Best Shoes for Men: A Guide to Finding the Right Pair
The best shoes for men are the ones that suit the occasion, feel comfortable and work well with the rest of your wardrobe. From smart leather shoes for formal events to versatile trainers for everyday wear, choosing the right pair can make getting dressed easier and more comfortable.
Rather than looking for one pair to do everything, consider building a small collection of reliable styles. Here’s what to look for and how to choose shoes you’ll enjoy wearing.
Everyday trainers
A comfortable pair of everyday trainers is a useful starting point. Look for a style that feels supportive, fits securely and suits the clothes you wear most often. Simple colours such as white, black, grey or navy are easy to pair with jeans, chinos and casual trousers.
Classic low-top trainers offer a clean, versatile look, while sportier designs may provide extra cushioning for long days on your feet. If you’re considering a distinctive style such as a shell-toe trainer, keep the rest of your outfit simple to let the shoes stand out.
Smart leather shoes
For interviews, weddings and formal occasions, a well-made pair of leather shoes is a wardrobe essential. Oxford shoes are among the most formal options, while Derby shoes have a slightly more relaxed appearance and can be easier to wear with a wider range of outfits.
Choose a colour that works with your suits and trousers. Black is a dependable choice for formal dress, while brown can complement navy, grey and earth-toned outfits. A comfortable fit matters just as much as appearance: your heel should feel secure, with enough room for your toes.
Loafers and smart-casual shoes
Loafers are a practical option when you want something smarter than trainers but less formal than lace-up shoes. They can work with tailored trousers, chinos and, depending on the design, dark jeans. Suede styles bring a softer, more relaxed feel, while polished leather looks sharper.
For everyday smart-casual dressing, consider a simple leather or suede shoe with a flexible sole. Neutral colours are easy to coordinate and can take you from the office to a meal out.
Boots for cooler weather
Boots offer extra coverage and can be a good choice for autumn and winter. A Chelsea boot has a streamlined profile that pairs well with smart-casual outfits, while lace-up boots often create a more rugged look. For wet conditions, check the materials and sole rather than assuming every boot is waterproof.
Leather and suede both need appropriate care. Use products suited to the material, and allow damp shoes to dry naturally away from direct heat.
Running and sports shoes
Running shoes should be selected for the activity and the way they feel on your feet. If you run regularly, visit a specialist retailer for advice on fit and suitable features. Shoes designed for running are not necessarily the best choice for every sport, so look for footwear made for the activity you have in mind.
For general training, prioritise a secure fit and a sole that suits your workouts. Replace sports shoes when they become uncomfortable or show significant signs of wear.
How to choose the right fit
- Try shoes on later in the day, when feet may be slightly larger.
- Wear the socks you expect to use with the shoes.
- Check that your toes have room to move and aren’t pressed against the front.
- Walk around in both shoes and notice any rubbing, slipping or pressure points.
- Remember that sizing can vary between brands and styles.
Build a versatile shoe collection
A useful collection might include everyday trainers, smart leather shoes, a smart-casual option and a pair of boots. Choose styles that match your routine and personal taste, rather than buying shoes simply because they are fashionable. Neutral colours are often the easiest to wear, while a bolder pair can add personality to a simple outfit.
Final thoughts
The best shoes for men combine comfort, suitable materials and a style that fits the occasion. Take time to find the right fit, care for your footwear and choose pairs that complement the clothes you already own. With a few well-chosen options, you’ll be ready for everything from relaxed weekends to formal events.
9 Tips for Choosing and Caring for the Best Men’s Shoes
- Choose shoes that fit comfortably, with room for your toes.
- Match the style to the occasion and dress code.
- Pick versatile leather shoes for smart outfits.
- Try suede for a softer, more casual look.
- Choose trainers with good support for everyday wear.
- Check the sole for grip and durability.
- Prioritise comfort over trends.
- Use shoe trees to help leather shoes keep their shape.
- Rotate pairs to let them air and last longer.
Choose shoes that fit comfortably, with room for your toes.
Choose shoes that feel comfortable from the moment you try them on, with enough room for your toes to move naturally. A fit that’s too tight can cause rubbing and discomfort, while shoes that are too loose may slip as you walk. Try them on with the socks you plan to wear and walk around to check that your feet feel supported, with no pinching or pressure.
Match the style to the occasion and dress code.
Match your shoes to the occasion and dress code for a polished, appropriate look. Smart leather Oxfords or Derbies work well for formal events, while loafers suit many smart-casual settings. For relaxed days, choose comfortable trainers that complement your outfit. When in doubt, consider the venue and what others are likely to wear, and opt for a slightly smarter style rather than one that feels too casual.
Pick versatile leather shoes for smart outfits.
Choose versatile leather shoes for smart outfits, as a well-made pair can work for the office, special occasions and evenings out. Black leather shoes are a dependable choice for formal wear, while brown pairs complement navy, grey and other neutral colours. Look for a comfortable fit and a classic design, such as an Oxford or Derby, so you can wear them with different suits and tailored trousers.
Try suede for a softer, more casual look.
Suede is a great choice when you want a softer, more casual look. Its textured finish gives loafers, trainers and boots a relaxed feel, making them easy to pair with jeans, chinos or smart-casual outfits. Choose a neutral shade such as tan, navy or grey for versatility, and use a suede brush and protective spray to help keep the shoes looking their best.
Choose trainers with good support for everyday wear.
Choose trainers with good support for everyday wear, especially if you spend long periods on your feet. Look for a comfortable fit, cushioning that suits your needs and a sole that feels stable as you walk. The right pair should support your feet without pinching or rubbing, while a versatile design in a neutral colour can easily complement jeans, chinos and casual outfits.
Check the sole for grip and durability.
Check the sole for grip and durability, especially if you’ll be wearing the shoes regularly or in changeable weather. A well-made sole should feel sturdy, provide reliable traction on the surfaces you use most, and resist wearing down quickly. For wet or uneven ground, look for a tread pattern with enough texture to help reduce slipping.
Prioritise comfort over trends.
Prioritise comfort over trends when choosing shoes: a fashionable pair isn’t a good buy if it pinches, rubs or leaves your feet aching. Look for a secure fit, enough room for your toes and support suited to how you’ll wear them. Comfortable shoes are more likely to become dependable favourites, whatever the current style happens to be.
Use shoe trees to help leather shoes keep their shape.
Use shoe trees to help leather shoes keep their shape between wears. They can absorb some moisture and reduce creasing, helping your footwear look its best for longer. Choose shoe trees that fit comfortably without stretching the leather, and place them in your shoes after wearing.
Rotate pairs to let them air and last longer.
Rotate between pairs of shoes rather than wearing the same ones every day. Giving each pair time to air helps moisture evaporate and can reduce odour and wear, while allowing the materials to recover between wears. Keep shoes in a dry, ventilated place, and use shoe trees for leather pairs to help them retain their shape and last longer.