Description
Collonil 1909 Horsehair Rub-In Brush — for a cleaner, more even finish
If you’ve only ever applied polish with a cloth or an old rag, a proper rub-in brush is a small revelation. This one comes from Collonil’s premium 1909 line and is made with 100% soft horsehair, so it works shoe cream, polish and wax deep into the leather without scratching it — and it gets into the awkward spots a cloth simply can’t reach.
A dedicated applicator brush like this gives you far more control than a cloth. You dip it, then work the product in with small circular movements, reaching around the welt, near the eyelets and into brogue detailing without over-applying. It’s the sort of tool that makes looking after your shoes feel a pleasure rather than a chore.
Why choose the Collonil 1909 rub-in brush?
- Gentle on leather: 100% horsehair bristles are soft enough to protect the surface while still working the product in properly.
- Even application: spreads cream, polish and wax smoothly, avoiding the streaks and clumps you get from a cloth.
- Reaches every corner: ideal for welts, eyelets and brogue perforations where a cloth struggles.
- Part of the 1909 family: pairs perfectly with Collonil 1909 creams and waxes for a joined-up routine.
- Built to last: clean it properly and it will serve you for years.
How to use the rub-in brush
- Make sure your shoes are clean and dry before you start.
- Dip the brush lightly into your shoe cream, polish or wax.
- Work the product into the leather with small circular motions, building up thin layers rather than one thick one.
- Leave to absorb, then buff with a separate polishing brush or cloth for shine.
Haico’s tip: keep one brush for dark polishes and another for neutral or light shades. If you do need to switch, wash the bristles in lukewarm water with a neutral detergent and let them dry fully before the next use.
Specifications
- Type: rub-in / applicator brush
- Bristles: 100% horsehair
- Use with: shoe cream, polish and wax
- Range: Collonil 1909
- Suitable for: smooth leather shoes, boots and accessories
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need a polishing brush as well? Yes — this brush is for applying product. For the final buff and shine you’ll want a larger, separate polishing brush or a soft cloth.
Can I use one brush for every colour? You can, but I’d keep one for dark shades and one for light. If you swap, wash it in lukewarm soapy water with a neutral detergent and dry it fully first.
Where can I buy the Collonil 1909 rub-in brush in the UK? You can order the Collonil 1909 horsehair rub-in brush directly from Shoespecialist.co.uk. We offer free delivery on orders over £50, same-day dispatch when you order before 5pm, and a 60-day return policy.












Ivan Lowie –
It does shed a few bristles quickly.
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Martin van Noort –
Alongside its sibling for the neutral cream, I also ordered a couple of these for the various dark colours. You can rub in well with them and spread the cream over the shoe. Fits nicely in small compartments next to the cream.
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Marieke van Bergen –
Nice little brush
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Karen De Wit (verified owner) –
Gets into corners and holes you can’t reach with your fingers!
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Patrick Aldus (verified owner) –
Top quality
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Christiaan Koning (verified owner) –
Good brush, good bristles, just a bit on the small side.
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Eric (verified owner) –
Use it as a dirt brush, works fine.
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AC (verified owner) –
Don’t really like this one as it leaves my hands filthy, I’d rather have a little brush with a handle.
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