‘Put your best foot forward’- an adage that has survived the test of time for a reason.
A cornerstone of a well-dressed man’s wardrobe, footwear has always gone beyond
the realms of just being a necessity. And none other than the legendary
Chistian Louboutin explains why, “Shoes transform your body language and
attitude. They lift you physically and emotionally.”
Intrinsically connected to one’s
personal style, the right footwear can make or break an outfit. It is quite
essential to invest in high-quality shoes with the correct blend of fashion and
functionality to enhance the overall appearance.
This article will explore the
importance of good quality footwear and provide insights on choosing the right
fit highlighting material and craftsmanship.
Why
Buy High-Quality Footwear?
A crucial investment for any man’s
wardrobe, good quality shoes are ideal for elevating his appearance and
comfort. High-quality footwear for men is designed to provide adequate support,
reduce pressure and foot fatigue and enhance the overall look of the outfit.
Unlike its cheap alternatives, these
do not quickly wear out or cause pain and discomfort. Well-made men’s footwear offers
a refined aesthetic while maintaining. Investing in good shoes in addition to
elevating your style also contributes to improving foot health and amounts to long-term
savings, due to its quality of lasting longer and requiring fewer replacements.
Shoes
That Are Must for Any Man’s Wardrobe
Here are types of shoes that will
make any man’s wardrobe versatile and stylish:
Formal/ Dress Shoes
Dress shoes
for men, such as derbies, oxfords and
loafers, are perfect for professional and formal events. These types of shoes
are particularly made of good quality leather material featuring classic and
modern designs to go well with suits and formal attires. The key to selecting
dress shoes is to choose timeless classic styles in neutral colours like brown,
black and oxblood tones, that can easily be matched and will complement
different outfits.
Versatile Boots
If you are looking to add a touch of
rugged sophistication to your look, boots are your way to go. Simple boots like
chukka, Chelsea and lace-up boots can be paired with various outfits like
formal trousers or casual jeans. The best thing about these high-quality boots
made from materials like suede or leather is that they not only look attractive
but also offer reliable support while providing protection under diverse
weather conditions.
Choosing
the Right Fit and Materials
Choosing the perfect fit and
materials is essential to ensure comfort and longevity of your footwear. Here
are some important things to consider when investing in a quality pair:
Fit
A proper fit for your shoes is
imperative for comfort and style. In addition to comfort, it will also make
them last longer. To ensure this, when buying shoes make sure you try them out
and check if there is enough room for your toes to move comfortably without the
shoe being too loose. The heel of your foot should fit snugly without slipping,
while the footwear must feel comfortable from the time you put it on.
Additionally, consider the shoe’s width since different brands and styles may
vary in size.
Materials
Well-made shoes are always made with
high-quality materials. When buying shoes, make sure to look out for pairs made
from full-grain leather, which are long-lasting, breathable as well as age with
a nice patina over time. On the other hand, suede shoes are appropriate for
casual wear. It’s advisable to avoid synthetic materials as they tend to break
easily and cause discomfort. Also note if the shoe construction has Goodyear
welt or Blake stitching, which means exceptional artistry with room for re-soling in future.
Craftsmanship
and Durability
Here are a few ways to recognize the
signs of good craftsmanship and longevity, in the next pair of shoes you are
planning to invest in
Stitching: A well-made shoe can be indicated by even tight stitching.
Poor construction of footwear is indicated by loose or uneven stitching.
Sole Attachment: When buying shoes, look out for a pair with soles that are
stitched instead of being glued. Stitched soles are more durable as found in
Goodyear welted shoes. These soles can be easily replaced when they are worn
out.
Lining:
Good quality shoes come with comfortable leather linings, which make the shoes
more breathable than their synthetic alternatives.
Finish:
For a shoe to be well-finished it should have a smooth surface that is
blemish-free and without any irregularities.
Maintenance
and Care Tips for Longevity
Shoes last longer and look better if
properly maintained and cared for. Here are some tips to help you take care of
your footwear:
Regular Cleaning: Dirt and debris collected on your shoes should be wiped off
using a soft brush or cloth periodically. Stubborn stains may require more
elaborate cleaning techniques such as using a damp cloth or brush. But, while
cleaning your shoes, make sure never to soak them entirely.
Conditioning and Polishing: Regular conditioning is required for
leather shoes to keep the material supple and prevent cracking in the future. To
maintain shine, use high-quality leather conditioner along with polish which
guards against any damage on its surface.
Shoe Trees: A lesser-known tip to maintaining durability of your pair
of shoes is to insert cedar shoe trees inside the shoes, every night. Using
this daily helps the shoe maintain its shape and absorbs moisture, preventing
the uppers from curling and cracking.
Rotation:
It’s always good to avoid wearing the same pair regularly and instead it. This
will not only enhance your outfit but also allow the pair to breathe and
recover between wears.
Weather Protection: Protect your pair of shoes with a waterproof spray
especially during the monsoons when shoes tend to catch moisture. For suede
shoes, you can choose to get a specialized suede protector.
Balancing
Style, Comfort, and Functionality
Achieving a balance between
appearance, comfort, and utility is crucial when purchasing high-quality
footwear. Select footwear that fits your lifestyle well and offers the support
and durability you require. Think about each pair’s adaptability and how it
will complement your entire wardrobe. It’s important to prioritize quality and take
proper care of your shoes so that you can enjoy the stylish yet comfortable pair
for a longer time.
Spending money on high-quality
footwear is a smart move, as it will pay you off in terms of comfort, longevity
and style. By following the steps, you can easily create a smart, stylish and
adaptable shoe
collection, which will last you several years.
