Whether you wear dress shoes everyday for work or just for the occasional special event, no one likes the feeling of trying to jam your feet into stiff shoes. While a sturdy heel may be a sign that you invested in a good leather pair, it doesn’t always feel the best on your ankles. Luckily, using a shoe horn can help you slide your snug shoes on without pain or difficulty.
When it comes to choosing the right shoe horn, you should consider your comfort and routine so you can find the right length. In addition, you have important choices to make about handle texture and overall aesthetic.
To make your selection process easier, here at FootFitter we gathered everything you need to know about shoe horns.
What is a shoe horn?
A shoe horn is a tool used to help your foot glide easily into your shoe. Basically, the tool provides a smooth ramp that pulls back the heel of your shoe, stopping it from snagging your ankle as you slide your foot in.
In the past, shoe horns earned their moniker because they were made from animal horns and hooves. In addition, shoe horn makers also used glass and paper materials. For those living a luxurious lifestyle, bone, silver, ivory and shell were also used to make the tools.
Today, shoe horns are typically made from wood, metal and plastic.
Why should you use a shoe horn?
So why invest in the product? Shoe horns are not just useful at easing your foot into a shoe. While comfort is a notable feat in itself when it comes to tight shoes, these tools are also useful at preserving your shoes.
When putting on your shoes, it may be impossible to ignore the irritation your shoes are causing your heels. However, likewise, your heels are damaging your shoes. Making the process more seamless is good for both you and your shoes.
Choosing the right texture for your shoe horn
For those looking for quick results with ease, the smooth texture of metal is perfect at helping socks slide. FootFitter Medium Stainless Steel & Leather Shoe Horn, 16″ is designed with an ideal arch that mimics the natural shape of your foot. Dual purposed, the arch also makes storage more convenient.
If you are interested in the historical use of animal horns, a bull horn option is also available. The FootFitter Genuine Bull Horn Shoe Horn, 9″ offers a unique pattern and color on every perfectly polished horn.
Choosing the right length for your shoe horn
When it comes to choosing which tool will be most beneficial to your routine, it is important to consider how you put on your shoes.
If it is easiest to put your shoes on while standing, the better option is to go with a long shoe horn. On the other hand, if you sit on a chair when sliding on your shoes, it will be easier to do so with a shorter shoe horn.
How to use a shoe horn
For short shoe horns
- Sit down on a chair or stool.
- Position your shoe horn so the scoop is upwards and facing your heel.
- Slip your foot into the shoe.
- Remove the shoe horn when your foot is fully in the shoe.
For long shoe horns
- Remain standing.
- Position your shoe horn so the scoop is upwards and facing your heel.
- Hold onto the handle and slide your foot down the tool and into your shoe.
- Remove the shoe horn when your foot is fully in the shoe.
If you’re asking yourself how to choose between short and long shoe horns, there are additional factors to consider in addition to your general comfort.
For example, if standing and balance is difficult, a short horn that you can use while sitting is the better option. On the other hand, if you have back problems, the long tool is better at holding your shoe steady without requiring you to bend over.
