Collection: Shoe Trees and Boot Trees

How to choose the right shoe trees or boot trees

A good shoe tree should support the shoe without forcing it out of shape. The aim is gentle, even pressure through the toe and heel so the leather can dry in the right position after wear. For most leather shoes, cedar is the sensible choice: it helps the shoe keep its shape, deals with everyday moisture and leaves a cleaner, fresher smell than plastic or hollow alternatives.

Which type should you choose?

• Full cedar shoe trees: a sound everyday choice for formal shoes, loafers, brogues and Derbies kept at home.
• Travel shoe trees: lighter and easier to pack, useful for business trips, holidays and shoes stored in luggage.
• Adjustable split-toe shoe trees: a practical option if your shoes vary in width or toe shape.
• Boot trees: better suited to Chelsea boots, chukka boots and desert boots, where a standard shoe tree may sit too low or be awkward to remove.
• Ladies’ shoe trees: shaped and sized for women’s footwear, especially where a smaller or narrower fit is needed.

When shoe trees are not the answer

Shoe trees help maintain shape; they are not designed to make tight shoes bigger. If a shoe pinches, rubs or feels narrow across the forepart, a proper shoe stretcher is usually the more suitable tool. A shoe tree should slide in with mild resistance. If you have to wrestle it into place, it is probably too large.

Useful related pages

For regular leather shoes, start with premium shoe trees. If you need something lighter for packing, see travel shoe trees. For Chelsea, chukka and desert boots, browse men’s boot trees. For women’s footwear, see ladies’ shoe trees. For a fuller care routine, read our leather shoe care guide.

Shoe trees and boot trees FAQ

Should shoe trees be tight?

No. They should sit firmly with light pressure. If they distort the leather or are difficult to insert, choose a smaller size or a different style.

Can I use shoe trees in boots?

Sometimes, but boot trees are usually easier to use and better suited to chukka, desert and Chelsea boots because they support the shape and are easier to remove.

Are travel shoe trees only for travelling?

No. They are useful for packing, but they can also suit lighter shoes, loafers and situations where you want a less bulky tree.

Do shoe trees stretch shoes?

Correctly fitted shoe trees are for maintaining shape, not stretching. If you need extra room, choose a shoe stretcher instead.