When dress shoes are too formal and sneakers are too sloppy, casual shoes take the stage. They’re the fashion-fail-proof, always-appropriate shoe every man needs in his closet.
Aim for something stylish, versatile and seasonally appropriate, like a pair of Chelsea boots. These chukka-style boots offer a relaxed fit and trend-transcending minimalist appeal. Store your shoes in a dry place, such as a shoe box, or use desiccants like silica pouches to protect them from moisture.
Comfort
The comfort level of casual shoes depends on the style you choose. For example, sneakers with a neutral-coloured sock-like upper digitally designed for seamless wear and an ultralight feel can be comfortable enough to wear all day. You can also find a variety of shoe styles that combine fashion and function, like the Adidas Ultraboost, which pairs a soft sock-like Primeknit upper with Boost technology for heel-to-toe energy return.
If you’re looking for shoes that bridge the gap between formal and casual, consider brogues or Derbys. These stylish men’s casual shoes are sophisticated enough for essential meetings but also relaxed enough for Saturday brunch or drinks with friends. Look for a pair with details like wingtips and medallions to elevate your look without making them too formal. You can also try oxblood or burgundy-coloured men’s casual shoes to add drama to your wardrobe.
Style
Sometimes dress shoes can feel too formal, and sneakers can be too casual, so you need a shoe that can fit between these extremes. Enter the smart casual shoe.
If you want a little more dressy but casual, try Oxford sneakers with a more formal look. They are ideal for offices, bars and restaurants, and semi-formal occasions. You could also opt for a pair of casual suede green tassel loafers that are still classically rooted. These would work well with a grey herringbone blazer and twill trousers.
Flexibility
When dress shoes are overkill and sneakers are too sloppy, look to casual shoes for the perfect bridge. These versatile silhouettes are neither as formal nor as simple as dress shoes and typically sport a broader colour palette than their dress shoe counterparts.
The best part about these casual shoes is that they are just as comfortable as your favourite pair of sneakers. You can pair them with jeans, shorts, or a light linen shirt to create the perfect summer outfit.
Sneakers are a must-have in every shoe collection, but they don’t have to be clunky and chunky. You can find sleek sneakers that have a modern look that pairs perfectly with athleisure and some casual outfits. If you want to add a nautical style to your everyday shoes, consider wearing a pair of boat shoes. You can channel your inner beach bum at any casual party with non-marking rubber soles and a classic lace-up design.
Durability
The durability of casual shoes depends on the type of material they are made from and how well they are maintained. Leather is a popular material for casual footwear as it is durable and breathes well, evaporating sweat quickly and keeping the feet cool. Shoes can also be made with materials like canvas or suede, which are just as durable and comfortable. For quality casual shoes, check this out!
Sneakers are a great example of durable casual shoes. They can be worn with shorts or rolled-up chinos and are perfect for everyday events. They also pair well with a lightweight polo shirt or linen button-down.
To ensure the durability of your shoes, keep them away from moisture and clean them regularly. Water can cause the glue and adhesives to break down, leaving your shoes looking old and damaged. Store your shoes in a dry place, such as a shoe box, or use desiccants like silica pouches to protect them from moisture.
While you can find casual shoes in almost any store, the key is to buy a good quality pair that will last. Buying cheaply made shoes that won’t stand the test of time can actually damage your wardrobe as they won’t last and will end up looking worse than if you had bought a top-quality pair in the first place. It’s far better to have a small collection of sublime shoes than a closet full of sub-par ones.
