Here is another great shoe to add to your collection. Edge dress the outsole with black dressing and you’ll be good to go. Johnston & Murphy Men’s Upton Plain Toe Shoe | Leather Mesh Lining | Memory Foam Cushioned Insole. $155.00.  I will mention here that I prefer true leather uppers to synthetics because the leather softens over time. Your feet will thank you for it, whereas synthetics usually do not, and can feel stiff even after wearing them for years. They don’t break in as well as true leather uppers. 

  • Imported
  • Leather sole
  • LIGHTWEIGHT LEATHER SHOE: Be ready for the day with this lightweight and flexible leather shoe for men that can be dressed up or down for comfortable, everyday wear.
  • WATER RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION: Crafted from full grain leather or water resistant nubuck with refined details for an attractive design. The double stitched leather welt and Vachetta leather accents define the functional and durable style.
  • REMOVABLE CUSHIONING: These men’s lace up leather shoes provide all day comfort thanks to the removable, memory-foam cushioned insole and exclusive TRUFOAM outsole.
  • BREATHABLE MESH LINING: This incredibly light shoe comes with leather mesh lining that will provide breathability for your feet to be comfortable whether you are working or having a casual day out.
  • JOHNSTON & MURPHY: Founded in 1850, Johnston & Murphy prides itself on making modern classics at an exceptional value. Featuring a range of timeless styles from classic to casual, we are sure to have you looking good from head-to-toe.

Make sure your purchase is based on these features:

Look for shoes that have a low, and wide profile heel or outsole. Shoes with a thicker, stiffer heel heighten the probability of rolling your ankle when pursuing or wrestling your opponent. Stiffness in the upper and the outsole also make it harder to run. Responsiveness is key. Remember, low-heeled, softer outsole shoes are safer and more comfortable; they’ll do better for you than higher-heeled shoes. The more surface area touching the ground the better.

I’ve written a lot about the benefits of using shoes with a non-elevated “zero-drop” heel for proper posture. The drop is the height differential between where the heel and forefoot sit. Most dress shoes have a “high” drop between 12 and 15 mm.  Many running shoes have drops that are a “zero” drop (no heel), or usually between 4mm-8mm. You essentially want a shoe that mirrors the shape and therefore the responsiveness of a running shoe. The higher the drop of the shoe or the thicker the heel of the shoe will mean the shoe is not as responsive to your toe-off when moving to spring or pivot to react to an aggressor. 

Old school and New school

AGILITY: Stay with shoes that have a rubber or EVA foam outsole instead of a leather outsole. Rubber or EVA foam mean comfort and they lessen the chance of you slipping; particularly on marble or high shine floors.  The best “tactical” shoe will have a cushioned rather than hard outsole that flexes in all directions the way that your foot does. This will give you freedom to move despite most obstacles. Rubber or foam outsoles put a spring in your stride and provide all day support.

COMFORT AND INSERTS: Look for shoes with good outsoles for added cushioning. Look for good memory foam insoles if possible. Good cushioning, whether foam or rubber, ensure you can stand or move for long periods of time. Good shoes reduce foot fatigue. EVA outsoles provide better shock absorption than rubber. A padded heel-collar helps prevents blisters. A good heel cup will cushion your heel. Take a look at the Superfeet brand if you get a chance. If they fit in the shoe give them a try for added comfort.

STYLE: You want to look sharp and have a professional profile. You want good leather that give the shoe a nice appearance and will take a shine. Full-grain leather is easiest to clean and maintain and it will extend the product life. If you don’t like leather, look for synthetics or a durable suede.

STABILITY and FIT: A high density collar provide a good heel lock while also being supple enough to provide all day comfort. A shoe with a shallower fit or collar, especially slip-ons can come off the heel when you run. Your heel should fit comfortably in the shoe with a minimal amount of slippage. The shoes should not ride up and down on your heel when you walk. Try to purchase shoes that use shoe-strings or shoes with a good, heel encapsulating collar. Premium materials give you a glove like fit. A padded heel-collar can prevent blisters. Slip resistant or oil resistant soles are a must.

When a load is applied to your foot by running, your foot will spread up to half an inch in length. One shoe size up is only 1/3″ inch larger. Go larger rather than smaller if you can. You can always wear thicker socks with a larger shoe but you can never make your foot smaller. Get the best fit.

WEIGHT: Go for lightweight, and check for tough material. Thin material can tear at the most inopportune moment.  Buy the best that you can afford.

DURABILTY: Look for shoes with anti-microbial linings as they help reduce foot odor and will wick moisture to help keep the foot dry. Synthetic uppers will often dry more quickly than leather but depending on the material used, some can degrade more quickly than others. A good quality leather or synthetic upper will last a long time. Strong material will protect your feet. Some shoe brands have inner toe caps or some kind of reinforced toe guard.

  1. Have your feet measured. People’s feet size and shape can change over time. Don’t rely on the fact that you have always worn a certain size.
  2. Most people have one foot that is larger than the other, so make sure you have BOTH feet measured. Fit your shoes to the larger foot.
  3. Take your time and try several shoes on, preferably at the end of the day when your feet are most flattened and swollen.
  4. Try on shoes with the type of sock that you will wear for your activity.
  5. Walk on a firm surface, not a carpeted one.
  6. Walk quickly in the shoes if you are able.
  7. Don’t plan on the shoes stretching over time; they should fit well when you buy them. Shoes won’t stretch like pants or shirts do overtime.
  8. Pivot in the shoes.
  9. Always stand and walk around in the shoes to see if they are comfortable, fit well, and don’t chafe or rub anywhere. Your heel should not slip or slide while walking.

 

Top 10 Tactical Dress Shoes: How to Select a Pair For Dress Wear

By Michael Kurcina

Mike credits his early military training as the one thing that kept him disciplined through the many years. He currently provides his expertise as an adviser for an agency within the DoD. Michael Kurcina subscribes to the Spotter Up way of life. “I will either find a way or I will make one”.

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