Explaining the shoe rack

It has come to my attention that some of my American readers do not know what a shoe rack is or what it is used for (see Going out in New Haven).

Shoe racks can be found in most Scandinavian homes right inside the front door. This is where you kick your shoes off when you come home after a long day at work or drop your winter boots when they are covered with mud (preferably on the lower level so they don't drip on the clean shoes underneath).

The rack serves as a gathering point for the shoes you use that season. Leaving your shoes at the door helps your feet recover from a hard day, prevents foot fungus (Athlete's foot) and keeps the rest of the house clean.

When you get ready to leave the next day, your shoes are right there at the door, waiting for you.