The best extra long shoe horn
Shacke 24-inch Extra Long-Handled Shoe Horn
Sleek and durable shoe horn
Exceptionally long and accessible, this shoe horn was made with convenience in mind. Especially notable is its sleek design, color options, and handy palm grip hole so it can be hung when not in use.
This simple shoe horn from Shacke is long enough for taller users, but its full-palm grip makes it surprisingly easy to use. The lightweight plastic body curves slightly, limiting the need to bend or twist to angle it into a shoe, and a loop in the handle allows for easy storage. It’s available in four colors, all of which look sleek and attractive.
If you’re looking for an extremely long shoe horn that will simplify an essential everyday task, this has some nice features that set it apart from the competition.
Key Features
- Made from lightweight plastic
- Large palm grip allows for easy use
- 24 in size limits the need to bend or lean
- Slight tilt from handle to body for better ergonomics
- Available in black, white, baby blue, or dark grey
Comfy Clothiers 18 in Long-Handled Stainless Steel Shoe Horn
The beauty of stainless steel
Stainless steel is not only eye-catching but durable and longlasting. Comfy Clothier's handy 18 in shoe horn is far-reaching, strong enough to not bend, and will last you countless years.
Comfy Clothiers’ 18 in shoe horn (which is actually 16.5 in long, since it curves slightly) is significantly heavier than similar products, but that’s a good thing. It’s made from 100% stainless steel for added durability.
The subtle curve makes the head easy to angle into a shoe, and a hole towards the top of the handle allows for easy storage. The handle isn’t particularly comfortable, but most users won’t have any issues using it for its intended purpose.
Key Features
- Made from 100 percent stainless steel
- 18 in long (16.5 in, accounting for curved design)
- Available as blank steel or with “Dad” or “Grandpa” printing
- 2 mm thick
Eachway Extra-Long Shoe Horn Kit
Modularly designed shoe horn
If you need a far-reaching shoe horn that can go the distance, then this one from Eachway is your best bet. Stretching out to 29.9 in this piece will get the job done and break down for storage.
This plastic-handled shoe horn breaks down into three parts, which makes it a great option for traveling or different applications. Use the smallest piece on its own, or continue to add components for longer and longer options. This is a great feature when wanting to use from both a sitting and standing position.
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The rubber handle is comfortable, and the smooth, rounded plastic mouth won’t damage footwear.
Some users will still prefer metal over ABS plastic, and while this is a well-made product, we wouldn’t use too much force when using it. With that said, the attractive price tag and novel portability/adjustability features make Eachway’s shoe horn a great deal.
Key Features
- Detachable, adjustable shoe horn kit
- Rubber handle and ABS plastic body
- Rounded edges won’t damage shoes
- Wide mouth for easier use
- Loop on handle for hanging
Shacke 15 in Stainless Steel Shoe Horn With Paracord Handle
Sleek stainless steel design
If you don't prefer overly long and unwieldy shoe horn, Shacke's 15 in shoe horn may be your pick. Made from stainless steel and featuring a comfort handle, this shoe horn is perfect for seated users.
The paracord handle of this 15 in shoe horn helps older adults maintain a firm grip, and several color options allow for some degree of customization. The sturdy stainless steel won’t bend or break, and a wide, curved mouth makes this an exceptionally easy product to use.
This isn’t the longest shoe horn on the market, but that’s not a knock against it; it’s still long enough to minimize bending when used from a seated position, and it’s slightly less awkward to hold than some of the longer options.
Key Features
- Paracord rope handle with loop for hanging
- Made with sturdy stainless steel
- Wide, curved mouth
- Variety of colored paracord options
Carefully consider your options when purchasing a shoe horn, particularly if you’re buying for an older adult. Longer isn’t always better, particularly if the user has mobility challenges.
Here’s a closer look at some of the main factors that set shoe horns apart from one another.
Size
This seems fairly straightforward, but think about whether the user will need to use the shoe horn from a standing or sitting position. Full-sized shoe horns can be awkward for some individuals, particularly older adults with back issues.
Longer shoe horns are also more likely to bend during use if made from plastic, particularly if they’re mishandled. For best results, insert the shoe horn into the heel of the shoe, then slowly slide your foot in. Lift up slightly on the shoe horn as you slide your foot in so that the shoe horn is completely removed when your foot is seated.
Materials
Shoe horns are typically made of plastic, wood, or metal. Modern plastic blends can be quite durable, but metal is still the standard—and if you’re regularly putting on boots or other heavy footwear, you’ll probably want to find a shoe horn made with stainless steel. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something lightweight, especially with a longer model, plastic may be the way to go.
Ergonomic Features
Most extra-long shoe horns are curved slightly, which allows the user to slide them into a shoe from a standing position without awkwardly twisting their upper body. Some also have wide mouths to provide a better grip on the shoe heel; whether or not this is an appealing feature will depend on the user’s personal preferences.
Remember, no shoe horn can replace the need for a properly fitted shoe. If you’re purchasing for an older adult, make sure that their shoes aren’t excessively tight. If you notice swelling or other signs of podiatric issues, contact a physician.
Ultimately, shoe horns are useful devices for people of all ages, and for seniors, they’re downright indispensable. By doing a bit of research prior to making your purchase, you can find a high-quality product that will provide years of dependable comfort.
Brian Thomas is a professional writer with over 15 years of experience. He’s traveled extensively during that time, frequently touring the American Southwest as both a musician and a tourist. In 2019, he visited Japan and Mexico, and he’s become passionate about spreading a simple message: Traveling isn't necessarily expensive, and it's one of the best paths to self-improvement.