Whether coaching us through our first shaves or our first breakups, the father figures in our lives have provided us with a lot of support. So why not return the support? You may not have some sage advice for the guy who’s got a few decades of experience on you, but a new pair of kicks can act as some physical support. Whether he’s been giving subtle hints or hounding you about how badly his shoes need replacing, there’s a pair of shoes out there waiting for him. From classic white sneakers to luxurious loafers and more, these are the best shoes to gift for Father’s Day.
Converse Jack Purcell Canvas
An iconic shoe born on the tennis court and made a classic in the streets, the Jack Purcell in a crisp white canvas looks right with just about any pants.
Nike Air Tailwind ’79
Based on archival designs, the retro feel of the Air Tailwind is precisely what makes it a classic. You’d be lobbing him an alley-oop because these will pair well with just about any casual outfit he’s got.
Birkenstock Boston
The originator of the ergonomically-designed footbed (not to mention the term ‘footbed’ itself), Birkenstock’s roots stretch all the way back to the 1700s. The mule-style Boston shoe is one of its most popular and features a soft suede upper wrapped around a molded cork footbed.
Timberland Traditional Handsewn 3-Eyelet Classic Lug
A hybrid between boat shoes and lug boots, Timberland’s rugged shoe looks great with a relaxed pair of jeans as well as a pair of crew socks and shorts. We like it for the soft leather uppers and chunky silhouette, so maybe he will, too.
Rhodes Footwear Dylan Chukka
The true summer boot has to be the desert boot, and Rhodes makes a great version. Unlined suede uppers make them breathable and easy to break in while the squishy rubber sole makes every step a comfy one. Basically, they’re the sneakers of boots. And with made-in-Italy credentials, he’ll think that you were being irresponsible with your money.
New Balance 993
It doesn’t get much more ‘Dad’ than New Balance. Though there are many styles offered by the official brand of lawn-mowing obsessives, the 993 is a favorite. It’s made in New Balance’s Boston factory, comes in just a few very plain colors (not a bad thing), and features New Balance’s ultra-comfortable Abzorb midsole and Acteva cushioning technology.
Oak Street Bootmakers Bit Loafer
A sweet pair of loafers is a great option for Father’s Day. After all, it’s a summer holiday. These classic Bit Loafers from Oak Street Bootmakers are made in the U.S. using full-grain calfskin from the world-famous Horween Leather Tannery, and feature stacked leather heels with a dovetail top lift for comfort and durability. Plus, they’re fully resoleable, so Dad will only have to ask you for another pair a dozen Father’s Days from now.
Viberg Service Boot
This is the stuff that boot enthusiasts drool over. Viberg’s been crafting boots since the 1930s and its Service Boot remains its most popular style. The handsome silhouette is based on vintage work boots and is rendered in natural Chromexcel leather which will patina over time to rich, dark brown tones. It’s built solid thanks to stitchdown construction and rubber Dainite soles, and the steel shank and leather midsoles offer unrivaled support.
