What to Look for When Choosing Men's Comfy Shoes
Shoes are a crucial part of any man’s wardrobe. They can be an indicator of style, but having the right pair of shoes goes beyond looking fashionable. It’s about feeling good and being confident. Shoes can make or break your overall look, so nailing this clothing essential is crucial for mastering your style game and completing your look.
No matter how stylish your shoes are, they need to be comfortable. You can’t erase the time of wearing the wrong shoes, but you can buy men comfy shoes for any occasion. To help you narrow down your selection, here are some of the main types of modern gentlemen’s shoes and a few tips on how to choose the right pair.
Different Types of Men’s Shoes: The Basics
Sneakers
They’re at the forefront of men’s footwear with no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Sneakers are a comfy and versatile option that can be paired with anything from jeans to trousers and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Dress Shoes
Oxford shoes are classic, lace-up dress shoes featuring a low heel and a polished appearance. They’re ideal for formal events, weddings, business and black-tie meetings and more. Derby shoes, on the other hand, are similar to Oxfords, but slightly more casual. They’re suitable for business casual settings, semi-formal events and everyday office wear.
Boots
Chukka boots are ankle-length lace-up boots, a versatile solution for various occasions, from smart-casual events to outdoor activities. Chelsea boots are ankle-length boots with an elastic side panel, they’re easy to slip on and off and are great for both dressy and casual occasions.
Sandals
Sandals are some of the most comfortable shoes for men out there, open-toe footwear available in various styles and crafted for breathability. They’re excellent for casual outdoor activities and relaxed settings.
A Few Tips on How to Choose the Right Shoes
Make Comfort a Priority
Looking stylish is important, but so is feeling comfortable in your own shoes. Never sacrifice comfort when it comes to your footwear choices. Consider the activities you’ll be engaging in during an event and choose a pair of men’s comfortable shoes that will provide the needed support. If you’ll be on the move or standing on your feet for longer periods, go for shoes with cushioned insoles and good arch support.
An extra tip: make sure to break in new shoes beforehand, so you won’t have to worry in case you’ll be wearing them for the first time at an important event.
Consider the Material
Investing in high-quality shoes may cost more upfront, but it can save you money in the long run. Well-made shoes last longer and require fewer replacements. Leather is the go-to material for shoes and it seems it will never go out of style. There are different types available, including full-grain, top-grain and more. The greatest advantage of leather shoes is that they work for all kinds of occasions, from formal to casual hangouts.
Suede is a softer version of leather and it gives a relaxed and chill vibe to the overall look of the shoe. Suede shoes are a great choice for semi-formal events and casual outings.
Consider the Occasion, too
Before buying a pair of shoes, think about where you’ll be wearing them. Different events call for different levels of formality and while dress shoes are the solution for formal events like weddings and business meetings, casual shoes are more suitable for relaxed occasions like weekend brunches and nights out with friends. When in doubt, stick to the classics. Black or brown leather shoes are timeless and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
Measure Your Feet for the Perfect Fit
Finding the perfect fit can be a challenging task, especially when buying shoes online. To ensure a comfortable fit and avoid unnecessary returns, measure your feet properly before making a purchase. Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the length of your feet from the heels to the longest toes and use the larger measurement for accuracy. Measure your feet at the end of the day and wear the right socks for a more accurate fit.
Always refer to the size chart provided by the retailer to find the most appropriate size as different shoe brands and manufacturers may have different sizing. If you’re in between sizes, it’s always better to opt for half sizes, if available, to get a more precise fit. Remember to consider your foot width, whether it’s regular, narrow or wide, and choose accordingly.
Also, the closure system can play a role in the fit. Shoes with laces allow for a more personalised fit as they allow you to adjust the tightness, whereas slip-on shoes are more convenient but have less adjustability.
Final Thoughts: The Importance of Proper Shoe Care
Choosing the right pair of shoes can make a big difference in your confidence and style, no matter the occasion or event. Investing in men’s comfy shoes and matching them with your outfit can make a lasting impression on the people around you.
If you want your shoes to stay in good shape for longer, taking care of them is essential. Make sure you clean them regularly and store them properly. Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and avoid stacking or crushing your shoes together as it may cause them to lose their shape.
