The Seam Care Guide: Footwear
- The Seam Team
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Five Common Footwear Problems—and What to Do About Them
Footwear is built to withstand regular use, but even well-made shoes show wear over time. The difference between a pair that lasts years and one that doesn’t often comes down to how early small issues are addressed—often before they feel urgent.
Below are five of the most common footwear problems, along with guidance on what can be handled at home—and when professional footwear care is the better option.
Footwear care for scuffed leather
Most scuffs affect only the surface of the leather and do not compromise the structure of the shoe.
At home: Clean the area with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt. A neutral or colour-matched shoe cream can help restore finish and reduce the visibility of marks.
Consider professional repair if: The scuff has removed colour entirely or damaged the leather grain. Colour restoration can produce a more even, longer-lasting result.
Repair worn heels before they worsen
Heel wear is common, particularly on frequently worn shoes, and can affect both comfort and gait.
At home: There is little that can be done once heel tips begin to wear down. Continuing to wear shoes in this condition can damage the heel block itself.
Consider professional repair if: Heel tips are thinning or uneven. Replacement is typically straightforward and helps prevent more extensive damage.
Loose soles: signs and repair options
Soles that begin to separate from the upper are an early sign of structural stress.
At home: Avoid household glues, which can harden and interfere with proper repair later.
Consider professional repair if: Any separation is visible. A cobbler can re-bond or re-sole shoes using flexible adhesives designed specifically for footwear.
Footwear care for water damage and salt stains
Exposure to rain and salted pavements can dry out leather and leave visible marks.
At home: Blot moisture promptly and allow shoes to dry naturally, away from direct heat. Salt residue can be gently wiped away with a diluted solution of water and white vinegar, followed by conditioning once dry.
Consider professional repair if: Leather stiffens, cracks or discolours, which may require rehydration or refinishing.
Broken zips, laces or buckles on shoes or boots.
Hardware often fails before the rest of the shoe does.
At home: Laces are easily replaced, but forcing stuck zips can cause further damage.
Consider professional repair if: Zips, buckles or eyelets are damaged. These components can usually be replaced without affecting the integrity of the shoe.
Understanding the early signs of wear in footwear can help you extend the life of your favourite pairs. If an issue feels beyond at-home care, our Makers can help with professional repair options — from resoling to heel restoration.
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