6 Types of Shoes Every Man Needs (And a Few Nice to Haves)
Shoes are important—perhaps, the most important item of clothing in a man’s wardrobe, which is why I’ve compiled this list of essential shoes for men. Besides nailing the fit, I’d say that most men should first start with investing in a few quality pairs of shoes.
Fellas, it’s time to take inventory of your current shoe collection; what you have and what you may need.
A Gentleman Within reader recently emailed me asking, what shoes every man should own. And so I thought about it.
Of course it’s up for debate, but as with any list of must haves, it comes down to your age, lifestyle or personal preference.
ESSENTIAL SHOES FOR MEN
So, let’s get to it. Here are what I believe are the 6 essential stylish shoes for men and a few extras for good measure.
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1. The Brown Brogue
What’s first up on the list of shoes every man should own? The brown brogue. It will quickly become a staple in any man’s wardrobe. It’s as versatile as it is stylish. Ready for this? The term “brogue” is derived from bro, the Gaelic word for shoe. Brogues are characterized by the unique punching or decorative perforations along the shoe’s leather uppers.
Where To Buy Brown Brogue Shoes
» Readers’ Favorite: 10 Men’s Dress Shoe Types: Oxfords, Not Brogues (Everything You Need to Know).
Mo’ Money No Problem
- AE Fifth Avenue Cap-Toe Oxford – $395 ($279.97 on sale)
- AE Strand Cap-Toe Oxford – $395 ($276.50 on sale)
- Grenson Burnished Leather Wingtips – $330
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Ballin’ On A Budget
- Taft Beck Oxford – $275
- Beckett Simonon Yates Oxfords – $209
- Banana Republic Italian Leather Oxford – $158 (30% off at checkout)
- Ted Baker London Classic Brogues – $185
Did you know that brogues were originally added to leather shoes to serve as drains for muddy water?
I recommend a semi or quarter-brogue in a dark brown for your first pair. If you’re feeling sartorially inclined, go for a full-brogue (wingtip) in a tan/cognac shade. Keep in mind a pair like this is sure to turn heads, so if you’re not that comfortable with the attention, stick with a darker brown with minimal broguing. This will ease yourself into the wonderful world of brogues and give you limitless options to pair with jeans, chinos or wool trousers.
» Quick Note: You might like this comparison between Beckett Simonon vs Allen Edmonds.
The bottom line:
The brown brogue is a cornerstone of the smart casual wardrobe. It can dress up a pair of well-fitting jeans or dress down a tailored suit—serving you well, day or night, from the office to the dance floor.
2. The Suede Chukka
Surprised it’s number two on the list? There’s a good reason why.
Though not as dressy as brogues in the formality spectrum, it does land above the sneaker. It’s been said that the chukka boot is the first dress-casual shoe, which allows for tremendous versatility. Chukkas can play nicely with a suit, and can easily be worn casual with dark wash denim and a white t-shirt.
Where To Buy Men’s Chukka Boots
Mo’ Money No Problem
- Frye Bowery Chukkas – $328
- Mr. P Split-Toe Suede Chukka Sneaker – $365
- Edward Green Banbury Suede Chukkas – $1,530
Ballin’ On A Budget
- Astorflex Greenflex Chukka – $195
- Astorflex Ettoflex Chukka – $180 ($126 on sale)
- Astorflex Greenflex Rough Chukka – $175 ($114 on sale)
- Auburn Suede Chukka – $69.97
- Clarks Bushacre 2 Chukka – $60
- Clarks Suede Desert Boot – $119
- Thursday Scout Chukka Boot – $149
» Related: You might be interested in this Best Chukka Boots Complete Guide.
The chukka is a simple shoe with open lacing and two or three pairs of eyelets. You’ll typically find this ankle-high boot in suede or leather.
Did you know that a form of chukka, popularized as the desert boot, has its origins in the British military? Because of its comfortability and durability in harsh desert conditions, chukkas became many soldiers’ leisurewear of choice.
The ubiquitous Clark’s Originals desert boot is a go-to for starters. My suggestion is a suede pair, as the texture adds visual interest and a rich elegance to your look. As for colors—chukkas come in mostly neutral shades of brown and navy. Opt for a darker brown for more elegance and versatility or a lighter shade for more casual get-ups.
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