Fall is just about here, and it’s arguably one of the best times each year for breaking out what we call “the good stuff.” Quality knitwear. Proper jeans and pants. A cool-ass jacket, or two.
Sure, you’re probably already intending on picking up some new autumn pieces for your wardrobe. Maybe there’s a new sweater you’re eyeing. Or a barn coat, perhaps?
However, one thing you might be neglecting as you consider ways in which you can upgrade your fall fits, is footwear. Because in all truth, fall shoe options are some of the most interesting pieces you can pick up – period.
From introducing cool textures like suede, to providing some resistance to the elements in the form of a reliable rain boot, there are tons of ways for fall footwear to kick things up a notch and damn near transform just about any outfit.
Curious about introducing some new kicks into your shoe rotation this autumn? Well, listen up. We’ve got just the selection for you, with this detailed list of some of the best and coolest shoes for men this fall.
The Best Sneakers for Fall: Asics GT-2160
Consider this the final evolution (or the final boss, if you will) of the “dad sneaker.” While New Balance have enjoyed a lengthy and well-deserved renaissance these last few years, more recently, Asics is coming for the dad shoe crown with their excellent chunky sneaker options.
The GT-2160 is one of their best offerings yet, with tons of great colorways and a mesh-based design. Something about a good pair of chunky dad sneakers gives off the same cozy, familiar energy a lot of us associate with fall, which makes these one of the best options this season.
Not only that, but they’re ridiculously easy to style. They’ll go with your favorite jeans, corduroys, khakis, just about anything else you’ll be wearing these next few months – and year round.
They run about $120, which is a great deal in our book.
The Best Sneakers for Fall – Runner-Up: Puma Palermo Cannoli Sneakers in Espresso Brown-Creamy Vanilla-Gum
For a slimmer option that’s not the same old Sambas you’ve been seeing practically everywhere for the last few years, consider the Puma Palermo Cannolis in this exciting colorway that basically just screams fall.
When in doubt, trying to match the drying leaves is always a good choice, and the orange/tan accents give these a great retro flair. Not to mention, their slim profile is highly on-trend and contemporary, meaning they’ll go with a lot of what you’re already rocking. Who doesn’t love a unique-looking sneaker that’s still simple to style? We certainly dig it.
And at $90, you can hardly ask for a better deal.
The Best Classic Fall Shoe: Clarks Wallabees
For decades, Clarks Wallabees have been a classic shoe with a slightly quirky appeal, due to their unusual moc toe shape. Today, they’re seen by many as a fall fashion staple for men, and will fit in with almost any wardrobe.
Made from suede and outfitted with a reliable rubber sole for comfort, there’s a pair of wallabees for everyone, seeing as they come in tons of colors. There’s even smooth leather versions if suede ain’t exactly your speed. Oh, and we can’t forget to mention the fact that they come in both a low-top and chukka boot style, both of which are an excellent choice.
And they’re pretty affordable, too, priced at only $150. Not bad, huh?
The Best Budget Moccasins for Fall: L.L. Bean Allagash Handsewn Mocs, 3-Eye
There’s an argument to be made that moccasins are pretty much an all-season shoe, and while we’re not ones to disagree or anything, there’s something about them that’s perfectly suited for stomping on crunchy leaves on brisk days.
Take this pair by L.L. Bean, for example. These babies are hand sewn from full-grain leather and feature a chunky but surprisingly lightweight lug sole, well suited for the wetter terrain you might expect to encounter this fall.
Not only that, but these come in two colors – canyon and ash, both of which, we’re pleased to say, look spectacular. These are super simple to style too of course. They’ll look perfect with your best jeans, corduroy trousers, or heck, even a tweed suit maybe. Whatever floats your boat (shoe).
For just under $150, these are an excellent value for the money.
The Best Suede Moc-Toe Shoes for Fall: G.H. Bass Suede Wallace Super Lug Moc
Looking for some moc-toed shoes with a bit more pep in their step? Well, look no further. G.H. Bass, perhaps best known for their iconic Weejuns loafers, has got your (socks) covered with their Suede Wallace Super Lug Mocs.
First off, get a load of that groove. These shoes have such a distinctive silhouette, reminiscent of the one found on the much more expensive and highly sought after Paraboot Michael shoes. Only, these ones are significantly more affordable and still pack plenty of quality.
We love each of the four vibrant colors that these come in, too. Have you seen that green?
For $225, you’re getting something truly impressive here.
The Best Loafers for Fall: Meermin 101381 – Burgundy Calf
Meermin shoes are generally known for their exceptional price to quality ratio, and these brown suede loafers are certainly a prime example.
You can expect a proper goodyear welt as well as hand-sewn tassels, and are made from a high quality leather sourced from La Tannerie d’Annonay. They come in several colors, but we think the burgundy calf is the perfect, rich brown for autumn.
For less than $200, it’s rare to find this level of quality and attention to detail.
The Best Hiking Boots for Fall: Danner Mountain Light Men’s Cascade Clovis – GORE-TEX
These last few years, hiking boots have made the rounds in some men’s style spaces as the definitive fall shoe, and we’re willing to place money that the trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
While certainly not the cheapest pair, there’s a reason that the Danner Mountain Lights have been featured as much as they have. They have a full-grain leather upper and are finished with minimal seams to help keep out dirt, debris, and water. This particular pair has GORE-TEX too, providing extra water resistance against the elements of autumn – and beyond!
And that pop of red laces? Absolutely classic.
At $440, these aren’t necessarily cheap, but you’re paying for a pair of boots that’ll last you forever.
The Best Rain Boots for Fall: L.L. Bean 1912 Bean Boots, 8″
Ask just about anyone – these New England classics are an absolute must-have for the fall. When it gets a bit chilly and wet out, you’ll be glad to reach for L.L. Bean’s iconic bean boots.
Their 1912 edition of their classic boot, at the 8-inch configuration, is our personal pick for the best version, although they do offer many. These are made from quality full-grain leather uppers and a premium rubber bottom that’s perfect for keeping puddles at bay, plus triple-needle stitching that ensures durability for years and years.
The iconic chain-tread bottom of the rubber sole is perfect to maintain grip in slippery, wet conditions, and the design is made with comfort in mind, too.
We can’t get enough of the green/brown colorway, but the classic brown/tan is a great pick, too.
For only $150, these are a total steal – and often go on sale, we should note.
The Best Derbies for Fall: Solovair Gaucho Crazy Horse Gibson Shoe
Ever hear about Solovair? They’re the original manufacturers of the now-iconic Dr Martens, only they’ve kept up the quality in the modern age to an impressive degree.
Their Gaucho Crazy Horse Gibson Shoes are a great pick for fall with their pleasing brown tone and classic soft suspension sole. They have a modicum of pre-distressing that’s done quite tastefully in our opinion, plus a goodyear-welted construction – made in England, mind you!
All of that is rather notable when you consider that these cost just under $200.
The Best Oxford Shoes for Fall: Morjas The Oxford – Brown Calf
Need a proper pair of dress shoes for your next formal event this autumn? Consider these oxfords by Morjas. Handcrafted in Spain, they feature a goodyear welt, a single leather sole, and a level of polish that’s sure to attract compliments.
In their brown calf shade, they’re dark enough to go with your navy suits, gray suits, or just regular dress trousers.
They’re a bit on the pricier side at $380, but for exceptional shoes that are sure to stand out, they’re well-priced.
Laced Up for Fall
We hope you found some of the items on this list worthwhile! After all, it’s our goal to ensure that you look your best this fall, and year round, too. From classic loafers to imposing hiking boots, and everything in between, you can definitely get a lot of style inspiration from this list, and maybe even discover your new favorite shoe for fall!