Finding a pair of suitable shoes for the office is a lot easier than it sounds. With the pressure of deadlines, excessive workloads, and high expectations, the last thing you want is uncomfortable shoes for the workplace. That’s why it’s critical to invest in a quality pair of work shoes, instantly setting you up for success.
Though work clothing is usually the last thing we consider when it comes to our career, it’s equally as important as anything else. There’s nothing worse than coming home from a long day’s work, with sore, throbbing feet due to poor shoe quality. Though this problem is easily avoided, you still need to spend some time considering the proper workplace footwear for you.
Features of comfortable men’s work shoes
Outsole
Making sure you have a sturdy and durable outsole allows for excellent grip and traction. Usually, rubber outsoles are the best to look out for as they’re solid and stable while ensuring your shoe won’t slip or tear. However, if you’re looking for a more sleek design suited for the office, try not to choose a super bulky, heavyweight outsole; instead, opt for a simple design that will help support your feet.
Footbed
Ensuring you have a built-in footbed that provides cushioning will help cradle your foot through those long days at work. A footbed is a must-have, especially if you’re planning to be on your feet all day in the office, as it’ll keep you feeling super supported and comfortable. Also, you want something offering a little buoyancy – adding a little spring to your step.
Material
Investing in a shoe manufactured from premium materials is a make or break for footwear. If you’re going for that super polished, refined office look, keep an eye out for shoes crafted from fine suede and leather. These materials are ideal for the workplace, as not only are they stylish, but they’re also durable yet breathable, so your feet won’t get too smelly in the office.
Shock absorption
If you’re looking for shoes that will protect your feet for the long haul, it’s worth considering a design offering shock absorption technology. Many shoes offer a shock-absorbing midsole, acting as a line of defence on those harsh, uneven surfaces. This will eliminate any impact while making you extremely comfortable and sturdy. Keep your eyes peeled for shoes offering an EVA midsole, as they’ll help take the pressure off your feet.
Slip-resistant
The last thing you want is an accidental trip or fall in the workplace, so ensure your work shoes come with anti-slip technology. Not only will it help you against harsh, slippery surfaces, but slip-resistant shoes also help provide excellent grip, so you’ll always feel incredibly confident on your feet. To determine if a shoe is slip-resistant, it usually comes with little patterns embedded into the shoe’s tread to help create friction against surfaces.
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If you’re on the hunt for a new pair of work shoes we’ve curated the best footwear brands making highly innovative work shoes. These designs are extremely comfortable and stylish and will have you feeling and looking great from the ground up.
Amberjack
Make sure you check out Amberjack, as their comfortable work shoes can also merge into everyday wear - they're that stylish. If you're looking for super-polished shoes, they have many designs crafted from fine suede and leather materials for an effortlessly luxurious look. These shoes are also exceptionally comfortable through their arch support and dual-density outsole, making them some of the best work shoes for men on the market.
Cole Haan
No matter if you're looking for more refined dress shoes or casual shoes for work, Cole Haan has it all. They have a range of fashionable wingtip oxfords that feature Zerogrand technology, providing these shoes with a breathable and lightweight feel. These shoes also have super supportive cushioning, perfect when you're on your feet all day long. If you're looking for something more suitable for those casual Fridays, Cole Haan has a selection of comfortable sneakers and running shoes that provide a soft footbed, a great way to kickstart the weekend.
Clarks
They design the most supportive work footwear crafted from premium leather materials, offering a brilliant casual look. Many of their styles feature a full-grain leather upper and moisture-wicking lining, so your feet will feel comfortable all day long. These work shoes are super flexible and breathable, with many of them also offering shock absorption for those tricky, uneven surfaces. Clarks also have work shoes with a roomy toe box, ensuring your feet will have plenty of room.
Camper
Make sure you visit their online store, as Camper manufacture some of the most comfortable, high-quality work shoes geared to last a lifetime. Camper has a versatile range of men's formal and casual shoes that are perfect for the office. Their collection ranges from classic, timeless designs to more contemporary shoes made for the modern world. Many of their casual work shoes feature a rubber outsole, allowing for excellent traction and stability. These shoes also come with an impressive lace-up system, suitable for the winter, as no cold elements will sneak in. However, if you're looking for something more elegant, Camper has a collection of formal shoes crafted from the most durable leather materials.
Johnston & Murphy
If you're after highly durable and well-crafted shoes, make sure you check out their range. Their stunning dress shoes have been crafted from smooth craft skin, promising an incredibly polished look - you'll struggle to find a more fashionable work shoe. These shoes come with breathable full leather lining and a rubber heel for a clean, traditional aesthetic. Many of these shoes come with Goodyear welt construction, allowing these shoes to feel like a customised fit. This collection comes in rich brown, tan and black colours.
Hush Puppies
Their collection of men's work shoes are some of the best shoes on the market. They have a diverse range available in boot, loafers and formal style, catering to every man's work attire. These shoes have an incredible insole, as they come with a cushiony footbed that adds a little extra bounce while offering shock absorption. These shoes come in eye-capturing brown, tan and black colours, promising to blend into any office wear effortlessly.
Florsheim
Florshiem has a range of highly comfortable dress shoes, suitable for a more formal look for the office. Their collection of dress shoes range from plain toe slip-ons to luxurious Chelsea boots. These shoes are the finest suede and leather, promising to make you look super smart. If you're looking for something featuring game-changing technology, Florsheim has a selection of shoes with a slip-resistant rubber sole, providing you with great traction and grip.
Ecco
Ecco has a huge range of men's dress shoes, and stylish moccasins, all made with premium smooth leather or soft suede. Available in various styles and colours, Ecco's work will keep your feet comfortable in style. They have a variety of dress shoes that come with rounded toe and wingtip styles. These shoes are also incredibly comfy, as they promise to be extremely lightweight yet durable. However, if you're looking for something a little more laid back for work, make sure you check out their loafers, as these slip-on shoes have rubber soles guaranteeing optimal traction.
Rockport
Their formal dress shoes will help you look smart in the office from head to toe. From men’s derby shoes to men’s brogues, Rockport’s has a collection of shoes guaranteed to impress your colleagues. Rockport also has a selection of dress shoes that offer waterproof properties, suitable for those rainy early morning commutes.