When it comes to shoe care, the tools you use make all the difference. At last year’s Boot Camp, I had the privilege of working with Levi Elliott, the U.S. Shoeshine Champion, and I asked him about his go-to brushes. Levi shared invaluable insights on the importance of quality brushes and introduced me to Paul Brunngard—a brand he swears by for its superior craftsmanship and performance.
Inspired by his expertise, I decided to explore these brushes myself, and it’s safe to say they live up to the hype. Below, I’ll share what makes Paul Brunngard brushes exceptional and why they’re now a cornerstone in my shoe care toolkit.
The Sole Edge
Goat Hair Brush
Why Paul Brunngard Shoe Brushes Are the Best in the Game
When it comes to caring for your premium boots and shoes, the tools you use matter just as much as the products. After trying nearly every shoe brush on the market, I can confidently say that Paul Brunngard brushes stand in a league of their own.
Here’s why these brushes are worth every penny and why I personally trust them for maintaining some of the finest leather footwear.
Goat Hair Brush
Superior Craftsmanship
Paul Brunngard brushes are crafted with solid walnut handles, offering both durability and elegance. The rich, smooth finish not only feels great in hand but also adds a level of sophistication to your shoe care kit.
But it’s not just about looks—the handles are thoughtfully designed with outward-directed bristles. This clever feature makes brushing faster, more efficient, and greatly reduces the risk of accidentally knicking your shoes with the handle. For me, this design has been a game-changer, especially when working around delicate areas like where the last meets the welt.
Wild Boar Brush
A Brush for Every Purpose
Paul Brunngard offers one of the most diverse ranges of bristle types, making them incredibly versatile for any shoe care routine. Whether you’re gently cleaning, conditioning, or buffing to a mirror shine, they’ve got you covered.
- Yak Hair – Ultra-soft for delicate, high-shine finishes.
- Goat Hair – Ideal for fine dusting and light polishing.
- Horsehair – Perfect for general cleaning and cream polishing.
- Boar Bristle – Rigid and robust for deeper cleaning and removing stubborn dirt.
Having this range means I can confidently care for everything from soft calfskin and suede to rugged Chromexcel and shell cordovan.
Unmatched Quality and Density
One of the standout features of Paul Brunngard brushes is their hand-plugged, densely packed bristles. The quality of the hair used is the best I’ve come across, allowing for smoother application of products and more effective cleaning.
The dense bristle arrangement ensures consistent pressure and even product distribution, which is critical for achieving that deep, rich polish without damaging the leather.
Wild Boar Brush
YAK Hair Brush
YAK Hair Brush
Thoughtful Magnetic Integration
A unique feature that sets these brushes apart is the integrated magnet inside the handle. This small detail makes storage more convenient and keeps your workspace organized—a subtle, yet thoughtful touch that reflects the premium quality of Paul Brunngard products.
Why I Choose Paul Brunngard
At the end of the day, most brushes will get the job done, but Paul Brunngard brushes offer a level of precision, comfort, and care that’s simply unmatched. Their thoughtful design and superior craftsmanship make my work faster, more efficient, and safer for the leather I work on.
For me, choosing Paul Brunngard wasn’t just about buying a brush—it was about investing in the in the best tools to provide the best results. If you’re serious about caring for your footwear, these brushes are the cream of the crop.
Want to experience the difference? Visit Classic Shoe Valet & Co. to explore our premium shoe care services and products.
— Lee Ross Gómez
Owner, Classic Shoe Valet & Co.