shoes again

[Disaffected.citizen]

Another area of attire where options for most men have shrivelled and contracted over the years.

The choices very much depend upon your chosen presentation and locale. Looking around, it is quite possible, with less formal skirts, to venture out with slightly more delicate, flat, sandals from the traditionally female ranges, the hardier sandals from the mens range, or even look at higher, wedge, types. You might also consider trainers (sneakers), Vans, or Converse Allstars. For hitting the trails, walking/hiking boots may fit the bill, or even Doctor Martens and similar ilk.

Dressing "up" is a more difficult prospect. We are conditioned to seeing more formal styles of skirt with smarter "court" shoes or high heels. Perhaps womens fashion trends play in our favour here, though. Granted, the style may not be suitable in warmer climes, the costs can be considerably higher, and not everybody likes them; but equestrian riding style boots are still available for, and worn by, men. So this opens up options of flat styles from the womens fashion ranges; lower quality (may) = lower cost; but, if we're not actually riding, do we need the protection? They work quite well with many different skirt styles and both we and "Joe public" are already conditioned to seeing them; thus, they don't garner too much attention.

I'll admit they are my favoured footwear, so I am biased here; they are but an option.