The Best Casual Shoes For Men That Ranked Highest In Our Review (2024)

Becky Eaton

Contributor

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.

• What’s notable: Machine washable
• What could be better: Comes in whole sizes only

Perfect for everything from the workday to a plane trip to even some light exercise, Allbirds’s Tree Runners are simple to slip on and feel comfortable all day in. Between the light knit upper, cushioned sole and relaxed style, they’re an easy pick for your collection. You can feel good about wearing them too; every material they’re made with is sustainably sourced.

Sizes: 8 to 14 | Upper materials: Knit made from eucalyptus tree fiber | Sole material: Brazilian sugarcane (SweetFoam) | Colors: 16 total, including Jet Black and Mist | Positive reviews say: “These shoes changed my life,” and “I work in retail and these are the only shoes that I can wear all day without my feet hurting.” | Negative reviews say: If you have big or wide feet, the shoe opening can be “very shallow.”

Cole Haan Men's 2.Zerøgrand Laser Wing Oxford

• What’s notable: Available in medium and wide widths
• What could be better: Runs large; soles are not true white

When you need a comfortable pair of shoes for the office, Cole Haan is a reliable source. Its Zerøgrand shoes have been work staples for years, and this latest iteration seamlessly blends business with a touch of laidback style, particularly with the sporty sole and mesh upper. They’ll keep you looking like a pro, but feeling like you’re lounging about.

Sizes: 6 to 16 | Upper materials: Leather, nubuck, suede | Sole material: Rubber | Color: 9 total, including British Tan and Marine Blue | Positive reviews say: “Get compliments all the time on them, that’s why I’m on my 2nd pair,” and they have “great style and comfort that can be either dressy or casual.” | Negative reviews say: Some say the leather could be better since “the edges of the shoe are hard and rub against the ankle.”

On Cloud 5

• What’s notable: Comes with both a lace-locking system and traditional laces; available in waterproof
• What could be better: Some reported quality issues after a few months of wear

Whether you’re taking them on a job or just running errands, On’s popular Cloud 5 sneakers slip on easily with their pull lace-locking system and ultra-lightweight design. They look unique—and they’ve also been updated with 44% recycled materials. They’re pricey but well-made and built to last, which is important for a pair you can wear everyday.

Sizes: 7 to 14 | Upper materials: Antimicrobial mesh | Sole material: CloudTec rubber | Colors: 14 total, including Glacier and Midnight | Positive reviews say: “My foot pain is completely gone after two months of consistently wearing these shoes,” and they’re “comfortable right out of the box. No break-in time needed. “| Negative reviews say: The stitching around the laces could be better and the sole could be more durable.

• What’s notable: Cork midsoles form to your feet with wear
• What could be better: Runs large; consider ordering a half size down

These lace-up boots from Thursday Boot Company are durable and rugged, but they’re also sophisticated enough to fit in at the office. With an upper made from hand-stitched, genuine leather, they’re designed to build character and patina—they only get better looking with age. There are over a dozen hues and finishes available, including sleek matte black and textured suede.

Sizes: 6 to 14 | Upper materials: Leather | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 14 total, including Burnt Copper and Driftwood | Positive reviews say: “Everything about these boots exudes class,” and they’re made of “quality leather, great color, with the perfect weight, not heavy at all on my feet yet still feel very sturdy.” | Negative reviews say: The leather requires break-in time and one buyer noticed that “stress markings appeared in multiple spots.”

Nike Court Vision Low

• What’s notable: Perforations add to its breathability
• What could be better: Runs narrow, white color requires upkeep

Retro looks never go out of style—nor do crisp, white sneakers—and this classic throwback to the ‘80s will keep you looking fresh with your favorite pair of jeans or shorts. Plus, Nike updated the construction with 20% recycled materials at minimum, so you can feel good about this pick. The supple synthetic upper is flexible, and the collar hits low on the ankle so you move with ease. And FYI, if you’re shopping through Amazon, keep in mind: The Nike Court Vision Low sneakers are listed as “Nike Men’s Basketball Shoe.”

Sizes: 6 to 15 | Upper materials: Leather, synthetic materials | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 10 total, including White and Black | Positive reviews say: Wearers “love the material and the way they hold up over time” and they’re “comfortable and supportive.” | Negative reviews say: Some say these run “very narrow” and “crease instantly.”

Birkenstock Boston Clog

• What’s notable: Comes in medium and wide widths; easy to slip on
• What could be better: Soles might require break-in period

The clogs that started it all. To add to their timelessness, they look just as good, if not better, with age. This pair is made with a classic leather upper for an extra dash of sophistication. It has the same German design and comfort that you remember, which has everything to do with the soft cork-and-latex footbed that molds to your foot.

Sizes: 6 to 17.5 | Upper materials: Leather | Sole material: Ethylene-vinyl acetate| Colors: 6 total, including Mocha and Black | Positive reviews say: “Just what my feet needed: support with style.” | Negative reviews say: “The strap metal rivet popped off twice,” and some recommend to “size down and make sure you pay attention to the width of the shoe.”

HOKA Clifton 9

• What’s notable: Also available in waterproof Gore-Tex
• What could be better: Might fit too narrow for wide feet

The Hoka Clifton 9 is a lightweight running shoe that’s constructed with a compression molded EVA foam insole and a breathable mesh upper. But unlike a good deal of athletic footwear, this pair also fits right in with a pair of jeans or chinos, thanks to its structured silhouette. There are several color options to choose from, ranging from neutral gray and black to bold blue and orange. And, the ladies’ version of this style also happens to be one of our favorite walking shoes for women.

Sizes: 7 to 16 | Upper materials: Recycled polyester | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 23 total, including Midnight Ocean and Harbor Mist | Positive reviews say: “Clifton 9s are my go-to shoes” and they’re “soft yet supportive with a good heal to toe stride so they don't feel awkward or clunky” | Negative reviews say: Eventually the tread can wear down.

Good Man Brand Classic Legend London Sneaker

• What’s notable: Handmade in Italy; high-quality and stylish
• What could be better: Only available in two colors

These very elegant leather sneakers look just as good in a boardroom as they do when you’re wearing board shorts. Between the clean design, nice mix of sporty materials and bits and pieces of leather contrast, you’ll look sharp, whether you’re sporting jeans and a tee or a cool, casual suit.

Sizes: 7 to 18 | Upper materials: Leather | Sole material: Leather, ethylene-vinyl acetate| Colors: 2 total, including Black and White | Positive reviews say: “In terms of quality, style, practicality, and durability, these are the best shoes I’ve ever owned” and they’re “comfortable out of the box.” | Negative reviews say: “These shoes squeak” a bit and they’re “super stiff” at first.

• What’s notable: Versatile pair that can be worn with or without socks
• What could be better: Runs large; might require breaking in

Everyone loves a throwback, and this style of slip-on was favored by James Dean, Elvis and many others. These highly rated loafers are easy to wear with jeans or chinos and add a touch of polish to your casual, everyday look. And yes, they’re comfy and already broken in for you.

Sizes: 7 to 15 | Upper materials: Leather | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 3 total, including Tan and Stone | Positive reviews say: “Fits perfectly, looks great, goes with everything, can’t ask for more,” and “the leather has responded very well to the shape of my foot.” | Negative reviews say: “Good quality, but it may be a few years before they break in,” and the soles can be slick and require scuffing up.

• What’s notable: Handmade in Maine; all materials are from the U.S.
• What could be better: Runs large; consider ordering a half size down

A classic pair of slip-on shoes—for the boat, barbecue and backyard party—will never go out of style. So choose one that’ll last you for years and years. Easymocs are made in Maine, age extremely well since they’re crafted from natural leather and suede and hold up through thick and thin with a durable Vibram rubber sole. They’re easy on the eyes, too.

Sizes: 8 to 13 | Upper materials: Leather, suede | Sole material: Vibram rubber | Colors: 3 total, including Sand and Toast | What the review say: Not listed

• What’s notable: Insoles offer arch support; breathable upper
• What could be better: Runs narrow; comes in whole sizes only

For days spent sightseeing, traveling or simply strolling through town, you need shoes that offer lightweight, breathable comfort. These knit derby shoes are just a hint fancier than your typical sneaker: the mesh upper leans slightly sporty, while the leather details add a refined touch. They pair effortlessly with jeans, joggers and shorts.

Sizes: 6 to 14 | Upper materials: Recycled polyester, leather, sheepskin lining | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 3 total, including Navy and Black | Positive reviews say: These sneakers are “probably the lightest pair I’ve ever worn,” and they’re “good for spring, summer and early fall as long as it’s not raining.” | Negative reviews say: Some find they are “not true to size” and can run narrow.

• What’s notable: Stylish, modern fit with arch support
• What could be better: Only available in medium width

If you’re experiencing foot pain, you need shoes that support your arches (without looking orthopedic). You’re in luck: This sporty pair of sneakers from Kuru has built-in arch support that cradles your foot so you can get a cushioned step wherever you go.

Sizes: 7 to 13 | Upper materials: Leather, cotton canvas | Sole material: Rubber | Colors: 4 total, including Empire Steel-Golden/Yellow and Clove Brown | Positive reviews say: “Nice enough for a business casual setting, my feet feel better after a day in these than any of my other options,” and “very comfortable and no pain in my heels and feet.” | Negative reviews say: This shoe “helps my plantar fasciitis” but some still experienced heel pain and blisters due to the leather.