6 Shoes Every Man Should Own
A well-curated shoe collection ensures versatility, style, and practicality for any occasion. These six essential styles cover everything from casual outings to formal events.
Low-Top Sneakers
Why You Need Them
A clean, well-maintained pair of low-top sneakers is a staple for casual and smart-casual outfits. They provide comfort, versatility, and a modern touch to any look. Whether paired with jeans, chinos, or even a blazer, they offer effortless style.
Mistakes To Avoid
High-top sneakers
Chunky or bulbous designs
'Dress' sneakers - dress upper with sneaker sole.
Not cleaning them
Not tucking the shoelaces
Statement sneakers - loud, flashy designs.
Fabrics
Leather or high-quality canvas ensures durability and an elevated look. Avoid cheap synthetic materials that wear out quickly and lose shape.
Colors
White is the most versatile, but neutral shades like gray, navy, or black also work well for a more understated look.
Master Every Dress Code
The Essentials App shows you exactly how to wear white sneakers with jeans, chinos, or even a suit—effortless style, made simple.
Want to see my favorite brands for each of these shoes as well as how to put together great outfits for each? Check out my Essential Capsule Wardrobe App.
Athletic/Running Shoes
Why You Need Them
Proper athletic shoes provide essential support for workouts, running, or other fitness activities. Wearing the right pair reduces the risk of injury and enhances performance.
Mistakes To Avoid
Big, chunky designs and profiles
Using the wrong shoes for your workout.
Bold colors and designs
Pairing with white socks
Cheaping out
Fabrics
Breathable mesh or knit uppers ensure flexibility and airflow, while cushioned midsoles provide comfort and impact absorption.
Colors
Black, gray, or dark-colored running shoes hide wear and dirt better. However, brighter colors work well for those who prefer a more sporty aesthetic.
Lace-Up Boots
Why You Need Them
Lace-up boots provide durability, protection, and a rugged aesthetic. They work well in colder seasons and add a masculine, structured look to casual and semi-formal outfits.
Mistakes To Avoid
Choosing the wrong type of boot for your body type.
Cheap materials
Not conditioning for bad weather.
Bold colors and contrasting stitching
Fabrics
Boot
Full-grain leather is the best option for durability and aging well over time. Suede offers a softer, more casual look but requires more maintenance.
Sole
If you live in a climate with more severe weather, go for a rubber lugged or dainite sole which provides greater traction, particularly in wet weather. A normal dress boot has smooth leather on the bottom and you will slip and slide in wet weather.
Colors
Brown and black are the most versatile and pair well with denim, chinos, and wool trousers.
Master Every Item
The Essentials App takes the guesswork out of styling every must-have menswear item and is customized to your age, height, body type, and skin tone.
Oxford Dress Shoes
Why You Need Them
Oxfords are the foundation of formal footwear, perfect for business, weddings, and other dress-coded events. Their sleek design ensures a sharp, professional appearance.
Mistakes To Avoid
Thinking black & brown dress shoes = Oxfords.
Too shiny
Bold colors (including laces).
Incorrect shade of brown.
"Dress" Sneakers
Fabrics
High-quality leather, preferably full-grain or calfskin, ensures longevity and a refined finish. Patent leather is suitable for formal events but less versatile.
Colors
Black is the go-to for formal events, while brown offers more flexibility for business casual and semi-formal occasions.
Chukka Boots
Why You Need Them
Chukka boots strike the perfect balance between casual and dressy. They work well with jeans, chinos, and even suits, making them a great choice for versatile styling.
Mistakes To Avoid
Cheap materials
Not conditioning for bad weather.
Pairing with suits
Bold colors, contrast stitching, or contrasting sole colors
Fabrics
Suede offers a more relaxed, casual feel, while leather provides a polished look that can work in semi-formal settings.
Colors
Brown and tan are the most versatile for casual wear, while black or dark brown leather adds a dressier edge.
Penny Loafers
Why You Need Them
Penny loafers are a timeless slip-on option that works well for business casual and social settings. They offer a refined yet relaxed alternative to lace-up shoes.
Mistakes To Avoid
Not wearing no-show socks
Bold or hard-to-wear colors
Wrong shape
Contrasting stitching
Ill-fitting - they should look like they were molded to your feet.
Fabrics
Leather provides a polished, professional look, while suede adds a softer, more casual feel.
Colors
Brown (particularly medium brown) offers the most versatility, but black is an excellent choice for a more formal appearance.
The Easiest Way to Look Great
The Essentials App gives you expert outfit formulas, styling tips, and shopping recommendations—all in one place.