IF THE SHOE FITS (sneakers for a grown man)

   There's a myth about women and shoes, it's that they alone have a great affinity for copious amounts of footwear. Men more so in the last 10 years have become foot wear aficionados in our own right.Unlike women however we enjoy holding on to tokens of our youth and athletic aspirations( no matter how ridiculous) on an almost fanatical level. Try asking a customer  in line at any sneaker store waiting for the latest pair of Air Force 1's why they've been there since 5 am. The answer ( you don't want to know, they've been waiting since 5 am. Nobody wants to talk  to you unless you are dressed like a referee.  ) A man's relationship with fashion especially shoes, is one of declaration. You can tell a lot about a man by his shoes ( or at least about how he views himself). 

   As boys the first shoes we remember wearing are sneakers. When you get to your early to mid-late 20's/30's the challenge becomes how to wear sneakers in a way that doesn't scream "My mom still does my laundry". With fashion sneakers being made in tons of bright colors and different materials, it's important to have some solid basics that compliment a grown man's wardrobe. Here are a few pairs from Vans which I think are perfect for anything from jeans to suits...

      

                                                                                       

                                   OTW byVans Canvas and Leather                                              Awesome with chinos, denim, or slacks
They Guy:Downtown Hip, get this man a latte.
                         
                                                 

                                   

                               Vans Era 59 California Suede
                                A great casual shoe, perfect for shorts
                                     The Guy: Fun in the sun type, not 
                                opposed  to wearing hemp.

Vans Authentic California
Geometric prints offers some fun
    Good pick for black jeans or shorts.
The Guy: Eccentric and cool, not afraid
to wear some cool jewelry.  

Vans Del Norte Canvas Hi-Top
Great for kaki's or camo prints.
The Guy: Enjoys a relaxed fit pant, and
cool graphic tees.

Vans Era Decon California Nappa
Leather sneakers. Great with slacks,
button down shirts and slacks.
The Guy: Slick and Cool, loves monochrome
outfits. well versed in fashion. maybe a blogger.

(all shoes available at urbanoutfitters.com)