Toe-box creases are normal on leather sneakers, especially Air Force 1s and Jordan 1s. You cannot remove them completely, but you can reduce them and slow new ones.
Reducing existing creases
- Clean the shoe first.
- Stuff the toe box firmly with a shoe tree or rolled cloth so the leather is stretched flat.
- Place a damp cloth over the crease.
- Use a warm, not hot, iron over the cloth for a few seconds at a time, keeping it moving.
- Let the shoe cool fully with the stuffing still inside.
Test on a small area first. Too much heat can damage leather and glue, and suede or synthetic materials can be harmed, so do not use this method on them.
Preventing creases
- Use crease protectors inside the toe box
- Insert shoe trees after wearing
- Lace to a comfortable tightness, not too tight
- Rotate between pairs
Know what you are buying
Light creasing is common on preloved pairs and is noted in Grade B descriptions. See how we grade condition. Cleaning tips: how to clean sneakers at home. Browse all shoes.