Joybuy Insights

Casual Shoes for Men and Women: How to Choose a Comfortable and Versatile Pair

A pair of casual shoes for men and women needs to see you through daily life, outings, holidays and sometimes long days on your feet. Yet a flattering photo or a well-known brand isn't enough to guarantee the right purchase. The best choice depends largely on your foot shape, the materials, how you plan to use them and the upkeep they'll require.

Common Pitfalls Before You Buy

1. Mistaking a Thick Sole for Lasting Comfort

A chunky sole can give a trainer some character without actually improving comfort. Instead, look for identifiable cushioning, a suitable insole and a construction that's flexible enough for your intended use.

Lifestyle sneakers like the New Balance 530 or 574 feature, according to their product listings, a midsole with cushioning technology. That doesn't mean they'll suit every foot, but this information does let you compare models on concrete criteria.

2. Overlooking the Width and Shape of the Forefoot

A shoe that's the right length can still be uncomfortable if it squashes your toes. People with wide feet in particular need to check:

  • the stated width or last shape;
  • the flexibility of the upper;
  • any seams or reinforcements at the front of the foot;
  • the adjustment and support options.

Unisex shoes aren't automatically suitable for all foot shapes. The Birkenstock Boston featured here, for example, comes in a narrow width – so it's worth checking carefully before ordering.

3. Buying a Trendy Style Without Thinking About Care

White trainers, glittery finishes and suede materials often need more looking after. A casual shoe you plan to wear every day should also be chosen based on how much time you can devote to cleaning it.

Models made from synthetic material or washable resin are generally easier to maintain than suede shoes. However, be aware that prolonged exposure to high heat can distort some materials, especially EVA.

Technical Criteria to Check

The Upper Material

The upper affects breathability, stain resistance and flexibility. A textile mesh upper helps air circulate, while leather, suede or synthetic reinforcements offer a different look and can change the care requirements.

For a pair intended for daily wear, it's better to compare the composition stated by the manufacturer than to rely on the model name alone. The New Balance 574, for example, combines textile, mesh and, depending on the version, suede. The Lacoste Storm 96 2K, meanwhile, blends synthetic and textile materials.

Fit and Size Guide

Measure your foot at the end of the day, wearing the socks you'd normally use. Then compare the length in centimetres with the size guide on the product page.

Here are the main differences to keep in mind:

  • the New Balance 574, 408 and 530 generally fit true to size;
  • the Crocs Classic Clog is available in whole sizes on some listings and has a roomy fit;
  • the Crocs Classic Glitter Clog can be chosen in your usual size for a bit more space, or one size down for a closer fit;
  • the Converse Chuck Taylor Platform comes with a detailed size guide in centimetres;
  • the Birkenstock Boston featured here has a narrow width, so it needs extra checking if you have wide feet.

The Sole and Intended Use

A rubber sole works well for most city walking, while an EVA sole prioritises lightness. Crocs clogs are handy in the garden, at the beach or for activities that need quick cleaning. However, they don't replace a shoe designed for a specific activity.

For long city walks, look for a stable sole, a well-supported heel and an upper that doesn't create any pressure points. On holiday, weight, how quickly they dry and versatility may become more important.

Our Selection by Profile

Recommended for: Beginners on a Budget
CROCS Classic Clog Black

CROCS Classic Clog Black

Why this choice suits this profile: Lightweight, airy thanks to its ventilation holes and fitted with a pivoting heel strap, this pair works well for simple use at home, in the garden or on holiday.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The synthetic resin rinses clean with water and the roomy fit reduces the risk of choosing a style that's too tight, provided you check the size guide.

Main advantage and key features

Lightweight resin, floating sole according to the listing, cleans with soapy water and has an adjustable strap.

Recommended for: Premium Enthusiasts
BIRKENSTOCK Boston Clog Suede Leather Mocca

BIRKENSTOCK Boston Clog Suede Leather, Mocca, Narrow Width

Why this choice suits this profile: This closed-toe clog in suede leather is aimed at those who want a refined finish and precise adjustment thanks to its metal buckle.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The narrow width is clearly stated – so you don't mistake a premium silhouette for a solution that suits all feet, especially wider ones.

Main advantage and key features

Suede leather, EVA outsole and buckle strap for adjusting the fit.

Recommended for: Specific Uses and Heavy Users
NEW BALANCE 574 Grey Orange

NEW BALANCE 574 Grey/Orange

Why this choice suits this profile: This trainer with a bold look combines a hybrid construction, designed for both road and trail, with a breathable mesh upper. It's suitable for city travel and frequent outings.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The listing details the last width, the mesh and the ENCAP sole – so you can compare the shoe's construction, not just its retro look.

Main advantage and key features

Breathable upper, rubber outsole and ENCAP cushioning as stated on the listing.

Recommended for: Urban Style Lovers
CONVERSE Chuck Taylor All Star Platform Pink

CONVERSE Chuck Taylor All Star Platform Pink

Why this choice suits this profile: Its pink canvas, high-top silhouette and platform sole fit into urban outfits that want to turn heads.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The size guide lists foot lengths in centimetres – check them before you get carried away by the platform effect.

Main advantage and key features

Textile upper, rubber sole and sizes ranging from 35 to 51 according to the listing.

Looking for other options?

We've put together a full selection, updated in real time, of products that meet these demanding criteria and European safety standards.

Care and Longevity

How long a pair lasts depends on how often you wear them, the weight they carry, the surfaces you walk on and how you look after them. Rotating between two pairs gives them time to dry out and reduces the wear from daily use.

  • Clean clogs and synthetic materials with water and mild soap.
  • Use a suitable brush for suede, without soaking it.
  • Leave to air dry away from a radiator or any direct heat source.
  • Avoid machine washing when the product listing advises against it.
  • Keep an eye on sole wear and loss of support rather than relying on a theoretical lifespan.

FAQ on Casual Shoes for Men and Women

Which pair should I choose for walking every day?

A trainer with a stable sole, clearly stated cushioning and a breathable upper can work well for city travel. The New Balance 574, 530 or 408 are models to compare based on your size, foot width and walking style. For the beach or garden, a Crocs clog will better meet your needs for quick cleaning and drying.

How do I choose a casual shoe for a wide foot?

Measure the length of your foot and look at the width of the forefoot. Go for a roomier shape, a flexible upper or a model explicitly described as wide. Conversely, a style in narrow width, like the Birkenstock Boston featured here, needs careful checking before you buy.

Are trendy shoes suitable for everyday wear?

Some trendy trainers can absolutely be worn every day, as long as their sole, support and material match how you'll use them. A platform, metallic finish or bright colour is primarily an aesthetic choice. For longer journeys, check the stability, size and flexibility of the model first.