Types of Mens Shoes & Slippers

Getting off on the right foot doesn't have to be hard--neither does finding the shoe that fits your style and needs. In fact, it's downright necessary for a modern male to know about his footwear options.

Oxfords

For business or a night out on the town, a good pair of oxfords might do. These lace-up dress shoes don't rise above the ankle and come in a variety of styles. Bluchers are open-laced oxfords with the sides sewn on top of the front, which cuts the shoe into stitched segments. Balmores are a closed-laced oxford where the laces are sewn under the front part then closed over the tongue, creating one whole piece. Some oxfords have a front leather piece known as a "cap toe," which may have intricate embroidery. Named for wing-like embroidery, the "wingtip" is the most common shoe of the oxford family. Wear black oxfords for more formal occasions and brown oxfords for everything else.

Loafers

Loafers are slip-on dress shoes and don't have any laces. Like oxfords, loafers come in a variety of styles, including the penny loafer and the moccasin, and not every man can carry off wearing them. For example, if you're young and hip, avoid the monk belt loafer with buckle. Tassel loafers are best suited with your Sunday best, but not for your pair of worn-out jeans.

Sneakers

Whether playing basketball or skateboarding, nothing beats a good pair of sneakers. High-tops are good for the court or if you favor skinny jeans. But you'll get more mileage out of a classic canvas sneaker like a pair of Converse or Vans, which goes with just about everything in your wardrobe. Always have a sensible pair of tennis shoes, running or otherwise, for the gym. One caveat, according to fashion writer Adam Fox, don't ever have your socks visible when wearing your sneakers with shorts.

Casual

Casual shoes can be worn with just about everything, making them the perfect everyday non-athletic wear. Swank and stylish, leather casual shoes are all the rage for the guy who wants a dressier shoe but without all the polish. These leather shoes resemble the lace-up oxfords but with a rubber sole, making them almost a formal/informal hybrid. Canvas loafers, also known as deck shoes, come in bright colors. It's best to wear these shoes with a pair of linen pants.

Boots

Boots aren't just for cowboys anymore. Ankle-boots, like the kind worn by the Beatles back in the day, are worn with suits or just dress slacks. For more formal occasions, wear an ankle boot with a pointed toe and zipper. For hiking, lace-up heavy boots with additional ankle support and thick rubber soles should be worn.

Sandals and Thongs

Thongs are excellent for beachwear because they are waterproof. Sports sandals are also waterproof and are good for outdoor sports activities. For outdoor spring and summer events, buy a pair of leather sandals, which go well with linen suits.

References

• "Basics of Men's Shoes"; askmen.com; Alex Muniz
• "Dos and Don'ts of Sneakers"; askmen.com; Adam Fox

Resources

• Askmen.com Fashion Advice