If you want to give your footwear rotation a relaxing rework, the first thing that you need to do is introduce some men’s casual slip on sneakers to your everyday outfits. While it’s difficult to pinpoint when exactly this style of shoe first came around, according to the legends, Italian designer Sergio Rossi was the first person to introduce these to the market back in the 1970s.
When he designed the first slip on sneaker, he was heavily inspired by a pair of traditional loafers, but he wanted to make something that was a lot more casual and infinitely more lightweight. So he created something entirely from canvas, and added elastic straps throughout for additional comfort. At the time, there was nothing else like it out there, and they were truly revolutionary. In fact, when you take a look at Rossi’s first prototype, you’ll immediately find details and elements that still resonate with today’s models. That’s just how influential it was.
It goes without saying, but men’s casual slip on sneakers should be a part of every collection, and if you’re not sure where to even begin, you’ve come to the right place. From smaller brands like Cariuma to international fashion houses such as COMME des GARÇONS, in this guide, you’ll find a pair that’ll work with your personal aesthetic, style, and most importantly, your budget. So, let’s get to it!
The best men’s casual slip on sneakers
Cariuma
To kick things off, Cariuma has one of the best men’s casual slip on sneakers in the business. Inspired by the ease of a California spring afternoon, this silhouette boasts a timeless look that nods to classic skater styles. What makes it even better is that everything from the cotton upper to the rubber sole is completely vegan. To add to that, every single time you buy this pair, Cariuma plants two trees as part of its reforestation initiative, which is just awesome.
Aurelien
If you’re searching for a slip on shoe that’s seriously premium, then Aurélien’s Leisure is exactly what you need in your life. As its name already suggests, these have been designed for casual wandering and gallivanting. Crafted from soft suede and supple nappa leather, it looks and feels ridiculously luxurious. It’s then rounded off with a waterproof technical fabric for an easy-clean finish, and the elasticated inserts make them easy to get on and off.
WAHTS
While WAHTS is known more for its coats, hoodies, and knitwear, that doesn’t mean you should overlook the Jenkins. Equipped with a mid-top design, this is probably the Dutch label’s most comfortable shoe to date. With an elastic band hidden inside the lining to keep them tight on your feet, all of this rests on top of an unbelievably comfortable rubber midsole. If you want a pair in your rotation, make sure you go at least one size up as they run quite small.
Velasca
This season, Velasca is taking the humble slip on sneaker and elevating it to premium new heights with the Furmagiatt. While most pairs that fall under this category are made from cotton or canvas, this one is crafted from wonderful calfskin suede that looks better and better the more you wear it. Rock these with a simple white T-shirt and some tan chinos for that classic Riviera-coded aesthetic.
Officine Creative
Officine Creative's Slip-On Sneakers are definitely on the more expensive side, but they’re worth every single penny. A beautiful balance between traditional Italian craftsmanship with contemporary design, these boasts a velvety suede construction and are fitted with tonal off-white soles and a pull tab at the back. They also come in a bunch of other colourways, but this dark green version is our personal favourite.
Vans
Without a shadow of a doubt, Vans has been making one of the greatest men’s casual slip on sneakers since the dawn of time itself. Beloved by skaters since the ‘70s, the very appropriately named Classic Slip-On has become something of a cultural icon over the years. This particular pair features a sumptuous leather and suede construction, and it sits on top of a vulcanised rubber sole that’s hard to beat. What’s there not to like?
Common Projects
It’s true that Common Projects is known more for its fancy Derby shoes and Chelsea boots, but these should be on your radar as well. Simple, sophisticated, and seriously stealthy, this trainer boasts an all-black suede construction that looks and feels delectable. Contrast white stitching runs across the entire upper for a sartorially-inspired vibe, and the American footwear company’s signature numbering is finely debossed around the lateral heel.
COMME des GARÇONS
You just can’t go wrong with these slip on sneakers from COMME des GARÇONS. Introduced as part of its highly-prestigious HOMME line, they’re dipped in an ultra clean all-white colour scheme and are crafted from some of the softest leather known to man. The midsole is infused with extremely plush rubber, and it’s signed off with “CdGH” around the heel. This is Rei Kawakubo at her finest.
Tom Ford
With the Jude, Tom Ford is taking a short break from suiting and focusing instead on the more relaxing things in life. Bridging the gap between smart and casual, this high-end slip on shoe is drenched in an earthy brown palette and is debossed with a faux croc pattern throughout. The midsoles are dipped in an off-white hue for a somewhat vintage vibe, and it’s finished off with the American designer’s name, proudly presented around the back.
Tod's
And last but not least, we just can’t talk about the hottest men’s casual slip on sneakers without giving Tod’s a special shoutout. Carefully crafted in Italy from navy suede, these will work well with everything from shorts and jeans all the way to tailored trousers. Elasticated side panels offer a comfortable fit, and to round it all off, the brand’s distinctive pebbled panel wraps around the heel. These generally sell out quite quickly, so secure your size before it’s too late.
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