The 10 Best Long Handled Shoe Horns
Special Honors
Pasotti Luxury From black cats and bulldogs to crystal-encrusted skulls and golden lions, the shoe horns from Italian-based umbrella maker Pasotti are sure to turn heads. Handmade in Italy using high-quality materials like sleek chestnut, Swarovski crystals, enameled brass, and much more, these selections range between 45 and 50 centimeters long. pasottiombrelli.com
Kirby Allison Hanger Project Handcrafted in Dallas, Texas, this full-length model from Kirby Allison features a shaft made from woods like Bubinga, maple, or walnut. The glossy finish is applied by hand to bring out the natural wood color, while the matching strap is made from genuine deerskin leather. hangerproject.com
Abbeyhorn Large Stag A luxury-grade choice handcrafted from ox horn, this offering by Abbeyhorn measures nearly 23 inches in length and sports a rustic-looking antler handle. Each shoe horn is a one-of-a-kind piece, as the horn is cut, formed over an open flame, then sanded by hand and polished with care. It is extremely durable and reliable, and when used properly, virtually impossible to crack, tear, or break. abbeyhorn.com
Editor's Notes
December 17, 2020:
People looking for a long-handled shoe horn might want anything from a 12-inch option for additional assistance while seated to an extra-long model that allows them to stand without having to bend. We saw to that need by ensuring we had a wide range of lengths on this list, with options in myriad materials and aesthetics as well, as this thing will likely be hanging up where everyone can see it.
When the BlueCosto Chrome-Plated became unavailable, we supplanted it with the Comfy Clothiers Heavy Duty, an equally attractive, extremely durable selection. This one isn't too long or too short, has a no-frills, sleek stainless steel construction, and won't bend no matter the shoe or boot you're working with. It's also wide enough that the side of your footwear shouldn't get crushed while you're putting it on.
We decided to swap the Shacke Solid Metal for the OrthoStep Brushed Brass. This isn't because there is anything wrong with the Shacke unit, but rather because the OrthoStep has three inches on it and is offered in a variety of attractive finishes. It's equally as comfortable to hold, elegant, and indestructible. Be aware that it's heavy and solid, though, so maybe give it a swerve if you have hand mobility issues or a weak grip.
Also joining the ranks today is the JJDParts Dressing Stick, a multifunctional tool that's adjustable in length and extremely helpful for dressing and accessing things that are out of reach. It's made of reinforced plastic and is relatively sturdy, but it's nowhere near as strong as steel, so beware of putting too much pressure on it. If you need something that has some flex but won't bend, the Numplar Metal is a solid budget choice.
By the way, if you're serious about keeping your shoes in tip-top condition, you might also want to pick up a good pair of shoe trees.
October 08, 2019:
We expanded this list to include three new models: the Shacke Solid Metal, the Fanwer Durable, and the Muso Wood. That rounded out our selections to an even ten, adding a thick, indestructible metal option, another handsome wooden unit, and a simple, very long stainless steel piece. This list now features options that can help the owner put on everything from men's dress shoes to work boots. We also felt that the Long Handle Shoe Horn deserved to claim a top spot due to its high-grade materials, meticulous construction, and elegant look.
Our priorities for ranking included ease of use, quality materials, fair price points, and attractiveness. We ensured there are myriad lengths to cater to every need. These selections are all easy to keep clean, but keep in mind that chrome-finished units tend to show fingerprints. If that bothers you, a brushed finish, like what you see with the Fanwer Durable, should be considered instead. If you have arthritis or need something that's very easy to grip, the oversized handle of the Shacke Extra Long or polymer coated HoundsBay Metal should suit your needs nicely.