When it comes to fashion, it can be a challenge to determine the appropriate attire for everyday events. Maybe you just recently got a handle on “business casual.” So what happens when someone invites you to a more unique event; say a hot-air balloon wedding or a foam rave? There’s no need to panic! We researched the best men’s shoes for every occasion—even those that are a little unorthodox—and we’ll pass our secrets onto you.
Formal British Fox Hunt
Tall cordovan field boots with three buckles: no more, no less.
All-Night Feral Hog Hunt
Gore-Tex hiking boots in any color that suggest “dying bunny.” With the right gray faux fur, you’ll attract any hungry sows in the area. If you want a pop of color, boars have trouble seeing green.
World Toe Wrestling Championships
It can get chilly at this annual competition in England, but good sportsmanship dictates that your toes be ready to fill in for injured players. Go with a sensible sandal that will allow for maximum movement.
Foam Rave
Ignore your instincts to wear old sneakers, because you’ll need new rubber soles with grip to prevent sliding. Also, any fluorescent color will show up under black light.
Hostile Corporate Takeover
Whether you’re poised for power or on the losing end, billions are in the balance and the fashion stakes couldn’t be higher. If your alligator oxfords aren’t polished to a high sheen, don’t even bother to show up.
Viking Festival
To show your respect at reenactments, you’ll need historically accurate foot coverings. If you have enough notice, you can hand-stitch some animal skins together. In a pinch, anything braided leather will do.
Hot-Air Balloon Wedding
One important question: are you the groom? Then you have a lot of leeway, as long as your footwear is dashing, quirky, romantic, and virginal white. For instance, you could take your inspiration from the embroidered Elizabethan mules that were all the rage in the 16th century.
Hot Air Balloon Wedding, Part 2
If you have a lesser role as officiant or witness, go for the appropriate dress moccasins in an earth tone that says “commitment.” Pro tip: make sure they have no sharp embellishments, and enough cushioning for unexpected falls from great heights. In fact, all the best men’s shoes—whatever the occasion—should have built-in safety features, and enough traction for fast exits.
