[header] How to scuff up new shoes [title] Take the laces off. [step] This way you won't damage the laces and you'll get better access to some of the shoe's hidden surfaces. Specifically, you'll get better access to the tongue if you're wanting to scuff it. 
[title] Scuff up your footwear with sandpaper. [step] Sandpaper will grind into the leather, scratching the surface without causing any real damage.