White leather sneakers: buying and keeping them white
White leather sneakers go with a suit, a dress and jeans. The difference between a pair that lasts a season and one that looks good for years is in the leather and the sole.
The leather
Full-grain leather is the outer layer of the hide: strong, breathable and it ages well. Corrected or 'bonded' leather is sanded and coated; it looks crisp when new but can crack sooner. Product descriptions often say which it is, and if not, the price tells you a lot.
The sole
A stitched sole can often be replaced; a glued one usually can't. A rubber sole grips wet streets; if you cycle a lot, also check it isn't too smooth.
The size
Leather stretches a little in width, never in length. Choose your size by length: a thumb's width of room for your toes. Brands fit differently; read the shop's size advice and check the return policy.
Keeping them white
Treat new sneakers with a protective spray, wipe dirt off at once with a damp cloth and use a soft brush with sneaker cleaner on the sole. Don't dry them on a radiator: it makes leather stiff.
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