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The world of footwear has changed a lot since the days of wearing Oxfords to the office and boat shoes to the barbecue. Now, there are plenty more casual options that carry you from place to place without the need for a shoe swap. The best casual shoes for men are comfortable enough to wear anywherewhether you’re on the job, traveling for work or out to dinner. Many are sophisticated, some verge closer to sneakers, but all of them are laidback and easy to style.

We rounded up the top options, including our best overall pick from Allbirds, that you can wear with a simple pair of jeans, more polished chinos or even a formal suit, in some circumstances. If you have specific needs—you’re a big walker, you prefer slip-ons or you have flat arches—there are options for you. Here, the best casual shoes for men that we highly recommend.

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Sizes: 8 to 14 | Upper materials: Knit made from eucalyptus tree fiber | Sole material: Brazilian sugarcane (SweetFoam) | Colors: 16 total, including Jet Black and Mist

  • What’s notable: This pair is machine washable, so you don’t have to stress about spills or scuffs.
  • What could be better: It comes in whole sizes only, which can be frustrating to some.

Perfect for everything from the workday to a plane trip to even some light exercise, Allbirds’s Tree Runners are simple to slip on and feel comfortable all day in. Between the light knit upper, cushioned sole and relaxed style, they’re an easy pick for your collection. You can feel good about wearing them too; every material they’re made with is sustainably sourced.

What the reviews say: These shoes are praised for their versatility and comfort: Reviewers comment, “these shoes changed my life,” and “I work in retail and these are the only shoes that I can wear all day without my feet hurting.” But some remark that they can be hard to get on, saying if you have big or wide feet, the shoe opening can be “very shallow.”


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Sizes: 7 to 14 | Upper materials: Antimicrobial mesh | Sole material: CloudTec rubber | Colors: 14 total, including Glacier and Midnight

  • What’s notable: These come with both a bungee lace-locking system and traditional laces, and they’re available in a waterproof version.
  • What could be better: Some users have reported quality issues after a few months of wear.

Whether you’re taking them on a job or just running errands, On’s popular Cloud 5 sneakers slip on easily with their pull lace-locking system and ultra-lightweight design. They look unique—and they’ve also been updated with 44% recycled materials. While they might be a little pricey, they’re well-made, sleek and stylish, which is important for a pair you’ll wear everyday.

What the reviews say: This shoe is praised for being both featherweight and an easy-to-wear-all-day style. Users say “my foot pain is completely gone after two months of consistently wearing these shoes,” and they’re “comfortable right out of the box. No break-in time needed.” Some people comment, though, that the stitching around the laces could be better and the sole could be more durable.


Cole Haan Men’s 2.Zerøgrand Laser Wingtip Oxford

Sizes: 6 to 16 | Upper materials: Leather, nubuck, suede | Sole material: Rubber | Color: 9 total, including British Tan and Marine Blue

  • What’s notable: The look like dress shoes but feel like sneakers, and this style is available in medium and wide widths.
  • What could be better: These run large, so you may have to size down, and the soles are not true white.

When you need a comfortable pair of shoes for the office, Cole Haan is a reliable source. Its Zerøgrand shoes have been work staples for years, and this latest iteration seamlessly blends business with a touch of laidback style, particularly with the sporty sole and mesh upper. They’ll keep you looking like a pro, but feeling like you’re lounging about.

What the reviews say: This shoe is a standout for its cushy, lightweight sole and business-appropriate style, with wearers saying they are a “sharp looking shoe that is more comfortable than my sneakers,” and they have “great style and comfort that can be either dressy or casual.” However, some say the leather could be better since “the edges of the shoe are hard and rub against the ankle.”


Sizes: 6 to 14 | Upper materials: Leather | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 14 total, including Burnt Copper and Driftwood

  • What’s notable: The comfy cork midsoles form to your feet with wear.
  • What could be better: This style runs large so you may want to consider ordering a half size down.

These lace-up boots from Thursday Boot Company are durable and rugged, but they’re also sophisticated enough to fit in at the office. With an upper made from hand-stitched, genuine leather, they’re designed to build character and patina—they only get better looking with age. There are over a dozen hues and finishes available, including sleek matte black and textured suede.

What the reviews say: Quality and comfort are two hallmarks of these boots, with users saying, “everything about these boots exudes class,” and they’re made of “quality leather, great color, with the perfect weight, not heavy at all on my feet yet still feel very sturdy.” But they’re not without some small shortcomings. The leather requires break-in time and one buyer noticed that “stress markings appeared in multiple spots.” 


Nike Court Vision Low

Sizes: 6 to 15 | Upper materials: Leather, synthetic materials | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 10 total, including White and Black

  • What’s notable: The discreet perforations on this style add to its breathability.
  • What could be better: It runs narrow, and the white color requires upkeep to keep it free of scuffs and stains.

Retro looks never go out of style—nor do crisp, white sneakers—and this classic throwback to the ‘80s will keep you looking fresh with your favorite pair of jeans or shorts. Plus, Nike updated the construction with 20% recycled materials at minimum, so you can feel good about this pick. The supple synthetic upper is flexible, and the collar hits low on the ankle so you move with ease. And FYI, if you’re shopping through Amazon, keep in mind: The Nike Court Vision Low sneakers are listed as “Nike Men’s Basketball Shoe.”

What the reviews say: Wearers “love the material and the way they hold up over time” and say that they’re “comfortable and supportive.” However, some say these run “very narrow” and “crease instantly.”


Birkenstock Boston Clog

Sizes: 6 to 17.5 | Upper materials: Leather | Sole material: Ethylene-vinyl acetate| Colors: 6 total, including Mocha and Black

  • What’s notable: These come in both medium and wide widths to accommodate different foot shapes, and they’re easy to slip on.
  • What could be better: The soles might require a break-in period.

The clogs that started it all. To add to their timelessness, they look just as good, if not better, with age. This pair is made with a classic leather upper for an extra dash of sophistication. It has the same German design and comfort that you remember, which has everything to do with the soft cork-and-latex footbed that molds to your foot.

What the reviews say: Most people love that these shoes are easy on, easy off, and one comments that they’re “just what my feet needed: support with style.” But one reviewer says that “the strap’s metal rivet popped off twice,” and some recommend to “size down and make sure you pay attention to the width of the shoe.”


Sizes: 7 to 16 | Upper materials: Recycled polyester | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 23 total, including Midnight Ocean and Harbor Mist

  • What’s notable: This shoe is extremely cushy yet lightweight.
  • What could be better: The fit might be too narrow for wide feet.

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a lightweight running shoe that’s constructed with a compression molded EVA foam insole and a breathable mesh upper. But unlike a good deal of athletic footwear, this pair also fits right in with a pair of jeans or chinos, thanks to its structured silhouette. There are several color options to choose from, ranging from neutral gray and black to bold blue and orange. And, the women’s version of this style also happens to be one of our favorite walking shoes for women.

What the reviews say: Praised for their springy padding, users say that these shoes are “soft yet supportive with a good heel to toe stride so they don’t feel awkward or clunky” and “I used to have so much pain from my plantar fasciitis from other shoes and with these it’s night and day.” But some feel that the sole could be more durable, saying they tread can wear down quickly.


Good Man Brand Classic Legend London Sneaker

Sizes: 7 to 18 | Upper materials: Leather | Sole material: Leather, ethylene-vinyl acetate| Colors: 2 total, including Black and White

  • What’s notable: These handmade-in-Italy shoes are both high-quality and stylish.
  • What could be better: They’re only available in two colors.

These very elegant leather sneakers look just as good in a boardroom as they do when you’re wearing board shorts. Between the clean design, nice mix of sporty materials and bits and pieces of leather contrast, you’ll look sharp, whether you’re sporting jeans and a tee or a cool, casual suit. 

Positive reviews say: For many users, these shoes check a lot of boxes, with one saying, “in terms of quality, style, practicality and durability, these are the best shoes I’ve ever owned” and they’re “comfortable out of the box.” But others say that they can be “super stiff” at first and “these shoes squeak.”


Sizes: 7 to 15 | Upper materials: Leather | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 3 total, including Tan and Stone

  • What’s notable: This versatile pair is sophisticated but comfortable and can be worn with or without socks.
  • What could be better: These tend to run large and might require some breaking in.

Everyone loves a throwback, and this style of slip-on was favored by James Dean, Elvis and many others. These highly rated loafers are easy to wear with jeans or chinos and add a touch of polish to your casual, everyday look. And yes, they’re soft and almost broken in for you.

What the reviews say: Despite these being a leather shoe without laces, they still stand for their fit. User say it “fits perfectly, looks great, goes with everything, can’t ask for more,” and “the leather has responded very well to the shape of my foot.” But others comment that the soles can be slick and require scuffing up and say the shoes are “good quality, but it may be a few years before they break in.”


Sizes: 8 to 14 | Upper materials: Elkhide leather | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: Brown

  • What’s notable: These easy-on, easy-off backless shoes have a heavily padded insole for additional comfort.
  • What could be better: This style only comes in one width so it may be too narrow for some.

Sometimes you want a shoe that feels like a slipper but can pass for more. L.L. Bean’s slipper scuff has an anti-slip rubber outsole that offers grippy traction whether you’re lounging at home or running errands.

What the reviews say: These shoes are popular for their quality and durability (“These are well made and comfortable. Soft quality leather”) as well as their ease of wear (“I love the low back allowing the foot to slide in easily but high enough to be secure in the slipper”). But some reviewers comment they don’t have as much arch support as they’d like and many say they run small.


Sizes: 6 to 14 | Upper materials: Recycled polyester, leather, sheepskin lining | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 3 total, including Navy and Black

  • What’s notable: The insoles offer valuable arch support and the breathable upper keeps feel cool.
  • What could be better: This style runs narrow, and it comes in whole sizes only.

For days spent sightseeing, traveling or simply strolling through town, you need shoes that offer lightweight, breathable comfort. These knit derby shoes are just a hint fancier than your typical sneaker: the mesh upper leans slightly sporty, while the leather details add a refined touch. They pair effortlessly with jeans, joggers and shorts.

What the reviews say: These sneakers praised for their utility in all seasons (one user says they’re “good for spring, summer and early fall as long as it’s not raining”) and for their airy feel (a reviewer comments that they’re “probably the lightest pair I’ve ever worn”). But the sizing on these dan be tricky, with one person saying they’re “not true to size” and they can run narrow.


Sizes: 7 to 13 | Upper materials: Leather, cotton canvas | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 4 total, including Empire Steel-Golden/Yellow and Clove Brown

  • What’s notable: This par is offers a stylish, modern fit with arch support.
  • What could be better: They’re only available in medium width, so if you have wider feet they may not work for you.

If you’re experiencing foot pain, you need shoes that support your arches (without looking orthopedic). You’re in luck: This sporty pair of sneakers from Kuru has built-in arch support that cradles your foot so you can get a cushioned step wherever you go.

What the reviews say: These shoes are notorious for being exceptionally comfortable: Reviewers say these are “nice enough for a business casual setting, my feet feel better after a day in these than any of my other options,” and “very comfortable and no pain in my heels and feet.” While some say the shoe “helps my plantar fasciitis,” some still experienced heel pain and blisters due to the leather.


Why Trust Forbes Vetted

At Forbes Vetted, we’ve covered fashion stories across the board, including many on men’s fashion, in particular. This story was overseen by Vetted deputy editor Kari Molvar, who holds a certificate in fashion styling from the Business of Fashion. Molvar has years of experience covering a wide range of menswear topics, from golf shorts to dress sneakers.

To ensure all of our selections are still the best in their designated categories, we update this article regularly. In October 2023, fashion writer Claire Epting added two new picks to the list: a pair of lace-up boots from Thursday Boot Company and a pair of walking shoes from Wolf & Shepherd. In January 2024, co-author Becky Eaton added additional pros and cons from user reviews for the shoes, and in February 2024 Forbes Vetted contributor Molly Calhoun spoke with fashion stylist Jennifer Lund-Mahoney for insight on things to consider when shopping for men’s casual shoes as well as ways to style them.


How We Chose The Best Casual Shoes For Men

When selecting the best casual shoes for men, we sought out brands with stellar reputations for crafting high-quality footwear, including Nike and Birkenstock. We also took a deep dive into specifications such as upper and sole materials, highlighting shoes made of durable leather and fabrics that will hold up over time. In addition, we made sure to include a wide range of styles for a variety of situations—you’ll find business-casual loafers, relaxed sneakers and everything in between.


What To Consider When Shopping For Casual Shoes For Men

Where You’ll Be Wearing Them

It sounds obvious, but think about the primary purpose of your shoes: Do you need something to wear while relaxing on weekends, trekking across Europe or a pulled together pair for the office? “Most men want to be comfortable and look good, and you don’t have to sacrifice either one with today’s casual shoes,” says Jennifer Lund-Mahoney, personal stylist for A Sharp Dressed Man. Some styles are more versatile than others, so depending on your habits and lifestyle you may get more use out of a lace up sneaker like the On Cloud 5, or you may find that a sleek leather pair like Good Man Brand’s Legend London sneaker is a more versatile choice for you. If you’ll be logging lots of miles in your casual shoes, bear in mind that it might be worth it to invest in multiple styles since you’ll get good cost-per-wear value.

Upper Materials

In general, a leather upper is going to be slightly dressier than a fabric upper. “A leather upper works well in cooler months, while a fabric upper can be a more breathable option in cooler months,” says Lund-Mahoney. Casual shoes or boots made from leather tend to be more durable, while performance mesh shoes offer flexibility in fit and can help keep feet from sweating. Some leather styles, like Cole Haan’s Zerogrand Laser Wingtip Oxford, have perforated leather uppers, which offer an element of breathability.

Sole

Most men’s casual shoes have soles made of rubber, making the shoes comfortable and grippy on slick surfaces. “But clunky rubber soles can look geriatric and they’re not sleek or visually appealing,” says Lund-Mahoney. “Don’t take comfort too far.” Given their silhouette, some casual shoes like the Hoka Clifton 9 may be best suited for sporty pursuits. Others like Good Man Brand’s Legend London sneaker lend themselves to wearing them in more formal environments, like the office or a dinner out. “A discreet rubber sole is stylish and versatile, and it can even work well with a slightly dressier shoe,” says Lund-Mahoney. “In general, the most versatile business casual shoes are those that combine a leather upper with a rubber sole or more athletic bottom.”

Fit & Support

No matter what type of casual shoe you’re wearing—a sneaker, slip-on or lace-up—consider that shape of your foot and the amount of support you need. Casual shoes should be unfussy and comfortable from the outset, not something you try to make work over time. “The support in a shoe matters,” says Lund-Mahoney. “Even if you’re looking for something a step more polished looking than sneakers, you should still seek out casual shoes that have springy insoles and if you have higher arches, you’ll want arch support.”

Pay attention to what kind of footbed and midsole the shoe has—like EVA, cork or memory foam—or consider adding an insole for extra cushioning support and stability. We love Kuru’s Roam Sneaker for a stylish option designed with built-in arch support, no insole necessary. The Birkenstock Boston Clog and Hoka Clifton 9 both offer significant support at the arch as well. Some brands, like Cole Haan, Hoka, and Birkenstock come in medium and wide widths to accommodate different foot shapes.

Lacing System

You’ll find casual shoes as slip ons, boots or lace ups. In most cases, traditional laces will provide the best support and fit because they allow adjustability at different points on your foot. Some casual shoes, like the On Cloud 5, come with both traditional laces and an elastic bungee speed lacing system, which makes them easy to slip on and off.


Can I Wear A Casual Shoe With A Suit?

You can, says Lund-Mahoney, “but a casual shoe will look more appropriate with a suit that has stretch or a more modern or casual fit.” It may be best to leave your running shoes in the closet when wearing a suit, and as a general rule, “you wouldn’t want to wear a tie with a really casual shoe,” says Lund-Mahoney.

What’s The Best Way To Style A Casual Men’s Shoe?

You can style casual shoes in lots of different ways, so they’re a high value item to have in your closet. “I really like a business casual look pairing a blazer with a five-pocket pant and a dressier business casual shoe like Cole Haan’s Zerogrand shoe,” says Lund-Mahoney. “You could even do a knit or deconstructed blazer with a t-shirt underneath.” Another option, she says, is to wear a casual shoe with dark denim jeans and a quarter zip sweater, or a shirt jacket with a sneaker or business casual shoe. “For an athleisure look, you could also wear Vuori joggers with a sneaker,” says Lund-Mahoney. “Guys with lean legs look great in Rhone’s commuter pant with a pair of Ons. Or, pair a sneaker with t shirt or lightweight hoodie and an athletic jacket.”

How Much Support Should A Casual Shoe Have?

It really depends upon your personal foot structure and needs. If you have a high arch or persistent heel pain, you will likely want more arch support in your shoes. If you wear orthotics, make sure the casual shoes you’re purchasing have removable insoles so that you can replace them with your own orthotics. “A lot of shoes don’t allow you to remove the insole,” says Lund-Mahoney.

What Are The Best Men’s Casual Shoes?

The word “casual” can mean different things to different people, but for most, “casual” implies comfort, ease-of-wear and in many cases, versatility. Our pick for the Best Men’s Casual Shoe overall is the Allbirds Tree Runner for its stylishness, breathability and easy care fabrication. We also love the Thursday Boot Company’s Captain Lace-Up Boot for its quality, durability and comfy cork midsole and the Nike Court Vision Low for its classic cool construction, among other favorites. Lund-Mahoney often picks the Cole Haan Zerogrand for her clients as well as shoes from Wolf & Shepherd, Magnani and Loro Piana


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