Shoes and sneakers
How many pairs of shoes does a man really need?
By sneakersInn team · Updated
Most men need five to seven pairs of shoes: two or three sneakers, a pair of brown leather shoes, a pair of black leather shoes, loafers and sandals. Fewer than four means wearing the same pair daily, which wears it out fast; more than ten is collecting, which is fine if you enjoy it, but not necessary.
| Stage | Pairs | What to own |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum | 3 | White sneakers, brown derbies, sandals |
| Working wardrobe | 5 | Add black oxfords and loafers |
| Full rotation | 7 | Add a dark sneaker and a style sneaker |
| Enthusiast | 8 or more | Boots, more sneakers, a second formal pair |
Why not just one or two pairs?
Shoes need a day off to dry from sweat, especially in Accra's humidity. Wearing one pair daily breaks down the lining, insole and glue, and causes odour. A rotation of at least three means each pair rests two days in three. See how to stop sneaker odour in hot weather.
What do the first three pairs cover?
White sneakers for casual days, brown derbies for the office and church, and sandals for heat and home. With those, you can dress for most of your week.
Why add black oxfords?
Funerals, interviews and formal events need black leather. Even if you wear them a few times a year, those are important days. See derbies, oxfords and loafers explained.
Why loafers?
They cover smart casual events in the heat better than lace-ups. See sneakers vs loafers.
When do more sneakers make sense?
When you wear sneakers most days. A dark pair for dusty or rainy days and a style pair for variety turn one sneaker into a rotation. See building a sneaker rotation on a budget.
How do I know I have too many?
If several pairs haven't been worn in six months, you have more than you need. Sell, give away or donate them, and buy deliberately next time.
Questions
Which five shoes should I own?
See the 5 types of shoes every man should own.
How long should shoes last?
Rotated and cared for, good leather shoes last years and can be resoled. Sneakers last less; see how to make your sneakers last longer.
Where can I buy sneakers?
In our shop. Our sneakers are high-quality replicas of popular designs, labelled as such on every page.