Not like some rivals, LG had lots of new merchandise to point out off on the 2022 IFA commerce present in Berlin. And I couldn’t have predicted that the Styler ShoeCare and ShoeCase could be the devices I’d need probably the most.
LG says it’s “revolutionising the at-home shoe care expertise” with these new Styler fashions. Now, I don’t usually cowl this type of tech, and whereas I used to be conscious of the unique Styler, I didn’t think about it could be repurposed for footwear to offer such an ‘expertise’.
Regardless of this, I couldn’t assist however need one whereas LG was demonstrating it on its sizable sales space on the present, extra so than the opposite shiny issues on show together with its flexible LG OLED Flex TV and MoodUP fridge (aka the ‘disco fridge’) with its illuminating panels.
And I don’t even gather sneakers, boots or slippers. Heck, I don’t personal many pairs of footwear in any respect.
Chris Martin / Foundry
It’s maybe right down to the sheer enjoyment of seeing a completely new gadget, the very fact I simply purchased a brand new pair of Vans, or that LG was displaying some Nike child footwear and I’ve acquired a child on the best way later this yr. Regardless, the expertise right here appears worthwhile.
To clarify, the Styler ShoeCare and ShoeCase are two totally different merchandise in a modular system that can be utilized with one another in several mixtures relying on what you need.
The ShoeCare is a form of wardrobe to your footwear with as much as 4 cabinets, although fewer if you wish to retailer one thing taller like wellington boots. LG makes use of its TrueSteam expertise to maintain your kicks contemporary however differently to the Styler for garments which gently shakes clothes to freshen them up.
Steam rises up from the underside of the cupboard making a form of spa remedy to your footwear. An adjustable Shifting Nozzle system dries out the within prepared for them to be worn.
A small touchscreen on the entrance means that you can management the ShoeCare (though you can too use the ThinkQ app). This includes telling it what sort of footwear you’re placing in so it may well alter to the fabric. LG says it may well deal with leather-based, suede, sports activities footwear and extra with 10 totally different ‘programs’.
Solely two totally different material varieties will be refreshed on the similar time. On the usual course, the machine can refresh 4 pairs in simply 37 minutes and achieve this at a whisper-quiet 37dB.
Chris Martin / Foundry
The Styler ShoeCare additionally is available in a stunning darkish inexperienced color that simply so occurs to match my dwelling decor, although different colors can be found.
Contemplating there’s area for as much as 4 pairs of footwear, it’s maybe a superb job I don’t have a big assortment, however I really like the texture of recent footwear and – we will all agree – ones that aren’t smelly or damp.
If the ShoeCare can hold that feeling of recent footwear last more, I’d actually take into account parting with the money. And it ought to imply I wouldn’t have to purchase new footwear as typically.
Those that do have collectable sneakers can be extra drawn to the ShoeCase. This does precisely what it says and is a show case for displaying off one pair of prized kicks.
Chris Martin / Foundry
LG has fitted it with clear panels on three sides which not solely helps you to view the footwear like they’re art work at a gallery however protects them from UV mild. Moisture safety is one other profit and there’s a turntable plus lighting so you possibly can see the footwear from all angles at any time of day.
The ShoeCase is available in a spread of colors and in addition some funky editions (see above) in collaboration with artists. You’ll be able to stack as much as 4 ShoeCases on prime of one another or put a single unit on prime of the ShoeCare unit.
The latter could be my choice and maybe if I did get one, it could be the start of a really costly shoe assortment.
That’s unlikely although, because the Styler ShoeCare and ShoeCase are initially launching in Korea solely (I dwell within the UK) and so they might by no means launch anyplace else. Even then, the worth continues to be to be confirmed and more likely to be eye-watering regardless of an LG consultant telling me it could be “cheap”.
For now, then, my Vans should dwell on the ground within the hallway with the remainder of the gathering, akin to it’s. And I’ll make do by holding them contemporary with a fast spray of Febreeze: I do know my financial institution stability will thank me for it.
Discover out what received our Better of IFA 2022 awards.
