Shoe trees are forms inserted into shoes for storage. They help preserve the shape of shoe uppers, lessen the appearance and development of creases, particularly on vamps, and may help to dry shoes of sweat and other moisture after wearing.
Shoe trees are related in form and function to the lasts on which shoes are made. In bespoke making, the same maker that produces the last may also produce a tree for the customer.
Materials
- Plastic
- Maple
- Lime
- Obeche
Makers express different opinions on the use of cedar. Some promote cedar trees as especially effective at drying and preserving shoes. Others express concern about excretion of sap and potential allergic reactions.
Mechanisms
Like last mechanisms, shoe trees often require some way of changing shape to be inserted and removed from shoes.
Some trees come apart in pieces, much like scoop block lasts. Others are divided into separate foreparts and back parts connected by spring-loaded struts that allow the backpart to be push forward and lifted up for removal. Others use a hinge between forepart and backpart.