Picking out the right pair of for men shoes can feel a bit tricky sometimes, especially if you’re new to it. There are so many styles and purposes, and knowing what looks good and feels right can be confusing. But don’t worry!
We’re going to make this super simple. We’ll walk through everything step-by-step so you can find shoes you’ll love. Get ready to discover your next favorite pair.
Key Takeaways
- You will learn about different types of shoes for men and their uses.
- Simple tips for choosing the right size and fit will be provided.
- Key features to look for in quality shoes will be explained.
- Guidance on matching shoes with outfits for various occasions is included.
- Advice on shoe care to make your footwear last longer is offered.
- Understanding shoe materials will be made easy for beginners.
Types of For Men Shoes
The world of men’s footwear is vast, offering options for every taste and need. Understanding the basic categories is your first step. Each type of shoe serves a distinct purpose, from formal events to casual outings and athletic activities.
Knowing these categories helps you make informed choices and build a versatile shoe collection.
Formal Shoes
Formal shoes are designed for dressier occasions, like weddings, job interviews, or business meetings. They typically have a sleek, polished appearance. Leather is a common material, offering a refined look and durability.
The sole is usually thin and made of leather or rubber. These shoes add a touch of sophistication to any formal attire, such as suits or dress trousers.
Oxford Shoes
Oxford shoes are a classic choice for formal wear. They are characterized by their closed lacing system. This means the shoelace eyelets are attached to the shoe’s vamp, lying flat underneath.
This design gives them a clean and elegant look, making them perfect for the most formal events. They are often made from polished leather in black or brown colors.
A well-made pair of Oxford shoes can last for many years with proper care. Their timeless design ensures they never go out of style. When you see someone wearing a sharp suit, chances are they have on a pair of Oxfords.
They represent a commitment to classic style and professionalism.
Derby Shoes
Derby shoes, also known as bluchers, feature an open lacing system. The shoelace eyelets are sewn on top of the vamp. This design makes them slightly less formal than Oxfords but still very suitable for business and many dressy occasions.
They offer a bit more flexibility and comfort due to the open lacing.
Derbies come in various materials, including smooth leather, suede, and even patent leather for more formal events. They pair well with suits, sports coats, and even smart casual outfits. Their versatility makes them a popular choice for many men.
Monk Straps
Monk strap shoes forgo laces entirely, instead using buckles and straps for closure. They can have one, two, or even three straps. Double monk straps are particularly stylish and can be worn with both suits and more casual attire.
The buckle and strap design adds a distinctive flair.
These shoes offer a sophisticated alternative to lace-ups. They are often seen as a middle ground between the formality of Oxfords and the casualness of some other styles. The hardware detail provides a point of interest.
Smart Casual Shoes
Smart casual shoes bridge the gap between formal and casual wear. They are perfect for occasions that don’t require a full suit but still demand a polished look. Think office environments with a relaxed dress code, dinner dates, or weekend gatherings.
Loafers
Loafers are slip-on shoes that are comfortable and stylish. They don’t have laces or buckles. There are several variations, including penny loafers, tassel loafers, and bit loafers.
Penny loafers have a strap across the vamp with a cutout, traditionally used to hold a penny.
Tassel loafers have decorative tassels attached to the leather strap. Bit loafers feature a metal strap across the vamp, inspired by equestrian hardware. Loafers are incredibly versatile, pairing well with chinos, dark wash jeans, and even casual suits.
They offer a relaxed yet refined appearance.
Chukka Boots
Chukka boots are ankle-high boots, typically with two or three pairs of eyelets for lacing. They are usually made from suede or smooth leather. Their simplicity and comfort make them a great choice for smart casual outfits.
They look particularly good with jeans and chinos.
The classic desert boot is a type of chukka boot with a crepe rubber sole, offering excellent comfort and a distinctive look. Chukkas are a staple for any man wanting to step up his casual style without looking too dressed up.
Brogues
Brogues are characterized by decorative perforations, or broguing, on the leather. While full brogues (wingtips) can be quite formal, semi-brogues and quarter-brogues offer a more versatile smart casual option. The broguing adds texture and visual interest.
Brogues can be found in various shoe styles, including Oxfords, Derbies, and even some boots. They are a great way to add a touch of personality to your outfit. The perforations are not just for show; historically, they helped drain water in marshy terrain.
Casual Shoes
Casual shoes are designed for everyday comfort and relaxed settings. They come in a wide array of styles, materials, and colors, allowing for personal expression. These are your go-to shoes for running errands, meeting friends, or lounging around.
Sneakers
Sneakers have evolved from athletic footwear to a fashion staple. They range from performance-oriented trainers to stylish lifestyle sneakers. Materials include canvas, leather, and synthetic fabrics.
They are perfect for active days or when you want a comfortable, laid-back look.
There are many types of sneakers, including low-tops, high-tops, and slip-on styles. They can be paired with jeans, shorts, and even some casual trousers. White leather sneakers, for example, are a classic choice that can elevate a casual outfit.
Boat Shoes
Boat shoes, or deck shoes, originated as footwear for sailors. They typically have non-slip soles and are made from leather or canvas. They often feature a moccasin-like construction and laces that go around the heel for a secure fit.
They are a classic summer shoe.
Boat shoes are best worn with shorts, chinos, or casual trousers. They offer a preppy, nautical vibe and are ideal for warm weather. They are comfortable and easy to wear, making them a popular choice for casual outings.
Sandals and Flip-Flops
Sandals and flip-flops are the epitome of casual summer footwear. They are open, allowing for maximum breathability. Styles range from simple flip-flops to more structured leather sandals.
They are perfect for the beach, pool, or very hot days.
While very casual, some leather sandals can be dressed up slightly for a relaxed evening. However, they are generally not suitable for any setting requiring even a degree of formality.
Athletic Shoes
Athletic shoes are specifically designed for sports and physical activities. They prioritize performance, support, and comfort for specific movements. Using the wrong type of athletic shoe for an activity can lead to injury.
Running Shoes
Running shoes are built for cushioning and shock absorption to protect feet and joints during runs. They offer good support and flexibility. Different types exist for various running surfaces and gaits.
A runner’s gait (how they walk or run) and foot strike pattern influence the type of running shoe needed. For example, neutral runners might choose shoes with more cushioning, while overpronators might need stability shoes to control foot motion. This careful design ensures optimal performance and injury prevention.
Training Shoes
Training shoes, or cross-trainers, are versatile and suitable for a range of activities like gym workouts, cross-training, and some court sports. They offer a balance of cushioning, support, and stability. They are not usually specialized for high-impact activities like marathon running or intense basketball.
The key feature of training shoes is their ability to handle multidirectional movements. They often have a flatter, wider sole compared to running shoes, providing a stable base for lifting weights or performing lateral drills. This makes them a good all-around gym shoe.
Specialty Sports Shoes
These include shoes designed for specific sports such as basketball, tennis, soccer, and hiking. Each type has unique features. Basketball shoes offer ankle support, tennis shoes provide lateral stability, and soccer cleats offer traction on grass.
Hiking boots, for example, are designed for rough terrain and offer ankle support and waterproofing. Soccer cleats have studs on the sole to grip the field. Choosing the right shoe for your sport is vital for safety and performance.
Understanding Shoe Materials
The material of your shoes significantly impacts their look, feel, durability, and how they perform. Different materials suit different occasions and needs. Learning about them helps you choose wisely and care for your footwear properly.
Leather
Leather is a premium material for shoes, known for its durability, breathability, and ability to mold to the foot. It ages well and can be polished to a high shine, making it ideal for formal and smart casual footwear. Different types of leather offer distinct qualities.
Full-Grain Leather
This is the highest quality leather. It’s made from the top layer of the hide, retaining all the natural grain and imperfections. It’s very strong, durable, and develops a rich patina over time.
Shoes made from full-grain leather are an investment that can last a lifetime.
Top-Grain Leather
This is also high-quality leather, but the outermost layer has been buffed or sanded to remove imperfections. This makes it smoother and more uniform than full-grain. It’s still durable and looks good, but might not develop as deep a patina.
Genuine Leather
This term can be misleading. “Genuine leather” is a lower grade than full-grain or top-grain. It’s made from the remaining layers of the hide after the top grain has been removed.
It’s less durable and can be more prone to cracking and wear. It’s often used in more affordable footwear.
Suede
Suede is a type of leather with a napped, fuzzy finish. It’s made from the underside of the leather hide. Suede shoes are soft and flexible, offering a more casual or relaxed look.
They are more susceptible to stains and water damage than smooth leather and require special cleaning methods.
Nubuck
Nubuck is similar to suede but is made from the outer side of the leather hide, which is then buffed. This gives it a fine, velvety texture that is more durable and resistant to wear than suede. It still requires careful maintenance.
Canvas
Canvas is a strong, plain-woven fabric made from cotton or linen. It’s lightweight, breathable, and often used for casual sneakers and espadrilles. Canvas shoes are typically comfortable and easy to clean, making them a popular choice for warm weather.
While comfortable, canvas is less durable than leather and offers less support. It’s also more prone to getting dirty and can be difficult to waterproof effectively. It’s a great material for everyday casual wear.
Synthetic Materials
Many shoes use synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and polyurethane. These can be engineered to mimic the look and feel of natural materials or to offer specific performance benefits, such as being waterproof, lightweight, or highly durable.
Mesh
Mesh is a common material in athletic shoes. It’s a lightweight, breathable fabric with a porous structure, allowing for excellent ventilation. This helps keep feet cool and dry during intense activity.
It provides flexibility but often less structural support than leather.
Rubber
Rubber is widely used for shoe soles due to its durability, grip, and water-resistant properties. It provides excellent traction on various surfaces, which is crucial for athletic and outdoor footwear. It can also be used for uppers in boots or water shoes.
Choosing the Right Fit
Getting the right fit is perhaps the most important aspect of buying shoes. Ill-fitting shoes can cause pain, blisters, and long-term foot problems. It’s essential to measure your feet and try on shoes properly.
Measuring Your Feet
Your feet can change size over time and can be different from each other. It’s best to measure both feet. Stand up and place your heel against a wall.
Mark the longest part of your foot on the floor. Measure the distance from the wall to the mark. Do this for both feet.
The best time to measure your feet is at the end of the day. This is when your feet are typically at their largest due to swelling from daily activity. This ensures you get a size that will be comfortable throughout the day.
Trying On Shoes
Always try on shoes with the type of socks you plan to wear with them. Walk around the store for a few minutes to see how they feel. There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Your heel should not slip excessively when you walk.
The shoe should feel snug but not tight. Pay attention to any pressure points or rubbing. If a shoe feels uncomfortable in the store, it will likely feel worse after a few hours of wear.
Don’t rely on the shoe breaking in significantly; a good fit from the start is key.
Understanding Shoe Widths
Shoes come in different widths. Standard width is usually labeled ‘D’ for men. If your feet are narrow, look for ‘B’ or ‘2A’.
For wider feet, look for ‘E’, ‘2E’, or ‘4E’. A shoe that is too narrow can cause bunions and other issues, while a shoe that is too wide can lead to slipping and blisters.
Many shoe stores offer fitting services and can help you determine your correct width. If you consistently find that standard-width shoes are too tight across the top of your foot or too loose on the sides, you may need a wider or narrower option. This attention to detail makes a big difference in comfort.
Shoe Care and Maintenance
Proper care will extend the life of your shoes, keep them looking good, and ensure they remain comfortable. Different materials require different types of care.
Cleaning
For leather shoes, wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt. For more stubborn dirt, use a leather cleaner. Suede and nubuck require a special brush and cleaner to avoid damaging the nap.
Canvas shoes can often be washed with mild soap and water, and then air-dried.
Always allow shoes to dry naturally at room temperature. Avoid direct heat, like radiators or hair dryers, as this can damage the materials and cause them to crack or warp. Stuffing shoes with newspaper can help them retain their shape and absorb moisture.
Conditioning and Polishing
Leather shoes benefit from conditioning to keep the material supple and prevent drying and cracking. After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner. For a polished look, use shoe polish that matches the color of your shoes.
Apply it evenly, let it dry, and then buff with a soft cloth or brush.
Conditioning is especially important for full-grain and top-grain leather. It replenishes the natural oils that are lost over time, keeping the leather flexible and resistant to damage. Polishing also adds a protective layer.
Protection
Waterproofing sprays can help protect leather and suede shoes from water damage and stains. Apply them according to product instructions, usually before wearing the shoes and periodically afterward. Cedar shoe trees are also highly recommended.
They help absorb moisture and odor and maintain the shoe’s shape.
Investing in a good quality waterproofing spray can save your shoes from ruining in unexpected rain. Shoe trees are particularly useful for leather dress shoes, as they help preserve the sole’s shape and prevent creasing.
Matching Shoes with Outfits
The right shoes can elevate an outfit, while the wrong ones can bring it down. Learning to match your footwear to your clothing is a key styling skill.
Formal Occasions
For formal events, stick to classic styles. Black or dark brown Oxford shoes are the safest and most versatile choice. They pair perfectly with dark suits, tuxedos, and formal trousers.
Black is generally considered more formal than brown.
Patent leather shoes are an option for very formal black-tie events. Ensure your shoes are polished and well-maintained. The overall look should be sharp and cohesive.
Business and Office Wear
For a professional environment, Derby shoes, Monk Straps, and polished Loafers are excellent choices. Colors like black, dark brown, burgundy, and even oxblood work well. Match your belt to your shoes for a put-together look.
These shoes can be worn with suits, blazers, and dress trousers.
A clean, well-maintained pair of shoes projects confidence and attention to detail. Avoid overly casual or brightly colored shoes in a conservative business setting. Even in a more relaxed office, smart casual shoes are a good bet.
Smart Casual
This is where you have more freedom. Loafers, Chukka boots, clean leather sneakers, and some types of Brogues work perfectly. Pair these with chinos, dark wash jeans, or even tailored casual trousers.
These shoes are great for dinners, parties, or social gatherings.
The key here is to look polished but relaxed. Avoid athletic sneakers unless the event is very laid-back. Suede shoes in various colors are a great addition to a smart casual wardrobe for this category.
Casual Outings
For everyday wear, comfort and style are paramount. Sneakers, boat shoes, casual boots, and sandals are ideal. Pair them with jeans, shorts, t-shirts, and casual shirts.
This is your opportunity to express your personal style.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and designs within the casual realm. However, ensure your casual shoes are clean and in good repair, even if they are worn for relaxed activities.
Common Myths Debunked
Myth 1: All leather shoes are the same.
This is not true. As discussed earlier, there are many grades of leather, from premium full-grain to lower-grade genuine leather. The quality of the leather significantly impacts the shoe’s durability, comfort, and appearance.
Full-grain leather is the strongest and develops the best patina, while lower grades may wear out faster and be less comfortable.
Myth 2: You only need one pair of good shoes.
While investing in one high-quality pair is smart, owning multiple pairs is beneficial. Different activities and outfits call for different types of shoes. Rotating shoes also allows them to air out and dry completely between wears, extending their lifespan and preventing odor buildup.
A varied collection ensures you always have the right shoe for the occasion.
Myth 3: Expensive shoes are always better.
Price is often an indicator of quality, but it’s not the only factor. A well-made shoe from a reputable brand at a moderate price can be better than a poorly constructed, expensive shoe. It’s more important to focus on the quality of materials, construction methods (like Goodyear welting for durability), and fit.
Researching brands and reading reviews is more effective than just looking at the price tag.
Myth 4: You should always buy shoes a size larger to wear thick socks.
This is a common mistake. Shoes are designed to fit with a certain amount of space. If you need to wear thick socks, it’s better to buy shoes in the correct size that are specifically made for wider feet or choose a shoe model that naturally accommodates thicker socks, rather than simply sizing up.
Sizing up too much can lead to heel slippage and instability, causing discomfort and potential injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is the best type of shoe for everyday casual wear?
Answer: For everyday casual wear, comfortable sneakers or stylish loafers are excellent choices. They offer a good balance of comfort, durability, and style for various relaxed settings.
Question: How often should I polish my leather dress shoes?
Answer: You should polish your leather dress shoes every few wears or whenever they start to look dull or scuffed. Regular polishing helps maintain their shine and protects the leather.
Question: Can I wear sneakers with a suit?
Answer: In very fashion-forward or casual-leaning contexts, clean, minimalist leather sneakers might be paired with a casual suit or separates. However, for most traditional or formal business settings, this is generally not advisable.
Question: How do I know if my shoes are too tight?
Answer: If your shoes pinch your toes, feel uncomfortable after short wear, cause blisters, or your toes feel numb, they are likely too tight. There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the shoe’s end.
Question: What is the difference between a Goodyear welt and a Blake stitch?
Answer: A Goodyear welt is a strip of leather sewn to the upper and the insole, allowing the sole to be easily replaced and the shoe to be re-soled. A Blake stitch sews the upper directly to the outsole, making the shoe more flexible but harder to re-sole.
Wrap Up
Finding great for men shoes is all about knowing your options and what works for you. We’ve covered different shoe types, materials, and how to ensure a perfect fit. Caring for your shoes makes them last longer and look better.
Now you can confidently pick out shoes that match your style and needs, feeling great every step of the way.