Top 12 Essential Men’s Leather Shoes You Should Know

Driver Shoes are a variation of Boat Shoes, and are particularly popular during the summer months. As the name suggests, these shoes are favored by Western men, especially for long-distance driving. Depending on your personal style, you can choose between these two options. Originally designed as a replacement for traditional driving shoes, Driver Shoes (also known as Driving Moccasins) combine the features of Boat Shoes and Moccasins. At first glance, they may appear similar to the aforementioned Boat Shoes, but Driver Shoes are designed specifically for summer. The inspiration for these unique shoes came from the moccasin style worn by Native Americans (commonly referred to as loafers or moccasins). As the name suggests, Driver Shoes are the perfect alternative to traditional shoes while driving. To easily distinguish them from Boat Shoes, just look at the sole, which features rubber segments arranged in a pattern or simple straight rows of small dots, offering extra grip.

Slippers are a favorite choice among stylish gentlemen, particularly those who prefer a relaxed yet elegant look. These shoes are often worn at formal events, allowing men to maintain a sophisticated appearance without looking overly serious. The design of Slippers emphasizes simplicity, but depending on the occasion, they can be adorned with embellishments like stones or tassels, helping the wearer stand out. Their minimalist shape makes them easy to recognize, and when paired with a suit and tie, they can elevate your style.

High-end Leather Slippers are characterized by their no-lace design, light heel, and sturdy leather upper, made from durable cowhide with excellent elasticity. The rubber sole ensures a light and comfortable stride, while its waterproof and slip-resistant features provide added safety during rainy or wet conditions. Available in three classic colors—black, brown, and tan—these slippers have simple yet stylish details, like stitched seams, which add a subtle touch without making them feel too plain. These colors are versatile and can easily match any outfit, making them ideal for various occasions.

To break away from a simple, everyday look, pairing these shoes with tailored checkered trousers and a khaki blazer creates a sharp office look. For a more casual style, try slim-fit jeans rolled up slightly with a basic tee and a long-sleeve jacket. These leather slippers are a versatile choice that can adapt to many different styles. Offering comfort and sophistication, Slippers are perfect for daily wear, especially in the cool fall weather. Once considered a luxury item for the elite, today, Slippers are no longer confined to mansions or high society but are accessible to everyone.

The Penny Loafer is a classic footwear style made with the modern professional in mind. It seamlessly complements formal trousers and casual outfits like khakis. The standout feature is the band that crosses over the shoe's mouth, offering various stylish interpretations for a personal touch. A Penny Loafer is a versatile, all-year-round shoe, offering a balance of sophistication and comfort. It can be worn with or without socks, adding to its flexibility. These lace-free shoes perfectly combine a sharp, polished look with ease.

What sets this loafer apart is its saddle design: a leather strap that runs across the vamp of the shoe. This feature is often styled with a cut-out that allows for adding a coin, creating both convenience and an eye-catching detail. This is where the name Penny Loafer comes from, as coins were once used for payphones.

In professional settings, where neatness and elegance are required, the Penny Loafer is an excellent alternative to traditional Oxford or Derby shoes. Pair these slip-on shoes with a suit, and don't forget to wear socks that match your trousers for a polished look.

Monk Strap shoes are a timeless classic featuring a distinctive buckle that replaces the traditional laces. This unique design is a key element that sets these shoes apart. Available in various materials like suede and leather, Monk Straps come in different styles, including the classic cap-toe or the wingtip, both exuding refinement. These shoes are known for their snug fit, and the elegant buckle closure adds a touch of sophistication. They come in three variations: single, double, or triple buckles, with the Double Monk Strap being the most popular.

Why has the Monk Strap become a “fashion savior”? If you work in fashion or the creative industries, you're likely familiar with this shoe. But for someone more accustomed to casual wear like jeans and sneakers, Monk Straps offer a stylish way to elevate your wardrobe. Their popularity comes from their versatility in both design and materials. You can find Monk Straps made from high-quality cowhide, buffalo leather, or even exotic materials like crocodile skin. They come in a range of textures, such as smooth, suede, and pebbled leather, and are available in various colors. The buckle sizes and materials also vary, providing an array of design choices.

The refined beauty of the Monk Strap is most often showcased in genuine leather or suede, which suits the elegant yet rugged style of this “monk-like” shoe. The design has evolved, and you can now find Monk Straps with brogue-style perforations or with a more modern high-top design featuring three buckles. Monk Straps are incredibly easy to pair with any outfit, making them a fashion essential. They can transform a dull suit into a sharp, sophisticated look and turn a casual street outfit into something more stylish.

The Chukka is a high-top boot, designed to fit snugly around the foot, commonly crafted from calfskin or suede. This style is ideal for a rugged, casual look, especially when paired with jeans, and is perfect for winter outdoor activities. Chukka boots are not suitable for formal office settings, but they shine in more relaxed environments, like outings with friends or casual street wear, highlighting a free-spirited personality. This style can also be dressed up with a smart-casual look, pairing well with a sharp blazer, a crisp shirt, and tailored trousers, chinos, or khakis.

Chukka boots come with rubber or leather soles, with crepe rubber being a durable, flexible option. This is why Desert Boots, a variant of the Chukka, are commonly used in the military to help soldiers cope with harsh desert and mountain terrains, providing excellent mobility and protection. Chukka boots with leather or rubber soles offer a more aesthetically pleasing option compared to crepe soles. Among the oldest footwear styles, Chukka Boots boast a rich history that's difficult to rival.

In the 20th century, these boots gained popularity in Western polo sports, and by 1924, they became a trend when Prince Edward, the Duke of Windsor, frequently wore them. Originally designed with a high ankle cut and three lace holes, these boots often came in brown suede or polished leather, typical of dress shoes. Today, the design remains mostly unchanged, but it's even easier to find a pair of Chukka boots that match your personal style with endless mix-and-match possibilities. Chukka Boots are the perfect combination of taste, design, practicality, and durability, making them an excellent investment for any man.

A sneaker is simply defined as a shoe with a rubber sole. The history of sneakers dates back to the 1800s when a London police officer invented a rubber-soled shoe to quietly pursue criminals. This invention made it easier for him to move without making noise, and thus the term ‘sneaker’ was born. The sneaker wasn’t popular until 1892, when an American rubber company released Keds, a rubber-soled shoe with fabric uppers for added comfort.

Sneaker enthusiasts are familiar with shoes made of fabric. From simple canvas to more advanced, high-tech fabrics, sneakers became popular for their variety of colors, affordable prices, and durability. However, sneaker lovers are now more selective in their choices. Despite brands experimenting with different colors and materials like rubber, fabric has shown limitations in terms of durability and fading over time, especially after frequent washes or sun exposure.

Sneakers, also known as athletic shoes, tennis shoes, gym shoes, running shoes, or trainers, were originally designed for sports and fitness. Today, however, they are often worn casually. The term sneaker refers to a shoe with a flexible rubber sole made from rubber or synthetic materials, with an upper made from leather or synthetic fabric. Though not all sports use the term 'sneaker,' it is commonly associated with any shoe designed for active use.

For those unfamiliar with fashion details, men's Derby shoes are often confused with Oxford shoes. Some even perceive them as rough footwear meant for laborers. However, don't let these initial assumptions fool you. Derby shoes are much more than they appear, and they have a dedicated following worldwide, including the wealthy and famous. Try pairing a pair of Derby shoes with slim trousers, and you'll instantly notice the difference Mytour is referring to.

The origins of the Derby are not entirely clear, but many believe the story is linked to Edward Smith-Stanley, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Known for his large feet, he struggled to fit into standard boots. To solve this, his shoemaker created a lace-up boot with an open throat, making it easier for him to wear. This is one theory behind the birth of the Derby.

In the 1860s, the low-cut Derby was introduced, and by 1872, it was praised in a magazine as being “a better lace-up than Oxford, with stitching that didn’t irritate the sensitive foot area.” Another theory links the Derby to the 19th century, when Europe was dominated by high boots, even in the military. Boots were uncomfortable and time-consuming to remove, which led Prussian general Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher, Fürst von Wahlstedt, to design a new, more comfortable shoe for his troops during the Napoleonic Wars. This design eventually evolved into the Derby (or Blucher) we know today.

The design of Bucks shoes is quite similar to Oxford or Derby styles, but what sets them apart is their brighter, more vibrant colors, making them popular among young, dynamic men. The soles of Bucks shoes are made from colorful rubber, giving them a unique, attention-grabbing look. In terms of versatility, Bucks are just as influential and stylish as Oxford or Derby shoes. With a design that blends classic elegance with a sporty edge, these shoes are confident and refined enough to pair with formal trousers and a shirt for a professional look. Alternatively, they work just as well with casual jeans and a T-shirt for a laid-back vibe.

The materials used for Bucks shoes vary depending on the supplier, but the most common are genuine leather, suede, or smooth leather. These shoes are crafted with attention to detail, offering a modern, youthful style with a durable rubber sole designed to prevent slipping and enhance safety. With their playful design, Bucks are a must-have for the season, offering a perfect balance of sophistication and fun.

Bucks shoes are ideal for men looking to express their unique personality and stay on top of the latest fashion trends. Whether you're aiming for a polished look or something more casual and adventurous, Bucks shoes are versatile enough to complement any style, making them a great addition to any wardrobe.

The Blucher shoe originates from the Prussian army (which later became modern-day Germany). Named after the military commander Gebhard Leberecht von Blucher, it was designed in the late 18th century to meet the needs of soldiers. The shoe was built for practicality, comfort, and durability, allowing quick wear and removal during combat. In terms of style, the Blucher is considered the precursor to many modern shoes, such as the Derby, Balmoral, and Desert Boots. These styles share a similar design, which often leads to confusion between the Blucher and the Derby shoe.

The defining feature of the Blucher is its seamless design, made from a single piece of leather that wraps around the foot from the toe to the heel. This particular style is often referred to as the Wholecut Blucher. Creating this shoe requires high skill and craftsmanship, as the leather is not divided into separate pieces. To craft a complete Blucher from one piece of leather demands precision and high-quality, flexible leather. Besides being highly functional, the Blucher also exudes a refined, masculine look. Every aspect of its design is crafted to meet the needs of its wearer.

The Blucher is a low-cut dress shoe that reaches just above the ankle, providing comfort and ease of movement. The sides of the shoe are sewn separately from the body, forming a V-shape with the laces. This feature balances elegance and comfort, ensuring the shoe fits well while still offering freedom of movement. With its simple, yet sophisticated design, the Blucher is a favorite among men who appreciate both style and comfort. Due to the expert craftsmanship required and the use of quality leather, Blucher shoes tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. They are well-known in luxury fashion circles and are often worn at upscale events. However, today, many shoe brands offer a variety of Blucher shoes in different colors, materials, and designs, making them more accessible for office wear. The Blucher has become a popular choice for men’s dress shoes, combining elegance and comfort for professional settings.

Oxford is one of the most popular shoe styles for men, essential for pairing with trousers and a shirt or a formal suit for special occasions or office settings. Available in various colors, black and brown remain the most classic choices. The defining feature of an Oxford shoe is its closed lacing system, with additional leather covering the toe area. This timeless design gives the Oxford shoe a refined and sophisticated look, making it versatile for both formal and casual occasions.

The Oxford shoe is the epitome of classic fashion, offering a look that is both mature and elegant. Made from the finest leather, this European-style shoe often features intricate embossing and detailing. The Oxford is a lace-up shoe with a sturdy form, typically worn in settings that demand sophistication and respect, such as events, ceremonies, and weddings.

Oxford shoes are one of the two main types of formal lace-up shoes, alongside the Derby shoes. Although both share similarities, such as a low heel and a Goodyear welt construction, there are distinct differences. For example, the lacing position, shoe sole, stitching, and toe design distinguish the Oxford from the Derby. In Oxford shoes, the lacing holes are positioned beneath the vamp (the front part of the shoe), and this style is sometimes referred to as “closed front” because the shoe’s front is always sealed together with the laces. The upper leather is either stitched over or sewn seamlessly to the lower part of the shoe, creating a dignified, aristocratic appearance. This makes the Oxford a perfect choice for men who seek a serious, professional style.

Brogues are similar in style to Oxford shoes but feature a more intricate design. The shoe’s toe is angled outward with a row of perforations running along the body of the shoe. These perforations give the Brogues a distinct, classic feel, evoking the traditional spirit of both England and Italy. Typically made from leather or suede, Brogues come in a variety of styles, including the popular wingtip, as well as semi brogues, quarter brogues, and longwing. They also come in many colors, making them suitable for formal settings.

The modern Brogue shoe originates from Scotland and Ireland, featuring a unique design with small holes punched in the leather. These holes were originally designed for drainage in wet conditions, such as when walking through marshy lands. Brogues are categorized into two main types: Derby, which features an open lacing system, and Oxford, with a closed lacing system. Upon closer inspection, Brogue shoes can be differentiated by the patterns of perforations, including wingtip, half brogue, quarter brogue, and longwing brogue. The wingtip style is the most iconic, characterized by a toe that extends outward along the sides of the shoe, adorned with punched holes and serrated edges. This design, when viewed from above, resembles a “W” or “M” shape, like a bird with outstretched wings.

Historically, Brogues were considered outdoor shoes or casual wear, not typically seen at formal events. However, as the style evolved, Brogues became recognized as one of the most formal types of footwear. The traditional Brogue, often made from brown leather, has expanded into a wide array of colors, materials, and styles, including smooth leather and suede. Their versatility allows them to be paired with various outfits, from simple blue jeans and a V-neck t-shirt to a chambray shirt and chinos. Today, classic Brogues are even worn with a striped two-piece suit.

Thanks to their timeless appeal, Brogues are now a popular choice for business attire. For a more formal look, a traditional Brogue pairs well with jeans, while a more modern version can complement a suit with ease.

Boat shoes are a popular choice for men during the summer months. With their breathable design, they are the perfect footwear for hot and humid summer days. These shoes can be paired with almost any casual outfit, from jeans and shorts to T-shirts, and are best worn without socks. A defining feature of Boat shoes is the lacing across the top and the rubber sole, which provides comfort and slip-resistance for the wearer.

The creation of Boat shoes was as serendipitous as the style they offer. While watching his dog run on the deck of a boat, sailor Paul Sperry noticed that the dog was able to move steadily on the slippery deck, thanks to the dog’s paw grooves. Inspired by this, Sperry adapted the design by adding similar grooves to the soles of his own shoes, thus creating the Boat shoes. Originally known as Deck Shoes, these shoes were first made with black soles and were used primarily by sailors navigating wet and slippery decks. Over time, the soles were changed to white to avoid leaving marks on the boat's deck.

In the 1930s, Boat shoes were primarily seen at docks, but over time, they became a popular style choice for young, modern men, becoming a symbol of preppy fashion in the 1980s. Today, Boat shoes are still a staple for men’s summer wardrobes, beloved for their comfort and timeless appeal.