Which men’s casual shoes are the best?
Investing in a few pairs of casual shoes can revolutionize your wardrobe. In addition to style versatility, wearers find that casual shoes offer just as many comfort features as sneakers or even slippers.
All it takes is a quick glance in a shoe department to realize that men’s casual shoes are an exhaustive category with countless styles. Because there are so many styles, from business casual shoes to athletic shoes to boat shoes, many men invest in a few pairs to complete their shoe collection.
Key Considerations for Buying Men’s Casual Shoes
What is a casual shoe?
Casual shoes are one of those fashion categories that everyone seems to know but can’t quite define. While everyone has a slightly different idea of casual shoes, the consensus is that the category includes less formal styles that are comfortable.
Men’s casual shoes include more casual styles, like boat shoe and athletic shoes, as well as business casual styles that are considered office-appropriate and suitable for everyday commuting. Some people include flip flops and fashion boots in this category as well.
How many pairs of casual shoes should I own?
It’s common to own three or more pairs of casual shoes to suit a few different looks and dress styles. Also, some men invest in more than one color of the same pair of shoes, like this one Skechers Slip On Walking Shoe is available in navy blue and anthracite.
The best casual shoes for men with jeans, for example, can include slip-on styles or sporty boots. Business casual shoes for men, on the other hand, typically include leather and suede styles with finer details and premium construction. Travel-friendly casual shoes are comfortable styles suitable for long periods of walking, whether athletic shoes or a pair of boots with cushioned soles.
Comfort Features
Cushioning: It is common for casual shoes to have insoles padded with memory foam or gel. These help absorb shock and minimize foot fatigue. Because the memory foam and gel conform to the contour of the foot, these styles may provide a better fit for some wearers.
Breathability: Some casual shoes have breathable designs, in which they promote airflow around the foot to keep wearers cool. Many of these styles are constructed with breathable materials or have mesh panels.
Flexibility: The vast majority of men’s casual shoes have some degree of flexibility. Slip-on styles, for example, often have elastic detailing, while lace-ups allow wearers to customize their fit. Some styles use stretchy materials, such as spandex.
Sizing
Most men’s shoes come in sizes 7.5 to 13, and only some brands offer extended sizes. More and more brands have started offering wide widths, with New Balance leading the pack. This casual cross-training style, for example, comes in regular, large, and extra-large sizes.
How much you can expect to spend on men’s casual shoes
No matter your budget, you will find several pairs of casual shoes available. Many basic styles, like sandals and some slip-on shoes, are $50 and under. Casual shoes with better construction and additional comfort features cost between $50 and $100, while high-end designs with premium materials cost between $100 and $250.
The best casual shoes for men in 2021
boat shoe
Dockers Beacon Leather Boat Shoes
A classic style from a much-loved brand, these comfortable boat shoes have a padded tongue, collar and footbed. They are available in light brown and dark brown, in addition they are available in wide widths.
Sperry Authentic Original 2-Eye Boat Shoes
Fans of full-grain leather Sperry boat shoes appreciate their beautiful construction and durability. They feature an Ortholite footbed and a patented outsole designed to provide unparalleled wet/dry traction.
Sport shoes
adidas Originals Stan Smith Primegreen Casual Trainers
A throwback style with some updated details, this tennis-style shoe is a sporty addition to any casual footwear collection. They use soft synthetic leather and recycled materials.
Skechers Summit Forton Slip-On Casual Sneakers
Comfort abounds in this Skechers pair, with a breathable mesh upper, memory foam insole and padded collar. The lightweight midsole is flexible, making it a travel and everyday favorite.
Sold by Macy’s
Boots
Timberland Premium 6 inch Boot
This classic pair from Timberlands features a six-inch shaft, padded heel collar and the brand’s signature two-tone laces. The boots are made from premium nubuck leather and are available in over a dozen colors.
Koolaburra by UGG Kiran Chukka Boot
These suede boots will pair well with most jeans, khakis or slacks. The style has a faux fur sock liner to keep feet warm and comfortable. Wearers appreciate the simple, versatile style of the boot with details like the neutral laces and contrast stitching.
Slip-on shoes
Vans Asher, Men’s Skateboarding Shoes
An on-trend yet timeless option, these plaid Vans remain a customer favourite. They have a vulcanized sole for better grip and a padded heel collar. The breathable canvas style has a wide toe box to give you plenty of wiggle room.
Crocs Santa Cruz Comfort Slip-On Loafers
These Crocs loafers have West Coast vibes with a rugged twist on the classic loafer. The pair offers a relaxed fit, which is why many wearers consider downsizing. It is available in eight beach-inspired colors.
Business Casual Shoes
Flexible and suitable for commuting, this Kenneth Cole style is a favorite for business casual attire. It has some modern details, like a side buckle and a high traction midsole. The pull-on style is also popular for air travel.
Sold by Macy’s
Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Oxford Sync
These pebble leather oxfords are a comfortable alternative to more rigid and formal models. In addition to a smooth Lycra collar, the pair has a rounded toe and is flexible up to the instep.
Register here to receive the weekly BestReviews newsletter for helpful tips on new products and great deals.
Sian Babish written for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their buying decisions, saving them time and money.
Copyright 2021 BestReviews, a Nexstar company. All rights reserved.