Date:         Thu, 16 Aug 2001 12:51:51 -0400
Reply-To:     Discussion of Topics for Soccer Referees <[log in to unmask]>
Sender:       Discussion of Topics for Soccer Referees <[log in to unmask]>
From:         Jim Gordon <[log in to unmask]>
Subject:      Shoe care
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Tom Stag, the other JimG and BSW gave good advice about taking care of
one's boots, so that they will both last longer (giving you better value
for the price) and look better.  Taking good care of (and about) your
shoes results in better care of the feet and the rest of the skeleton.

If my boots get wet/muddy, I pull the laces out (rinse them and hang to
dry), rinse the mud off (which takes some of the muddy water out of the
leather) and then stuff them with wadded newspaper, changing it after a
while.  Eventually damp paper will hold moisure inside the shoe, and
they'll dry better without it.  Shoe trees are great for retaining
shape, but I'm not sure that it's so advisable to stretch wet leather
and I'd guess that shoe trees would slow down the drying.

Slightly damp or sweaty boots seem to dry well and air out better if I
put a cardboard tube down into the toe.  The tubes seem to absorb
moisture and hold the shoe open and the tongue out of the way, and I
throw them out after one or two uses.  These tubes come from rolls of
paper towel or TP -- the shorter ones seem to work better.

Polishing your boots not only makes them look better, but also helps
them shed dirt and moisture and preserves the leather.  If the shoes
have white or colored trim, neutral wax works well over a liquid shine.
I know one USSF National who swears that waxing the soles helps shed mud
from the cleats.

As for choosing shoes, buy what fits and supports the foot and will
stand up to the use.  Shoe repair shops can sell or recommend dye to
blacken out the logos or trim if you need.  Buy new ones when you've
worn down the cushioning -- what's the runner's rule?  500 miles?
That's 100 games.

Regards,
Jim Gordon

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