Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Protect Your Shoes (Leather or Not You Want To): A Guide To Shoe Horns

If you’re like us, you find taking 30 seconds out of your day to lace up your shoes a real pain. Maybe we’re just impatient or maybe we can’t handle the frustration that comes with trying to effortlessly slip on our favorite kicks.

Regardless, when you don’t take the time to properly put on your footwear, you’re bound to crush the counter—or rigid heel section—of your shoe, which can cause irreversible damage to even the best made leather.

Recommended Videos

Thankfully, the shoe horn (or “shoespooner” if you want to get technical) was invented  in the late sixteenth century. This handy little device can be made from hard plastic, metal, wood, or even actual horn and makes slipping on shoes a dream.

For help on picking out a shoe horn of your own, check out some of our favorites below.

Gainwell – $7

gainwell shoe horn
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Built from stainless steel and genuine American leather, the Travel Shoehorn from Gainwell is about as classic as it gets. Not only is the easy to use accessory perfect for a quick business trip, it also comes with a lifetime warranty.

Shackle – $13

shackle shoe horn
Image used with permission by copyright holder

For those who have trouble reaching all the way down to adjust their shoes, the Extra Long Shoe Horn from Shackle is a great option. The horn is 24 inches long and made of durable plastic, so it’ll last through several different pairs of shoes.

Abbeyhorn – $48

abbeyhorn shoe horn
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Made from genuine cow horn, the Shoe Horn from Abbeyhorn offers an exquisite take on the shoe essential. Measuring in at just under 8 inches, the glossy accessory has a luxurious hand weight and is finished off with a simple leather strap.

Nordstrom – $15

Nordstrom Shoe Horn
Image used with permission by copyright holder

A handsome bronze construction makes this shoe horn from Nordstrom a standout among its horn and steel brethren. At 16 inches long, not only is it great for a wide range of users, but also looks effortlessly elegant.

The Hanger Project – $125

the hanger project shoe horn
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Another shoe horn made entirely from polished horn, the 15.5 inch Tip End from The Hanger Project is gorgeous in its simplicity. Hand crafted in Milan, this stylish tool is guaranteed to make putting on your favorite loafers way more enjoyable.

Stefan Doyno
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Stefan Doyno is a two-time Emmy-winning television producer who has worked for various shows at ABC News, including Good…
Topics
The L’Aventure Marine Type 3 Chronometer masters land and sea
A 200m water-resistant chronometer with heritage styling, the Marine Type 3 is a diver’s watch with timeless appeal.
LAVENTURE MARINE TYPE 3

The L’Aventure Marine Type 3 Chronometer has thrown its hat into the sea of contenders, meticulously crafted to honor mid-century horology and redesigned for the modern watch aficionado. With a vintage design and masterful engineering, this timepiece merges the gap between classic elegance and contemporary performance.

Designed for the serious collectors who place a high value on both heritage and innovation, the Marine Type 3 features a gradient blue dial inspired by the ocean, paired with vintage luminescent markers for optimal readability. The sleek, tapered lugs offer a comfortable fit, whether on a rugged NATO strap or an elegant leather band. This watch tells time and a story of adventure and timeless craftsmanship.

Read more
I ran 50 miles on roads and trails—how the Craft Nordlite Ultra 2 performed
Is the Craft Nordlite Ultra 2 the only running shoe you need?
Craft Nordlite Ultra 2

When it comes to shoes, runners have almost too many choices. There are daily trainers, speed shoes, trail shoes, plated racers, and more. High-end models start around $150, so building up a “quiver” of footwear requires $300, $450, or more. That can make the simple, refreshing act of running an expensive hobby.

However, some manufacturers produce road-to-trail shoes that can handle both roads and trails, as well as everything in between. One such model is the Craft Nordlite Ultra 2, which features a supercritical midsole and a lugged outsole. I tested it on the roads and trails of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley to answer the question: Is this the only running shoe you need? Read on for my take.

Read more
From Malibu to Porto Cervo, Armani x Kith goes full coastal luxe
Kith, Armani debut a summer-ready collection
man wearing kith x armani tee shirt

When Kith and Giorgio Armani released their first collection together for Fall/Winter 2024, there was no doubt that both brands had nailed the concept of a luxury partnership. Now the two brands are joining forces once more to bring this same luxury feel to the summertime with the second installment of their collaboration. Meant to bridge the luxury of Italy and the modern sophistication of New York, this new collection is ready for wherever the summer may take you. Whether you’re hitting the Italian coast or the streets of New York, this collection embodies the summer of your dreams and an aspirational lifestyle. Besides featuring a series of stylish silhouettes and styles, this collection is also made to be sensible to withstand the summer in Europe or the United States. 

Giorgio Armani and Kith go global with new collection

Read more