Men's shoe trends 2024-2025 - what is fashionable and what is worth buying?

Trends vs. classics - how to find the balance?

Men's shoes go through various trends - from minimalist sneakers to massive chunky boots. Some trends are timeless and come back every few years, others quickly go out of fashion. Knowing current trends allows you to look contemporary, but don't forget about the classics.

The key to good style is a balance between trends and classic, universal choices. It's better to have a solid base of classic shoes and experiment with trends occasionally than to buy only what's fashionable now.

In this article, you will learn about the most important trends in men's footwear for 2024-2025 and find out which of them are worth introducing into your wardrobe.

Sneaker trends (2024-2025)

1. Chunky Sneakers/Dad Shoes

Chunky, often ugly, '90s-style sneakers are still in vogue. New Balance 550/574, Asics Gel-Kayano, Salomon XT-6, Nike M2K Tekno. Worn with jeans, cargo pants, sporty style. Is it worth it? Yes, if it suits your streetwear style. Avoid if you prefer minimalism.

2. Retro Running Shoes

Running shoes from the 80s and 90s as casual footwear. Nike Air Max (various models), Adidas Originals, Reebok Classic. Colorful, nostalgic, comfortable. Is it worth it? Yes - comfortable and universal. A good alternative to clean minimalist sneakers.

3. Y2K Revival

The return of the aesthetics of the early 21st century - metallic details, futuristic shapes. Salomon, Asics Gel, technical shoes. Is it worth it? Only if you're a fan of this aesthetic. Niche trend.

4. Terrace / Football Casuals

Shoes inspired by the culture of UK football fans - Adidas Samba, Gazelle, Spezial, Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66. Simple, retro, versatile. Is it worth it? Definitely yes - timeless, accessible, comfortable.

Trends in ankle boots and high boots

1. Chelsea Boots Revival

The return of Chelsea boots as a smart casual must-have. Both smooth leather and suede. Black, brown, beige. Is it worth it? Absolutely - classic, universal, elegant.

2. Chunky Lug Sole Boots

Boots with a thick, profiled sole (lug sole). Dr. Martens, Grenson, Prada. Raw, utilitarian vibe. Is it worth it? Yes, if you are looking for something more casual and winter-proof.

3. Hiking-Inspired Boots

Trekking shoes worn in the city. Salomon, Merrell, The North Face. Functionality meets fashion. Is it worth it? Practical in winter and autumn. They go well with cargo pants and outdoor style.

4. Combat Boots

Military ankle boots - Dr. Martens 1460, army surplus. Grunge, punk, rock vibes. Is it worth it? If they fit your style, definitely. Classic subcultures.

Loafer and slip-on trends

1. Comeback Loafers

Moccasins are back as an alternative to sneakers. Penny loafers, tassel loafers, horsebit loafers. Elegant, easy to use, versatile. Is it worth it? Yes - great for smart casual and business casual.

2. Driving Loafers

Soft moccasins with rubber studs on the sole. Tod's Gommino (original), cheaper alternatives. Casual, comfortable. Is it worth it? Yes, if you are looking for comfortable summer shoes without laces.

3. Camp Moc / Blucher Moc

Outdoor style loafers - Quoddy, Rancourt, LLBean. Casual, American classic. Is it worth it? Niche, but great for fans of heritage style.

Minimalist trends

1. Sleek Minimalism

Clean, minimalist sneakers - Common Projects Achilles Low, Koio, Greats. White, black, subdued. No decorative logos. Is it worth it? Absolutely - timeless, elegant, universal.

2. Monochrome Everything

Shoes in one color from top to bottom - all-white, all-black. Nike Air Force 1, Adidas Stan Smith, Common Projects. Is it worth it? Yes - it's easy to blend into your style.

Ecological trends

1. Sustainable Materials

Ecological materials - recycled plastic, plant-based leather, organic cotton. Veja, Allbirds, Adidas Parley. Is it worth it? Yes - the future of fashion. Good for the planet and often very convenient.

2. Vegan Leather

Alternatives to animal leather - Piñatex, mushroom leather, apple leather. Dr. Martens Vegan, Will's Vegan Store. Is it worth it? Yes, if you care about ethics. Quality is increasing.

Experimental trends

1. Bold Colors

Bright colors - red, green, yellow, blue. Nike Dunks, Jordan 1, New Balance colorful. Statement pieces. Is it worth it? Only if you are confident and like to stand out. Difficult to fit into most styles.

2. Mixed Materials

Combination of different materials and textures - leather + mesh + suede. Nike, Asics, New Balance. Is it worth it? Yes, it adds character. But choose models in moderation.

3. Metallic Accents

Metallic details - silver, gold logos and trim. Nike Air Max, Adidas. Is it worth it? Be careful - it may look cheap. Better subtle metallic than full glitter.

A classic that never disappoints

These models never go out of fashion:

✓ Black Oxfords — elegance for any formal occasion
✓ Brown Derby — the versatility of smart casual
✓ White sneakers (Stan Smith, Air Force 1, Common Projects) - Casual basics
✓ Chelsea Boots (black or brown) - autumn-winter elegance
✓ Penny Loafers — preppy classic
✓ Dr. Martens 1460 — subcultural icon
✓ Converse Chuck Taylor — a timeless canvas sneaker
✓ Desert Boots (Clarks) — casual elegance

How to combine trends with classics?

70% classic + 30% trendy

Wardrobe staples: classic, timeless shoes (Oxfords, Derby shoes, white sneakers, Chelsea boots). Experiments: 1-2 pairs of trendy shoes (chunky sneakers, colorful models).

Ask yourself: Will I wear this in 3 years?

If the answer is NO - do not buy an expensive model. Trends pass.

Invest in classics, experiment with trends on a budget

Spend PLN 1,000 on classic shoes that will last a decade. Spend PLN 300 on trendy sneakers that you will wear all season long.

Summary

Trends in men's footwear come and go, but the classics remain. Chunky sneakers, comeback loafers, sustainable footwear and minimalism dominate in 2024-2025, but the most important thing is to have a solid base of classic shoes.

Build your wardrobe on the classics (Oxfords, Derby shoes, white sneakers, Chelsea boots) and experiment with trends occasionally. This will provide you with versatility and the certainty that your shoes will remain current for years.