It used to be that shoe types fell into two categories—dress shoes and everything else. But as the work landscape has evolved, so has the number of shoes that are both polished and laidback in attitude. The best business casual shoes are comfortable, stylish and versatile, towing that line between spiffed-up and relaxed.
The best business casual shoes for men are stylish, comfortable and endlessly versatile.
Sizes: 7 to 16 | Colors: 5 total | Upper Material: Stitchlite fabric | Sole Type: FlowerFoam midsole
What’s notable: This pair is extremely lightweight, and the foam EVA midsole provides plush cushioning.
What could be better: The upper’s woven knit material, while breathable, will wear faster than the leather version of this shoe.
This fresh take on a classic oxford has elements of the traditional—punched perforation detailing at the toe, a closed lacing system—but with a casual, modern construction. The upper is made from the brand’s proprietary Stitchlite fabric that keeps feet from overheating, and the shoe’s updated fit securely grips your heel and has a slightly wider toe box. The sole’s extra deep grooves offer flexibility and comfort during movement, and they also provide traction.
Sizes: 6.5 to 15 | Colors: 3 total | Upper Material: Leather | Sole Type: Rubber
What’s notable: This shoe comes in four different widths so you can find your ideal fit, especially if you’ll be spending lots of time on your feet. What could be better: Some say these run narrow overall and can take a little time to break in.
Allen Edmonds’ Park Avenue Oxford was first introduced in 1982, and its understated simplicity is part of why it has remained so popular over the years. This modernized version—with rubber cup soles—has the look of a traditional oxford, so it’s a palatable choice even for those in more conservative professions. This pair has FlyForm insoles for extra cushion and support, whether you’re commuting, traveling or spending long hours at the office. Wear these with a casual suit, dress pants or a five-pocket pant.
Sizes: 5 to 15 | Colors: More than 50 variations | Upper Material: Leather | Sole Type: Rubber and EVA composite
What’s notable: It’s available in standard and wide widths, and it comes in dozens of colorways, so you’re bound to find something that matches your style aesthetic.
What could be better: While reviewers rave about the quality of these shoes, many say they are stiff at first.
While there’s an art to wearing stylish sneakers, the general rule is that there are no rules: This pair from British luxury sneaker brand Oliver Cabell goes equally well with five-pocket pants, slacks or denim. Made from high quality full grain leather and a durable rubber sole, this minimalist style has clean lines, an elegant feel and it’s built to last. The best part—even if you wear them constantly, the footbed has antibacterial properties to keep these from getting smelly.
Sizes: 7 to 13 | Colors: 4 total | Upper Material: Suede | Sole Type: Rubber
What’s notable: Reviewers rave about the easy comfort of this pair. One person sums up the style by saying it’s “casual enough to hang out in, nice enough to go to dinner.”
What could be better: Some say you may have to size down if you’re between sizes, and we’d love to see this shoe in even more colors.
Brooklyn-based Greats is a company dedicated to creating long-lasting, responsibly made shoes. Their Paros penny loafer is low profile, refined and just formal enough for casual Fridays at the office, summer nights and vacation dressing. It features a comfy rubber cupsole that cradles the foot and a cushioned leather footbed that will mold to your foot over time. Don’t be afraid to show a little ankle with this casual style.
Sizes: 7 to 14 | Colors: 5 total | Upper Material: Leather | Sole Type: Stacked leather
What’s notable: Renowned for their craftsmanship and fit, this top-rated pair comes in supple leather that develops a rich patina with wear.
What could be better: These can take a while to break in, and we’d like to see them offered in additional widths.
Beckett Simonon has several shoes that are business casual winners—from suede penny loafers to Belgians—but we like the Dean for its versatility as a dress up dress down pair. Yes, it’s a lace-up that is formal enough to be worn with a suit, but you can also pair it with a dressy trouser, chino or rich denim. The refined almond shape toe is just roomy enough without looking clunky, and leather-lined insoles mold to your feet with time. Another pro: Compared to many of its high-quality counterparts, this shoe is a great value.
Sizes: 7 to 15 | Colors: 3 total | Upper Material: Italian calfskin | Sole Type: Thermal rubber
What’s notable: These shoes are known for being comfy straight out of the box. They also come in a wide range of sizes.
What could be better: We know the white sole is a brand signature, but we’re hoping they’ll consider a colorway where these have a darker sole.
Like the name suggests, this shoe is a hybrid between dressy and sporty, making it an ideal choice for business casual scenarios. It features a memory foam footbed and cushioned EVA midsole for serious comfort, and the Italian leather upper is treated so that it’s both supple and durable. The grippy rubber outsole is also great for traction on slick surfaces. If you’re looking for something even sportier, this shoe also comes in Swiftknit and Sport versions.
Sizes: 6 to 16 | Colors: 10 total | Upper Material: Suede | Sole Type: Rubber
What’s notable: You can choose from either a leather sole or rubber sole to fit your style aesthetic and needs. These also come in extended sizing.
What could be better: Reviewers comment that the sizing on these can be tricky, and they are too heavy for some.
This casual-boot-meets-dress-shoe is equal parts rugged and refined. The extended height gives extra ankle support and the flexible suede and leather uppers look even better with age. The Scout Chukka has antimicrobial shock absorbing insoles and cork bed or leather midsoles (depending on which sole you choose) that mold to your feet with time. We love this style with dark denim or a five-pocket pant. Style tip: Add a small cuff to your pant to show off the top of the boot.
Sizes: 8 to 14 | Colors: 6 total | Upper Material: Leather or suede | Sole Type: Rubber and leather
What’s notable: These slip-ons are available in two different widths, and reviewers report they’re soft and don’t require any break in time.
What could be better: Due to the suppleness of the smooth leather, reviewers report some creasing, so if you don’t like that look you may want to reconsider.
If you’re looking for a shoe that you can wear with everything from chinos to slacks to denim, the Monterrey is an always-appropriate, always-stylish pair. It has a combo leather and rubber sole, so it looks sleek but is also practical and durable. The interior suede heel grip helps ensure a perfect fit—so there’s no rubbing or slipping at the heel—even when not wearing socks.
Sizes: 8 to 14 | Colors: 15 total | Upper Material: Tencel Lyocell knit blend | Sole Type: SweetFoam midsole
What’s notable: These shoes are the trifecta of comfortable, lightweight and supportive. You can throw them in the washing machine when they get dirty, too.
What could be better: Some say that the fit on these can be snug, and if you have extremely wide feet, these may be too narrow.
The latest iteration of the cult favorite Allbirds Tree Runner features a sleek design, a more durable toe and a midsole that’s even more cushioned. While this is likely too casual for a boardroom, it’s a great option for days you’ll be in transit and still want to look pulled together. Stretchy comfort coupled with breathability make this a solid business casual option for when you’re running to catch a flight and spending long hours on a plane.
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What To Consider When Buying Business Casual Shoes
Your Personal Style
When choosing business casual shoes, think about whether your personal style is more classic and conservative or fashion forward. “It’s easy to buy a shoe because it catches your eye and you want to be different, but you don’t want it to feel too out there,” says Albrecht. Look for options that are versatile and go with a variety of clothing. “Foundational neutral colors—think shades like white, grey, brown and black—without too many things going on will feel sophisticated, get more wear and feel elevated.”
Upper Material And Sole Type
Certain upper materials read more formal than others. “Leather fabrications really allow for business casual elevation,” says Albrecht. “Technical fabrics, or a linen or canvas shoe like a pair of Vans, is going to skew more casual.”
If you wear orthotics, opt for styles that specifically indicate “removable insoles” so that the shoe can accommodate your personalized insole. Or, if you just want a business casual shoe with more support, styles with more of a sneaker sole tend to work best, like the Cole Haan Zerogrand Remastered Stitchlite Wingtip Oxford or Allbirds Tree Runner Go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Shoes Are Considered Business Casual?
“Business casual” is a broad term when it comes to shoes. “In recent years the scope of what a business casual shoe is has shifted and become even more casual,” says Kyle Albrecht, founder and lead stylist at Social Garb. “Modern day dress shoes and business casual shoes encompass everything from fashion sneakers to comfort-inspired oxfords to loafers.” In general, you want to look for shoes are elevated and workplace appropriate but also provide comfort.
How Much Should Business Casual Shoes Cost?
It all depends on the quality and fabrication. Knit shoes are going to be less expensive than leather shoes. “For a good pair of nice leather business casual shoes, you’re looking at least $140 to $200,” says Albrecht. “Cheaper leather tends to be stiffer and less comfortable and durable. Softer leathers are more expensive, comfortable and friendly for the foot.”
Are Running Shoes Considered Business Casual?
Not really. Although comfortable, a pair of Brooks or Hoka running shoes will skew too utilitarian and relaxed for a truly business casual look. Instead, Albrecht likes the Cole Haan GrandPro Ashland Sneaker or Axel Arigato’s Genesis B Bird Runner, which are both elevated takes on a traditional running shoe. “Pair an elevated jogging sneaker with chinos and an oxford and cuff the sleeve,” says Albrecht. “It sportifies the look but still looks expensive.”
Are Slip-On Shoes Appropriate to Wear To Work?
In general, most slip-ons are appropriate, like the Tecovas Monterrey from our list. However, says Albrecht, upper material plays a big part. Canvas styles like those from Vans or Seavees, for instance, may be too casual. Instead, choose a business casual slip on style in leather in a versatile color like charcoal, black or brown. “A smoking slipper made of suede or calf leather is going to read more casual than a penny loafer or bit loafer,” say Albrecht.
