Fashion
Fact-checked

At BeautyAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are Some Types of Shoes?

Erika Peterson
Erika Peterson

There are many different types of shoes. Each type has its own set of features, benefits and personal advantages; however, with these positive elements can come negative ones as well. After all, not every shoe type is perfect for every type of person. With endless types, colors and styles of shoes to choose from, finding the perfect pair of shoes can be a daunting task.

To understand the basic types of shoes that are available on the retail market today, it is important to understand the purpose of footwear in general. Footwear, or shoes, are items that are worn for three basic reasons: decoration, support and protection, although not all shoes serve every purpose at once. In fact, some different are made with only one purpose in mind.

Various types of shoes.
Various types of shoes.

The first known shoes were made to protect the feet while walking. These shoes were made over 10,000 years ago and they were a type that is referred to as a sandal. These shoes did not offer the same levels of support or protection that some types of shoes offer today.

Some types of shoes are made for all ages and genders. The tennis shoe is one of the most basic of shoe types. This shoe is made to support the foot during physical activities. There are different types of tennis shoes for particular activities or sports.

Many types of shoes are made specifically for running.
Many types of shoes are made specifically for running.

Tennis shoes are used by men, women and children of all ages. There are tennis shoes for athletes and casual exercisers. Some types of tennis shoes are made with various age groups in mind. There are tennis shoes that are made with soft souls for children who are learning how to walk; there are also shoes for the elderly that offer the additional foot support that is often needed with age.

Flip flops are made for all ages and genders.
Flip flops are made for all ages and genders.

Another type of shoe that is made for all ages and genders are flip flops. In some societies, flip flops are also referred to as thongs. These shoes are ideal for warm weather climates and summer days. Regular flip flops do not offer a large amount of support; however, specialized flip flops can be made to offer support and protection for people and situations that require it.

Strong, durable hiking boots are an essential item for avid hikers.
Strong, durable hiking boots are an essential item for avid hikers.

Hiking boots are another versatile type of shoe that can be found in men’s, women’s and children’s footwear stores. Hiking boots are strong and durable shoes that cover the entire foot and part of the ankle. They offer protection from the environment and support for the sole of a person’s foot. Hiking boots are popular with outdoor enthusiasts and people who live in certain parts of the country.

Discussion Comments

SauteePan

Oasis11- I have to buy all different types of athletic shoes. I buy him different types of converse shoes.

I usually buy the Converse canvas basketball shoes in black as well as the other types of Vans shoes. He likes to wear the Vans shoes with jeans or shorts.

Usually I buy the beige suede ones. He wears these all summer. He does not like sandals for men. I have tried to buy him stylish sandals, but he won’t wear them.

oasis11

Sneakers41-I love shoes. I often buy different types of mens shoes for my husband. There are also dress shoes and casual types of shoes for men.

Men can wear penny loafers and sandals as well as dress shoes. I usually buy the dress shoes that have a little tassel. It looks more distinguished. This is my favorite type of shoes for men.

sneakers41

Greenweaver- I love my Jimmy Choo shoes. I have a pair of high heeled sandals that has no back to them that are so cool and stylish.

The only problem is that these shoes are really expensive. This pair cost me $250 at Saks which is why I only own one pair.

GreenWeaver

There are many types of ladies shoes. Types of shoes for women include flats, stilettos, pumps, sandals, and loafers.

Stilettos and pumps are types of dress shoes that are worn in different occasions. Stilettos are types of women shoes that is a high heeled sandal with a very thin heel.

These shoes are normally worn during a festive occasion, like a party, or going to a nightclub.

They are not appropriate for a traditional business environment because it is an open-toed shoe.

Pumps on the other hand, are usually worn for business related environments because they are closed-toe shoes with a wedge heel which provides more comfort.

These shoes are best worn with suits and dresses for work. Flats and loafers are shoes that are more casual and have a very low heel. These shoes are often worn with casual attire like jeans and shorts.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Various types of shoes.
      Various types of shoes.
    • Many types of shoes are made specifically for running.
      By: Halfpoint
      Many types of shoes are made specifically for running.
    • Flip flops are made for all ages and genders.
      By: sparkia
      Flip flops are made for all ages and genders.
    • Strong, durable hiking boots are an essential item for avid hikers.
      By: Robert Neumann
      Strong, durable hiking boots are an essential item for avid hikers.
    • Flip-flops, also called thongs, are a popular summer shoe but often lack arch support.
      By: Mikael Damkier
      Flip-flops, also called thongs, are a popular summer shoe but often lack arch support.
    • Tennis shoes are popular during physical activity or for casual wear.
      By: .shock
      Tennis shoes are popular during physical activity or for casual wear.
    • Many styles of men's dress shoes have characteristics of Blucher shoes, which date back to Napoleon's time.
      By: Kadmy
      Many styles of men's dress shoes have characteristics of Blucher shoes, which date back to Napoleon's time.