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Hypebeast
05-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Hypebeast
Editors' Picks: Our Favorite Shoes of 2025 (So Far)
We're deep into summer, and the Hypebeast team has come together again to reflect on which new shoes have excited us the most this year. Eight brands appear across the diverse range of kicks, but PUMA claims the top spot as the most represented brand. At the same time, fashion-forward offerings from Allen Edmonds and Rick Owens join footwear giants like Nike and adidas. Dive into our staff's passionate takes and standout stories below, and let us know which pair you'd add to our lineup. Discovery is a driving force within my life. Whether it's finding a new restaurant, an emerging brand, or a whimsical product that I decide I need, the introductory moment with something great and novel is beautiful. One of my favorite examples of this experience came just over a year ago, when I saw ROMBAUT's PUMA Levitation sneakers on the runway at Paris Fashion Week. The 'floating heel' and sleek shape struck me with love at first sight. This excitement not only prompted me to keep an eye out for its eventual launch but also to conduct a deep dive into ROMBAUT, which culminated in an interview with founder Mats Rombaut ahead of the collaboration's debut. When I finally got my hands on the ROMBAUT x PUMA Levitation in its 'Medic Green' colorway, it lived up to the hype. Slipping over my foot, the design's tactile interior structure lets me stand tall with an elevated heel to emphasize my stature. It felt like I had just upgraded my character's build in a video game, bolstering its strength and agility. This newfound confidence has guided me on several adventures since, with the shoe not only elevating my height but also my outfits.- Logan Fairbrother, Associate Editor In the past two years, my rotation of footwear has become increasingly boot-heavy, and the Rick Owens Beatle Bogun has ascended the ranks to become my most-worn pair. Beyond being a big chunky blacked-out boot, which suits my color-deficient wardrobe, they're surprisingly versatile. With loose pants, they're lowkey, but with shorts or cropped pants, they become an aggressive visual statement. On the wearability front, although they're heavy, I've found them to be super comfortable and forgiving to stand around in. The added few inches to my height also help my self-esteem.- Paul Heavener, Executive Creative Director Throughout this year, FENTY's PUMA Avanti sneaker has spawned a sizable lineage of colorways and variants, serving as the pinnacle of Rihanna's partnership with the footwear imprint. In January, the seasoned duo reinvented the Avanti model, delivering the slimmer Avanti LS sneaker. Drawing design influence from the heritage PUMA silhouette, the Riri-reimagined version is refined for the modern day, fitted with a lighter-weight body than its predecessor. For an actual cleat-like structure, the statement foldover tongue punctuates the upper while natural rubber soles and gum studding on the heels round out the sneaker. Though the sleek, soccer-coded shape was a huge allure, what ultimately sold me was the colorway. The vibrant 'Team Royal' blue is striking, contrasted cleanly with its complementary 'Creamy Vanilla.' Boots-only summer is even better when the boots come in a bright blue colorway.- Elaina Bernstein, Editor I've always been a fan of Salomon's ability to manipulate color, but the XT-Whisper in 'White/Lunar Rock' is proof that the brand executes monochromatic looks just as well. As the current workhorse of my wardrobe, I reach for these sneakers for almost every facet of my life. They're my most traveled shoe, worn on nearly every flight I board and to every destination I reach, easy to slip on and off when I head to yoga or pilates, and they're heavy in my rotation of on-set or office fits. In general, I find the silhouette versatile and easy to style — like a white sneaker should be — but with the signature design details that make Salomon sneakers so distinct.- Courtney Kenefick, Creative Director I don't wear a lot of sneakers. You'll typically catch me in a beat-up pair of restaurant Crocs or some old Docs, but the Nike Shox R4 surprised me. They feel sporty, like something you could jog in, but they're super comfortable for just walking around or running errands. The bounce from the Shox columns makes them feel light on your feet, and the fit is snug without being too tight. The colorway stands out just enough without being loud. I've worn them through the city, airport, gallery shows, even just hanging out, and they've held up. As a retro, it's got a timeless look with some futuristic nods, so I'm thinking they'll always be in style. Well, at least for me.- Keith Estiler, Managing Editor, Hypeart The JJJJound x ASICS GEL-QUANTUM 360 I AMP is this summer's standout sneaker. Released first during Paris Fashion Week, it blends clean design with peak comfort, combining a crisp white mesh upper with subtle off-white cushioning and sleek reflective detailing. Its full-length GEL midsole and updated FF BLAST+ foam offer all-day support, while the understated branding maintains a refined design language. With its effortless style and tech-driven build, it's my perfect go-to for everything from city days to weekend getaways.- David White, Brand Partnerships As I continue to get older, what I look for in footwear is not just aesthetics and comfort, but versatility. Whether I'm going for a quick run or need to hit the grocery store, the lightweight and functional Evo SL does it all. I find it most convenient as a travel shoe, especially when it comes to packing light, as I end up having one less shoe to pack.- Nick Llanton, Senior Social Producer The New Balance 1906R 'Year of the Snake' wasn't supposed to be my shoe of the summer. I knew I wanted a runner, and probably a New Balance or ASICS, but I wasn't in a rush. It had to be directional, yet neutral enough to blend in, without making a statement. With a summer built around constant motion — commuting to the office, escaping the city, early morning drives to golf tournaments — I wanted a shoe that would help me maintain my composure through all of it: misplaced keys, spontaneous hikes, and unexpected summer showers included. Then, I found myself in a New Balance outlet in Clinton, Connecticut, staring at a pair of 'Year of the Snake' 1906Rs. Maybe that says something about my priorities: I didn't need the trendiest pair, I needed something that worked. Since that early June weekend, they've become such a cornerstone to my rotation that I've even considered picking up a fresh pair to stash away, which feels like the ultimate sign of trust. Sure, it's not exactly the most neutral pair in the NB catalog, but in a smaller, sharper wardrobe built around versatile pieces, a simple footwear change can shift an outfit's entire tone. And the 1906R always says what I need it to say: I'm on the go, but I'm not in a hurry.- Julius Oppenheimer, Senior Editor, Hypegolf The FENTY x PUMA Cat Cleat Jelly is a standout summer sandal from Rihanna's iconic collaboration with PUMA, blending playful fashion with sporty edge. Featuring a bold jelly cleat design and a cushioned leather sole, these sandals are as comfortable as they are eye-catching. Super versatile, I've reached for them on beach vacations and to elevate my summer streetwear looks as they're the perfect mix of fun and function.- Manni Arango, Creative Project Manager The minute I heard Willy Chavarria's Allen Edmonds derby shoes clicking down the designer's debut Paris Fashion Week runway this January, I knew I needed their sophistication in my rotation. Much like that catwalk — titled 'Tarantula,' driven by the Mexican-American fashioner's tantalizing commitment to platforming his own historically disadvantaged signifiers — these derby shoes are exceptionally resilient. (Case in point: the slight wear you see above is the result of gallivanting New York City's treacherous streets over the last several weeks.) Formally titled 'The Jalisco,' the design features a sleek, split-toe silhouette with a strong Cuban heel. My favorite details, however, are located just above the chunky platform: two little golden 'W' and 'C' letters reside on the quarter, winking at those behind you with an IYKYK glare.- Dylan Kelly, Senior Editor
Business Insider
10-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Business Insider
The 9 best men's dress shoes for stepping out in style and comfort
Dress shoes don't have to be stuffy or relegated to the odd wedding or other formal occasion you find yourself attending. They're actually a very versatile footwear category that can elevate your everyday style and still be appropriate for more formal occasions. Knowing what to look for in both the type of shoe and how they're made is key to finding a high-quality dress shoe within your budget. This guide highlights some of the best in dress shoes for men, from the least formal — loafers — to the most formal, wholecut Oxfords, with some others that range between these two. That is, brogue wingtips, dress boots, Bluchers, and monk straps. We've also included both a high-end Oxford from the legendary American brand Allen Edmonds that's worth the monetary investment, and a more budget-friendly pair from Florsheim, which are still manufactured with high standards using time-tested techniques. We've thoroughly tested these dress shoes that will have you looking sharp, feeling confident, and will last for years with a little TLC on your part. Best Oxford: Ace Marks Wholecut Oxford A wholecut Oxford offers one of the dressiest shoe options out there with its closed lacing system, refined profile, and sleek style that pairs well with everything from a tux to a business suit to more casual separates. Ace Marks offers an exceptional Plain Toe Wholecut Oxford, which the DTC brand handcrafts in Italy from a luxurious hand-dyed and burnished calfskin leather and includes key details like a leather lining, stacked leather heel, and Blake stitching so the shoes can be resoled when the time comes (although based on our testing these Oxfords that run true to size will last you years before you'll need it). Best for comfort: Cole Haan Zerogrand Remastered Wingtip Oxfords Cole Haan's Zerogrand Remastered Wingtip Oxfords masterfully combine the elevated style of wingtip Oxford dress shoes with the comfort of sneakers in one stunning package that doesn't require breaking in. I walked two miles in these straight out of the box and my feet felt fine, with no pinching, rubbing, or blisters — and they've only gotten more comfortable over longer wearing periods, including an eight-mile walk around Manhattan. Best Brogue: Beckett-Simonon Yates Oxfords The brogue dress shoe features perforated leather detailing, and whether it's a full brogue wingtip — with a point at the center of the toe cap and wings running along the sides — a half-brogue, with broughing at the cap toe, along the shoe's edges, and with a medallion, or a quarter brogue, which doesn't feature a medallion, these various iterations add visual appeal to your footwear. The Durant Oxfords are full-brogue wingtips handcrafted in Columbia under ethical conditions, feature full-grain Italian leather, gorgeous details and craftsmanship, break in easily, and are made to order, which allows the company to offer a superior shoe at a reasonable price. (Note: Beckett-Simonon shoes are made to order and include 150 steps in the manufacturing process, which means it can take between six to eight weeks for delivery, but it's worth the wait). Best Loafer: Marc Nolan Abe Penny Loafers Loafers, whether bit, tassel, or penny, are the warm weather shoes that offer an elegant way to dress up a casual outfit or make a suit seem a bit less stodgy, and the penny loafers from the DTC brand Marc Nolan do the job exceptionally well with 11 different options in eye-catching colorways and materials. They exude summer fun without losing a sense of sophistication thanks to their top-notch materials, like calfskin leather and sheepskin suede, and are easy to break in, very comfortable due to memory foam insoles, and can be worn with or without socks. Best Budget Dress Shoe: Florsheim Midtown Cap Toe Oxford Andrew Amelinckx Florsheim's Midtown cap toe Oxfords nicely balance price with quality that, like all the footwear I've tried from the brand, hold up well, with the bonus that they're really comfortable for all-day wear and are available at Famous Footwear. For $125 you get a great looking dress shoe made from leather sourced from environmentally responsible tanneries with Goodyear welted construction (meaning it can be resoled), plus tons of cushioning, and they'll hold up well for years if properly cared for. Best Luxury: Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Oxford The word iconic gets thrown around a lot, but in the case of American heritage brand Allen Edmonds and its Park Avenue cap toe Oxford, it's an apt description and while they're considered luxury, the craftsmanship and top-notch materials justify the cost. They handcraft these timeless dress shoes in Wisconsin using 212 steps, European calfskin, Goodyear welting, and cork insoles that mold to the shape of your foot over time, making for a refined pair of Oxfords that deliver a comfortable wearing experience, will last decades, and can be recrafted down the road. Best Dress Boot: Idrese Galahad Jodhpur boots Idrese is a direct-to-consumer shoe company that handcrafts its footwear in Spain, and while it specializes in letting the customer design their own shoes and boots — that's what I did with a pair of Jodhpurs that I absolutely love and fit my feet perfectly — the company also has ready to wear items like the Galahad jodhpurs. Idrese uses supple Italian calfskin leather, Goodyear welting, and a sleek profile for an elevated take on this boot style that includes a strap and buckle near the top. Best Derby: Moral Code Chase Derby Best Monk Strap: Thursday Boots the Saint Double Monk Strap With their rich history dating back centuries to their modern appeal as an alternative to less fashion-forward Oxfords, monk strap dress shoes — with their unique straps and buckles (one or two) rather than laces — look as good with a contemporary suit as they do with nice jeans, so they won't get dusty waiting for formal occasions to be worn. The DTC footwear brand Thursday Boots makes the Saint double-monk strap from sleek full-grain leather using Blake stitching, with straps that are sturdy, stay in place, and have a good range of adjustability for a tighter or looser fit — and all with a minimal break-in period. What to consider when shopping There are a few important factors to consider when looking for dress shoes that will last you years. The shoes should be made of high-quality leather rather than a synthetic material (unless you're morally opposed to it). The shoes should have either Goodyear welting or Blake stitching, rather than being cemented, as you see with sneaker construction. These two old-school techniques for attaching the upper to the sole, allow you to have them resoled down the line. FAQs What's the difference between Oxfords and Derbies? Oxford have closed lacing, meaning the part of the shoe called the quarters, where the laces go, are sewn under the vamp (front part of the shoe) making for a sleeker shoe that's considered more formal than Derbies. The latter type of shoe has open lacing, meaning the quarters are sewn over the vamp, which gives the shoes a more relaxed look and allows for greater ease of movement. How do I care for leather dress shoes? There are a few simple steps to keeping your dress shoes looking sharp. Depending on how often you wear them, you should shine them every few weeks if they get heavy use or every few months if you don't wear them as often. First, clean them with saddle soap, then use a moisturizing cream polish, and if you're looking for a high shine, use a wax polish. Here are the six you should use. Can dress shoes be resoled? Quality dress shoes should be made with either Goodyear welting or Blake stitching, two methods for attaching the sole to the upper. Both of these methods allow for a professional cobbler to resole your dress shoes. Are expensive dress shoes worth it? It depends on what your needs are and whether you're willing to invest the money. If you can afford to, you should buy a well-crafted, timeless style of dress shoe rather than a cheaper fast-fashion pair that uses glue instead of Goodyear welting or Blake stitching. A high-quality pair can last years, if not decades, if properly cared for, while cheaply made ones won't last nearly as long. How do I break in new dress shoes without pain? There are a few tricks you can use to break in new dress shoes. If you aren't in a big hurry you can do it over several days starting by wearing them indoors for 30 minutes or so and then over the next few days, wear them for incrementally longer periods, both inside and outside. Comfortable socks also help and if you know you're prone to getting blisters on certain parts of your feet, you can stick adhesive bandages on the problem spot until your new shoes become comfortable.
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Charlotte outlet mall picks up new stores
Charlotte Premium Outlets in southwest Charlotte is shaking up its tenant mix. Two shoe concepts have inked deals there — Allen Edmonds and Hey Dude. They will be joined by jewelry brand Pandora and retailer Buckle in the coming months. Iconic brand to open SouthPark store Shake Shack is still firming up details on its restaurant at the outlet mall, a spokesperson says. The popular New York-based modern-day, roadside burger stand confirmed plans for a location there in July 2024. Read more on CBJ's website here. VIDEO: New thrift shop boutique in Concord to support victims of human trafficking
