Slippers and slip-ons, loafers, derbies, Chelsea and brogues... Who will understand all this terminology? In fact, you don’t need to be a fashion designer to distinguish one type of shoe from another. It is enough to love shoes and be interested in them. This hobby has pleasant side effects. For example, in a store, a quick glance will be enough for you to figure out which model of shoes will suit your new suit. But let’s not immediately dive into the wilds of design art. Let's start with something simple.

Men's shoes and boots: what's the difference

To begin with, deciding whether you are interested in shoes or boots is already a success. Many people don't know the difference. Although understanding it is easier than ever. Here are the most important differences:

Men's shoes are usually more classic, formal shoes. Almost any boots can be worn with jeans, but not all shoes. Although there are models intended exclusively for casual ensembles: for example, moccasins.

Boots are usually designed for the cold season. This is late autumn, winter, early spring.

This is why the boots have thicker soles. And they are always higher, at least covering the ankle.

The presence of laces is a classic sign of boots. However, the more fashion develops, the less clear the boundaries of differences become. You can also find boots with zippers and shoes with laces.

Classic men's shoes

Most men have at least one pair of such shoes. And probably several pairs - for those who work in the office, participate in business meetings, etc. But even if there is no dress code in your life, elegant men's shoes are a necessary attribute of your wardrobe. In combination with a classic suit, they are indispensable for any special occasion. Or just at that moment when you wanted to impress and look amazing.

Oxfords, derbies and brogues. This wonderful English family is worth getting to know first. The listed models are perhaps the main representatives of men's classic shoes. They are quite similar in appearance, especially Oxfords and Derbys. To easily distinguish them, pay attention to the type of lacing.

Oxfords have closed lacing: the side parts (tops) with holes for laces are completely sewn to the main part of the shoes. In derby there is a small distance between the boots. It’s also easy to lift the ankle boots on such shoes with your finger. Because they are not completely stitched to the vamp (main part). This is an open type of lacing. It's not that hard to remember: it all depends on whether the sides of the shoes "open" or not.

Oxfords are considered the most strict business shoes. Try them on with a suit and see for yourself. Classics in their purest form are black oxfords made of matte leather with thin soles. An option for dandies is the same model made of patent leather. It looks more elegant and formal, but also looks great with almost any suit.

Men's shoes called “brogues” are, one might say, siblings of Oxfords. They are very similar to them, especially those that also have closed lacing. In this case, they are sometimes simply called Oxfords, without making any distinction. This is completely acceptable. In general, lacing on brogues can be either closed or open.

There is one noticeable feature of such shoes as brogues. Once you find out, you will immediately understand that this model is familiar to you. Brogues are perforated men's shoes. Because of this, their appearance is slightly less formal than that of Oxfords.

By the way, all the varieties listed above have long existed not only in the male version, but also in the female version. In the classic version, they differ only in size and sometimes in colors. But the main features - design, lacing, perforation - remain unchanged.

Men's leisure shoes

Strictly speaking, who determined once and for all which shoes are suitable for leisure and which for work? If you do not work in an office, there are no rules at all in this regard. But still, the models that will be discussed further look most organically in unofficial, informal images. Therefore, they are more associated with relaxation. Moreover, if they are summer. A striking example of such shoes are moccasins.

Essentially, moccasins are house shoes that you can wear anywhere. They look, of course, more stylish and interesting than your slippers. For example, suede, soft, the color of the top contrasts with the sole. Suitable for jeans, light trousers, shorts and other summer clothes.

But with leather ones - brown, beige and other soft colors - you can wear a suit. How and with what you will combine moccasins depends on the appearance of the particular model.

Loafers are light summer shoes, quite similar to moccasins. Always without laces, but often has another distinctive detail. These are leather or suede tassel straps on the instep of the shoes.

Men's monk shoes are another type of footwear that is familiar to all of us. Recognizable thanks to the strap with a buckle located at the top. Monks are worn with both a suit and jeans. This model has taken root among informal shoes. But it can also be called official in many versions.

Features and Benefits

Men's low shoes are a classic type of footwear that has become popular since the century before last. If at first they were used only for horse riding and hunting, they later became a mandatory element of business clothing.

The first model of low shoes for men had a strict design that did not allow modifications - black color and a sole without a heel. Later, fashion designers began to develop appearance of these men's shoes, and today every season there are many models with different colors, heel heights, and lacing methods.

The advantages of men's low shoes are as follows:

• Elegant appearance that matches with a variety of suits.

• Comfortable to wear during warm periods and off-season.
• Representativeness and business style of a man.

Low shoes are often called shoes. There is no significant difference in this, the main thing is to distinguish them from shoes called boots.

Boots and low shoes: what's the difference?

The main difference between low shoes and boots is the height. The former usually do not rise above the ankle, while the latter cover it. Another difference is the sole. In low shoes it is thinner, but can be on stiletto heels, high heels.

Low shoes are designed for a certain type of clothing, such as a business suit or light trousers.

Men's boots They are worn under jeans and are generally intended for colder weather. As for shoes, their only generally accepted difference from low shoes is the open part of the heel.

Seasonality

Depending on the season and weather conditions, you should choose the right men's shoes based on the type of material, type of sole and other features.

It is best to choose autumn men's low shoes with laces; the material is smooth or grainy leather. The sole should be at least 2 centimeters, preferably with high heels. This will help protect against moisture and prevent your feet from getting wet.

Spring models can be purchased from suede, faux leather or velor. In this case, you need to take into account what the weather is like outside. When it rains and puddles, you should wear shoes made of leather, which are easier to clean, and with high heels. In dry weather, you can wear lighter models, for example, made of velor with thin soles.

For summer, the most popular men's low shoes are without laces, which are easy to put on and fit snugly on the foot. It is best to choose models made of leather, but with perforation or microfiber, so that the leather hot weather breathed. Low shoes with clasps, such as monks or brogues, are also suitable for summer. The same options can be chosen for indoor events under a classic business suit.

Demi-season low shoes for men can combine two types according to the season, but the most popular are those with thick soles and high heels. Lacing can be open or closed. Material – faux leather, suede, velor, and the sole is usually made of polyurethane.

In addition, there are winter options for men's low shoes. They typically have fur lining, a long tongue, and closed lacing.

Fashion models

The thick sole helps protect against moisture in bad weather, and also softens walking on rough surfaces such as rocky soil and asphalt. It is made of rubber or polyurethane, but the latter option is preferable as it is more durable. In general, low shoes with thick soles and high heels are wear-resistant and can last for more than one season.

Men's trekking low shoes are designed for hiking in areas without paved roads, for example, mountain or forest trails. They have gained wide popularity for hunting, fishing, and extreme travel. Their main feature is a durable and thick corrugated sole, which reduces the load on the feet and protects them from small stones and other roughness. These low shoes increase traction on the soil and prevent slipping and falling on obstacles.

Sports low shoes provide maximum lightness and wearing comfort. To achieve this, they reduce weight through the use of special materials, thin soles, and the absence of heels. But, despite this, they are durable enough for regular loads on the legs.

A separate option for men's sports shoes of this type are orthopedic low shoes. They are used for people with flat feet and other foot deformities who use prostheses. Prevention is achieved through a special shape of the sole, which has different levels.

High low shoes have thick soles. Moreover, their sides, like those of other models, do not reach the ankle. They are ideal for autumn, winter or as a mid-season wear.

Men's perforated microfiber shoes are environmentally friendly and allow your feet to breathe without sweating even after long-term use. These low shoes are well protected from moisture, they can even be washed without fear of deformation. The upper part is made of nylon fibers - microfiber, which in their properties are as close as possible to natural leather.

Low shoes with a metal toe were originally used as special equipment for workers in enterprises, the construction industry, and the mining industry. The impact-resistant metal nose section can withstand heavy loads. In addition, they have increased tightness. Now they are popular not only as an element of workwear, but also as footwear for sports and tourism.

Colors

Classic options colors for men's low shoes are black, beige, brown. The color should be chosen in combination with the suit you are wearing.

Dark shades suitable for almost any type of clothing. White low shoes for men should only be worn with matching trousers and a jacket.

For summer or indoors, any light shade of shoes works well.

Materials

For the manufacture of men's low shoes, materials such as suede, various types artificial and natural leather. For the sole, polyurethane is most often used, less often rubber, and sometimes metal inserts.

Suede low shoes are comfortable, allow the skin to breathe and retain heat well. But in wet weather and on dirty soil, they quickly become dirty and are more difficult to clean than smooth leather shoes. Velor shoes can also protect your feet in cold weather, but they quickly get wet and are difficult to clean. Therefore, these materials are suitable for use in dry weather.

There are several types of leather. Genuine Leather strong and durable, easy to clean from dirt. In wet weather, they quickly get wet, so it is not recommended to use such shoes for the rainy season. But for autumn and spring it is better to choose low shoes made of rubberized artificial, polished or grained leather.

How to choose

When choosing shoes, you must first of all take into account the season for use. Then suitable model will be comfortable and can last as long as possible. You should not save on money; to buy really high-quality low shoes, you need to visit branded stores, where a guarantee will be provided. This is unlikely in the markets.

Before buying, be sure to try on shoes and walk in them. It is worth taking a closer look at the sole, lacing and perforation, and the neatness of the seams.

Branded shoes from well-known brands always have a label with the corresponding brand logo.

In branded shoe stores, sellers can advise the buyer on any chosen model and tell them how to properly care for the shoes. It is also recommended to immediately purchase the necessary care products: cream, brush, sponge, velvet cloth.

What to wear with

The classic version of men's low shoes with laces is worn under a business suit - three or two. You can use trousers with a shirt. Slip-on, slip-on shoes with straps or clasps are suitable for almost any type of summer clothing except sportswear. Winter option with high soles is best worn under jeans or other warm trousers. And trekking low shoes are combined with uniforms for tourism, hunting and fishing.

If you move the Mary Jane strap from the instep to the ankle and add a vertical strap, you get a tango shoe model. The shoes have a closed high heel, heel and are complemented by a T-strap or criss-cross straps at the instep. The history of the model began in the 1910s, when tango actively conquered Europe and the USA. Passionate movements and forbidden public frankness attracted everyone's attention to the dance. Tango evenings, dance schools and professional pairs of dancers appeared. The shoe industry began producing special shoes that were comfortable, soft, stable and at the same time perfectly kept on the feet even during passionate steps.

Today, these shoes are still danced in tango, but they are also worn in everyday life. The meaning of the straps has long been forgotten; they have become a decoration of the model, emphasizing the instep and ankle and beautifully shaping the foot.

Shoes-gloves

Glove shoes, comparable in softness to Czech shoes, are the heroes of the spring-summer season 2017. The shoes received the name glove for the softness of the material from which they are made. Thin elastic leather, comparable in softness to glove leather, makes the shoes unprecedentedly comfortable. In terms of fit on the foot, glove shoes can only be compared with Czech shoes - the shoes in which gymnasts and dancers train. In addition to the softest material, glove shoes are distinguished by the absence of a rigid shape: toe cap, heel and other “frame” parts. Read more in our material.

Oxfords

Oxford shoes are shoes with closed lacing, in which the side parts of the boot (tops) are sewn to the main part (vamp) with a single seam. Even with the laces untied, the Oxfords retain their shape, expanding at the tongue area by only a couple of centimeters.
Oxford shoes came into the women's wardrobe from men's, sometimes appearing in an original masculine form, and sometimes in a feminine, sophisticated format.

Derby

Derby shoes are open-laced shoes in which the side parts (tops) are sewn to the main part (vamp) with a short side seam. The model is easy to put on: when the laces are untied, the side parts move freely to the sides. According to our subjective observations, derby low shoes are found in women's wardrobes more often than oxford low shoes.

Brogues

Monkey

Monks (monks, monkstraps) are low shoes without laces, in which the side buckles play the role of a fastener. Literally translated from English, “monkstraps” means “monk buckles.” They owe their appearance to the monks who wore comfortable shoes with buckles instead of laces.

Loafers

Loafers are shoes that combine a slip-on top with a shoe sole. Several types of loafers give room for imagination, which is why the shoes are one of the most popular in both men's and women's wardrobes. Depending on the decorative elements and shape of the top, they are divided into penny loafers, loafers with a buckle, with tassels, with fringes, Venetian, Belgian and slippers.

Penny loafers
Penny loafers - a model complemented by a leather strip with a slit. According to legend, students used this decor for their own purposes: they inserted a penny coin into the slot for good luck, from which the name “penny loafers” came.

Loafers with buckle
Buckle loafers originated in the 1930s, when Italian designer Gucci added a snaffle-shaped buckle to the regular model, a part of a horse's harness. Loafers with a buckle buckle loafers (buckle - “buckle”) have the second name “Gucci loafers” after the name of their creator. Modern versions rethink the snaffle: instead of it you can find decoration in the form of a bamboo stick, a spiral or just a chain.

Loafers with tassels
Loafers with a tassel (tassel loafers) owe their appearance to the American actor Paul Lucas, who, on one of his trips abroad, was fascinated by the tassel ties on the loafers. The worldwide spread of tassel loafers was facilitated by Ivy League students, for whom tassel loafers became an unspoken uniform, fitting perfectly into the school preppy style.

Loafers with fringes
Kiltie loafers are a model that is decorated with wide leather fringe. Loafers are named kilts by analogy with the Scottish national skirt, which vaguely resembles leather strips. The fringe of kilts can be supplemented with a buckle, a tassel, or be an independent detail.

Belgian loafers
Belgian loafers - a model decorated with a small bow. This detail was added by designer Henry Bendel, and he borrowed the shape from the Belgian shoemakers from whom he learned the craft.

Venetian loafers
Venetian loafers are a model that is characterized by a complete lack of decoration. They are called “Venetian” for their resemblance to the laconic form of Venetian gondoliers. They are similar in appearance to sleepers, but do not have a pronounced tongue shape.

Sleepers
Slippers are shoes with a classic loafer sole and a soft, unadorned upper, often made of velvet or tweed. The protruding tongue with rounded edges can be decorated with embossed or embroidered monograms.

Deserts

Desert boots - ankle-high boots made of suede, nubuck or leather with rubber soles. The name is owed to the British soldiers who fought in them in the sands of Egypt during World War II, as well as to Nathan Clark, who established their production in peaceful conditions under the Clarks brand, after whom this species is often simply called clarks. Distinctive feature- two holes for lacing on each side. If there are more of them, then the desert boots turn into chakka.

Chakka

Chukka boots - ankle-high boots made of suede, nubuck or leather. The name "chakka" comes from the term "chukker" from the polo period. Unlike deserts, chakkas can have any number of holes for lacing. A characteristic feature of chukka boots is the leather sole.

Chelsea

Chelsea (chelsea boots) - boots above the ankle with low heels with rubber inserts on the sides. Elastic inserts allow the boots to maintain a narrow shape at the ankle, while eliminating the need for zippers and lacing. In a woman's wardrobe, Chelsea boots with low heels often become an element of minimalist style in combination with skinny jeans and a leather biker jacket. Ankle boots with heels can also be equipped with elastic, which gives us the right to call them Chelsea ankle boots.

Moccasins

Moccasins (moccasins) - shoes without lacing with soft rubber soles (without heels) or leather with rubber inserts-spikes. A distinctive feature of moccasins is the prominent seam on the upper part of the shoe, often with an outer overlay. The women's version of moccasins is practically no different from the men's, so they can be called unisex shoes.

Topsiders

Topsiders (boat shoes) - yachtsmen's shoes with a corrugated non-slip sole with a lace around the heel. The name comes from topside - upper deck. The lacing runs dotted along the edge of the upper to ensure a secure fit of the shoe on the foot: comfort and safety for the sailor on wet decks are the main requirements. Historically, the sole of boat shoes was white, which did not leave marks on the snow-white deck of the yacht, but today you can find models of various colors, since white has lost its functional purpose. Like moccasins, boat shoes do not differ in their appearance in the men's and women's versions, therefore they are also a unisex model.

Slip-ons

Not to be confused with sleepers! Slip-ons are a sports model with a smooth top without lacing and a flat rubber sole. The top can be made of textile or leather, and there are elastic inserts on the sides, which ensure ease and speed of putting on. The shoes are universal in men's and women's versions, so neutral-colored models can be purchased in any catalog if the size is available.

Espadrilles

Espadrilles are shoes with a fabric or leather upper and a woven jute sole. The authentic combination of jute and canvas migrated from cheap shoes for plantation workers to the wardrobes of movie stars. Espadrilles inspired creative and free-thinking people, including Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, Grace Kelly, Jacqueline Kennedy, Audrey Hepburn and Manolo Blahnik. Yves Saint Laurent added a jute platform to espadrilles, giving us one of our favorite summer pairs - wedges.

Wellingtons

Rubber boots without fasteners - wellington boots - owe their name to their creator, the British commander Arthur Wellesley Wellington. The first models were made of soft leather, and they became rubber only after the invention of rubber and the receipt of a patent for the production of shoes from it. Having survived two world wars, Wellingtons find their immortal form, which is Green Hunter high green boots from Hunter Boot Ltd. A fascinating story of global conquest, and use the images of Kate Moss in Wellingtons from the Coachella festivals as inspiration for every day.

Lunokhods

Moon boots are boots and ankle boots that resemble snowboard boots. The name came to the mind of the creator, Italian Giancarlo Zanata, when he saw a poster of astronauts returning from the Moon. The history of the creation of unusual shoes for earthly astronauts. Distinctive features of moonboots are a straight heel line, a thick sole and a super-voluminous nylon upper. The right and left shoes do not differ from each other; there is a fixing lace on top. The popularity of “moon boots” turned out to be so high that the brand name became a household name, giving its name to a whole type of shoe.

Readings

Riding boots come from a time when riding was an indispensable skill. Riding boots were made of soft, dense leather, which served for a long time and at the same time gave the rider the opportunity to control the horse by lightly squeezing its sides. The right to a woman's pair of riding boots was earned by the first female travelers, who abandoned the uncomfortable women's saddle in favor of a practical man's saddle. Modern women's riding shoes can be with low heels or stilettos, in latest version maintaining only a vague resemblance to the original. In the wardrobe, ridgings are organically combined with leggings and a voluminous top.

Jackboots

The prototype of jackboots is army boots for riding. Wartime placed its own demands on shoes, therefore, unlike soft riding boots, jackboots were reinforced with a metal lining - chain mail sewn into the walls of the boot. The reinforced boot was designed to protect against injury and wounds in battle, and to control the horse, the boot was supplemented with a belt with a spur on the boot. During World War II, jackbutts became part of the uniform of the German troops, so they still evoke associations with aggression and military style. One of the roughest and most aggressive forms of boots, which some designers, for example, Rick Owens, effectively play on.

Jodhpur

Jodhpur boots - ankle-length boots with round toes and low heels, equipped with straps at the top. Designed for horse riding, the boots were secured to the feet with straps and buckles wrapped around the ankle. If you remove the straps and replace them with an elastic insert, the boots turn into Chelsea boots. In its original form, the jodhpur strap wraps around the ankle and is secured with a buckle to the outside of the boot.

The boots are named after the city of Jaipur (India). In 1897, an Indian polo team led by the son of the Maharaja of Jaipur competed at the Queen Victoria Jubilee races. The players were wearing national costumes, which included churidar trousers and short strappy boots. English society appreciated the exotic shoe novelty and replaced its high boots ridings for short jodhpurs, combining them with the usual English breeches. In addition to convenience, the new forms were much cheaper to produce, since they required less leather. Today, jodhpurs can have variations with one or more straps that play a decorative role.

Winclippers

Winklepickers are pointy-toed shoes that were all the rage in the '90s and have made a comeback this season. The closest ancestors of the beloved pointed-toed pumps are poulaines, funny shoes with long toes from 15th century engravings, the legend of which you can read in ours. Medieval shoes acquired their modern appearance in the mid-20th century in the wake of the teddy boy style. At the same time, Poulenes received their new name - winclippers, by association with a long needle for removing snails from shells (English: winkle - snail).

Sabo

Sabo - shoes with an open heel and a thick sole. The canonical clog models have a molded platform with a heel and resemble wooden lasts. The ancestors of clogs are Dutch and French wooden shoes. The high sole was supposed to protect the feet from water, manure and fish hooks. The first cheap clogs were carved from a single piece of wood, stuffed with straw to soften them, and worn with thick socks. Today, clogs include any shoes with an open heel, but we still suggest limiting this type of shoe to a massive sole, solid or with a stable heel. The toe of the model can be either open or closed.

Mules

The name “mules” did not appear yesterday, but we learned about it. Mules entered European fashion in 1694, when Countess D'Olonne appeared at a church service in bright red brocade shoes without a backdrop with neat heels. A little later, both the famous Madame de Pompadour and Queen Marie Antoinette herself began to wear frivolous shoes in public. Centuries later, at the instigation of Marilyn Monroe, mules became an integral part of pin-up style looks, and today, laconic options with a wide leather stripe on the top have entered the everyday wardrobe. More elegant than clogs but just as comfortable, mules pair equally well with dresses, jeans and minimalist culottes.

Grandmothers

Babouches are soft shoes without heels or heels, a kind of leather house slippers. The homeland is the African continent, where slippers were made from textiles. In the hippie era of the 60s, grandmothers came into fashionable wardrobes, fitting into the philosophy of freedom and closeness to nature. A distinctive feature of the look is the heel, which is not only absent from the design of the shoe, but, as if worn out, is embedded inside. Babushki can be leather, textile, woven from straw or combined.

Roman sandals

The oldest shoes for areas with hot climates - Ancient Egypt and the Mediterranean. Roman sandals (roman sandals) were universal unisex footwear. The cork sole was attached to the feet using leather or woven straps that literally tied the sole to the feet. Today, sandals are open-toed shoes with flat soles or platforms that are held on the feet with straps or laces.

Gladiators

Flat sandals with straps that fasten at the ankle and around the calf, down to the knee. Gladiators (gladiator sandals, gladiators) were the shoes of Roman gladiators - arena fighters and warriors of the Roman Empire. Gladiators transformed the idea of ​​Roman sandals, strengthening the latter with nails on the soles and longer straps that clasped not only the foot, but also the shin down to the knee, keeping the shoes securely on the feet during battles and long marches. During the hippie era, gladiators came into fashion in an updated, sleek format - with thin leather laces wrapping around the shins. Today you can find variations on the gladiator theme, for example, high-heeled sandals that stay on your feet with the help of satin ribbons or leather laces.

Birkenstocks

Birkenstock sandals are orthopedic sandals named after the German brand Birkenstock. Shoes appeared thanks to the German shoemaker Conrad Birkenstock, who in 1902 created a soft insole that follows the shape of the foot to prevent flat feet. In 1964, Birkenstock introduced the first flexible arch support for mass production. The shape of the sandals is complemented by one or more wide straps. Later, the name of the manufacturing brand became a household name, giving its name to a separate type of shoe.

Slingbacks

Slingbacks (slingbacks) - name sandals with closed toe and open heel with jumper. The name comes from a combination of the English words sling (strap, strap) and back (back, back). Essentially, slingbacks are a type of sandal; they can be high-heeled or low-heeled, with a pointed toe, rounded or square.

One of the first slingback models was presented by Christian Dior in 1947; they complemented the looks of his famous collection, which gave rise to the New Look style. Like Christian Dior dresses, slingbacks became an elegant alternative to closed shoes - something that post-war women so lacked.
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Ten years later, in 1957, beige slingback shoes with a black toe appeared. The author of the two-color masterpiece was Gabrielle Chanel. Many style icons of the last century fell in love with the elegant model; even Princess Diana couldn’t resist. Chanel's black and beige mid heel with jumper heel is timeless and we still wear versions of them today. Hikers there may be boots, sneakers and even high-heeled ankle boots.

The love for massive shoes with thick soles can be explained by the climate of our country: in snow, slush and ice there is nothing better than non-slip, warm and reliable hikers.

Abarkasy

Avarcas (abarkas, avarcas, avarks) are a type of sandal originally from the Balearic Islands (Spain). Sandal making has been a local craft of the island of Menorca since the late 19th century. The idea of ​​the model, which later became famous, belonged to a peasant who once ordered a master to sew him a pair of durable, practical sandals for the hot local climate. He asked that the sole be made from the rubber tread of a used tire. The idea turned out to be so successful that since the 1960s, shoemakers on the island began making these sandals to order.

The shape of avarki resembles ordinary sandals with flat soles, the upper is in the form of a single piece of leather or textile covering the top of the foot, but with a small open hole on the toes. The sandal is held on the foot by a strap at the heel.

In the 1970s, the first specialized workshops for the production of avarcas appeared. The model was popular with locals and tourists, who wore it on the islands and took it with them to the continent. One of the brands that popularized shoes in Europe was Minorquines. The brand received its name in consonance with the name of the island of Menorca, the homeland of the Abarcas.

Sneakers-socks

The name of this shoe speaks for itself: a textile upper, reminiscent of a sock, is complemented by a sneaker sole. The textile is a thick knit or knitted mesh to make the shoes comfortable to put on and wear. The similarity with socks emphasizes the integrity of the upper: without zippers, straps or lacing.

The model became popular with the advent of the ugly shoes trend - massive, unusually shaped sneakers, which were called “ugly”. Balenciaga was one of the first to release Speed ​​Trainer sneakers; today many shoe and sports brands, both luxury and mass market, have them.
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“Socks” can be not only sneakers, but also sneakers and ankle boots, it all depends on what type of shoe the sole is complemented by a knitted upper.

Grinders and martens

Boots in the style of grinders and martens can have a hard metal insert in the toe part of the boot, contrast stitching, logos and tags. More often, models are sewn from thick, shape-holding leather. The color can be any: the most popular is black, there are also white, burgundy, dark green, blue and options with partial dyeing that imitate scuffs.

Or abroad, there is often confusion about what exactly is considered to be boots and what is shoes. Therefore, it will be quite logical if in this article we carefully consider both of these concepts and give a clear answer to this question. Our employees often hear how someone calls the same shoe model shoes, and someone calls them boots. Moreover, there are cases when one person, in a conversation about a certain model, calls it by both of these names. And this is natural. After all, even on the Internet, it is not so easy to find a comparative description that would tell how and how boots differ from shoes. Therefore, it is not surprising that for those who want to buy high-quality men's shoes in Ukraine, both concepts merge together.

High-quality men's shoes in the Pan Heel online store

What are boots?

In this case, we can turn to the all-knowing Wikipedia, which will tell us the meaning of this term.

• Boots are men's shoes, which is intended for the cold season. Summer models are almost impossible to find. And if you managed to do this, then most likely it will be an original work, and not a mass-produced product.
• They are quite high shoes, covering the ankle and reaching the shin.
• They traditionally have a thick sole and may have laces, a zipper or Velcro. Less common are models with rubber inserts.
• They can be made of leather, suede or leatherette, and have almost any color.

These men's shoes are worn under trousers or jeans; some models can be worn under trousers.

Men's shoes at a bargain price

What are men's shoes?

If you believe Wikipedia again, then almost any men's shoes that do not reach the ankle are shoes. They are usually worn from spring to autumn, but winter ones in an online store are not so easy. In the cold season, they are replaced by warmer brothers - boots. You can wear them with almost any clothes. And given that this type of shoe can be completely different and may have different stylistic inclinations, it is important to remember that shoes and clothes should, at a minimum, match in style.

Most popular types men's shoes you can call them like this.

• Men's shoes suede. They never lose popularity and are in great demand. There are several reasons for this. Firstly, suede, like any leather, is very pleasant to wear. Secondly, it is products made from this material that better than others repeat the shape of the leg and can be adjusted to it. And this is a serious argument for those with non-standard feet. Don't be afraid of the difficulty of caring for natural suede. Now there are a lot of special products that will make it easy to care for your shoes and maintain their appearance.
• Men's patent leather shoes. Most often you can find models leather shoes with lacquer inserts. Most often, such models are combined with classic-style clothing, although there are youth pairs of shoes. When giving preference to such shoes, it is worth remembering that they practically do not stretch, so you need to choose exactly your size - the one in which you are most comfortable.
• Leather. This is the most common shoe option for men - it is appropriate in any style of clothing, at any event. Moreover, such products are very easy to care for and wear nicely.
• Leatherette models. Usually these products have the most affordable price. However, unfortunately, they wear somewhat worse than leather models and cannot provide real comfort. But there are exceptions to the rules. There are very successful models made from high-quality leatherette, or, as they say now, eco-leather.

Where is it profitable to buy?

If you are looking for something new, then our site will be useful to you. Here you can choose shoes for every taste and season. We have a variety of boots as well. Their prices, by the way, are very tempting.

Also, an undeniable argument in favor of buying shoes from us is that on our website you can find only high-quality models from Ukrainian manufacturers. We don't sell to China.

Because, wanting to buy new shoes, don't forget to select it on our website!

Shoes are an important element of any ensemble, so it is important to learn how to choose shoes for a specific suit. The wrong choice of shoes can completely ruin the impression of even the most beautiful and stylish clothes.

To learn how to choose the right shoes, you need to know what types of men's shoes there are, how the models differ, and what you can wear with this or that type of shoe.

To understand shoe models, you need to know the names individual parts. In addition to the sole, heel and insole, which everyone knows, it is customary to highlight a few more details:

• Sock or toe. The part of a shoe that covers the top surface of the toes. This part is subject to severe stress, so it must be made of durable materials.

• Vamp. The part located further than the toe, it covers top part feet. During walking, the vamp undergoes constant deformation, bending and straightening.

• Berts. A pair of parts covering the ankle, and in some models the lower part of the lower leg. In shoes with laces, holes are made in the tops for the laces.

• Tongue or valve. This part is located between the boots; in models with lacing, the tongue is sewn only with the vamp. In other models it can be sewn with a vamp and ankle boots.

• Backdrop. The part of a shoe that covers the back of the foot.

There are other details of shoes, but to describe the models, the details described above will be sufficient.

Classic lace-up shoes

Classics will never go out of fashion, so finding out what types of classic men's shoes exist will be useful for every man. After all, even if in ordinary life a young man prefers a sporty style, situations arise in life when a classic suit and classic shoes are required.

Oxfords

The most popular model of classic shoes for men are Oxfords, the distinctive features of this type of shoe are:

• low square heel;
• medium height, leaving open ankles;
• closed lacing type.

Classic Oxfords do not have any decoration; they are made of matte, or less often, patent leather. These are simple but very elegant shoes that are worn exclusively with a classic suit. The classic model is available in only two colors – black and brown. Brown shoes can be worn during the day, but only black oxfords are suitable for evening. These types of shoes are suitable not only for a classic suit, but also for a tuxedo and tailcoat.

The less formal Oxford shoe features an additional leather detail sewn onto the toe. This type of shoe is considered universal; it can be worn with both a classic suit and informal clothing, including jeans.

Another type of Oxford is brogues. A characteristic detail of the model is the pointed toe, as well as the special cut of the toe. The piece is cut with longer side pieces that extend onto the sides of the shoes, so when you look at the front seam from above, you'll notice that it looks like a W.

Not every classification classifies brogues as oxfords, since this model has perforations along the seams. However, brogues are distinguished by a closed lacing system, so the model may well be classified as an oxford.

There are several subtypes of brogue shoes. Quarter boots have perforations only along the seams, full ones have perforations along the entire surface of the toe.

Brogues are shoes that are usually worn with informal clothing, with jeans, corduroy trousers, and tweed jackets.

Wholecuts are another type of classic lace-up shoe. Unlike classic Oxfords, this model is made from a single piece of leather, but also has a closed type of lacing. Holkats are difficult to make, so this type of shoe is more expensive than classic Oxfords, but it has an elegant look and is more often used in evening fashion.

Derby

Another type of men's classic lace-up shoes are derbies or bluchers. The names of these models are considered by many to be synonymous, however, there are slight differences between them. Derbies in the classic design are sewn so that the back part goes into the ankle boots, that is, there is no seam between these parts. Shoes called blüchers have cut-off parts sewn on top of the vamp and heel.

Photos of Oxford and Derby shoes will make sure that the classic models of these shoes look very similar. The only difference is the type of lacing. In Oxford shoes, as already mentioned, it is closed, and in Derby shoes it is open. That is, the ankle boots in derby shoes are sewn on top of the vamp.

Derby shoes are considered less formal, so previously this type of shoe was considered inappropriate for formal events. Nowadays, fashion is more democratic, so in most European countries, classic black derbies, which do not have decoration, are allowed to be worn with a classic suit and tuxedo.

A slightly less formal type of shoe is the cut-toe derby. This type of shoe is worn with both a suit and casual clothes. Even more informal are derby brogues - shoes whose toes are decorated with perforations. Perforation can also be located along the seams.

Derby brogues can be not only black and brown, but also blue, beige, and dark green. You can also see this type of shoes made from a combination of materials. These shoes can be worn with jeans or chinos.

Slip-on shoes

Shoes that do not have laces are no less popular. These are models such as monks, moccasins and loafers.

Monkey

This name was given to narrow shoes without laces with elongated toes. At the lacing point there is one or more (maximum three) straps with buckles. The shoes are elegant, but not in the category suitable for official receptions, it is best combined with casual clothing. Monks can have a smooth surface or perforation.

Advantages of this type of shoe:

• Original appearance. Stylists recommend wearing monks with trousers whose legs end near the top of the shoes. This solution, on the one hand, will allow you to show off your shoes, and on the other hand, will prevent your trouser legs from clinging to the buckles.

• Elegance. The shoes look very stylish and will perfectly complement your look.

• Versatility. The model looks great with different styles clothes.

• with jeans;
• with chino trousers;
• tapered trousers.

The upper part of the ensemble can be made up of informal jackets, cardigans, classic coats and raincoats.

Loafers

Loafers are among the informal types of men's shoes. These are slip-on shoes with a long tongue, a round toe, a hard sole and a low square heel. It is the heel that is the main difference between loafers and moccasins, although in general these two types of shoes are very similar.

You can wear loafers with trousers and a shirt or with jeans and a T-shirt; loafers are not worn with a classic suit. Loafers are also not suitable for sportswear.

There are several types of loafers:

• Venetian. This is the simplest, classic model with no finishing. Penny. The difference is the original decor located on the instep - a strip of leather with a slit. It was convenient to store small coins (pennies) in this slot, which is why the shoes got their name.

• With tassels. This model is decorated with a pair of leather tassels; such shoes are often made in brown and burgundy.

• With fringe. A distinctive detail of the model is the leather fringe located on the vamp. Perforation is often an additional decoration.

• With buckle. Unlike other types of loafers, shoes with a buckle on the vamp look good with business attire. But they are not worn with shorts and sports pants.

• Slippers. This is an informal type of shoe, very similar in appearance to house slippers. They look good with casual clothes, and absolutely do not fit with business style models.

Moccasins

A popular type of men's shoes are moccasins. The prototype of this model was American Indian shoes - soft and comfortable.

A characteristic feature of this type of shoe is a decorative seam along the front of the shoe, as well as a soft, solid sole. The lack of a heel is the main difference from loafers that look like moccasins.

Moccasins are made from leather or suede. The former are more practical, but suede ones are more soft. Since moccasins are worn without socks, use them for sewing artificial materials It is extremely undesirable, my feet in leatherette shoes will sweat a lot.

Moccasins– informal shoes, so they are worn with casual clothes. They go great with jeans, shorts, and casual suits.

Boots

Boots differ from shoes in height; this type of shoe typically covers the ankle. Boots are worn in the off-season - in spring or autumn. There are several types of boots.

Chelsea

Elegant boots with a formal style, ideal for business style clothes - “business casual”. Distinctive feature This model has a rubber insert on the side and no lacing. Chelsea boots have a thin sole and a low square heel.

This type of shoe is made in a minimalist style and has no decor. The material used is matte leather or suede. The color range is usually not wide; most often you can find black and brown Chelsea boots.

Chukka

This type of shoe is distinguished by a rounded toe, short lacing (no more than three rows) of an open type. Chukka boots are casual shoes that look good with jeans, sweaters and blazers.

Deserts

In fact, desert boots are just one type of chukka boot. Their difference is the upper material; they are made of light suede.

Leisure shoes

Men's shoes designed for leisure time are characterized by increased comfort.

• Sandals. Lightweight summer open shoes, consisting of straps attached to the sole. Sandals are worn with shorts, jeans, and trousers made of light fabrics. Open shoes should only be worn on bare feet. Socks worn with sandals are bad manners!

• Espadrilles. Summer lightweight shoes with textile upper. Just like sandals, they are worn exclusively on bare feet.

• Topsiders. This type of shoe is often confused with moccasins and loafers. However, the differences are obvious. Topsiders have a white rubber sole with a pronounced tread. Initially, these shoes were created for yachtsmen, so it was necessary to make a sole that would not slip on a wet deck. The upper of the shoes is made of either leather or specially treated waterproof textiles. Along the upper contour, the shoes have holes into which the lace is inserted.

So, the choice of men's shoes is quite wide. Therefore, it is important to learn how to choose the right shoes for clothes of different styles.