How to Shine JROTC Shoes
Shining shoes for JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) is a skill that demonstrates discipline and attention to detail. It is an important aspect of the JROTC uniform, reflecting the pride and readiness of cadets. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you shine your JROTC shoes to a high gloss finish.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:
- Shoe polish (appropriate color for your shoes, usually black)
- A soft cloth or applicator brush
- A horsehair shine brush
- A lint-free soft cloth for buffing, like an old t-shirt or microfiber cloth
- Water (optional for a spit-shine)
- Cotton balls or a piece of cotton fabric (optional for spit-shine)
Step 2: Prep Your Shoes
Clean the surface of your shoes to remove any dirt or debris. If your shoes are new and have a factory coating, use rubbing alcohol on a cloth to remove the coating. Allow your shoes to dry completely before proceeding.
Step 3: Apply the Polish
Wrap your soft cloth or applicator brush around your index finger and dip it lightly into the shoe polish. Apply a medium layer of polish in small circles, covering the entire surface of the shoe. Let the polish dry for about 15 minutes until it is no longer tacky.
Step 4: Brush to a Shine
Use your horsehair shine brush to brush the entire shoe vigorously. This will help to remove the excess polish and create a basic shine. The vigorous brushing generates heat which helps the polish to set and shine.
Step 5: Buff the Shoes
Using a clean, soft cloth, buff the shoes to a shine. Turn the cloth frequently to avoid accumulating polish on the cloth, which could dull the shine.
Step 6: Optional Spit-Shine (For Extra Gloss)
If you want an extra high gloss, known as a “spit-shine,” apply another layer of polish with a damp cotton ball or piece of cotton fabric. Dip the cotton in a bit of water (or spit, traditionally) and apply a small amount of polish. Use small circular motions to apply a thin layer of polish over the toe and heel of the shoe, the areas where a high shine is most important. Allow the thin layer to dry and then buff again with a soft cloth. Repeat this process several times, as needed, until the desired level of shine is achieved.
Step 7: Maintain the Shine
After wearing your shoes, wipe them down to remove any dust or dirt. Every so often, perform a maintenance shine by repeating steps 3 through 5 to keep your shoes looking sharp for your JROTC events.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid applying too much polish in one go, as it can create a build-up that’s hard to shine.
- A little water helps to create a high gloss finish, but too much can remove the polish.
- Make sure each layer of polish is dry before applying the next.
- Patience is key to a high-quality shine.
By following these step-by-step instructions and tips, you’ll be able to achieve a professional shine on your JROTC shoes. Remember, shining shoes well is a process that can’t be rushed and requires practice to perfect.