Finding yourself in the situation of purchasing new shoes every time the old ones wear out is something common with many men. The key is to keep track of what you already have on hand.
For instance, if you work at a restaurant, do you need three pairs of formal boots? Perhaps not, but do you always dress professionally when you’re not at work?
So, how many pairs of shoes should a man have in his possession? Usually, it’s recommended that every guy should have between ten and twenty pairs of shoes, depending on his lifestyle, the weather, and his requirements.
In this post, you’ll learn everything about the many sorts of shoes that a guy should have, as well as how to decide the styles of these shoes for himself.
Top Shoe Styles For A Man
The following are some of the most popular shoe styles for men.
Casual Shoes
Having numerous casual shoes is a fantastic way to add diversity to your day-to-day outfits while also matching your wardrobe.
You will not be wearing the same pair of shoes with every outfit in this manner.
Compared to dress shoes, casual shoes are less formal footwear, yet they still make you seem well-dressed and professional.
They are ideal for holidays, vacations, day excursions, nights out, informal work meetings, and getting together with family and friends.
Dress Shoes
Dress shoes are essential for any man’s wardrobe since they help you appear your best while you’re out and about.
What matters is that you stand out on that big occasion, whether you are in a suit for business or simply want to be seen.
A dress shoe is any style of formal shoe that you might wear to work, a formal social function, or a formal evening out on the town.
Dress shoes are available in various styles, such as Derbys, Oxfords, Monks, Brogueing, and Loafers.
Sneakers
Having a pair of running shoes to walk or run in should be a must-have for any guy. However, for serious runners, it is advisable that you have two pairs of running shoes that you can alternate between and that last a long time.
It is preferable to always run in shoes that provide optimum support for your feet; thus, greater cushioning is required while doing high-impact workouts such as running or marathons.
If you are going for a fast run, never put on the incorrect shoes since this might result in severe difficulties and injuries.
Running shoes should have a stable midsole with good support and plenty of cushioning in the heel with either EVA or Gel in the heel.
They should also have a thin outsole with enough flexibility, strength, and support for long endurance workouts, as well as a breathable upper construction to keep your feet cool and dry.
Boots
Every guy should have at least one pair of boots in his closet. It is possible to have a few different boots, such as a dress or casual boots, work boots, or hiking boots.
Boots are helpful for various occasions, more than only wet days.
They provide a wonderful finishing touch to your ensemble, and if you select the proper pair, they can be suitable for many occasions.
You may save them for formal occasions such as weddings or meetings, but you can also wear them on informal occasions like days out with friends.
If you live in an area where the winter cold is very harsh, it’s advisable to keep two pairs of boots—one pair of black shoes for formal occasions and one pair of brown shoes for everyday usage.
Depending on what boots you need to work in, you may need four pairs: two for formal and informal settings and two for work.
Sandals
Sandals are ideal for summer days at the beach or on boat cruises. Slingback sandals are offered in a wide variety of styles. You may choose from various styles, ranging from a casual pair to a sports pair.
If you don’t live in a sunny climate or participate in many boating or water sports, you may just need one pair of sunglasses when you go on vacation.
You may choose between casual sandals that can be worn with shorts and make you seem a little more sophisticated (ideal for boat excursions or walks around the water) and athletic sandals that are excellent for the beach.
Slippers
Slippers, particularly in the winter, are the best kind of footwear to wear at home to help you feel at ease.
In other words, every time you walk about your home, you are keeping your feet warm and adding a layer of padding to your feet.
Flip-Flops
When the weather is hot, flip-flops are the best footwear to go to the beach or wander about the home in the evening. It’s advisable to bring them with you when you are traveling as well.
To avoid your feet being damp or hurting from walking on the sand, you should always aim to get a pair that has some form of padding built-in.
Sandals
Sandals are ideal during summer at the beach or on boat cruises. Slingback sandals are offered in a wide variety of styles. You may choose from various types, ranging from a non-formal pair to a sports one.
If you don’t live in a sunny climate or participate in many boating or water sports, you may just require sunglasses when you go on vacation.
You may wear casual sandals with shorts and seem a little more sophisticated than your usual dressing.
Gym Sneakers
Every guy should have at least two to three pairs of workout footwear that he can switch out regularly.
The use of them for weight lifting equipment, jogging short distances on the treadmill, and cross-training is highly recommended.
In addition, as compared to conventional shoes, gym footwear enables you to experiment with various exercises and sports activities.
Take into consideration where you spend most of your time at the gym.
After all, owning fantastic gym shoes is a waste of money if you don’t attend the gym regularly.
If you alternate between lifting weights and doing cardio, you may invest in a pair of shoes that are specifically designed for each sort of workout.
How To Determine The Number Of Shoes A Man Needs
The following are the numerous aspects to consider while selecting the appropriate quantity of shoes to have.
The Weather
Weather conditions will influence the number of shoes that you should have.
Consider the following scenario: if you live in a chilly climate, it goes without saying that you will need extra winter shoes and boots.
On the other hand, open shoes, such as sandals, should be used in humid weather. As a result, constantly consider the weather conditions in your location.
The Nature Of Shoes
Find out whether the shoes you wish to buy are versatile and of high quality before making a rash decision or purchasing them on impulse because they seem appealing at first sight.
Lifestyle
It significantly impacts the number of pairs of shoes you should possess in different styles.
For example, if you work in a white-collar environment, you may need more formal footwear. If you have a more active lifestyle, on the other hand, you’ll want more outdoor, gym-appropriate, and sporting footwear.
If you live near a beach, boat shoes, sandals, or flip-flops are a better choice for your footwear needs.
Tips For Choosing Men’s Shoes
Make an effort to choose a shoe that is the same color or darker than your trousers.
Although it is a safe bet, your socks do not have to match your shoes. As an alternative, think of your socks as you would a tie – an accessory that may tie your whole outfit together while also adding a dash of spice to your appearance.
If you’re wearing a belt, attempt to match the color of your shoes to it, unless your belt is some kind of multi-colored striped thing.
Take inspiration from your clothing. What is the appropriate level of dress? The need for a casual, dressy, or formal event will change.
Casual attire is the most adaptable since it allows for a wide range of possibilities, but formal attire necessitates a more polished appearance.
Conclusion
Most guys should have between 10 and 20 pairs of shoes to supplement their existing shoe collection. There are several reasons why you should have alternatives as part of a well-rounded men’s wardrobe.
From the weather to various situations, you’ll need to alter your style regularly, and you don’t want to have to go to the trouble of pulling out your credit card every time you require a pair of shoes.
But when it comes to the quantity of shoes you possess, the final decision is entirely in your hands.
If you need some ideas for which shoes to start including in your wardrobe, definitely give this video from the team over at GQ a watch.
Up Next: Are Vans Business Casual?