How to Prevent Creases in Shoes: Tips to Keep Them Looking New

Creases in shoes can be frustrating, making even the most premium footwear look worn out before its time. Whether you own high-quality leather shoes, trendy sneakers, or formal dress shoes, preventing creases is essential to maintaining their sleek appearance. In this guide, we will explore how to prevent creases in shoes with practical tips and effective methods to keep them looking brand new.

Ludic, an official footwear partner of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the season 2025-26, understands the importance of well-maintained shoes. Read on to discover how to keep your footwear in pristine condition.

Why Do Shoes Get Creased?

Before diving into prevention methods, it’s crucial to understand why creases in shoes happen in the first place.

1. Natural Foot Movement

Every time you take a step, your shoes bend and flex. Over time, this repeated movement leads to creasing, especially in soft materials like leather.

2. Incorrect Shoe Sizing

If your shoes are too tight or too loose, they are more prone to creasing. Tight shoes compress the material, while loose shoes cause excessive bending.

3. Lack of Proper Storage

Leaving your shoes in a pile or storing them without support leads to unnecessary folds and shoe wrinkles over time.

4. Material Type

Certain materials, such as genuine leather shoes, are more susceptible to creasing compared to synthetic materials. However, with proper care, even wrinkled leather shoes can be restored.

5. Environmental Factors

Weather conditions such as excessive heat, humidity, or sudden temperature changes can cause shoes to lose their shape and develop creases.

6. Walking Style

The way you walk also impacts creasing. If you put excessive pressure on your toes while walking or drag your feet, your shoes are more likely to develop wrinkles.

How to Prevent Creases in Shoes?

To keep your footwear looking fresh, follow these tried-and-tested methods:

1. Choose the Right Fit

• Always buy shoes that fit well. A snug but comfortable fit prevents excessive bending.
  
• Avoid buying shoes that are too big, as extra space leads to unwanted creases.
  
• Try shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to ensure a proper fit.
  
• Opt for shoes with reinforced toe boxes to provide extra structure and durability.
  

2. Use Shoe Trees

• Shoe trees help maintain the original shape of your shoes when not in use.
  
• Opt for cedar wood shoe trees to absorb moisture and maintain structure.
  
• Insert shoe trees immediately after wearing your shoes to prevent wrinkles from setting in.
  
• Plastic shoe trees are a budget-friendly alternative, but wooden ones are more effective.
  

3. Wear Shoes Properly

• Use a shoehorn to prevent the heel from bending when putting on shoes.
  
• Avoid bending the toe box excessively while walking.
  
• Unlace shoes before removing them to prevent unnecessary pressure on the material.
  
• Wear shoes with a firm midsole, which prevents excessive bending.
  

4. Store Shoes Correctly

• Keep your shoes in their original box or a breathable dust bag.
  
• Use silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture.
  
• Avoid stacking shoes on top of each other to maintain their shape.
  
• Store your shoes in a cool, dry place to prevent heat damage.
  
• Consider using shoe racks or shoe organisers to keep your collection in the best shape.
  

5. Use Crease Protectors

• Crease guards or protectors fit inside the shoe and reduce bending while walking.
  
• Ideal for sneakers and creases in leather shoes, these protectors help extend the life of your footwear.
  
• They are especially useful for new shoes, as they prevent creases from forming in the first place.
  
• Some crease protectors come with adjustable inserts for a customised fit.
  
  

6. Keep Shoes Dry

• Moisture weakens the shoe structure, making it prone to creases.
  
• Always dry wet shoes properly using a newspaper or a shoe dryer.
  
• Apply waterproof sprays to prevent moisture buildup.
  
• Rotate between different pairs of shoes to allow them to air out completely.
  
• If your feet sweat excessively, use moisture-wicking socks to prevent dampness inside the shoes.
  

7. Rotate Your Shoes

• Avoid wearing the same pair every day.
  
• Giving your shoes time to recover helps prevent wrinkled leather shoes and extends their longevity.
  
• Having multiple pairs for different occasions (casual, formal, sports) can prevent excessive wear.
  
• Allow shoes to air out for at least 24 hours before wearing them again.
  

How to Fix Creases in Shoes?

Despite your best efforts, some creases may still appear. Here’s how you can fix them:

1. Using an Iron

• Place a damp cloth over the creased area.
  
• Set your iron to low heat and gently press over the cloth.
  
• Remove the iron every few seconds to avoid overheating.
  
• Allow the shoes to cool while stuffed with paper to maintain shape.
  
• Never apply direct heat to synthetic shoes, as they may warp.
  

2. Steaming the Shoes

• Hold your shoes above a steaming pot of water.
  
• The heat will soften the material, making it easier to reshape.
  
• Use shoe trees while the shoes cool down.
  
• Steam works best for creases in leather shoes and high-quality sneakers.
  

3. Leather Conditioner

• Apply a high-quality leather conditioner to smooth out creases in leather shoes.
  
• Massage the conditioner into the material and let it dry naturally.
  
• Buff with a soft cloth to restore shine.
  
• Regularly conditioning your leather shoes can prevent future creases.
  

4. Blow Dryer Method

• Set a hairdryer to low heat and hold it a few inches away from the creased area.
  
• Gently massage the warm leather to smooth out wrinkles.
  
• Use a shoe tree or rolled-up socks to maintain the shape as the shoe cools.
  
• This method works well for mild creases but should be used with caution to avoid overheating.
  

5. Professional Shoe Repair

• If creases are too deep to fix at home, consider visiting a professional cobbler
  
• A shoe expert can reshape, condition, and restore the appearance of your shoes.
  
• High-end leather shoes often benefit from professional maintenance.
  

Final Thoughts

Taking proper care of your shoes can significantly extend their lifespan and keep them looking fresh. By following these tips on how to prevent creases in shoes, you can enjoy stylish, well-maintained footwear for longer.

Ludic offers premium footwear solutions to keep your shoes crease-free and looking their best. Explore the latest shoe collections on the Ludic official website.

With the right care and Ludic’s expert recommendations, you can step out in style without worrying about creased shoes!

Related read-: How to Prevent Shoe Bites: Tips and Tricks

FAQs about How to Prevent Creases in Shoes

1. How to prevent creases in shoes while walking?

To prevent creases in shoes while walking, wear the correct shoe size, use crease protectors, and walk with a proper heel-to-toe motion. Avoid excessive bending at the toe box to minimise shoe wrinkles.

2. What are the best crease protectors for preventing creases in shoes?

Silicone or plastic crease protectors are ideal for reducing shoe wrinkles, especially for sneakers and leather shoes. Look for breathable and adjustable options for maximum comfort and effectiveness.

3. How to prevent creases in leather shoes over time?

Use shoe trees, apply leather conditioner, and store your shoes in a cool, dry place to prevent creases in leather shoes. Regularly polish and maintain the leather to keep it soft and flexible.

4. Can ironing remove creases in shoes?

Yes, ironing can help remove creases in shoes, but it must be done carefully. Place a damp cloth over the creased area and iron on low heat to smooth out wrinkles. Avoid direct contact with heat to prevent damage.

5. Do bigger shoes crease more easily?

Yes, oversized shoes crease more because they allow extra movement inside, leading to excessive bending. Choosing a well-fitted pair is crucial to effectively prevent creases in shoes.