It’s been reported that the average male owns between 9 and 12 pairs of shoes. Whether that seems like a lot or a little to you, it brings up the question of how many pairs of shoes does a man really need. Apart from any specialized athletic shoes, we believe the number to be at least six. The following is our list of the six shoes every man should have in his closet.

1. Black Dress Shoes

The must-have shoe for the most important events of your life, a simple pair of black derby’s or oxfords makes any occasion a little more special. Look for a pair of plain toe or cap toe derbies with no brogueing and a dress style sole. Other shoes may be more versatile but nothing is as dressy or can be worn with a tux as a classic, black dress shoe. We recommended these styles:

Royale Plain Toe Derby

Exeter Cap Toe Oxford

Kobe Plain Toe Derby

2. Brown Dress Shoes

Think wingtip, plain toe, or medallion toe. These are shoes that all men should own. They can be worn all year and are perfect for any dress occasion that’s not formal, and for when you are wearing any colour but black. The brogueing lends a casual air and makes them versatile enough to wear with a suit, as part of business casual attire for work, or with jeans for a night out. We recommended these styles:

Nimbus Plain Toe Derby

Flex Cap Cap Toe Derby

Kabul Plain Toe Derby

3. The Chukka or Chelsea Boot

One of the most versatile shoe styles for men, the classic three eyelet, ankle-high chukka rides the line midway between the sneaker and a dress lace up or for a classic look, you can’t go past a Chelsea boot. Sitting at the top of the comfort list, both look great with jeans and chinos and will be your go-to shoe for work, a night out, and the weekend. We recommended these styles:

Cumulus Plain Toe Chukka Boot

Ceduna Plain Toe Chelsea Boot

Barret Plain Toe Chelsea Boot

4. Rugged Boot

For winter weather, weekends, or working around the house, everyone needs a solid pair of boots. Look for a lace up with a durable rubber sole that can take on the elements but is also stylish enough to wear to the office on a wet day. We recommended these styles:

Lodge Plain Toe Chukka Boot

Xplor Moc Toe Hiker

Breaker Chukka Plain Toe Chukka Boot

5. Slip On

The featured image is a man standing in a living room wearing the Atlantic Moc Toe Venetian Slip On in Cognac.

Slip on boat shoes or loafers are shoes every man needs, especially in the warmer months. From dress to casual, the slip on is the ultimate versatile shoe with styles that can be worn with chinos, jeans, and even shorts. Cool, casual, and comfortable, no man should be without a good slip on. We recommended these styles:

Cascade Moc Toe Driver

Altura Moc Toe Boat Shoe

Corona Moc Toe Woven Driver

6. Sneaker

What would life be without sneakers. No shoe is cooler or more comfortable. For the pair you want to include in your collection, look for something with a bit of retro, it’s always in fashion. Keep them clean and you can wear a pair of sneakers almost anywhere. We recommended these styles:

Crossover Lace To Toe Toe Sneaker

Premier Plain Toe Lace Up Sneaker

Venture Knit Plain Toe Sneaker

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