Free Shipping, Paid Duties, and Complimentary Cedar Shoe Trees Included
We believe your shoes should be ready for the world the moment they arrive. As such, your shoes will arrive with a set of complimentary cedar shoe trees and, as a courtesy, we will apply a light protective polish appropriate to the leather, leaving your shoes conditioned, finished, and ready for their first outing.
The most critical secret to shoe longevity isn't a cream; it's time.
The 24-Hour Rule: High-quality leather is porous and absorbs nearly a shot-glass worth of moisture from your feet during a full day of wear. To prevent the leather from warping or developing odors, you must allow them at least 24 hours of rest between wears.
Wicking with Cedar: Always insert cedar shoe trees immediately after removing your shoes. Unfinished cedar wicks away moisture, acids, and salts while smoothing out walking creases and maintaining the shoe's original silhouette.
New, high-grade leather can feel firm initially as it begins to conform to the foot. A properly fitted shoe should feel secure and supportive from the outset, while the leather will gradually soften and develop with wear.
Setting the Memory: The break-in process as a gradual period where the leather’s natural fibers soften and conform perfectly to your foot's unique contours over time. Each time you put on your new pair of Chancellor's, your feet will feel more "at home" and one more wear closer to a glove-like fit.
Pro Tip: Wear your new shoes for only 1–2 hours at a time around the house for the first few days. This "slow-and-steady" approach prevents blisters and allows the leather to flex naturally without stress.
Do:
Rotate your shoes, giving them at least 24 hours to dry and rest between wears.
Use cedar shoe trees to help absorb moisture and preserve the shoe's shape.
Use a shoehorn when putting on your shoes to protect the heel counter and prevent unnecessary stress on the leather.
Brush your shoes regularly to remove dust and surface dirt, and condition the leather periodically when it begins to show signs of dryness.
Don't:
Never use direct heat, such as space heaters or hair dryers, to dry wet shoes. Allow them to dry naturally at room temperature.
Avoid "instant shine" sponges and other products of unknown composition. Use quality shoe-care products appropriate for your leather instead.
Fine leather does not require constant treatment. Regular brushing and sensible rotation will do more for the longevity of your shoes than excessive conditioning.
When the leather begins to look dry or loses its natural luster, use a high-quality product appropriate to its particular finish. Different leathers require different care.
Smooth Calfskin
Use a quality leather cream or conditioner sparingly, approximately every 3–6 months depending on wear and climate. A suitable wax polish may be applied when additional shine or surface protection is desired.
Patina
These leathers are intentionally finished to develop depth and variation. Use only non-solvent products specifically formulated for patinated leather, and apply them sparingly. Avoid aggressive cleaners, stripping agents, and products that may alter or remove the existing finish. We recommend Bickmore's "Bick 4" water-based conditioner and Fiebing's Carnauba Creme for polished protection on patinated leather.
Suede
Brush regularly with a suede brush to remove dust and restore the nap. Use only products specifically designed for suede when additional cleaning or protection is required. Never apply conventional leather creams or waxes to suede.
When in doubt, less is more. Over-treating fine leather can do more harm than good.