Did you know the global footwear market could reach $412.9 billion this year and grow at a 3.43% compound annual growth rate from 2024 to 2028?
Depending on your situation, you may be in the market for another pair or two. Many sources recommend against buying used shows from a thrift shop. By the time someone donates their used footwear to a secondhand store, the shoes are on their last legs. You’ll be compromising on comfort, stability, and safety. There’s also the risk of problems with getting athlete’s foot. That’s a fungal skin condition that can pass from person to person through footwear.
Here are six things to keep in mind when buying men’s footwear in a store or online.
1. Get the Right Size
Ensure you get shoes that fit your feet. Wearing shoes that don’t fit correctly can subject you to corns, blisters, foot pain, calluses, back pain, and more. It’s not worth the potential problems.
Remember that shoe sizes are inconsistent across different brands. A size “10” under one brand might be another size entirely under another brand. So, don’t assume that the size of your last pair of shoes is useful when seeking a new pair. Try on several pairs to get the right fit, or ask someone in the store to measure your feet. If buying shoes online, take the time to find the size information. The good news is that online retailers make it easy to get the right shoe size.
2. Get Shoes That Fit Your Wardrobe
When buying footwear, find options that fit your wardrobe. That’s especially vital if the shoes are for work. You’ll want shoes that fit the workplace environment and work with your outfits. Spare yourself the frustration of having footwear that doesn’t mesh with your outfits. You won’t have to worry about that if you’re mindful about buying the right shoes in the first place.
3. Get the Right Footwear
There are many kinds of footwear for men. You can get dress shoes, loafers, sandals, running shoes, hiking boots, and more. Before buying footwear, consider your use cases. You don’t have to limit yourself to one pair, of course. But you’ll want shoes that are a good fit for where you go and what you do.
4. Consider the Time of Day
Many people don’t realize that the size of their feet changes throughout the day. So, if you’re headed to a footwear store, it’s a good idea to go during the afternoon or even later in the day. That’s typically when your feet will be at their largest size. If you buy shoes earlier in the day, buy them, and bring them home, you might find they’re too snug when wearing them in the evening.
5. Walk Around in Them
If buying shoes from a retail store, don’t forget to walk around in them. It’s one thing to try them on — preferably while wearing socks. But it’s another thing to get up and walk around the store. That’s the only way you can ensure the shoes are comfortable. If buying online, check the e-commerce platform’s return policy before completing a transaction.
6. Consider Cushioning and Support
When buying footwear, you must consider cushioning. Again, if visiting a footwear store, wear shoes you’re interested in buying and walk around. Observe if there’s enough cushioning for your feet. That’s especially important if you spend a lot of time on your feet while at work or elsewhere. You should also consider foot support. How comfortable and secure do you feel wearing the shoes?
Shoe sizes are inconsistent across different brands. So, don’t assume that the size of your last pair of shoes is useful when seeking a new pair. Try on several pairs to get the right fit, or ask someone in the store to measure your feet.
Are you in the market for footwear? Remember these six tips to find the right shoes for your needs.
