Casual shoes for men quick picks
Low top sneakers: Thursday Boots Premier Low Top
Machine-washable sneakers: Allbirds Men’s Tree Runners
Comfortable everyday sneakers: Cole Haan Men’s GrandPrø Rally Laser-Cut Sneakers
Splurge-worthy white sneakers: Common Projects Retro Low Leather Sneakers
Statement leather sneakers: Adidas x Wales Bonner Samba Combo Leather Sneakers
For those occasions where you need footwear that’s smarter than your gym sneakers but not as snazzy as your dress shoes, a reliable pair of casual shoes should be the obvious go-to. As stylists and image consultants Beckie Klein and Martina Gordon explain, the best casual shoes for men offer style and comfort. “We always love a good dress shoe but they can be notoriously stiff and don’t offer much support since their main function is for looks,” the duo says. “Athletic shoes do great in terms of support and comfort since they are made for high-impact sports and activities, but they are not always the sleekest in looks.” For this reason, Klein and Gordon recommend shopping for a lace-up style sneaker with a thick, comfortable sole. But depending on the occasion, a more elevated casual shoe may be called for.
“The difference between casual shoes and smart-casual shoes lies in their level of formality and intended use,” says celebrity wardrobe stylist Amanda Massi. According to Massi, casual shoes (think sneakers and sandals) are designed with comfort in mind and are suitable for relaxed environments and everyday wear. “In contrast, smart-casual shoes, like loafers or polished sneakers, offer a more refined appearance and are appropriate for occasions that call for a blend of casual and formal, such as office events or social gatherings,” she says, adding that they’re a great option for anyone seeking comfort and a more elevated look.
Among the big trends stylist and lookingGlass founder Lana Ashby Rowder says we can expect to see when it comes to casual shoes is sustainability. She singles out brands like Allbirds, Veja and Cariuma for their sustainable approach to footwear. Retro-inspired sneakers are also on the rise according to Rowder. “Adidas Sambas are flying off the shelves, embodying a classic, sporty vibe,” she says. “For those wanting to channel the effortlessly cool style of Kaia Gerber or Hailey Bieber, Onitsuka Tiger’s Mexico 66 is a must-try, combining vintage flair with modern versatility.” Rowder notes that pairing retro sneakers with relaxed outfits is a good way to add personality to your look while staying trendy. Massi says that this year’s casual shoe trends are all about embracing “anti-mainstream designs” and points to archive styles like the Air Max 95s, skater shoes and collaborations like Miu Miu’s and New Balance’s.
To help you find your next pair of casual shoes, we interviewed several fashion stylists to get their thoughts on the best casual shoes for men and how to style them.
Best casual shoes for men
Cole Haan Men’s GrandPrø Rally Laser-Cut Sneakers
“The Cole Haan GrandPro Rally Sneaker combines timeless design with lightweight, modern comfort,” Rowder says. “Featuring a sleek leather upper and cushioned sole, these sneakers are perfect for everything from casual weekends to smart-casual outings.” Rowder notes that the shoe’s versatility makes them a great option for day-to-day wear. Available in seven colors — including ivory — these sneakers range from a size 7 to a size 16.
$160 From $80 at Nordstrom
$160 From $115 at Amazon
$160 at Cole Haan
Common Projects Retro Low Leather Sneakers
If you’re looking to add a white sneaker to your wardrobe, Massi recommends this splurge-worthy pair from Common Projects. Crafted in Italy from leather, these retro-looking sneakers have lace-up vamps and colorblocked heels.
$486 at Nordstrom
$486 at Saks Fifth Avenue
Nike Killshot 2
“The Nike Killshot 2 combines retro-inspired style with a clean, contemporary silhouette,” Rowder says, adding that the shoes can be worn day-to-day or paired with chinos or casual suits. Ranging from sizes 6 to 15, these shoes are available in three colors and feature the iconic Nike logo on the side.
$90 From $54 at Nordstrom
$90 $55 at Nike
$90 From $58 at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt Traveler
Michael Jay, a style consultant at Tweeds, recommends these sneakers from Cole Haan. Made from synthetic upper, the sneaker has a cushioned footbed and is available in several colors, including navy and cognac. Jay says the shoe pairs well with navy trousers and a knit polo or jeans and a T-shirt. He also says its white sole “works best with the lighter colors, while darker hues maintain a more cohesive look.”
$190 $71 at Amazon
$85 at Zappos
$200 $90 at DSW
Adidas x Wales Bonner Samba Combo Leather Sneakers
“These sneakers are on trend for this year and show personality while being made for comfort,” Massi says. Made as part of a collaboration between Adidas and Wales Bonner, these chic sneakers have a rounded toe and are crafted from metallic and croc-embossed leather.
$250 at Saks Fifth Avenue
$250 at Bloomingdale’s
$250 at Net-a-Porter
Thursday Boots Premier Low Top
“For $130, Thursday Boots delivers a sophisticated option with dark-soled black and brown sneakers,” Jay says. “These are perfect for city-inspired wardrobes, pairing seamlessly with dark jeans, chinos or even a modern fitted suit for cocktail hour.” Available in over 10 colors and in sizes 6 through 16, these leather shoes feature a padded tongue and collar for all-day comfort.
$129 at Amazon
$129 at Thursday Boots
Skechers Moreno Canvas Oxford Shoes
Jay singles out these canvas Skechers, which he describes as affordable and laid-back. “Its lightweight design and cushioned support make it great for everyday wear, especially for more casual outfits,” Jay says. Featuring air-cooled memory foam insoles and flexible outsoles, these sneakers are a great combination of style and comfort.
$70 From $43 at Amazon
$70 From $63 at Zappos
Allbirds Men’s Tree Runners
“Made from sustainable materials, these sneakers are breathable, lightweight and perfect for casual days or travel,” Rowder says. The Allbirds Tree Runners, which come in 10 colors and are machine-washable, are made from eucalyptus tree fiber and have a cushioned midsole.
$98 at Amazon
$98 at Allbirds
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