How to Choose the Right Polish for Leather Shoes

There are two basic types of shoe polish for leather shoes, but choosing between wax and cream polish can make a rather drastic difference in the quality of your leather shoes. Below is a simple guide on how to choose between those two types of polish, as well as how to choose coordinating shoe polish for your shoes.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Wax polish, although it gives the shoes a better shine, will seal the shoes causing the leather to not be able to sweat. This will cause the leather to dry out. I would suggest wax polish on older pairs of leather shoes you don't plan on keeping for long periods of time.

2. Cream polish will soak into the leather, moisturizing the leather, and allowing it to breathe. Cream polish is ideal for those with leather shoes they want to last.

3. Shoes that are black, navy blue dark brown, or other dark shades, will require a leather polish in their coordinating color. However, leather shoes that are light in color, including common colors such as white or beige, will require a neutral polish. Neutral polish is colorless, however sometimes you can find coordinating color shoe polish for leather. I suggest using a coordinated color if your shoes have been scruffed or faded in some spots.

Resources

• Shoe Care Products