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Step 1
Decide what type of shoe you need. Will it be used for sports, the office or casual wear? Observe your peers to see what they wear. Depending on the situation, you need to choose a shoe that is appropriate for your environment. You wouldn't wear a running shoe to the office or a dress shoe to a track meet.
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Step 2
Your need to test-drive the shoes to make sure they feel comfortable. Buy your shoes in a physical store where you can try them on. Don't just try on one shoe either. You need to try them both on, secure the laces and walk around in them.
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Step 3
Make sure the shoe fits. Your heel and ankle should not shift or rub against the inside of the shoe. The arch of the shoe must support the arch of the instep of your foot. Your toes need a little wiggle room though.
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Step 4
When laying down good money for a shoe, find out if the manufacturer offers a guarantee for at least a year. The stitching should be tough enough to withstand real use, the sole should be securely attached to the body of the shoe and the structure of the shoe as a whole should stand up to wear and tear.
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Step 5
If you are a man choosing a leather shoe for a sharp overall look, follow the one-color rule of menswear: belt color should match shoe color. Preferably your wallet should match too. Brown and black are the usual choices, but there are plenty of others. No need to be completely bland just because you are a man.
