><li>Shoes are tied to a bridal couple's car, and the bridesmaid who obtains the old shoe will be the next to marry.<br /><li>If the groom buckles the bride's left shoe on their wedding day; she will take control of the marriage.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-10607210230305167991999-12-16T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T02:52:20.543-07:00Shoe care for any leather typeCaring for leather is a four-step process.<br /><ol><li>First, clean the shoes with a leather cleaner to remove the surface dirt.<br /><li>Next, condition the leather. Conditioners soften and lubricate the leather.<br /><li>Now, it is time for the polish. A paste polish provides a high-gloss, long-lasting shine, but takes some time to apply. Liquid polish is quick and easy to apply, but must be applied more frequently. However for suede and nubuck, a renovator is ideal as it renovates and revives the original color of the shoes.<br /><li>After the shoes are shined, weatherproof them. If you live or work in a dirty or grimy environment, the protection of a weatherproofer is a must.</ol>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-10959978323375584181999-12-14T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:16:42.741-07:00Shoe care for Smooth LeathersSmooth leathers due to the fine grain and tight stretch on the surface are amongst the finest leathers in the world. But rain, mud, slush, oil and grease could damage them beyond recognition. However this can be prevented by regular use of wax or liquid shoe polish.<br /><br />Wax shoe polish contains smooth, rich wax emulsion that feeds and nourishes the leather keeping it soft and supple. A higher wax content increases water repellency and gives your shoes a long lasting high gloss shine. Besides, it also repairs scuff marks and restores the color of your shoes.<br /><br />And if you want your shoes to come out shining in a jiffy, there's always the convenience of liquid shoe polish. It allows for controlled, even application without wastage. Which means, you can clean and shine your shoes in one easy application.<br /><br /><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs5WuXR_lBV8msHeWyn6n-GBveslVOKOD30_NnaSk4-0WZdZXJsEcOElVqQRMSUQfPw1zSgaxsuQLkntGjHWkDX5mCemmlYbELDF4BaTbc0ItBf16XPccYC5A19aPClmC823v-x2bBbDD1/s320/Shoe_care_Smooth_Leathers.jpg" alt="Shoe care for Smooth Leathers" title="Shoe care for Smooth Leathers" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091447357980574850" /><strong>For best results</strong><br /><ul><li>Remove dust or grime from shoes.<br /><li>Rub wax polish in circular motions well into the shoe to ensure even application.<br /><li>Wait for two minutes for the wax to penetrate.<br /><li>Then buff to a shine using a soft cloth.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-80695002211664210661999-12-12T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:24:59.264-07:00Shoe care for Nubucks / Oil NubucksNubuck is among the most preferred leathers for casual shoes worldwide. The velvety effect of nubuck is achieved by buffing the leather with fine grit emery paper and coating the surface with special oils. However preserving the nubuck effect is no easy task. Because unlike other leathers, nubuck tends to lose its original color very easily if not looked after properly.<br /><br />The key to keeping nubuck shoes in tip top condition is a suede and nubuck cleaner. It removes the dust from the shoes and pulls up the nap without saturating or damaging the texture of Nubuck. However for scuffed shoes, a suede and nubuck renovator is ideal. As it renovates and revives the original color of nubuck shoes. It also protects the shoes from staining by coating them with a thin water-repellant film.<br /><br />While brushing nubuck one has to be gentle because it is softer than suede and can be easily damaged.<br /><br /><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiizCQ7Z_eC33zSj8474Zm4BCjmREXm-ZhQhyf_YiQX4oDxJzyvOX4sABywNs0zxGQcqRbgYMPomJly1Rv4Dgrxgbtd-7UuxAoyblQPNVQ43miDlMGZwXfKwTJeHLCPK-2twmtmJ9ozEoSB/s320/Shoe_care_Nubucks_Oil_Nubucks.jpg" alt="Shoe care for Nubucks / Oil Nubucks" title="Shoe care for Nubucks / Oil Nubucks" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091449436744746130" /><strong>For best results</strong><br /><ul><li>First remove surface dirt from shoes.<br /><li>Then brush shoes with a suede and nubuck brush.<br /><li>Liberally apply the suede and nubuck cleaner.<br /><li>Allow to dry away from direct heat.<br /><li>Before it dries completely, again brush with the suede and nubuck brush to raise the nap.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-86080669520052052331999-12-10T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:30:30.512-07:00Shoe care for SuedeSuede is the most widely used leather for casual shoes. However maintaining suede shoes and other accessories can be difficult because like nubuck it loses it original color very easily.<br /><br />But with a suede and nubuck cleaner you'll find that looking after your suede shoes isn't as tough as it seems. Because it contains a special formulation that lifts out ingrained dirt and stains without saturating or altering the original appearance of the shoes. However for scuffed shoes a suede and nubuck renovator is ideal. As it renovates and revives the original color of nubuck shoes. It also protects the shoes from staining by coating them with a thin water-repellant film.<br /><br />Suede uppers can also be cleaned with sneaker shampoos that remove stains and dirt.<br /><br /><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4TXlM3Xemm_D9CQ9ANjiEUUlNvKHmCY2Jl9vRJ20JGO1-DMo0nrcXpdNQuYrVyLv4bCHpzt9lp9vmuPOulHYB2_3GAFDGfTDICNZyj0wu081jwtjq3pxvAnO-644dyI08P63Lr5LoU4p/s320/Shoe_care_Suede.jpg" alt="Shoe care for Suede" title="Shoe care for Suede" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091450884148724898" /><strong>For best results</strong><br /><ul><li>First remove surface dirt from shoes.<br /><li>Then brush shoes with a suede and nubuck brush.<br /><li>Liberally apply the suede and nubuck cleaner.<br /><li>Allow to dry away from direct heat.<br /><li>Before it dries completely, again brush with the suede and nubuck brush to raise the nap.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-89596792674427575001999-12-08T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:46:19.554-07:00Suede and Nubuck brush<img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhueXJW38N-7aEPfQn9RLVBDgif63vz34VJ-t04aBpDLeHZLLYzE84XHl_PSHxJgZvTSLrnu3dMl0yNmLYFDU2r-cWGp_wJrqNjy1VGVcQ6ZUbqSLxP5HKKUug9tnbnA64pZiJ4IvwxA1aE/s320/Suede_Nubuck_brush.gif" alt="Suede and Nubuck brush" title="Suede and Nubuck brush" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091454848403539122" />An essential part of the cleaning routine for suede and nubuck shoes is a combination brush. Essentially a plastic or rubber tipped brush that restores the nap and removes surface dirt before it sets in. This specialist brush prepares the shoe prior to cleaning or renovating. The stiff bristles on one side are for suede. And the rubber bristles on the other side are used on nubuck to remove dirt without damaging its texture.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-4669957610191320701999-12-06T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:34:26.135-07:00Shoe Quiz: Can you think on your feet?Take this shoe quiz and find out if you know what you need to about footwear. Go ahead, check out your shoe quotient.<br /><ol><li>Who introduced the stiletto heel in 1951 which was to become very popular in later years?<br /><ol><li>Charles Jourdan<li>Coco Chanel<li>Christian Dior</ol><br /><li>Approximately what percentage of all the bones in the human body are found in the foot?<br /><ol><li>1/16<li>1/8<li>1/4</ol><br /><li>In the early 19th century, long distance walking became a popular pastime, this was called:<br /><ol><li>Pedestrianism<li>Walkabouts<li>Footings</ol><br /><li>When was the first sneaker called "Keds" developed?<br /><ol><li>1960<li>1917<li>1989</ol><br /><li>The most ever paid for a pair of used shoes was:<br /><ol><li>Princess Diana's wedding shoes<li>John Travolta's in "Saturday Night Fever"<li>Judy Garland's ruby slippers in "The Wizard of Oz"</ol><br /><li>Which fictitious secret agent had a telephone built into his shoe:<br /><ol><li>James Bond<li>John Steed<li>Maxwell Smart</ol><br /><li>Where will you find the boots worn by Neil Armstrong for his famous first walk on the moon in 1969 where he uttered the famous words "One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind?<br /><ol><li>The National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC<li>In Neil Armstrong's personal possession<li>In space</ol><br /><li>Where was the first national Shoe Shining Company set up?<br /><ol><li>England<li>France<li>America</ol><br /><li>How many pairs of shoes are worn for every performance of the world-renowned play 'Nutcracker'?<br /><ol><li>60<li>100<li>49</ol><br /><li>In a famous nursery rhyme, who sailed off in a wooden shoe:<br /><ol><li>The Owl and the Pussycat<li>Wynken, Blynken and Nod<li>The fork and the spoon</ol></ol><br /><br /><strong>Answers:</strong><br /><ol><li>1. Charles Jourdan<br /><li>1. 1/4<br /><li>1. Pedestrianism<br />Famous avid walkers of this period include Sir Walter Scott, Henry David Thoreau, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Thomas Carlyle, Robert Louis Stevenson and Jean Jacques Rosseau. They popularized walking which they all claimed was good for health.<br /><li>1. 1917<br />US Rubber developed the first sneaker, called "Keds" in 1917. The word "sneaker" was coined quite literally because the rubber sole made the shoe stealthy. Unlike all other shoes that made noise while you walked.<br /><li>1. Judy Garland's ruby slippers in "The Wizard of Oz"<br />Of the 8 pairs of ruby slippers made for Judy garland in "The Wizard of Oz", the last pair at auction sold for US$665,000 in 2000<br /><li>1. Maxwell Smart<br /><li>1. In Space<br />Neil Armstrong's shoes were jettisoned before returning to earth in case of contamination.<br /><li>1. America<br />The national Shoe Shining Machine Company was set up by Mr. Schenkenberg in Milwaukee to produce nickel-operated shoe shining machines. However, it was not successful because the machine would reportedly grab the cuff of your pants and pull your foot into the mechanism.<br /><li>1. 49<br />49 pairs of shoes are worn for every performance which adds up to more than 1000 pinte shoes worn during the entire run. If all the pointe shoes used were placed from heel to toe, they would reach from the ground up to the toe of one of the tallest office buildings.<br /><li>1. Wynken, Blynken and Nod<br />In the poem by Eugene Field, 1850-1895, it is "Wynken, Blynken and Nod on night<br /><blockquote>Sailed off in a wooden shoe<br />Sailed on a river of crystal light<br />Into a sea of dew.</blockquote></ol><br /><br /><strong>Your score:</strong><br />7 - 10 : Excellent<br />5 - 6 : Good<br />0 - 4 : FairUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-7077812743830006271999-12-04T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T04:00:10.671-07:00Shoe care for CanvasCanvas shoes make for extremely comfortable sportswear. However cleaning them isn't as comforting. Because firstly canvas shoes get really dirty and a regular detergent might damage or make the fabric look faded over time.<br /><br />But not anymore. Because there are canvas coaters with optical whiteners that enable you to make canvas shoes look brighter and cleaner with minimum effort. Since the white pigment contains no blue, it provides a pure white finish. The binding agents prevent flaking of the white pigment.<img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvjXEjkbJxve29K1rTbveGzKicMspOe0Ij4HzZ0ocAqWm_XTCgLN_qF62LjMeYlH41j3dHFKwjOxvsVI_apcLVxwwSgPxqpJ_tHhhnF7lUIwQ5ka6MA9U_vjSLYlhX5AkgpykLl67IoEfS/s320/Shoe_care_Canvas.jpg" alt="Shoe care for Canvas" title="Shoe care for Canvas" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091457713146725570" /><br /><br /><strong>For best results</strong><br /><ul><li>Remove dirt from shoes.<br /><li>Immerse shoes in water.<br /><li>Apply canvas coater evenly on shoes.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-55743497768277864331999-12-02T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T04:10:21.127-07:00Shoe care for SneakersSneakers or sports shoes over a period of time can get really dirty and smelly. Cleaning them with a regular detergent can be an arduous task as one would have to scrub the shoes for a long time to restore its original appearance. But not anymore. Because now there are sneaker shampoos that help you clean your shoes effortlessly.<br /><br />These shampoos contain select ingredients that wash off grease and ground-in dirt. An optical brightener makes your sneakers look brighter and as good as new.<img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdN0eWfeQPki7gyPhAREBVdbBkFAukgMQ52qyahd977TmLvpCmBiPc63u8917Y9hmguj8-BlIywTgPeSXC-kEdMgw5ujh7htbtNox643zPkCze3AdQvRCzrmvI1YISIldyimSLs5nz6F6/s320/Shoe_care_Sneakers.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091460680969127138" /><br /><br /><strong>For best results</strong><br /><ul><li>Press applicator against the shoe.<br /><li>Scrub with bristles.<br /><li>Build up foam.<br /><li>Wipe the foam with a clean cloth.<br /><li>Allow to dry.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-63228146275933837021999-11-30T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:34:04.253-07:00Shoe care for Patent LeathersPatent leathers are manufactured by fusing certain specialty polymeric compounds on to any natural leather base. The patent leather thus formed is water resistant, light weight, fungus resistant and comes in a variety of colors. This leather has become extremely popular, and is not only used in the manufacture of shoes but also for making furniture, fashion clothing and sports products.<br /><br /><strong>For best results</strong><br /><br />There are special Lanolin based sponge polishes available, which give instant shine. Using these products is extremely easy.<br /><ul><li>Ensure surface is free from dust and dirt.<br /><li>Stroke the surface gently for instant shine.<br /><li>No buffing is necessary.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-63446630102590048221999-11-28T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:33:49.121-07:00Foot Odour - What causes it?The human foot has over 250,000 or more sweat glands! Each pouring out half a pint of moisture each day. And as we wear shoes of some kind or the other the moisture or sweat rarely evaporates. Instead, it remains trapped within your shoes or socks and start breeding bacteria causing odor. Interestingly, the very bacteria that causes your feet to smell is related to that which commonly causes acne.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-1347114578716772431999-11-26T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:33:39.084-07:00How to combat foot odour?There are some simple yet effective ways to get rid of foot odor or <strong>bromidrosis</strong>.<br /><ul><li>Discard shoes affected by the smell, even if they are your most treasured pair of shoes. Because the affected pair will just infect your new pair!<br /><li>Use cotton socks because they allow your feet to breathe naturally. It also absorbs sweat really well. Talcum powder, a deodorant foot spray, and sandals also help as they keep feet dry and odor-free.<br /><li>Change shoes often to let each pair "air out," wear clean socks to help absorb perspiration.<br /><li>odor control shoe insoles keep your feet smelling fresh. As they absorb sweat, there are fewer chances of a moist environment for bacteria to breed in. Make sure to put them in every pair of shoes.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-74547406156065338041999-11-24T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:33:22.929-07:00Foot Facts<ol><li>The shape of the foot is not determined until growth finishes at about 20 years of age.<br /><li>Adult shoe size is generally reached by the age of 14.<br /><li>People take an average of 10,000 steps in a day, adding up to about 115,000 miles in a lifetime, enough to go around the planet more than four times.<br /><li>Feet may come in pairs, but they are frequently unmatched, sometimes differing as much as a full shoe size. Unfortunately, shoes are sold in pairs, not mix-n-match.<br /><li>Women generally average 10 miles a day, outdistancing men who average only seven miles a day.<br /><li>Feet are said to be the "mirror" of an individual's health. Arthritis and circulatory disorders often reveal their initial symptoms in the lower extremities. The foot also give clues about a person - height, weight and gait. Sherlock Holmes was the master of discerning limps, gender, social standing and foot disorders from footprints.</ol>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-40438207435556175291999-11-22T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:33:05.224-07:00Did you know?<ul><li>Before 1800 there were no separately designed shoes for right and left feet.<br /><li>Barbie has, to this day, over a billion pair of shoes.<br /><li>In-line skates were invented by a Dutch inventor in the early 1700s when he attached spools to his shoes. Conventional roller skates, with 2 pairs of rollers, were invented in 1863.<br /><li>Dutch children stuffed wooden shoes with straw for St. Nicholas' donkey. According to tradition, after feeding the straw to his donkey, Nicholas thanked the children by putting a treat in each shoe.<br /><li>Cowboys wear high heels to keep their shoes from falling out of the stirrups.<br /><li>When women are angry with men, 40% of them throw their shoes.<br /><li>Celine Dion owns over 400 pairs of shoes, her favorite colors being black, white and red.<br /><li>On average, people buy new shoes every 1.6 years, however, they throw out shoes at a rate of 3.7 years.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-77505238834808358301999-11-20T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:32:55.478-07:00Shoe superstitions on Luck<ul><li>"Find a penny, put it in your shoe, you'll have good luck, the whole day through". This depends on what side up the penny is facing. Heads is good luck, tails is not.<br /><li>Keep red pepper and salt in your shoes for luck. Salt and pepper kept in your left shoe causes good luck. Wear salt in the heel and tow of your right shoe to be lucky. Wearing pepper in your shoes will keep your feet warm during cold weather.<br /><li>It is unlucky for lovers to give each other a gift of shoes.<br /><li>Don't buy your man a pair of shoes or he will walk out of your life forever.<br /><li>Putting your stockings in your shoes before going to bed will cause you bad luck.<br /><li>It causes misfortune to place your shoes higher than your head.<br /><li>New shoes that have never been worn should be put high above the floor for luck.<br /><li>To put on tow shoes that are not mates is the sign of good luck.<br /><li>If you pull on odd shoes and change them, you will meet with an accident.<br /><li>To have good luck, salt and pepper an old shoe and burn it.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-13798610962832109201999-11-18T23:59:00.001-08:002007-07-26T03:32:44.809-07:00Did you know?<ul><li>You must never leave your shoes in a car or in the sun. Because the cushioning part of the shoe is made up of little air bubbles that are enclosed in a foam structure. Therefore if your shoes are exposed to temperatures over 50 C, then the air can escape and your shoes could lose their cushioning.<br /><li>Shoes must be stuffed with paper if they are wet.<br /><li>Running shoes last approximately 1000 kms before they are replaced.<br /><li>To dry shoes, one must rotate them.<br /><li>To prevent fatigue and leg pain, one must alternate heel heights.<br /><li>During the renaissance, shoe fashions ran to ridiculous extremes. The higher the rank of the wearer, the longer the toes. The French called these long shoes "poulaines" after Poland, and the English, "crakows" after Cracow, then capital of Poland.<br /><li>Some people wore shoes two and half feet from heel to toe and held up the toes by tying them to the knees with chains.<br /><li>During World war II, women used household items including cellophane and pipe cleaners to create festive shoe decorations.<br /><li>Shoes can be made reasonably waterproof by oiling or rubbing them with lard.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-22580325259470433731999-11-16T23:59:00.001-08:002007-07-26T03:32:33.384-07:00Shoe superstitions for Luck<ul><li>It is said to be traditional in England to throw a shoe at someone when they are setting out on a journey, to wish them luck. The shoe should be thrown in the direction of the journey. When a person leaves home on a journey, throw an old shoe after him so that he will have good luck.<br /><li>Drop an old shoe outside by the front door as you leave the house on a journey and then you will not have any bad luck on the trip.<br /><li>If you want to conceive a child, try on the shoes of a woman who has just given birth.<br /><li>Old shoes should be worn on Friday the 13th for good luck.<br /><li>Nothing new should be worn to a funeral, especially shoes.<br /><li>A dog howling at night when someone in the house is sick is a bad omen. It can be reversed by reaching under the bed and turning over a shoe.<br /><li>If you leave shoes lying on their uppers, you will quarrel with someone during the course of the day.</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3292253649253659220.post-7355845368456630851999-11-14T23:59:00.000-08:002007-07-26T03:32:23.606-07:00Did you know?<ul><li>To get rid of shoe odor, put a few teaspoons of baking soda into some cotton rags, and tie them closed. Put the rags into your shoes for a few days. And they will soon be smelling fresh and clean.<br /><li>Dancers use a variety of waxes and sometimes borax to make leather soles even more slippery.<br /><li>During a normal day, your feet produce over a 1/4 cup of moisture and up to a 1/2 cup when active<br /><li>Women have about four times as many foot problems as men.<br /><li>The human foot has 18 muscles.<br /><li>Footprints not only reveal what type of shoes a suspect was wearing but also his weight, height, approximate age, the direction he may have taken, speed and even if he was carrying anything.<br /><li>A bride is lucky if she wears old shoes.<br /><li>Engineers design running shoes.<br /><li>Ballet dancers go through about two pairs of shoes per performance. At 200 performances a year, each dancer goes through 400 pairs which means, the company of 100 uses 4,000 pairs of shoe a year!</ul>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0