Shoes

Best Men’s Shoes in the UK: A Shopper’s Guide to RunningXpert, Freedom Of Movement and Top Alternatives

Why your next pair of men’s shoes matters

Picking the right pair of shoes isn’t just about style — it affects comfort, posture, and how you feel every day. Whether you’re pounding the pavements on a six-mile run, navigating city streets in trainers, or slipping into sandals for a weekend escape, the right footwear makes a world of difference. I’ll walk you through standout options from retailers like RunningXpert and Freedom Of Movement, plus other UK favourites so you can shop smarter.

Meet the stores: RunningXpert and Freedom Of Movement

RunningXpert specialises in performance footwear and outdoor-ready options, while Freedom Of Movement leans into everyday trainers and contemporary styles. Both bring different strengths: one excels at technical running and trail shoes, the other nails casual trainers and seasonal staples. Knowing what each store focuses on helps you narrow your search fast.

RunningXpert — performance and hiking-focused picks

RunningXpert stocks a lot of performance-first footwear. Think trail shoes with solid grip, cushioned road running trainers, and durable sandals for active summers. Their range includes brands and models that suit adventurers who value function and fit.

Freedom Of Movement — everyday style and modern trainers

Freedom Of Movement (FOM) offers a line-up of sleek trainers in seasonal colours, plus a few classic silhouettes like chestnut jack boots. If you’re after versatile streetwear-friendly trainers that pair with jeans or chinos, FOM often has attractive choices at sensible prices.

Highlight products to know about

Let’s look at specific models that represent the best of both stores and similar UK retailers. These shoes cover running, trail, sandals, and everyday trainers — so there’s something for every purpose.

Top running and trail picks from RunningXpert

- Columbia Facet 75 Mid Outdry: A mid-height boot that’s waterproof and light enough for long walks. Great for wet-weather hikes when you need ankle support without adding too much weight.
- New Balance Freshfoam Arishi V4: A comfortable road-running shoe with springy Freshfoam cushioning that doubles as a daily trainer.
- Asics Fuji Lite 3: Built for trail miles, this model offers grip and protection for off-road adventures, ideal if you run routes with roots and rocks.

Staples and sandals to consider

- Adidas Ultraboost 21: A premium cushioned trainer for road miles or long days on your feet — known for a plush ride.
- Adidas Adilette Aqua Slider: The classic poolside slider that also works for travel and quick errands.
- Ecco X-trinsic K Flat Sandal and Fisherman Sandal: Practical and rugged sandals for active summer days — both give a mix of support and breathability.
- Birkenstock Arizona Narrow Birko-Flor Nubuck: A timeless option for relaxed outfits and reliable footbed support.

Freedom Of Movement’s trainer range

FOM’s trainers come in many colours and textures. Popular names include Fom Mens Trainers Basillico, Off-white Storm, Mist, Off-white Scotch, Crème Brûlée, Off-shore, and Aloe — plus a Mens Jack Boot in Chestnut for a smart-casual look. These are great if you want coordinated colours and a comfortable everyday fit.

How to choose the right shoe for your needs

Choosing footwear comes down to activity, fit, and habit. Ask yourself: will I use these for long runs, the daily commute, or holidays? Will they be in heavy rain or mostly dry conditions? Answering those questions narrows the field quickly.

For runners

Look for cushioning that matches your mileage. If you run short, quick sessions, a lightweight trainer like the New Balance Freshfoam Arishi V4 can be ideal. For longer distances or recovery days, shoes with more plush cushioning — for example models inspired by the Ultraboost range — reduce fatigue. Trail runners should prioritise grip and toe protection, like the Asics Fuji Lite 3.

For hikers and outdoor adventurers

Choose boots with ankle support and a waterproof membrane if you plan to tackle muddy trails. The Columbia Facet 75 Mid Outdry is a good example: it balances lightweight construction and weather protection. Pay attention to outsole lug depth — deeper lugs help on soft ground.

For city life and daily wear

Daily trainers or classic leather boots are perfect for city dwellers. FOM trainers offer contemporary looks for everyday styling, while a chestnut jack boot can elevate casual outfits. Comfort matters here — aim for shoes with breathable uppers and supportive insoles that won’t leave your feet tired at the end of the day.

Fitting tips: get it right first time

Fit beats fashion every time. Try shoes on in the afternoon when feet are slightly larger. Leave about a thumb’s width of space at the toe to avoid crowding, and test the heel — it should be snug enough to prevent slipping but not tight. Walk on different surfaces if possible to sense how the shoe reacts.

Measuring for the perfect size

If you measure foot length at home, use a ruler or tape and record the length in inches. Compare that to the brand’s size chart — remember that sizes can vary between brands. If you’re between sizes, most runners recommend sizing up rather than down to avoid toenail issues during long runs.

Materials and build: what to look for

Shoes are made from synthetic meshes, leather, and technical fabrics. Synthetic meshes breathe better and dry faster — great for running. Leather looks smarter and ages well, ideal for boots and casual shoes. Waterproof membranes keep feet dry but can breathe less, so weigh priorities based on expected weather.

Sole technology and cushioning

Midsole foams differ by brand. Freshfoam or boost-like technologies aim for a balance of energy return and cushioning. For trail shoes, look for firmer rock plates or reinforced toe boxes to protect against stones. Sliders and sandals rely on supportive footbeds and secure straps, as seen in Ecco’s active sandal designs and Birkenstock’s contoured footbeds.

Style directions for men’s footwear in the UK

Streetwear continues to influence men’s footwear trends: chunky trainers are paired with tailored trousers, while minimalist leather sneakers are becoming wardrobe staples. Colours like off-white, chestnut, and muted greens (think Basillico or Aloe tones) are easy to style and won’t clash with most outfits.

Mixing performance with casual style

Brands like Adidas and New Balance blur the line between running and lifestyle shoes. An Ultraboost or Freshfoam model looks just at home on a run as it does paired with jeans. For those who want a single pair to do multiple jobs, these hybrid trainers are a safe bet.

Where else to shop in the UK for men's shoes

Beyond RunningXpert and FOM, the UK market has several retailers worth exploring. High-street and specialist shops each offer different advantages — selection, price, or specialist fitting services.

Popular UK stores and why they matter

- Clarks: Known for durable casual and smart shoes with classic styles and good arch support.
- Schuh: A broad selection across brands, useful if you want to compare styles in one place.
- Office: Trend-driven trainers and boots that often feature exclusive collaborations.
- JD Sports and Sports Direct: Great for performance models and seasonal deals.
- ASOS: A wide range of styles with frequent sales, good for fashion-forward choices.
- Dune: Smart casual and dress shoes with a focus on crafted aesthetics.

Budgeting: how much should you spend?

Shoe budgets vary. Expect to pay more for advanced cushioning or waterproof technology. A decent pair of trainers for daily running typically costs more than generic gym shoes, but investing in a shoe that fits your gait and miles can save you from injuries down the road. Casual trainers and sandals can be more affordable — the key is to match spend with intended use.

Getting value for money

Look for mid-season sales and outlet sections at retailers. If you rotate two pairs of trainers, each pair will last longer than if you wear only one, stretching the value. Check whether a shoe’s upper and sole are replaceable or repairable — boots with resoling options can be a long-term investment.

Caring for your shoes to extend life

Simple care extends a shoe’s lifespan considerably. Wipe off dirt after walks, let shoes dry naturally away from direct heat, and use shoe trees or stuff with paper to preserve shape. Leather benefits from occasional conditioning, while technical mesh needs light hand washing to avoid damaging coatings.

Storing and rotating footwear

Rotate pairs to reduce wear on a single sole and let cushioning recover. Store shoes in a dry place; excessive moisture encourages odors and material breakdown. For sandals, clean straps regularly to stop salt or grit from causing abrasion.

Sustainable options and mindful shopping

Eco-friendly materials and repair-friendly designs are becoming more accessible. Look for brands using recycled materials in uppers or soles, or those offering take-back schemes for old shoes. Buying fewer but higher-quality pairs that last longer reduces the overall impact on the planet.

Final tips before you buy

Always try before you commit when possible. If buying online, check size guides and return options (I know returns were excluded from the FAQ topics) and read customer reviews to gauge real-world comfort. And remember: fit and function should guide your choice more than fashion trends alone.

Conclusion

Whether your priority is trail performance, everyday comfort, or a stylish trainer to wear around town, the UK market has excellent options. RunningXpert stands out for technical running and outdoor shoes, while Freedom Of Movement offers a range of stylish trainers and seasonal colours. Combine brand knowledge with fit tests and care routines, and you’ll find footwear that keeps you comfortable mile after mile, season after season. Happy shoe hunting — and may your next pair feel like they were made just for you.