The Different Pairs of Shoes You Should Have as a Man

As they say, the shoes make the man. But with so many different styles and brands to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which are essential for looking stylish. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide for the shoes every man needs to have him look his best.

In this article, we’ll cover all the essential shoe types that a man should have in his closet, from dress shoes and loafers to sneakers and boots. We’ll also include some helpful tips for choosing the best shoes for each occasion. Once you’re finished reading this guide, you’ll be ready to step out with confidence and make a great first impression.

Formal Shoes

Formal occasions usually call for dress shoes with a bit more finesse than your day-to-day staples. The most popular types of dress shoes include Oxfords (also known as Balmorals), brogues, Derbys, monk straps, and loafers.

In terms of color options, black, brown, and tan are considered more neutral shades whereas more vibrant colors such as blue and burgundy are thought to be less conventional choices. When it comes to materials, the following are generally seen as more traditional: leather, suede, patent leather, canvas, and nubuck.

Then, there are the situations in which you’ll be wearing these shoes. Black tie events require formal footwear, such as Oxfords or loafers in your choice of black or patent leather options with laces or buckles. Businesswear, however, calls for Derbys or Oxford dress shoes in brown or black shades, and these can be paired with matching belts depending on the situation. For general workwear, reliable and comfortable lace-up Derbys or Oxfords in dark brown are recommended.

Casual Shoes

Casual footwear is often dictated by personal preference and style, but there are certain types that every man should have in his wardrobe to mix and match with different outfits. Sneakers are great for everyday use and come in all forms, including canvas slip-ons and lace-up designs in both low-top and high-top variations depending on preference. And of course, a pair of white sneakers for men is a classic, no matter what brand.

Boots are also versatile pieces that come in different thicknesses ranging from spring-season chukka boots to heavier leather desert boots and hiking boots suitable for winter weather. Sandals also provide excellent casual alternatives with options such as thongs, gladiator styles, and slip-on sandals available in numerous iterations, ranging from leather to vegan-friendly options.

Accessories

To ensure your footwear is always looking its best, there are several accessories necessary for proper care. Shoe trees help keep their shape, while shoe polish helps to remove marks and scuffs from leather footwear while giving it a fresh shine after each use. If you own suede items, however, then a suede brush is ideal for removing dirt and dust particles from its textured surface without damaging the material itself.

Shopping Tips

When shopping for any pair of shoes, it’s important to know what you should look out for. This applies especially to purchasing new shoes, as they can be quite an investment in terms of cost and time spent finding the perfect pair both aesthetically and functionally.

Remember, a good fit is key, so try different sizes if necessary. Look for shoes without pinching or hanging too loosely on your feet. Quality should also be taken into account, as genuine leather products tend to fare better than synthetic ones. Finally, you should consider the price of the shoes, as well as your budget, so you don’t end up overpaying for something that won’t work out in the long run.

Conclusion

By following this guide, you now possess all the information necessary to go out there and search for stylish yet practical men’s shoes, no matter what type of occasion you need them for. From formal events such as weddings to casual weekend activities with friends or family, you’ll be prepared for anything. With this knowledge, along with some patience and attention to detail, nothing is stopping you from putting together a collection of the perfect shoes!