When prepping your wardrobe for spring, it’s easy to focus on clothes. You’re trading in your winter coats for lightweight layers and adding lighter shades to your color palette. But if you want to put your best foot forward, don’t forget about making room for the best spring shoes for men in your closet too.
A successfully stylish look works from head to toe. If you’re not sure where to start your shoe search this season, look no further. Our NLW professional stylists have put together an easy-to-follow shopping guide to all things men’s spring shoes.
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What To Look For When Buying Men’s Spring Shoes
Whether shopping for shoes, accessories, or clothes, you should always consider how that item will fit into your life.
Ask yourself:
- What’s my lifestyle?
Let’s say you travel a lot. Maybe you need one really great pair of versatile shoes that can go with multiple outfits and dress codes. That way, you don’t have to worry about multiple shoes taking up precious space in your carry-on. - What features do my shoes need?
Maybe you don’t want to worry about tying and untying shoes at TSA so having slip-on style shoes is a must. Think about what features your shoes should have to make your life easier without sacrificing style.
- Is there a dress code I need to follow for work?
Does your office require a suit? Then a pair of dress shoes might be a must-have. But if you work from home, you probably don’t need oxfords. (Unless you really like to dress up for your pets.)
Once you answer these questions, you can get into the specifics of what you should look for in a spring shoe vs footwear for other seasons.
In our opinion:
- Go for lighter colors.
Lighter colors signal warmer weather, so it’ll help your outfits feel more current without much effort. - Add some texture.
Textures work well for warmer weather too. That’s because it’s harder to wear footwear with texture in the winter. Between rainy days or snowfall, it’s too easy to mess up your brand-new pair of suede shoes. But as the seasons change, don’t be afraid to reach for textured fabrics.
What Shoes Should Guys Wear in Spring?
The six shoes we recommend men wear in the spring are:
- Textured sneakers
- Slip-on sneakers
- High top sneakers
- Dressy loafers
- Casual loafers
- Polished flip flops
Keep scrolling to learn why these six shoes deserve a spot on your style roster and for product recommendations from our stylists.
1. Textured Sneakers
Product by Nike, shop here.
Spring is the season of sneakers, so we’re showcasing a few options for you to choose from.
Textured sneakers like these from Nike are ideal for casual days. If you work in a no-dress-code office, or a business casual office with casual Fridays, these are the shoes for you.
They always look polished while being super comfortable for all-day wear.
If you walk to work, these will make your commute feel and look a whole lot better.
2. Slip-On Sneakers
Product by Todd Snyder, shop here.
Ah, the slip-on sneaker. Comfortable, easy, and effortlessly cool, this option is more casual than traditional lace-ups.
This shoe goes great with cropped trousers or a pair of jeans on the weekends. You can even wear these with shorts for a put-together warm-weather ensemble.
We also recommend this option if you’re sick and tired of bending down to tie your shoes. Or if you tend to have to rush out the door in the mornings, this will save you time as well.
3. High Top Sneakers
Product by Common Projects, shop here.
Low-profile trainers have been a staple of men’s shoes for spring for a while. But if you’ve never stepped outside of the low-top silhouette, it may be time to diversify your sneaker assortment.
To add variety to your closet without going too flashy or bold, try high tops.
These read as sportier and more cool and modern than low tops. For a high-quality pair, try these chic white high tops from Common Projects.
These shoes are built to last and are well worth the investment thanks to their quality materials and timeless design.
Plus men’s white sneakers go with everything in your closet. For a casual-cool outfit, style these with mid or light-wash denim and an open cardigan. Need something more dressed up? Change into trousers and a neutral polo for a power casual combination.
4. Dressy Loafers
Product by Officine Creative, shop here.
Don’t worry, we’re not letting sneakers take all the spring-shoes-for-men-glory. Loafers are another excellent choice for this time of year.
From working with different clients over the years, we’ve often heard folks complain about how difficult it is to dress formally in the warmer months. There’s something so confusing about what’s considered “dressy” enough during this time of year.
After all, with warmer temps, a lot of us want to wear casual clothes like shorts and sandals. So how do you stay comfortable without looking sloppy for your job?
Answer? Loafers. These shoes combine the casualness of a slip-on with the sophistication of elevated materials and details. A full-grain leather loafer with classic penny slots (like this pair from Officine Creative) does just that.
If you work in a business casual or formal office environment, these shoes might be your saving grace.
And before you panic, we know what you’re about to ask: do you wear socks with loafers?
We recommend going sockless or wearing a no-show sock to keep your look clean-looking. Get ready to show some ankle!
5. Casual Loafers
Product by Mr. P, shop here.
Not ready for the Italian leather loafer? No worries. If an all-leather loafer feels too formal for your lifestyle, go for a more casual suede option. These beige ones from Mr. P fit the bill perfectly.
They’re great for wearing to work and once you’re off the clock thanks to their low-key style and subtle details. The suede and penny slot keep this piece feeling interesting without being distracting.
Plus, the lighter color is a quick, no-fuss way to lighten up your outfit’s color scheme.
6. Polished Flip-Flops
Product by Cole Haan, shop here.
Last on our list of men’s shoes for spring are a pair of polished flip-flops.
Now wait a minute! Don’t go running to your nearest Target and slap on any old pair of cheap sandals.
We’re not talking about flip-flops that you’d wear to the beach or a pool.
The only open-toed shoes we like for men this spring are a grown-up sandal that’s leather (or leather-like) and polished. No gaudy logos, no cheap foam bottoms, and no toe thongs.
Opt for a style with a thicker strap and high-quality materials like these brown ones from Cole Haan.
These are a go-to for those days when you want to look put-together but it’s just too damn hot to wear closed-toe shoes.
Just promise us one thing: please make sure your toenails are well-groomed! The last thing you want is for someone to look at your feet mid-conversation and see talons staring back at them.
Ready to kick off spring on the right foot?
Whether you need help finding the best spring shoes for men or finding your personal brand, NLW has you covered. Apply for Next Level Wardrobe’s men’s styling services to elevate your wardrobe and simplify shopping for good.
