With the acceptance of casual wear in workplaces, parties and other settings, casual shoes have become the go-to choice for every man. However, this is serious business, and the wrong shoe choice can land you in the worst-dressed category.
You might be thinking how can you ever go wrong with casual shoes, they are casual for a reason and that should be a no-brainer, right?
Well, you are wrong!
With the increasing popularity and acceptance of men’s casual shoes on various occasions and places, there are too many styles and choices available and it can be quite confusing to know which one to choose.
In order to get the right look, it’s important to understand the different types of men’s casual shoes. Here is a list
Sneakers
The most popular basic footwear, regardless of age, sneakers are owned and loved by everyone. Designed for everyday wear, no wardrobe is complete without a good pair of sneakers for men. Sneakers come in different styles and shapes. The four main types are basic, elegant, slip-on, and sporty.
Men’s athletic shoes provide the perfect opportunity to show off their style. Sneakers are not only comfortable to wear, but they go with almost everything in your wardrobe if styled the right way. While sneakers can be worn with most outfits, here’s where you can wear them to make an impression.
To carry
- A romantic date
- Party/Club
- Office (without strict dress code)
Avoid
- Job interview
- Occasional business events
- Beach/pool
© MensXP
Sneakers
Summer favourites, espadrilles are hassle-free slip-ons that are easy to wear and guarantee all-day comfort. Shirts, T-shirts, jeans, chinos and shorts, sneakers can be paired with anything casual. They’re also a great choice for the office, if your workplace doesn’t have a strict dress code. Opt for subtle colors and patterns when wearing them to the office.
Men’s sneakers are a great choice and make your casual outfit more fun and comfortable. Here’s where you should and shouldn’t wear these men’s casual shoes.
To carry
- Brunch
- Beach/pool
- Office (without strict dress code)
Avoid
- Formal or semi-formal events
- A romantic date
- club night
© MensXP
boat shoe
Another slip-on par excellence, these casual shoes for men represent marine behavior, so they are known as boat shoes. They are usually available in different types of leather or canvas and feature a low cut soft rubber sole/outsole and laces that run through the eyelets on the top and sides.
Brown is the most popular color, however, colors like navy blue, gray, beige, burgundy, etc. have their own charm. Boat shoes are quite versatile, but cannot be worn everywhere.
To carry
- A romantic date
- Party/Club
- Office (without strict dress code)
Avoid
- Job interview
- Formal events
- Beach/pool
© iStock
Moccasins
Often confused with strollers, these casual slip-on shoes for men are very similar in style to boat shoes. They are also known as driving shoes and house shoes. The loafers have no heel and the upper and sole/outsole are made of the same material. They may or may not have rubber pods on the sole/outsole.
They are very comfortable to wear thanks to their super soft construction. However, lacking a hard outsole and heel support, it is not recommended for events that include too much walking or other physical activity. Here’s where you should and shouldn’t wear loafers.
To carry
- A romantic date
- Occasional events
- Office (without strict dress code)
Avoid
- Formal or semi-formal events
- Party/Club
- Beach/pool
© MensXP
Loafers
The most versatile shoes of all time, loafers for men fall into formal and casual shoe categories depending on construction and type. Most moccasins are made of leather or suede. Leather loafers are mostly considered formal due to their sophisticated construction and appearance. Suede loafers give off a more casual or outdoor vibe.
You can’t really go wrong with loafers, they can be worn with any outfit and at any place or occasion. However, here is a list of where you should avoid wearing them.
Avoid
- road trip
- Beach/pool
- Suede moccasins at formal events
© MensXP
Sandals
Including sandals for men under “shoes” is technically wrong, but there’s no denying that sandals are a popular casual shoe choice. You can pair them with shorts, jeans, tank tops, tees, shirts, chinos and the list is endless.
Sandals are the most casual footwear than others and cannot be worn everywhere.
To carry
- shopping
- Weekends with friends
Avoid
- Formal or semi-formal events
- Party/Club
- A romantic date
© MensXP
Conclusion
Casual shoes are subject to more wear and tear than formal shoes. This is why investing in the right pair is extremely important.
We hope this guide has helped you brush up on some staple shoe styles!