In this blog, fashion expert Courtney Ryan shares her insights on the worst shoes that men should avoid wearing, as well as recommendations for better alternatives. She breaks down her opinions into two tiers, providing logical reasoning and personal experiences to support her stance.

Introduction: Taste is Subjective

Taste in fashion, including footwear, is highly personal and varies from person to person. What one individual finds stylish and appealing, another may find unattractive or unsuitable. This subjectivity is what makes fashion diverse and interesting, as it allows for individual expression and creativity.

Tier 1: Avoid at All Costs

In this section, we'll delve into the top-tier shoes that should be avoided at all costs, except for specific scenarios they are designed for.

1. Hey Dudes

Hey Dudes should be avoided due to their lack of support, unflattering silhouette, and limited compatibility with other clothing pieces. They are best suited as house slippers and should not be worn outside. Opt for comfortable sneakers or leather loafers instead for a more stylish and supportive choice.

2. Crocs

Crocs, while functional for wet environments, lack support and protection. Their foam material can cause blisters and excess foot sweat, making them unsuitable for regular wear. Additionally, they are overpriced and create an unflattering silhouette. Unless engaging in specific activities like gardening or water sports, it's best to avoid wearing Crocs.

3. Leather Strappy Sandals (Fisherman Sandals)

Leather strappy sandals, also known as fisherman sandals, trap the feet in a cage-like structure, making them impractical and unattractive. The inconvenience of buckling or strapping them, coupled with the unappealing aesthetic, makes them a poor choice. Pairing them with socks further diminishes their functionality and style, rendering them unsuitable for most occasions.

Hey Dudes

Hey dudes, I'm starting here because in a recent fashion video I did about casual style for men, I expressed my strong opinion on these, which surprisingly received a lot of positive feedback and support from you guys in the comments. I believe my exact quote was "hey dudes make you look like you've given up on your life," and hey, that's harsh, I know that. But I have far more reasons for disliking them aside from how unfortunate looking they are.

Crocs

Crocs, while functional for wet environments, lack support and protection. Their foam material can cause blisters and excess foot sweat, making them unsuitable for regular wear. Additionally, they are overpriced and create an unflattering silhouette. Unless engaging in specific activities like gardening or water sports, it's best to avoid wearing Crocs.

Leather Strappy Sandals

One style of shoe that has garnered widespread disapproval is the leather strappy sandal, also known as fisherman sandals. These shoes confine your feet in an unattractive cage-like structure, offering little to no practicality or aesthetic appeal. Unlike other sandals that provide convenience for beach or poolside activities, leather strappy sandals lack the ease of slipping on and off, and tend to accumulate debris and moisture, causing discomfort.

Impractical Design

The inconvenience of buckling or strapping them, coupled with the unappealing aesthetic, makes leather strappy sandals an unwise choice for most occasions. Their impractical design restricts the freedom of movement and fails to offer the comfort and breathability expected from sandals.

Fashion Faux Pas

Pairing leather strappy sandals with socks further diminishes their functionality and style, contradicting the primary purpose of sandals to keep feet cool and allow them to breathe. This combination not only undermines the shoe's practicality but also creates a fashion faux pas that should be avoided.

Square Toed Shoes

When it comes to dress shoes, square toed shoes are a common faux pas due to their unflattering shape and casual appearance, which contradicts the purpose of a dress shoe. The boxy and blunt silhouette of square toed shoes fails to elongate the wearer's appearance, ultimately creating a heavy and bulky look. Instead, opt for oxfords, Derbys, or bluchers, as these styles offer a more timeless and stylish alternative. A rounded or slightly pointed toe on a dress shoe can help elongate the wearer's appearance and stand the test of time, unlike the dated and bulky square toe design.

Puffy Skate Shoes

Skate shoes with a puffy design, such as Osiris and DC, may not be the most flattering or practical choice for everyday wear. While some skate shoes, like Vans, can work for certain individuals, the bulky and heavy nature of puffy skate shoes can create an unappealing silhouette and hinder mobility. Let's explore why these shoes may not be the best option for most people.

Bulky and Unflattering

Puffy skate shoes have a bulky and heavy appearance, which can make the wearer's feet look much wider and less streamlined. The exaggerated silhouette of these shoes may not complement most outfits and can give the impression of an "elephant foot."

Safety Concerns

Shoes with excessively thick soles or large platforms, like puffy skate shoes, can pose a safety risk, potentially leading to a higher likelihood of rolling or twisting an ankle. The lack of ankle support combined with the weight and bulk of these shoes may make them less than ideal for everyday activities.

Limited Maneuverability

Despite being designed with ample padding for foot protection during skating, puffy skate shoes may not offer the best maneuverability or ease of movement for skaters. Their heavy and cumbersome design could hinder the performance of certain skateboarding tricks and techniques, making them less practical for skateboarding enthusiasts.

Tier 2: Avoid These Features

In this section, we'll discuss features of shoes that should be avoided due to impracticality, lack of versatility, or overrated claims of luxury. These elements may not contribute to the overall functionality and aesthetic appeal of the shoes, making them less desirable choices for the modern man.

Gum Sole Dress Type Sneaker

The concept of dress shoe sneakers with a gum sole or thick foamy sole is perplexing as they neither exude a formal look nor complement casual outfits effectively. Their lack of versatility places them in a fashion limbo, making them unsuitable for most occasions. Opt for traditional dress shoes like oxfords or derbys for formal events, and versatile loafers for casual wear.

Impractical Hardware

Avoid shoes with impractical hardware as these elements serve no functional purpose and often detract from the overall appearance of the shoe. Such hardware can cheapen the look of the footwear and may not withstand regular wear and tear. Be mindful of unnecessary hardware that may compromise the longevity and aesthetics of the shoes.

Luxury Designer Brand Shoes

Not all luxury designer brand shoes guarantee exceptional quality and craftsmanship, despite their high price tags and prestigious logos. Many of these brands may not offer the same level of durability and longevity as lesser-known brands that prioritize true craftsmanship. Consider exploring under-the-radar or less popular brands that focus on quality and timeless appeal, ensuring a better investment in footwear.

Gum Sole Dress Sneakers

The concept of dress shoe sneakers with a gum sole or thick foamy sole is perplexing as they neither exude a formal look nor complement casual outfits effectively. Their lack of versatility places them in a fashion limbo, making them unsuitable for most occasions.

Opt for traditional dress shoes like oxfords or derbys for formal events, and versatile loafers for casual wear.

Impractical Hardware

When it comes to footwear, the term "impractical hardware" refers to elements on a shoe that serve no functional purpose, often detracting from the overall appearance and quality of the footwear. While functional hardware such as buckles and zippers may serve a purpose, impractical hardware tends to make a shoe look gaudy or cheap without adding any value.

Aesthetic Detriment

Impractical hardware can cheapen the look of shoes, potentially diminishing their overall aesthetic appeal. The use of unnecessary or non-functional hardware can detract from the visual appeal of the footwear, making it appear less sophisticated and stylish.

Deterioration Concerns

Due to the nature of shoes being exposed to wear and tear, impractical hardware may deteriorate more quickly, leading to a diminished overall appearance. Materials used for non-functional hardware may not withstand regular use, resulting in tarnishing or damage that can significantly impact the shoe's longevity and visual appeal.

Personal Experience

It's essential to be mindful of impractical hardware when purchasing shoes. Even small, seemingly insignificant details like a strange gold piece of hardware on the heel of a boot can cheapen the overall look and compromise the quality of the footwear. Such impractical hardware can make even a moderately priced pair of shoes appear less appealing and may not withstand long-term wear and tear.

Luxury Designer Brands

When it comes to luxury designer brand shoes, it's essential to understand that not all high-priced footwear guarantees exceptional quality and craftsmanship. While luxury may have different definitions for different individuals, true luxury, in my opinion, encompasses well-crafted items that are timeless, meticulously crafted, and of superior quality.

Quality Over Brand

Many luxury designer brands often come with hefty price tags, but this doesn't automatically equate to superior quality. It's important to recognize that there are lesser-known brands such as Carmina, Edward Green, and John Lobb that prioritize true craftsmanship and exceptional quality. These brands offer shoes that are not only timeless but also have the potential to outlast the wearer if well taken care of.

Resale Value

Some of these luxury shoes have soles that can be completely resoled, extending their lifespan and providing additional wear. This resale potential adds value to the product, making it a more sustainable and practical investment in the long run.

Price Discrepancies

It's remarkable to note the significant price differences between trendy, popular designer shoes and those focused on true craftsmanship. Instead of investing in a heavily marketed luxury brand, consider exploring under-the-radar or less popular brands that offer exceptional quality and durability, ensuring that your investment in footwear is truly worth it.

Research and Due Diligence

Ultimately, it's crucial to conduct your own research and due diligence when considering luxury designer brand shoes. Don't be swayed by the allure of a designer logo or the claim of luxury. Look beyond the brand name and prioritize the quality, craftsmanship, and longevity of the footwear to make a well-informed and worthwhile investment.

Conclusion: Wear What You Love

When it comes to fashion and footwear, it's important to remember that personal style is a form of self-expression. While there are guidelines and recommendations for what to wear, ultimately, the most crucial aspect is wearing what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Fashion is a reflection of individuality and personality, so don't be afraid to embrace your unique style and preferences.

While it's beneficial to consider expert advice and insights on fashion choices, including footwear, it's equally essential to trust your instincts and wear what resonates with you. Whether it's a pair of shoes that may not align with current trends or a style that some may consider unconventional, the key is to wear what brings you joy and reflects your authentic self.