Casual shoes are arguably the most important footwear to have in your wardrobe. They're great for trips to the mall or casual hangouts with friends. Some of them are pretty easy to dress up, so you might be able to wear them for parties and other events. And since they come in a variety of designs, wearing them is a great way to show your unique style!
The best thing about casual shoes is that there are tons of brands, models, and materials to choose from. Our buying guide, reviewed by fashion stylist Samantha Tidalgo, will tell you the things you need to consider before making a purchase. Also, don't forget to check out our list of the 10 best casual shoes for men that you can buy online.
Quick List - Top Casual Shoes for Men
Adidas
Classic and Sustainable White Sneakers That Go Well With Anything
Samantha Tidalgo is a former magazine editor with 15+ years of experience working as a creative consultant and stylist for major publications and other advertising mediums, such as TV commercials and events.
Carmina is a freelance writer and editor who joined the myBest PH team in September 2022. Fashion, cosmetics, and the latest household appliances are just some of the topics that tickle her fancy. She also enjoys watching crime documentaries and gets a kick out of solving showbiz blind items.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
The first thing to consider is the type of shoes that you prefer. These types differ in their overall silhouette and how they're constructed. Read on to learn more about them.
Gone are the days when sneakers were only worn in the gym or on the court. Nowadays, we see people wearing sneakers everywhere, sometimes even on formal occasions. Wearing sneakers give off that laid-back vibe. They also feature cushioning, making them the best choice if you want something comfortable to wear the whole day.
Today, there are many options when it comes to choosing which sneakers to get. If you want a safer choice that you can pair with almost any outfit, go for classic slim silhouettes in neutral colors. However, if you want a more unique look, you could experiment with newer and chunkier silhouettes and bolder color combinations.
Buy sneakers that compliment your wardrobe, don't purchase the latest trend if it doesn't match your style. Basic sneakers are the most versatile (Chucks, Vans, white sneakers, etc.) since you can match them with chinos, denims, and shorts in any color or shade.
Boots are great for elevating casual looks due to their unique silhouette. They're also a great option if you want something that'll survive wear and tear, as some models are known for their toughness and durability. While most boots are high-cut, there are still different types of boots.
For a smarter look, you could go for those with a slimmer shape, such as Chelsea boots. For a more casual look, you could go for a pair of Chukka boots. You could also embrace the tough footwear vibe with hiking boots like Dr. Martens!
Black Chelsea boots are the most versatile since you can match them with any color or style of trousers. Brown boots work well with lighter shades and mid-wash denim. You can match them with a double-breasted suit or a knitted long-sleeved top paired with tailored pants. If you want to look casual, pair them with a nice pair of dark jeans and a t-shirt.
Derby shoes have an open lacing system, making them a lot more casual than oxfords. While derbies are often worn for semi-formal events, once you pick the right style and color, you'll find that they add a classier look to your casual outfits.
They're perfect for men who need a seamless transition from a more formal corporate look during the day to a more casual one for a night out at the bar. Derbies also come in a variety of styles. You could go for a pair with chunkier soles for a trendier look, or you could opt for a pair with a bit of a heel for a sleeker look. The choice is all yours!
Derby shoes work well with jeans, casual trousers, and suits. They're more versatile than oxford shoes because they're more relaxed but still look formal. The difference between the two is oxfords are formal shoes with closed lacing, while derbies are slightly less formal and have open lacing.
If you don't like fiddling with shoelaces every time, consider getting a pair of loafers. They're typically made of leather or suede and are best paired with jeans, chinos, and even shorts. Their low-cut silhouette makes them great for showing off your socks. They also look great if you decide to go for the sockless look!
There are many different styles of loafers (penny, tassel, snaffle, apron). Wear them with a t-shirt and denims if you want a more relaxed look or a nice pair of trousers with a crisp button-down polo if you want something more smart-casual. You can also pair them with shorts, a leather belt, and a short or long-sleeved shirt for a look that's perfect for our local weather.
Aside from the type of shoe, you'll have to consider the overall design of the shoe. Do you prefer an iconic and well-loved shoe or one that'll work with any outfit? These are just some of the questions that you can ask yourself to help narrow down your choices.
Some shoe brands have been around for many years, and it's for a good reason. Many of the well-known brands have at least one iconic shoe that can easily be associated with that brand, such as the Vans Old Skool, the Adidas Stan Smith, or the Converse Chuck Taylor.
Going for these classic pairs is great if you want to wear something that everybody will recognize. Some of these iconic shoes have even been featured in different movies and TV series. For instance, the Nike Cortez was famously worn in the movie Forrest Gump, while the Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 was featured in the movie Kill Bill!
Always go for shoes that match your style and do not buy what is the latest 'hype'. You can't go wrong with classic styles like Adidas Stan Smith, Vans, Chucks, etc.
When picking out which shoes to purchase, you should take into account your style and usual outfits. If you want a pair that'll work with any outfit, you should opt for shoes that come in neutral colors like white, gray, brown, and black.
Not only are shoes with these colors versatile in terms of how they complement your outfits, but they're also timeless. They've always been in style, and chances are they'll always be in style. In short, you can never go wrong with neutral-colored shoes!
Style tip: your belt should match your shoes. Don't wear a black belt with brown shoes or vice versa. Your shoes should also be darker than your pants.
The material will not only affect the overall look of your shoes, but it will also affect their durability and maintenance. It will also play a huge factor in the price, making it a very important consideration when choosing a pair of casual shoes.
Canvas is a tough fabric that has been woven from a combination of cotton and linen. Shoes made out of canvas are breathable, durable, and relatively affordable. They usually give a more relaxed look to your outfit since they're usually found in sneakers.
Canvas is also a low-maintenance material. To clean canvas shoes, you can simply throw them in the wash and use your usual laundry detergent for them. If they break, they're fairly easy to replace, as they're more affordable as compared to shoes made from other materials.
When deciding the color of your canvas sneakers, you should know when and where you will use them. Pick a color that is most versatile and will match your wardrobe.
When it comes to durability, genuine leather is the material of choice. With proper care and storage, high-quality leather shoes are known to last for years. They're very easy to clean, and they tend to look better as they age. Leather can be used for everything, from sneakers to loafers. And they're a bit more formal, perfect if you're going for a smarter look.
It's important to note that a brand-new pair of leather shoes will usually require you to break them in, which is when the fresh leather softens and adjusts to the unique shape of your feet. They can be painful to wear at first, but once broken in, they'll eventually be as comfortable as any other shoe you own!
Every man should own a lace-up derby or oxford since they are both classic and versatile. Also, leather shoes should fit perfectly when you first try them on. They will stretch a little after you break them in.
Suede is a type of leather that comes from the underside of animal hide. As such, it gives shoes a uniquely rough look and an unmistakable texture. These properties give them a certain appeal that can add a different dimension to your casual outfits.
While suede is almost as durable as leather, it's notoriously difficult to maintain. Suede requires regular brushing to keep the nap as clean as possible. Once suede shoes get wet, they need immediate treatment and conditioning to avoid permanent damage.
The easiest way to protect suede shoes from stains is to avoid wearing them on days that they will likely get wet. Suede material can easily be stained, scratched, and damaged by water. Also, cleaning and storing them properly will make your suede shoes last longer.
Make sure to check the size chart of the shoe brand and model that you're after, as some models have their own sizing, which might not conform to international standards. It's also useful to read product reviews, as some buyers tend to mention their experience with the shoes and how the shoes fit them.
Many shoe models may also come with unique technology to improve comfort. Some well-known examples of these include Nike's Air technology, Dr. Martens' Airwair, and Ortholite found in some Sperry and Onitsuka Tiger shoes.
Always size up if one foot is larger than the other or in between sizes.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Adidas ORIGINALS Stan Smith Shoes Men | ![]() | Classic and Sustainable White Sneakers That Go Well With Anything | |
2 | Marquina The Grand Horsebit Loafer | ![]() | Handcrafted From the Shoe Capital of the Philippines | |
3 | Nike Air Max 90 | ![]() | Exceptional Comfort That's Perfect for Long Walks | |
4 | Dr. Martens 1460 Smooth Leather Boots | ![]() | Iconic Boots That’ll Never Go Out of Style | |
5 | Clarks Atticus LT Lace Derby Shoe | ![]() | Elegant Design With a Modern Twist | |
6 | Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top | ![]() | Iconic Sneakers Made From Premium Materials | |
7 | Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 Baja Heritage|HK4A1 | ![]() | An All-Around Shoe Sporting the Brand’s Signature Design | |
8 | Sperry Men's Authentic Original Plush Washable Boat Shoe|STS18677 | ![]() | The Perfect Shoes for Any Summer Outfit | |
9 | Rockport Classic Break Chukka Boots|TISG-63475 | ![]() | Suede Boots to Give Your Outfits a Rugged Aesthetic | |
10 | World Balance ELEVATION | ![]() | An Affordable Way to Get Into the Chunky Sneakers Trend |
The Stan Smith is the quintessential Adidas casual shoe for men. Its timeless appeal conveys an effortless and versatile style that suits any outfit. For over 50 years and counting, this pair of white sneakers has continued to hold its place as an icon. Today, it boasts a fresh redesign as part of Adidas' sustainability commitment to using only recycled polyester by 2024.
The Stan Smith has retained its classic silhouette, its tongue and heel tab logos, and the three perforated stripes on the sides. However, it's now made with vegan leather and Primegreen, a high-performance recycled material. Without sacrificing its iconic style, the Stan Smith is now constructed with the planet in mind.
Are you looking for budget-friendly yet high-quality genuine leather loafers? Considering its price point, this pair of horse-bit loafers from Marquina just might exceed your expectations! It's made of full-grain leather and is lined with premium pigskin for durability. It also features a memory foam footbed to make it more comfortable for your feet.
Each pair is meticulously crafted by hand, as it's manually cut and sewn by skilled Marikeño shoemakers. The Blake-stitched leather sole makes it both durable and easy to re-sole, while its rubber sole guards give you more traction while walking. Truly something to be proud of, these locally-made leather loafers are worth the purchase!
Nike's Air Max 90 is a champion running shoe that helped define the '90s. Worn by presidents, revolutionized through collabs, and celebrated through rare color combinations, its striking visuals, waffle outsole, and exposed air cushioning keep it relevant even today. Even better, this pair of Nike casual shoes for men gives you great cushioning.
Its padded, low-cut collar provides comfort during long walks, and its waffle outsole provides great traction and durability. Its design features different materials, stitched overlays, and colorful accents that stay faithful to the original 90s style of the shoe, making it the perfect kicks for that athleisure look!
There are a number of reasons why the 1460 by Dr. Martens has remained an iconic boot for more than six decades. First, its body is made of tough leather that might feel stiff at first but will eventually mold to the shape of your feet over time to provide a comfortable wearing experience.
It also has the trademark heel loop and yellow stitching with a Goodyear welt, which ensures its durability and gives it that iconic look. With every pair of Docs, you also get the patented Airwair sole, which cushions your every step. It also provides excellent grip, thanks to its unique pattern on the sole. These boots are best paired with a leather ensemble for a rugged look.
Whether you're going to the mall or are off to an event, these derbies from Clarks will surely turn heads with their elegant design. Crafted with premium leather and stitched with fine details, this pair is both stylish and comfy. It's made with Clarks' Cushion Plus™ technology for ultimate walkability and eco-conscious comfort.
It also has a breathable leather sock, ideal for all-day wear. To keep the shoe lightweight, it's constructed with a recycled EVA rubber sole. With its sleek, modern design, this pair features precise engineering behind its handcrafted details, making you look as good as you feel!
The Chuck Taylor All Stars is probably the most iconic sneaker in the world. It dates back to the 1920s and was named after Charles "Chuck" Taylor, an American basketball player. Today, its style remains the same. Its main material is canvas, and its toe cap and soles are made of rubber, which has anti-skid properties.
With this shoe, you get the vintage high-top silhouette, the All-Star patch on the side of the shoe, and the iconic logo at the back to complete that classic look. Its canvas material is also very durable, provides flexibility, and prevents blisters, so the sneakers can be used for various activities. After all, this pair was originally designed to be a basketball shoe!
After 70 years, the brand Onitsuka Tiger still feels young and energetic. Their sneakers were famously worn by Bruce Lee and gained popularity again in the 2000s when they were used in the movie Kill Bill. What started out as a running shoe to boost the Japanese nation's morale through sports is now a sneaker that continues to inspire today's generation.
With its leather body, you're getting a premium shoe with this one. Its rubber sole and heel-cross reinforcement also give you better stability. Plus, its updated velcro fastening makes it convenient to wear. It even has an Ortholite sock liner that ensures all-day comfort. Moreover, its simple design makes it suitable for most, if not all, outfits in your wardrobe!
These loafers from Sperry are easy to wear and are ideal for any summer look. They feature a soft neoprene lining and a removable cork footbed for comfort and breathability and are also equipped with Razor-Cut Wave-Siping™ rubber outsoles for wet and dry traction. Plus, they're machine-washable!
Users love how this pair's rugged and casual design works well with both shorts and pants. They also like how lightweight they are and how they mold to your feet as you keep on using them. If you're looking for the perfect pair of summer shoes, these topsiders are definitely sea-worthy and are essential for your adventurous lifestyle!
Sophisticated and stylish, Rockport's Classic Break Chukkas offer a work-to-weekend look that adds a tinge of ruggedness to any outfit, whether it be casual jeans or a dressier jacket and tie. Featuring a premium suede body, its straightforward aesthetic can match any outfit.
The pair's rubber sole is flexible and provides a better grip on various surfaces; plus, its soft knitted fabric lining feels comfortable on the feet. Furthermore, its cushioned footbed and heel cup conform to the shape of the foot for a personalized fit. And given the fact that it's a chukka boot design, it's very easy to lace up!
The ELEVATION sneakers from World Balance are great if you just want an entry point to the chunky sneakers trend. The main color used in its design is white and black, with pops of color in just the right places. It has a mesh upper design with synthetic leather overlays that adds style and provides comfort and breathability for the user.
This pair also features bounce pad insoles that absorb impact and offer cushioning in every step. It has durable rubber outsoles which offer superior traction and help you move freely. It also has heel and tongue pull tabs to make wearing and taking it off easier. With its value for money and hassle-free features, this pair is perfect for daily use!
Want some more info about casual shoes for men? Our expert, Samantha Tidalgo, is here to answer some frequently asked questions below!
Black and white are absolute must-haves, as you can pair them with most, if not all, outfit colors.
3-4 pairs. Every man should own sneakers, derby shoes, and Chelsea boots but this may depend on their lifestyle and needs as well as the weather.
Sneakers, derby shoes, and Chelsea boots. You can incorporate minimalist sneakers with different looks, from the very casual to the dressed-down formal. Derby shoes, on the other hand, are less formal than oxfords.
If your wardrobe is leaning toward dark shades like black and gray, black derby shoes will be the most versatile for you. Chelsea boots are versatile and fit for any occasion. Go for a dark shade of jeans with a nice t-shirt for a night out. You can change your look by styling Chelsea boots with a suit or a pair of jeans.
There are two factors that go into shoe care: proper storage and proper maintenance. Check out our picks below for the best shoe organizers and racks for the proper storage of your precious footwear. If you own some leather pairs, don't forget to check out our recommendations for the best polishes to keep them as good as new!
Author: Adriel Coseip
Re-editor: Carmina Milan
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Adidas|ORIGINALS Stan Smith Shoes Men
No. 2: Marquina|The Grand Horsebit Loafer
No. 3: Nike|Air Max 90
No. 4: Dr. Martens|1460 Smooth Leather Boots
No. 5: Clarks|Atticus LT Lace Derby Shoe
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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