Leather shoes are an important part of any man’s closet. Even if you like to dress in a sporty way, you should have a few pairs of leather footwearif you want to look good at formal events. There are a lot of leather shoe brands on the market today, but it seems like not many people know how to shop for leather shoes. Let’s find out about the different types of leather footwear and the factors to be considered before buying a pair.
Types of leather shoes
Before we discuss the various factors to consider when making a purchase, let’s find out about the different types of leather shoes available on the market. Here are the different types of leather shoes that might suit your style and preference:
Oxford shoes
A classic, formal style with a closed lacing system and low heels.
Brogue shoes
Similar to Oxford shoes, but with decorative perforations and wingtip designs.
Derby shoes
Similar to Oxfords, but with an open lacing system and a slightly more casual design.
Loafers
Slip-on shoes with no laces or buckles, often with a moccasin-like design.
Monk strap shoes
Shoes with a buckle closure that come in single or double strap styles.
Chelsea boots
Ankle-length boots with elasticated side panels for easy slip-on and a sleek, modern design.
Chukka boots
Ankle boots with two or three eyelets for laces and a suede or leather upper.
Combat boots
Durable, military-style boots with a lace-up design and sturdy sole.
Riding boots
Tall boots with a low heel that are commonly worn for horseback riding or equestrian sports.
Mules
Open-toed or closed-toed shoes with no back, often with a low or high heel.
Factors to consider before buying leather shoes
Buying a pair of leather shoes can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the different types of leather, styles, and construction techniques. Now that you are aware of the various types of leather shoes available, here are some tips to help you make an informed decision when shopping for leather shoes:
Know your size
Before you start shopping, make sure you know your shoe size. Have your feet measured by a professional if you’re not sure. It’s important to have a comfortable and proper fit.
Determine your needs
Think about where you will be wearing the shoes and what you will be doing in them. Do you need them for work or for casual wear? Will you be wearing them in wet or dry conditions? This will help you decide on the style and type of leather you need.
Choose the type of leather
There are many types of leather, each with its own characteristics. Full-grain leather is the highest quality and most durable, but it’s also the most expensive. Top-grain leather is slightly less durable but still of good quality, and it’s often less expensive than full-grain leather. Genuine leather is the lowest quality and is made from the bottom layers of the hide. It’s still a good option for casual shoes, but it won’t last as long as full-grain or top-grain.
Look for good construction
The way the shoe is constructed is just as important as the type of leather. Look for shoes that are sewn, not glued, as this will provide better durability. Also, look for shoes with a welted sole, which means the sole is stitched to the upper part of the shoe.
Check for quality details
Look for small details that indicate the quality of the shoe, such as reinforced stitching at stress points and a good-quality lining. The insole and outsole should also be made of high-quality materials.
Try them on
Always try on shoes before you buy them. Walk around in them and make sure they’re comfortable and fit well. Remember that leather shoes will stretch over time, so they should fit snugly but not be too tight.
Maintain your shoes
To ensure your leather shoes last as long as possible, be sure to take care of them. Use a leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent it from cracking. Keep them clean by wiping them down with a damp cloth and storing them in a dry, cool place.
Choosing the right colour for your leather shoes
Another important factor to consider when shopping for leather shoes is choosing the right colour that suits your personal style and goes well with your wardrobe. When it comes to buying leather shoes, this is by far the most difficult element of the process. The most common colour choices for men are black, various shades of brown, and a variety of shades of maroon. Black is the most versatile colour of all the hues because it can be worn with any outfit a man might put together. Browns, too, are universally recognised, but particularly light shades of brown might not go well with every pair of pants you own. Browns can be found in both natural and artificial forms.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when shopping for leather shoes to complement your ensemble.
Black leather shoes go well with dark pants like black, grey, or navy blue.
Shoes made of dark-tanned leather look best with pants in a lighter colour, such as white or a dull tan.
Brown leather shoes look well with tan, beige, or brown pants.
Leather shoes in a brick tone look great with a variety of neutral and cool tones, including grey, blue, and light brown.
Shoes made of grey leather are a great neutral option because they go with almost any colour except for dark brown shades.
Tips for shopping for leather shoes online
Shopping online is not as convenient as it seems. There’s a certain degree of guesswork involved when shopping online, and you can never truly be sure what you ordered will satisfy you until it arrives. So if you are looking to shop for leather shoes online, here are some tips that can help you find the right pair:
Choose a reputable online store
Make sure you choose an online store that has a good reputation for selling high-quality leather shoes. Check the store’s reviews and ratings before making a purchase.
Look for product details
Read the product descriptions and look for details such as the type of leather used, the shoe construction, and the sole material. This information will give you an idea of the shoe’s quality and durability.
Examine the sizing and fit.
Make sure you know your shoe size and check the sizing information provided by the store. Look for reviews or feedback from other customers to get an idea of how the shoes fit.
Consider your needs
Think about where and how you will be wearing the shoes. If you need them for work or formal occasions, look for classic styles such as oxfords or loafers. If you want casual shoes, consider sneakers or slip-ons.
Compare prices
Compare prices between different brands and stores to find the best deal. But remember, cheaper prices may sometimes mean lower-quality shoes.
Check the return policy
Make sure the online store has a clear and easy return policy in case the shoes don’t fit or if you are not satisfied with the quality.
Take care of your leather shoes
Once you receive your shoes, take care of them properly to keep them looking good and lasting longer. Use a leather conditioner and keep them away from water and heat.
Bottomline
By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can find a great pair of leather shoes that will provide both style and durability.