The 5 Pairs of Shoes Every Man Needs

If you're like most guys, chances are you have about 2 pairs of shoes. One for dress and a pair of sneakers maybe, or some work boots and a pair of sandals. I'm betting this has led to you looking ridiculous at least once. Though you might think that shopping is a woman's game (and it is), there's no reason you shouldn't have a fully functional wardrobe. Here are the 5 pairs of shoes that every man needs:

Must-Have Mens' Shoes

Dress Shoes

There are times in every man's life when he needs to dress up. From job interviews to office work to the occasional unfortunate funeral, having a pair of well-made dress shoes on hand will keep you from running around at the last minute. Dress loafers or basic oxfords are your safest bets. If you have dress clothing in different colors, you may want to invest in a second pair to ensure you always have something to match. Black shoes will match best with black, gray, and some white clothing. Purchase a pair in brown to go with brown, khaki, blue or cream colors. To cut down on your shopping time, you can usually find the exact same style in black and brown (or oxblood) when you find a pair you like.

Must-Have Mens' Shoes

Boots

Whether for work or cold weather, every man needs a pair of boots. By investing in a pair of steel-toed boots with treads suitable for snow, these shoes can do double duty. Keep an eye on the condition of those treads, and let them be your guide as to when to replace your boots. If you only use the boots for snowy conditions, they should last you at least a few years. If you're a laborer or expect to get more frequent use out of your boots, they may need to be replaced as often as every 6 months. Worn-down treads can easily cause accidents, so check your boots' soles regularly.

Must-Have Mens' Shoes

Casual Shoes

These are your everyday shoes. They can be basic loafers, casual sneakers, or even cowboy boots if that's what you're into. What matters is that these are the shoes you'll put on for weekends, after work, and so on. In most cases, you should try to differentiate these shoes from the ones you wear for other occasions - even if they're your preferred style. If you wear work boots to your job every day, keep a nicer pair on hand for your off hours. This way you're not walking around in shoes covered in paint or sawdust, and you're also not wearing your work shoes out faster.

Must-Have Mens' Shoes

Athletic Sneakers

If you're physically active, you'll need a pair of athletic shoes. These should provide the support you need for whatever exercise you do. Wearing a pair of casual sneakers like Vans is less than ideal, unless you actually are a skateboarder. Like work boots, the condition of these shoes needs to be looked at regularly. When the soles are worn down, they're not doing you any favors. Running shoes may need to be replaced once every 3-4 months (at the earliest), but most other types of athletic shoes will typically get much more mileage.

One place a lot of guys go wrong is wearing their gym shoes at all times. If you break a sweat in those shoes regularly, they're a breeding ground for bacteria and athlete's foot. They're fine for athletic wear, but have another pair of sneakers handy for the rest of the time. This will give your gym shoes time to air out without you going shoeless.

Must-Have Mens' Shoes

Sandals

These are your warm-weather shoes. They can be flip flops, Birkenstocks, whatever you like. Wearing open shoes is ideal for when your feet will be wet or sweaty. They'll dry faster than your other shoes, and their openness will help keep odors from sinking in. You should have one pair of shoes to wear with your swim trunks and shorts in the warmer months, especially for those days when you don't plan on wearing socks. Please don't wear sandals with socks, the women of the world will thank you.