New Year: 4 easy resolutions to keep your boots for life (and save money)
J.P. HenriThe holiday season is drawing to a close. We ate well, we celebrated, and soon we'll promise ourselves to go to the gym 4 times a week (and we'll stop after 3 weeks, let's be honest).
But this year, at Gerry 1958, we're offering you resolutions that are much easier to keep, and that will save you real money.
In 2026, we're changing our mindset: we're moving from "Disposable" to "Sustainable." Here are 4 simple habits to help your shoes last the decade.
Resolution #1: I use shoe trees
It's the most underrated accessory in history.
When you take off your boots or shoes in the evening, the leather is warm and damp. As it dries, it will shrink and the toe will curl (the "banana" effect).
A good habit: Slip a pair of cedar shoe trees into your shoes as soon as you get home. The wood absorbs moisture and keeps the shoe perfectly shaped. It takes 5 seconds and doubles the life of the leather.
Resolution #2: I don't wait for the "hole" to repair it
Many customers arrive at the workshop when the heel is completely worn away, to the point of attacking the structure of the shoe.
A good habit: Check your heels once a month. As soon as the rubber is worn unevenly, come see us . Replacing a small heel tip is much less expensive than rebuilding the entire heel.
Resolution #3: I brush my boots on Sundays
No need for a full 30-minute polish. Just remove the dust.
A good habit: Keep a horsehair brush by the door. On Sunday evenings, give your week's boots a quick brush. Dust acts like microscopic sandpaper on leather; removing it regularly makes all the difference.
[Photo suggestion: A very clean pair of boots with a brush and perhaps a small, discreet New Year's decoration]
Resolution #4: I protect my investment
If you received a nice pair of Red Wing or quality boots for Christmas, don't throw them into the snow without protection.
The trick: Before your first "serious" outing in January, make sure they have a protective coating. It's life insurance for your leather against January's calcium.
Happy New Year from the whole team!
Thank you for supporting local artisans. By choosing to repair and maintain, you are thumbing your nose at overconsumption.
We wish you a comfortable, sustainable, and stylish 2026. The workshop is ready to welcome you as soon as we reopen to start the year off right!
