Casual shoes for every occasion
A good pair of shoes can either tie an outfit together or make an outfit fall apart. Most men have a sense of what pair or two of shoes they need for formal occasions in their wardrobe. However, when it comes to casual shoes, there are many options. From outdoor kickbacks to garden parties to days out in the city, different settings call for a specific style of casual shoes. Having every look covered can give a man the confidence to know he can make almost any outfit look complete.
Casual shoe styles
The Chelsea boot
The Chelsea boot earned its name for the place that popularized it: Chelsea, London. First trendy in the ’50s and ’60s, this footwear has made a comeback thanks to its versatile and comfortable design. These are high-ankle, slim-fitting boots, traditionally found in leather or suede, with elasticized sides and pull-on loops for easy entry. They traditionally have a minimalist look without laces or seams and easily go with both semi-formal fitted black pants or ripped jeans.
The loafer
Every man needs a good pair of loafers. They’re easy to slip on but still look presentable enough for a nice restaurant or family gathering. Loafers are low-profile shoes that leave the ankle exposed, which makes them good for showing off stylish socks. They usually slip on, so they lack laces. Loafers can have many different design features, from tassels to metal buckles or no frills at all.
The dress sneaker
The dress sneaker is less formal than the Chelsea boot but a step up from sandals or trainers. Dress sneakers are appropriate for business casual work dress codes, and they go well with fitted jeans and chinos. Like athletic shoes, dress sneakers have laces. But unlike a shoe meant for any vigorous athletic activity, dress sneakers have flat soles.
The work boot
Though its name implies this shoe is designed for a rugged workplace such as a construction site or lumber yard, the work boot is a great addition to any man’s wardrobe regardless of his occupation. A good work boot will have a supportive footbed, good traction, a high ankle and a lace-up design. Weathered-looking leather work boots are especially trendy and go well with a pair of jeans and a flannel.
The chukka boot
Chukka boots combine elements of loafers and Chelsea boots. They rise to just around the ankles, typically have suede or leather uppers and have only a few eyelets for laces. They are good for a day in the city but also dressy enough for a business environment. Plus, they offer the stable feeling of a work boot without all of the laces.
A good sandal
No shoe collection is complete without a good sandal. Those who live in beach communities know that sandals are part of the unofficial dress code, but men around the world appreciate these open-toed shoes when the weather heats up. There are many types of sandals, including flip-flops, mules and walking sandals. No matter the design one chooses, a comfortable and supportive walking bed is always a must.
Best casual shoes for men
Polo Ralph Lauren Men’s Faxon Low Sneaker: Available at Amazon and Macy’s
These dressy sneakers come in over a dozen designs, each featuring the brand’s embroidered logo and durable metal eyelets for the laces. They have synthetic soles and a low-profile design that’s good for a day at the office or a barbecue. The lace material varies based on the style.
Adidas Men’s Adilette Shower Slide: Available at Amazon and Kohl’s
Great for the locker room, poolside or beach, these sandals slip on with ease and have a comfortable, contoured footbed. They have the trademark Adidas three-stripe logo and come in a variety of colors.
Reef Men’s Sandals Cushion Lux: Available at Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods
Featuring a full-grain leather strap and a multi-layer footbed, these sandals are built to last many days of playing in the sun and sand. They have a durable rubber outsole, cushioned deck and contoured design for all-day comfort.
Hey Dude Men’s Wally Stretch Loafer Shoes: Available at Amazon
With a stretchy upper, lightweight design and open laces, these shoes are comfortable and stylish. They have a soft oxford cloth lining and excellent traction. What’s more, you can machine wash them in cold water to keep them looking new.
Lacoste Men’s Concours Driving Style Loafer: Available at Amazon
With suede and leather options and the iconic Lacoste crocodile, these shoes can easily be casual or dressy. They boast flexible construction and a cushioned insole, along with deep grooves in the outsole for traction.
Steve Madden Men’s Highline Chelsea Boot: Available at Amazon
These boots have a sophisticated suede upper with a 5-inch shaft and a synthetic sole. They come in five colors that are easy to match with a variety of apparel. A cushioned bed and elasticized gores make them a comfortable pick.
206 Collective Men’s Chelsea Boot: Available at Amazon
These are a good value pick for this classic boot style. These boots have a genuine leather upper and durable rubber outsoles. They come in black or brown and are a staple for any man’s closet.
Clarks Men’s Bushacre 2 Chukka Boot: Available at Amazon, Macy’s and Kohl’s
You can dress up or down these classic boots that come in a variety of colors, along with either suede, leather or canvas designs. They have four eyelets for a minimal aesthetic and are available in sizes 7 to 15, as well as some wide varieties.
Bruno Marc Men’s Classic Suede Leather Desert Chukka Boots: Available at Amazon
Elegant and understated: These chukka boots have waxed laces and suede uppers. They are good for a business casual or purely casual environment. They come in several colors and feature a 4-inch shaft.
Chippewa Original Men’s 6-Inch Service Utility Boot: Available at Amazon
These boots are an excellent hybrid of rugged and sophisticated, with an embossed logo, contrast piping along the tops and a slightly weathered look. With welt seams and a springy cork outsole, they’re built to last.
Julia Austin is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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