How To Shine Pebble Grain Leather Shoes

[@kirbyallison]

Let us know what you thought about this Pebble Grain Shoeshine Tutorial. If you liked this video let us know with a thumbs up, subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications so you never miss one of our videos. Thanks for watching!

[@ClearReason]

Great video!

[@sglatitude]

Thank you for sharing this video. I have questions about this video: 1. Where to buy that sleek design shoe tree shown in this video? Is it available in Hanger Project online shop? 2. What do you think about bespoke shoe by name of “Septieme Largeur”? I think it’s from France. Is it good quality shoe like those Allen Edmonds, Berluti, George Cleverley, Carmina, Church’s? Thanks

[@kirbyallison]

sglatitude These shoe trees are from Saint Crispins and come with the shoes. You might be able to order them on their website, but they are fully-lasted and designed to fit an exact shoe. Wouldn't really work on other pairs. Haven't heard of that other maker! Send a link and I'll look.

[@sglatitude]

Thank you for quick reply. The Septieme Largeur can be found at this website: septiemelargeur.com.sg One of very few bespoke shoe in Singapore. I wonder quality of the shoe and happy to hear from expert like you. Thank you

[@k.j.g.9601]

The Hanger Project thanks for posting this, I only wish I saw it before I changed my A.E. Pebbled leather backpack. I got the chili back pack that I was hoping would be closer to the oxblood or Burgundy colors on my shoes. So I ordered the Burgundy shoe cream and rubbed that on, which actually looks pretty good. I then put the Burgundy wax over the completed sections, which did get deeply lodged in the textured grooves, in some places making it look almost black. I am still on the fence about what to do about it, as I know it shouldn’t be that dark, yet it looks pretty cool. Given it’s a backpack it even gives it a bit of patina, which I think is acceptable. However if I decide it has all gone horribly wrong, how can I Reverse it? Just subscribed by the way, great channel. Thank you!

[@vindianajones1443]

Great info, thank you! You're a brave man to shine shoes in your suit. LOL

[@Myrslokstok]

Vin'diana Jones He knows what he does.

[@GarrekDS]

It is very hard for me to find anything on taking care of pebble grain shoes. This is a very thorough video and my Crockett & Jones Tan Scotch Grain Conistons are better for it!

[@tcpip4me]

The attention to detail... mesmerizing. Thank you

[@MrCelebrationStation]

Thanks for making this! I got a pair of pebble grain shoes last winter, and I’ve wondered if there were any special care tips for that leather. Great tie/jacket combo too!

[@kirbyallison]

Thanks!

[@manukarthikkattepuraramesh2727]

Watching your videos relieves my stress. Good job. Cheers!

[@kirbyallison]

Manukarthik Kattepura Ramesh 😂 Polishing a nice pair of shoes even better at receiving stress.

[@manukarthikkattepuraramesh2727]

The Hanger Project because of your channel I'm much more into shoes nowadays lol. Thanks :)

[@Myrslokstok]

True masterclass 👑👑👑👑👑

[@petermaag9622]

Only KA could make an exceedingly classy & entertaining 23 (!) min. video on shining pebble grain shoes. Kudos, sir. Btw what have you done to dense up you hair (new product?)? Looking sharp and yes, quite noticeable.

[@kirbyallison]

Thanks, Peter. Not sure if anything is different, but appreciate the compliment! I'm terrified it's falling out... hahaha.

[@chantakzee]

What do you guys recommend on how to apply lotion and cream ? Do you use a cloth or your fingers? Which method spreads the product farthest?

[@jewfro888]

Solid and informative Kirby

[@kirbyallison]

Thanks! More great stuff to come!

[@fepatton]

This is well-timed, as I just picked up a beautiful pair of vintage Florsheim Imperial long wings in a pebble finish. I think they must be the first pair of pebble grain shoes I've owned! So far, I've only conditioned them with Renovateur, so this is really helpful for the rest of it. Thanks!

[@Varethikatisbaroufes]

Dear Kirby, Recently I purchased a pair of used Allen Edmonds Cyrus in black pebble grain. I noticed that the effect of the pebble grain is not even in the hole surface of the shoe. Could this be due to wax build up? Could it help to use renomet, or another product, in order to remove any build up waxes? Thanks.

[@benwaddington2475]

Really useful video. I got some pebble grain Cheaney chukka boots recently and I've been debating the best strategy. I played it safe so far with renovatour then cream polish.

[@jerrenortonjr.7405]

Kirby, all the shoes you put on KZbin are gorgeous where do you get these shoes..wow!

[@Lebuss-nv8xp]

I have a pair of pebbled loafers that I use Saphir Renovateur on and they look great. But then if it's raining or wet out, the shoes get caked with white residue. What can I do to avoid this?

[@muzamalgujjar0013]

Elegant shoes

[@944obscene]

Mr Allison, I received a pair of gently used casual pebble grain shoes and attempted to rejuvenate with neutral Medaille D'or creme, but have gotten the dreaded buildup in the grain of the leather. After brushing for a while in different directions, varying pressure and speed I decided to use leather soap to pick up excess, but no dice.. I've gone back through with a smaller, stiffer brush to help maybe get the bristles in the grain but they're not improving too much. Should I use Reno'Mat to strip and maybe try a lighter coat? You're help is appreciated!

[@furga]

What a class! Great video as usual

[@kvadratbitter]

Great video! I have a question, hope it’s not too late... :) I have a pair of pebble grain leather boots which I will be walking outside with. So I want the maximum amount of water resistance to minimize me damaging them, but don’t really want to add wax polish to avoid too much shine. Is something like Saphir Super Invulner Waterproofing Spray a good alternative to use? Thanks in advance, and greetings from Sweden! 🖖

[@AnnoulaXeni]

Not that you asked, but ... I hugely prefer your hair in this era. Looks healthier.

[@ChrisPortwood]

I know this isn't directly related to this video, but it made me think of my ostrich leather shoes. Do you have any videos on caring for those.

[@icehockeyfiend3]

I have a pebble grain duffle bag that I use for travel a few times a week. How would you approach care for a pebble leather duffle and how would it different form your approach on the shoes in this video?

[@emeryadams7845]

i am from south africa , i love shoes, so I am wearing John Foster

[@whostheman99]

Hi Can you share what lasts are these? They look really well balanced between almond and square. Best

[@WeneedmoreY1outube]

I shined some pebble grains in my off time, and Tell me if this is normal. Certain parts of the shoe, like the top cap, the heel, and certain other areas where the stiching met shined higher than other areas. BTW, the saphir did do a wee bit better than Allen Edmonds own polish. I’ve yet to try the mirror gloss, though. I just wonder if it’s worth it from the toe box and heel perspective. I was reading a lot about wax buildup. I shine nearly everyday and I never have had that issue, so is the mirror gloss that hard of a wax and difficult to work with?

[@gesalbte]

It is normal that pebble grain shoes to shiny toes and heels, but not the rest of the shoe. It is intended that way, and we shouldn't use non-cream wax on the grains, which may cause hard-to-clean wax build up.

[@docmoriarti1467]

Hey Kirby, thanks a lot for this educational video! I have seen in a shoe care video by Crockett & Jones, on their website, in which they recommend to apply a neutral cream polish on to the sole of the shoe as part of the shoe care routine to prevent wear of the soles and protect them. What do you think about this method? I have also a question about the saphire renovateur. Would you use it additionally to a colored creme polish and a colored wax polish, like a pre polish treatment for weekly care or just for more extensive polishing? Regards from Germany

[@kirbyallison]

Hi Doc - I would recommend against a neutral cream polish for conditioning leather soles because the waxes can rub off on carpets, etc. You don't want this to happen. For this reason, the new Saphir Sole Guard Medaille d'Or is a nice product. Before they released this, we recommended using the Saphir Dubbin Medaille d'Or. It contains veg oils but no waxes. You just needed to let the shoe sit for a few days before you tried to wear because it was so potent. I also recommend the Saphir Renovateur in addition to cream + wax polishes. It is a great pre-conditioner and only helps further nourish the leather. You can also use it between more complete polishes.

[@aleksi2592]

Would there be a problem if I use the same brush I use for my black and burgundy shoes for (dark)blue shoes as well?

[@nikospapadopoulos545]

Hi Kirby, i have an issue. I noticed a scuff and discoloration on a very new Paul Smith middle brown leather derby after wearing it for the first time. After trying to fix it using saphir surfine creme it didnt do much. After appying the saphir pate I noticed some extract discoloration after buffing. Is this normal or issue with shoe pigment/finish? Did i do something wrong?

[@Angelwrites]

Kirby, love your channel and knowledge and enthusiasm for shoes and sharing your skills. ...how many people have told you that you sound like Dwight from the office?

[@haroldpoole5442]

How do I get a pair of shoes resoled by you with JR soles and leather staked heals & what is the cost?

[@jorgemunoz931]

Does anyone know what the difference is between the Saphir Renovateur that comes in a box and has a gold and blue cap and the Saphir Renovateur used in this video...with the clear glass container with a black top?? Feedback is much appreciated!!!!

[@omkarande7375]

Full grain leather is good quality or carrected grain leather is good quality ?

[@robsaunderson4724]

Question; how do you clean your shammies?

[@kirbyallison]

Rob Saunderson Just hand wash in your sink with a little detergent and water. You can allow them to soak overnight.

[@robsaunderson4724]

Thanks!

[@lullemans72]

is there a reason why you didn't use reno mat instead of renovateur, given the thorough shine you gave those shoes?

[@apbiggins8mm]

What type of leather shampoo do you use to clean shoes

[@omkarande7375]

Hi... Am from india I want to know which is good quality leather for shoe?

[@Admodeus]

If you let the wax build up, will the leather appear flat?

[@gesalbte]

No. The creases in the pebble grain is way too deep for the practical thickness of wax. If you indeed use so much wax, the wax will crack very badly when you start walking in these shoes.

[@javiershobbies]

very good info, thanks for posting

[@konradallan]

Hello Kirby, this was an excellent video, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would love to see you do a video shining shoes with a lot of broguing. Also, do you have any videos planned on how to clean a leather work bag/briefcase? Thank you again for the excellent content.

[@kirbyallison]

Great suggestions. Thanks!

[@chrisclark9541]

+1 to a video on broguing. I have a pair of shoes where the was sometimes get stuck in the holes.

[@vladislav2471]

I think that navy blue wholecuts would look terrific

[@kirbyallison]

Darth Vader Would you do them in smooth calf or pebble grain like these?

[@vladislav2471]

The Hanger Project I would pick smooth grain

[@kirbyallison]

Darth Vader I have a pair of Anthony Cleverley's and had them re-dyed to be a very dark, almost midnight navy. Darker than these shoes. They're nice. Little bit of character in the daytime - clearly not black - but look totally black at night.

[@ramblin_man23]

Kirby I have a pair of plain boring brown Allen Edmonds Player's 2.0 with the same shade all the way around and I would like to know your opinion? Can I do the same thing to mine as you did to those? Should I try to add a little patina, maybe using a little acetone in areas (vamp and sides) to lighten them up and darken the toe cap and heel? I want to make them look good but without going too extreme. Thanks

[@cowboyhank456]

Would've liked to see some before and after shots

[@davidedmonds6427]

Great Video!!!

[@highlandreverie]

I recently got a pair of pebble grain deerskin Chelsea boots. what would you recommend using to condition/shine and how often? Thanks!

[@jackeddemon]

I have a question: so aren't these St. Crispins considered bespoke? I'm not understanding the difference between bespoke and the Crispin program.

[@kirbyallison]

Hard question to answer. It's certainly not "fully bespoke," but it's certainly close. With a personalized last, Saint Crispin falls somewhere between MTO and Bespoke. The personalized last allows customization, but working with the standard framework. You account for most fit issues here. But the last designs are their standard lasts. Think about it as combining a wide forefoot with a narrow heel, building up a high instep, and adding arch support. All "customizations," but someone isn't there carving a bespoke last from a piece of wood. The shoes are hand welted, which is something no other RTW or MTO shoemaker does, and is a traditional hallmark of bespoke. So, that's a big deal. A lot of the other construction techniques are similar to what you would see in bespoke. A ton of hand work. Although the shoes are incredible, I still think bespoke edges out Saint Crispins in terms of fit, sleekness, and finesse. That said, bespoke runs north of $5,000 and Saint Crispins is $1,600. So, for the money, it's an absolutely fantastic offer.

[@jackeddemon]

Thank you very much for your explanation. I think that at $1,600 they are a bargain. I expecially like the steel toe piece, brass nails initials on the sole, the wooden pegs at the waist, the hand beveled edge (done with sharp glass pieces), and the wood pegged heel construction. I think that overall, my favorite hallmark is the refinement of the beveled waist. This is something that Tom Ford is trying to imitate and I find their interpretation is vile and vexes me.

[@aircooled.obsession]

Hi Kirby, excellent video, as always. I'm watching from over the pond in England and was taught many years ago by my father that a gentleman would also invest time and effort polishing the waist of the sole. A discreet differentiator only noticed when sitting with your legs crossed, is this not something that's practised in the Sates?

[@kirbyallison]

Well, the shoe shine narrative here in the United States isn't that strong, which is what I am trying to help with! Do you polish the waists on all your dress shoes? Even the ones with natural (non-black) waists? My next frontier is learning how to produce glaze edges and heels.

[@aircooled.obsession]

Cheers Kirby, yes, your videos are a great resource over here too! Yes, i'd polish the waists on all my dress shoes, i find a bit of Reno, followed by wax really brings them out...

[@verkh]

Can i apply more dark color then my shoes?

[@hairolizhar]

Hi Kirby, do your wax your leather sole

[@kirbyallison]

No, you definitely do not want to wax your leather sole. Problem is that the wax would rub off and could ruin carpet. Would also be slick. We recommend either conditioning with the Saphir Dubbin or using the Saphir Medaille d'Or Sole Guard, which both conditions and waterproofs the sole.

[@hairolizhar]

The Hanger Project Thanks

[@emeryadams7845]

HEY , HOW ARE U DOING , WHY DO I STRUGGLE , FOR A MIRRO SHINE ON MY SHOES

[@dannythorne9761]

My client wants a mirror shine on his black pebble grain boots

[@user-nr2sy7jx1k]

worked amazing on my cole hans! jk nice vid

[@chauncey2978]

how do you make the pebbles visible again

[@CryptoGraphIndex]

Awesome info I love your channel I have a pair of Allen Edmonds brown chromexal they said on their website not to polish them but I scuffed them what can I do to remove the scuffed vb and scratches I also need to re edge them but the edge is light brown

[@kirbyallison]

Saphir actually makes a product called the Greasy Leather Cream, which is perfect for Chromexcel. Check it out here: www.hangerproject.com/saphir-chromexcel-greasy-leather-cream.html We're actually going to film a video this week about Chromexcel.

[@CryptoGraphIndex]

The Hanger Project I can't wait to see it

[@vincentlim9031]

Can I use Saphir Renovator on pebble grain leather shoes ?

[@toddkost]

Watch the video!

[@diegoog3654]

I have a pair of pebbled grain George Cleverley boots that I haven't worn in a few years. I recently noticed a dark(er) discoloration on the tongue. Would you have any advice on restoring them to their past glory? Thank you

[@kirbyallison]

Diego OG Under where the laces are? This area naturally darkens as the laces rub on it. Just a sign of a well-worn pair of shoes! I’d make sure you give them a thorough conditioning if they’ve sat for a while.

[@diegoog3654]

@@kirbyallison thanks for your reply, I really appreciate the help. I do not suspect it is the laces as I have only worn them 3/4 times (in winter, in Russia) and the whole tongue is darker. Even the parts that do not touch the laces. I will post a footage of them now on my channel. I am definitely going to moisturize them and also take better care of my garments from now on.

[@diegoog3654]

@@kirbyallison I had them "professionally" polished and they've been stored ever since. I suspect it could even be dried wax. I guess finding a good cobbler is as hard as finding a good watchmaker these days 😔

[@niroshanranaweera683]

What is a Balmoral Oxford?

[@ruscalable]

very interesting! i have a question though! i have some lovely Edward Green boots in an almond country calf which i've worn a few too many times out walking the dog. i recently tried restoring them using the instructions in one of your previous videos but i found the dubbin grease has made them dark and, in some places, sticky to the touch. i'm assuming this means either i used too much dubbin or you shouldn't use dubbin on pebble grain shoes. i think the leather has also been a bit too abused which means it wants to absorb a lot more oil than it should. do you have any advice on what i can do to fix things from here?

[@kirbyallison]

Hi Russell - First of all, don't worry - you haven't ruined your boots! It sounds like you may have just used too much dubbin. I would spend a good five minutes buffing your boots with a horsehair brush to try to get as much of the excess off of the leather and then allow the to sit in your closet for a week. The Saphir Dubbin is very potent and can take a long time to dry. Once the leather has dried, the color should rebound. However, for as long as the leather pours are fully saturated with the vegetable waxes from the Dubbin, the leather will appear darker. Does this help answer your question?

[@ruscalable]

thank you very much for taking the time to offer advice! i will try as you've suggested and let you know how it goes.

[@michaeljostworth2641]

I wear a 9.5 4e shoe is there a shoe with different colors and styles for me.

[@Blacksoul44]

Kirby, I was just on your website and I had a question about leather cleaning products. Could you tell me if there is a difference between the leather cleaning soap and the saddle soap?

[@kirbyallison]

The Leather Cleaning Soap is more gentle and less dehydrating than the Saddle Soap.

[@Amerhozai]

What do you think about Tarrago products for shoe please?

[@kirbyallison]

Good stuff but not the same quality level as MDO

[@Myrslokstok]

Agree about the laces, better to actually shine them with them, then skip and dont do the shine at all.

[@mangophett3]

What is your opinion on using Leather Honey? I have some on hand for some thicker rougher desert boots, but have yet to even think about using them on my Loakes

[@kirbyallison]

Never heard of it!

[@mangophett3]

Definitely check it out and let me know what you think of it. Its a strong leather conditioner that has a very thick consistency, and is known to slightly darken the leather due to the penetration in the skin. Its mostly used for saddles and boots, but is very useful for leather in general as well. Antonio Centenno from RMRS recommended it a little bit ago for shoes, but of course I wanted the opinion on the fine menswear connoisseur

[@mikechao9898]

How to wash the cloth?

[@markb9892]

I would never use a high-gloss wax on the toe area of a grained leather shoe. They exhibit a bit more gloss naturally from the stretching process. Using a higher gloss wax on these areas amplifies the visual contrast negatively.

[@i.o.3563]

I believe, it's just a matter of personal taste. Mostly I'd better off without but that particular pair looks better with a little glacage. At least to me.

[@kirbyallison]

Mark Baran Thanks for sharing!

[@maharajpal]

How do you shine a wingtip shoes?

[@thewoosh31]

Hi Kirby, this may be an odd question but could you use edge dressing or cream polish to darken/color in nicks in wood furniture or flooring like you've demonstrated with the edges and heels?

[@kirbyallison]

I don't see any reason why not.

[@mauriciof2252]

And what if i already have wax build up? how do i remove it?

[@igdes1]

Looks like you're still waiting for Kirby's reply.

[@itsme-notyou]

Just use leather cleaner. I mistakenly put neutral wax on the soft textured leather of my boots and it dried white. At first I thought the leather was dry, but then realized it was just wax. Leather cleaner removed it completely.

[@cowboyhank456]

Does this apply to hatch grain as well?

[@machoprotegido5607]

Not a fan of mirror shine on pebble grain.

[@troyology5314]

Like Zach Jobe from Donut Media??

[@vjdeodhar]

Pig bristle brushes are out of stock 😒

[@Dan-lq6dg]

I only like black cap toe oxfords from Allen Edmonds

[@briansanchez1740]

1600?! Lol...

[@AnasAsifSA]

Shoes look same before and after video lmao

[@bolinyu3440]

Hi Kirby. I purchased a pair of g&g in Kudu recently, could you give me some advice of how to care Kudu leather? Is it similar with the way to care calfskin? Thanks.

[@kirbyallison]

I would use the Saphir Medaille d'Or Nappa Leather Balm. It will feed the leather without changing the texture. See it here: www.hangerproject.com/saphir-nappa-leather-balm.html

[@bolinyu3440]

Thank you!