The 30 Best Men’s Shoes for Putting Your Best Foot Forward
Shoes aren’t merely accessories. Across their various silhouettes, shoes pay homage to the men of the past, upon whose shoulders we all stand. Whether you’re looking for a pair of dress shoes to accompany your new two-button suit, an option to impress a Saturday coffee date, or bulletproof workout sneakers that will get you through the next set, the best men's shoes on the market have you covered. You just have to discover them.
Quality shoes aren’t cheap—craftsmanship never is. But rest assured, many of these menswear brands have been making footwear for decades, and some even longer. Longevity in business doesn’t happen by accident or with shoddy workmanship, and these styles have withstood shifting trends and heavy demands alike. So while it can hurt to drop a few bills on some of the best shoes for men, it’s worth it. After all, they’ll be with you for a long, long time. Below, check out the top 10 types of shoes all men should have, and the standout shoes on the market in each category.
Boots
You need a pair of boots. Full stop. We could point to the epochs in the archetype’s history, from the Wild West to the military to just about every other manly enterprise. But we won’t. You already know you’re long overdue.
Read more: Best Winter Boots for Men
Wolverine 1000 Mile x Old Rip Van Winkle Batch 2 Boot
The 1000 Mile is a classic for a reason—and that’s because every many looks great in them, whether in the city or in the country. The Old Rip Van Winkle collaboration sources part of its heel from the company’s whiskey barrels as well as a distillery tag on their tongues. Unlike the standard line, it’s also got a stitched moc-toe that’s both subtle and sure to get a double-take from anyone who’s worn a pair.
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Red Wing Iron Ranger
Long live boots with history, and the Iron Ranger has it in spades. Originally built for miners in the 1930s, its rebirth as a menswear staple is ongoing and spans seasons and years. Buy them once, wear them often, and re-sole them as needed over a lifetime.
Read more: Best Work Boots
Blundstone 500
A Tasmanian original, they’ve been co-opted by horse girls and selvedge denim salesmen. Doesn’t matter; they slide on and perform whether you’re chopping wood or headed to a show. While they are available in a variety of colors, the shifts are subtle. The footwear, after all, should never be the focal point.
Read more: Best Hiking Boots for Men
Chelsea and Chukka Boots
Look east, across the Atlantic, for this category’s roots. From horsemanship to desert traverses, these shoes were made to move. As such, whenever you’re wearing sneakers, you could easily substitute a pair of these.
Nisolo Everyday Chukka Boot
Only with Nisolo is the Peru-Nashville pipeline a thing. The company’s shoes, including the Everyday Chukka, are handmade in the South American country with workers paid a living wage. It’s a real look-good, feel-good option.
Clarks Desert Boot
An original, its shape was adapted from a shoe found in Cairo Bazaar in 1950. It’s become a must-have in every man’s closet. The suede or leather looks good with everything, while the crepe sole provides a special kind of cushioning that bounces you from step to step.
Tecovas The Chance Chelsea Boot
Not every guy rides a horse, so we were happy to see Tecovas expand its cowboy boot line to include the Chance’s classic cityscape silhouette. Wear it with slim jeans; its raised heel still suggests the rodeos of the West. While this smooth leather option is handsome, a suede model looks even better.
Inclement Weather Boots
Like the U.S. Postal Service, a little bad weather isn’t going to stop you. So do yourself a favor and prepare for the worst. These boots will get you there safer, drier, and in style.
L.L.Bean Original Bean Boot
“Chances are, you’ll only ever need one pair,” writes the company on its legendary Bean Boot. Made in Maine since 1912, these onetime hunting boots have been tested against the worst weather and come out on top. A leather upper with bathtub-rubber bottom ensures nothing is getting through.
Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots
A staple in a wet cityscape, Hunter’s Original boot tops off just above the calf, creating an impervious rubber buffer between you and potholes filled by Mother Nature. A durable tread underneath provides sure footing down subway stairs, while a polyester lining helps manage moisture while running from a train (or the subsequent blocks-long walk should you miss it).
Read more: Best Rain Boots for Men
XtraTuf 6-Inch Legacy Ankle Deck Boot
Finishing just above the ankle, XtraTuf’s 6-Inch Legacy is for the man on the move. While still retaining the waterproof lower, they feature the easy-on of a Chelsea boot, making them more maneuverable with little reduction in protection. A favorite of Alaskan fishermen, they’ve got plenty of aquatic grip.
Sneakers
Adapted from the tennis courts and Olympic tracks of yore, today’s best sneakers display remarkable breadth. From futuristic Yeezys to classic training shoes, the best sneakers for men are marked by their ease of wear and comfort right out of the box.
SeaVees Legend Sneaker
California company SeaVees does heritage styles better than anybody, and its Legend Sneaker epitomizes this mastery. Perfectly sun-faded and with an easy shape that can pair with a suit or chinos, it’s a refined slacker with a growing 401K.
Karhu Originals Mestari
Finnish running footwear company Karhu has been around for more than a century, and its history intertwines with all the other great shoemakers. While it makes killer performance running shoes, it’s shown a penchant for digging into its archives to re-release heritage styles. Originally dropped in 1977, the Mestari has classic good looks, the original air cushion, and a full suede upper.
Adidas Yeezy Boosts
Kanye West and Adidas are constantly turning out new Yeezy models. While the output is seriously impressive, the pair still can't keep up with demand. If you're lucky enough to get your hands on a pair, you'll immediately understand what the hype is about.
Skate Shoes
Where would society be without skateboarding? The fountain of youth has experienced multiple rebirths even as it continues to influence generations of men to see the world differently. Today’s skate shoes are slimmer than generations past, and yet they have better durability and cushioning for all-day comfort.
Cariuma Catiba Pro
Newcomer Cariuma creates classic skate styles with greener components. The Catiba Pro has a triple-stitched suede upper that withstands the daily abrasion of grip tape, while a natural rubber outsole is both durable and lighter on the earth’s natural resources. The best part: If you wear one side out, the company sells singles to replace your fallen soldier.
Vans Skate Sk8-Hi
The first skateboarding shoe company unsurprisingly created many of the sport’s legendary shapes. Often imitated but never truly replicated, the Sk8-Hi stands out as a true classic. This skate-specific model features a durable layer just under the suede for longer wear, along with a grippier gum-rubber outsole (still in the classic waffle pattern) and an impact-absorbing sock liner for big drops—or just long days on your feet.
New Balance NB Numeric 272
Yeah, we admit some skepticism when New Balance jumped into the skateboarding world—after all, what does a running shoe company know about board sports? But its Numeric line has caught fire, and the 272 is part of the reason why. Light and slim, the shoe has great board feel and a durable vulcanized outsole. It’s a modern classic.
Loafers
Take a hint from the name: Loafers are not straight-laced. They are not designed for high pressure or formality; they are about elevating your attire while surrounding your feet in comfort. Wear them often.
Rothy’s Driving Loafer
Rothy’s has been catnip for women for years, so its debut men’s collection was met with anticipation. And then it dropped the unthinkable: a driving loafer. Madness? Not after you experience the comfort of their woven uppers. When dirty, just throw them in the wash with your towels for a complete refresh.
Quoddy Head Boat Shoe
Don’t be fooled by the Boat Shoe’s loafer-like laces; these are slip-ons in spirit. Their boat shoe design is half moccasin, and the leather strings might as well be decorative for as much use as they’ll get.
Easymoc
With so low of a heel, these made-in-the-U.S. loafers feel like they’re barely there. And that’s the point. The full leather uppers feel great out of the box, while a Vibram camp sole provides enough traction for wearing out on errands, coffee, or just a relaxed Saturday.
Slip-Ons
From the eternal slacker Spicoli of Fast Times’ fame, slip-on shoes became associated with men too lazy for laces. But good news: Even Sean Penn grew up, and now a more refined version of the classic still finds purchase in your wardrobe. So slip on, tune in, and get moving.
Mohinders City Slipper
It’s hard to be wowed by a shoe, but when Mohinders burst into menswear, the company turned heads. Is it a huarache? A slide? Hand-woven in rural India, they’re the most distinct footwear style to come out in years (second only to Yeezys). And yet they’re worn in the exact same way as your slip-ons of years past, distinguishing you while breathing well and only getting more comfortable with wear.
Glerups The Shoe Camp Sole
When the cold nights come or it’s trash-day morning and you can hear the truck coming, it’s time for Glerups. While half the company’s shoes feature a more indoor-centric sole, the Camp Sole is rubber and ready to move with you. Your toes, however, will still be sheltered under its warm, breathable wool felt.
Crocs Classic Clog
Crocs are back, and its Classic style is now available in every color under the sun. Pick your favorite, slip them on, and go. They’re super easy to wear, super comfortable, and super trendy. The renaissance will be televised.
Lace-Ups
Before there were sneakers or sport shoes, there were lace-ups, which men wore when in the city or traveling in the country. As such, they hold a critical spot in the modern man’s toolbox of footwear. From your favorite suit to a coffee date and beyond, lace-ups separate you from your peers.
Dr. Martens 1461 Oxford Shoes
Seasons change and companies come in and out of vogue, but Dr. Martens remains. Second only to its classic eight-eyed boots, the Oxford is a legend in its own right. The chunky Bouncing Soles may be impervious to a host of chemicals, but they’re also super comfortable and, like you, have timeless good looks.
Read more: Best Dress Shoes for Men
Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Cap-Toe Oxfords
One of the few essentials is a good pair of cap-toe Oxfords like Allen Edmonds' Park Avenue shoes. You will wear these to work, to weddings, to funerals, and to the most expensive restaurants of your life. In short, you will wear them to the most important events, so don’t skimp on quality.
Hush Puppies Plain Toe Oxford
For the traveling suits, the shirt-and-ties, and any other attire that doesn’t warrant the gloss of the Allen Edmonds, there’s a need for the workmanlike Plain Toe Oxford. Its muted leather doesn’t overpower; it pulls together elevated, casual outfits.
Running Shoes
The worst things get, the more men run. It’s just a fact. So whether your career goals are demanding or your workout routine has been lacking, it’s time to lace up and head out for a few miles. These will get you through in greater comfort.
On Cloud
Before its IPO, we thought of On as just a smaller running company surrounded by whales. But then came Roger Federer and apparel and lifestyle. Still, the company hasn’t taken its eyes off the prize, and its proprietary cushioning is unlike anything out there. It’s fast, lean, and built for a variety of paces.
Hoka Bondi X
The original “maximalist” shoe company has refined its chunky shape over time, but there’s still no experience like it. It’s ideal for those who are looking for soft cushioning and featherweight heft (usually an impossible combination). Bonus: Following industry trends, this shoe incorporates a carbon fiber plate for more zip through each stride.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21
So popular within running specialty stores that many joke that it could singlehandedly sustain a business, the Adrenaline is now in its 21st iteration and only getting better. Modest support for overpronators and yet not so severe that neutral runners can’t enjoy the ride, it’s as close as a shoe comes to a Swiss Army knife. An updated cushioning system sucks up pavement-pounding mile after mile.
Read more: Best Trail Running Shoes for Men
Sandals
Whether on vacation or during the long months of summer, every man needs a pair of skin-freeing sandals. Letting your dogs breathe is one of life’s great pleasures, but it also serves a purpose on the beach, allowing you to keep your shoes sand-free. Our picks will stay put, even when wet.
Chaco Z/1 Custom Sandal
This outdoor mainstay has been a favorite on the water and in camp for decades. With Chaco’s new custom program, you can select your color preference from strap to sole and everything in between. Regardless of hue, the sandals have the same time-tested durability and reliability.
Teva Original Universal
Without frills and yet with an internationally known silhouette, Teva’s fan favorites perform wet or dry. Introduced in 1984, its EVA midsole is supportive during long outdoor festivals, while its recycled plastic webbing allows feet to quickly shed water after a rafting adventure or jumping off a dock. When the end comes, they’re fully recyclable through the company.
Rainbow Single Layer
The original work shoe for watermen, this was the sandal of Jack Johnson and about half the North Shore of Hawaii. Cut from leather and reinforced with a nylon toe piece so they resist blow-outs, they also have foam arch support for all-day comfort.
Read more: Best Sandals for Men
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