Men’s shoes for spring

If you haven’t already invested in a pair of open-back loafers, consider this your cue to do so. The current shift towards ease over everything else (even tailoring has had the starch knocked out of it) makes these relaxed shoes one of menswear’s most coveted styles. Bottega Veneta’s pair will be effortless as occasion shoes, or just for when you want to be that little bit smarter.

Recently, trainers have become so futuristic, they would look right at home in the cityscapes of Blade Runner or a distant Marvel galaxy. In fact, we can imagine supervillain the Silver Surfer in these Valentino Garavani trainers. It’s not just the metallics – those chunky, bubble-like gum soles look capable of some serious turbocharge.

While some designers look to the distant future (see entry two), others draw on the past for inspiration. Alexander McQueen’s leather Chelsea boots take their design cues from traditional pairs, save for their grippy lug soles. Practical and smart? Now there’s a combination that’ll see you through this season and several more.

Brunello Cucinelli fans appreciate the Italian brand’s know-how when it comes to exquisite craftsmanship. Even this simple pair of basketball-inspired trainers sum up a meticulous attention to detail. Finely stitched suede works with a chunky leather sole to create an elegant pair that bridges the gap between smart and casual footwear.

Gen-Z yellow might be enjoying a moment, but earthy tones and neutrals will be around forever. This season, LOEWE Creative Director Jonathan Anderson updates the brand’s Flow Runners in khaki shell and caramel suede to create trainers that go with just about anything.

Nike Dunks are enjoying a moment in the spotlight – we put that down to a retro-kicks renaissance. This pair were inspired by the colours of Nike Co-Founder Phil Knight’s alma mater, the University of Oregon (he famously ran for their track-and-field programme). Dunks tend to sell out, so you’d be wise to snap them up.

White trainers have become as ingrained in our everyday as our morning coffee for one reason: they’re minimal, fuss-free and can be worn with absolutely everything. For a pair that packs both style and substance, look to Veja. The brand uses responsibly sourced rubber and leather for its ‘ChromeFree’ trainers, which are part of our Project Earth edit. They’re also about as classic as you can get.

Whether you like utilitarian looks or take your mountain activities very seriously, we bet these Moncler Genius x HYKE Desertyx boots will pique your interest. Constructed from hardwearing canvas and super chunky soles, they’re primed for crushing powdery snow – or just pavement-pounding in the city.  

Usually drawn to eclectic references, Gucci broke its own unorthodox rules and stayed within the sports world and looked to retro basketball shoes to design the Basket trainers. Despite their athletic origins, though, these low-tops – which are crafted from faux-leather and canvas – are more suited to life off court. Need shoes to raise your weekend game? This pair should do it.

Dallas-based brand Autry was a big hitter in American sportswear in the 80s and 90s thanks to its high-tech fabrics and simple design. The brand is now back and celebrating its iconic tennis shoes, the Medalist, which we have in a whole host of colour combinations. This two-tone leather pair will be perfect with double-denim (yes, it’s back in a big way).