Do you know what the most common shoe I see guys wear is?
White sneakers. Every single day. To the gym, to work, to dinner, to a wedding. Don’t get me wrong, white sneakers are great. But when they’re your only go-to, your style starts to look a little… one-note. And honestly? Starting to feel a bit dated.
So in this post I’m going to help you go beyond the white sneaker and show you some options that’ll make you look more polished, more grown up, and help you stand out in the best way.
Let’s walk through each one.
The Problem with Only Wearing White Sneakers
White sneakers work with almost everything. That’s their strength. But it’s also their weakness.
When every other guy is wearing the same white leather sneaker, you start to blend in. And sometimes, especially in more professional settings or winter months, they can make your outfit feel incomplete. Like you threw on the easiest option without much thought.
I’ve had clients tell me they feel like they look “kiddish” in certain outfits with white sneakers. And I get it. When you’re wearing a sports coat or dressier casual outfit, a bright white sneaker can stick out in the wrong way.
The fix? Add some variety to your footwear rotation.
Here are a couple of options:
Option 1: Suede Sneakers in Light Tan or Gray
This is my go-to recommendation for guys who need to dress up a bit but still want comfort.
I recently worked with a couple of clients who attend conferences and need comfortable shoes for walking around all day. Sneakers are allowed with their more professional clothing, but they didn’t want to look boyish.
We found suede sneakers in light tan (if their wardrobe leans warmer toned) and gray (if their wardrobe leans cooler toned). The result? The shoes added to the outfit rather than took away from it.
Why suede works: It has a softer, more refined look than leather. It’s perfect for fall and winter because the texture works with the season. And it still looks really professional.
Brands to try: Allen Edmonds makes a sleek, comfortable suede sneaker that’s well-made. Also check out Beckett Simonon, Oliver Cabell, and CLAE.
Option 2: Retro, Gum Sole or Court-Style Sneakers
If you don’t need to dress up as much, a retro sneaker is a great way to add character to your look.
These sneakers have a bit more going on than your average white-on-white sleek leather sneaker. Maybe there’s some stitching, a pop of color, or a vintage vibe. They look a little more sporty without being a sports shoe.
Why this works: It’s still casual, but it shows you put thought into your footwear. It’s a flex that says, “Hey, I can go beyond a white sneaker.”
Example: Look for court-style sneakers with tonal colors or an accent color that already exists in your wardrobe. This makes them easy to style.
Option 3: Chelsea Boots and Lace-Up Boots
If sneakers aren’t your vibe, or you just want another option, consider a Chelsea boot or lace-up boot.
These are great if you want to step things up without wearing a full dress shoe all the time. They work in fall and winter, they’re comfortable, and they look sharp with jeans, chinos, or even tailored trousers.
Why boots work: They’re more refined than sneakers but still casual enough for everyday wear. A Chelsea boot in brown is incredibly versatile.
If you want something even dressier, a Derby or Oxford shoe is a solid choice. But boots are the sweet spot for most guys.
How to Pick the Right Sneaker for You
Comfort matters.
You’re going to be wearing these shoes all day, so don’t cheap out.
Try on multiple brands to see what fits your foot best. Order a few pairs online if you need to. When you put on the right pair, you’ll know immediately. You should be thinking, “Oh my gosh, these are so comfortable.”
Don’t fall for cheap shoes.
I’ve had clients complain about brands like Thursday Boots because they pitch themselves as quality, but the comfort isn’t there. Stick with handcrafted, timeless brands like Allen Edmonds, Magnanni, or Alden. They’ve been around for a reason.
Styling Tips to Avoid Looking Boyish
Even with the right sneakers, there are a few things to watch out for:
- Tuck in your laces. If you have big bunny ear shoelaces sticking out, it doesn’t look good. Tuck them behind the tongue of the shoe for a cleaner, more intentional look.
- Match your shoes to your outfit. If you’re wearing a blue casual suit with no tie in the wintertime, a bright white sneaker can feel like a lot. A suede sneaker in a deeper color (tan, gray, burgundy) works way better with the season and the outfit.
- Consider the occasion. A button-down shirt with rolled-up sleeves? Sneakers work. A polo or blazer? Try a suede sneaker or boot. You’re going for a relaxed but elevated vibe, and your shoes should support that.
My Favorite Brands for Going Beyond the White Sneaker
Here are some brands I’ve been loving with my clients:
- Allen Edmonds – Suede sneakers that are super comfortable, well-made, and sleek
- Beckett Simonon – Great quality at a reasonable price
- Oliver Cabell – Clean, minimalist designs
- CLAE – Retro sneakers with subtle details
- Axel Arigato – Stylish and modern
- Cole Haan – Reliable option for dressy sneakers
Try a few and see what works for your foot. Comfort is key.
