Why one pair of shoes rarely does everything
Shoes do a lot of work across the year. In spring and autumn they need to cope with damp pavements and changeable weather, in summer they should keep your feet cool over long days, and in winter they have to handle cold, wet and slippery conditions. A single pair rarely does all of this well, so it helps to decide which jobs matter most before you look at styles.
Start with fit and foot comfort rather than fashion. Feet swell over the course of the day, so try shoes on in the afternoon, wear the socks you will actually use, and check that the widest part of your foot sits comfortably. Good shoes should feel right from the first wear. If a pair needs weeks of painful breaking in, it is probably the wrong pair for you.
How to choose seasonal footwear
Look at four things: fit and width, sole and grip, upper material and how the shoe will be used. Leather and suede suit drier months and look smart at work, but they need care and are not waterproof unless treated. Synthetic uppers are usually easier to clean and lighter, though they breathe less. For wet British weather, a rubber or lugged sole gives better grip than a smooth leather one, and a closed toe with a water-resistant upper is more practical than an open sandal. Consider heel height too: a low, stable heel is usually easier to walk in all day than a slim stiletto.
Every choice involves compromise. Lightweight summer sandals and mesh trainers keep feet cool but offer little protection from rain or cold. Insulated winter boots are warm but can be heavy and too bulky for trousers with a narrow hem. Waterproof membranes keep water out but can also trap sweat, so for active use look for a breathable lining. Cushioning and arch support suit people who stand all day, but a very soft sole can feel unstable on uneven ground. Decide which trade-off you can live with, rather than hoping one pair will cover everything.
Buy for the weather you actually live in, and try shoes on at the end of the day with the socks you will wear.
From the editors
Common mistakes include buying a half size too small in the hope that shoes will stretch, choosing a style for one occasion and then wearing it daily, and ignoring the sole when the upper looks good. Many people also own too few pairs and wear them until they lose their shape and cushioning. Rotating two or three pairs, using shoe trees or paper when storing them, and cleaning off salt and grit after winter walks will extend their life. Check the returns policy before ordering online, because fit is hard to judge from a photograph.
What each season really needs
For each item we name a store where you can start comparing.
Leather or suede lace-up shoes
A closed, structured pair suits spring and autumn days at the office or for smart-casual wear. Look for a flexible sole and a leather that you are willing to look after.
Search termsleather shoes · lace-up · smart casual · autumn shoes
Our recommendationclarks.comBest for everyday shoesWaterproof ankle boots
A boot with a water-resistant upper and a grippy sole covers most British winter conditions. Choose a height that works with your trousers and a lining that keeps your feet comfortable.
Search termswaterproof boots · ankle boots · winter footwear · grip sole
Our recommendationdrmartens.comSturdy winter bootsBreathable summer sandals
Sandals with an adjustable strap and a cushioned footbed are practical for warm days. Check that the strap sits securely so that your foot does not slide forward.
Search termssummer sandals · breathable · comfort sandals · adjustable strap
Our recommendationmahabis.comComfort-focused sandalsLightweight clogs or slides
Clogs and slides are easy to slip on for short trips and warm evenings. They offer less support than closed shoes, so they are best used for shorter periods.
Search termsclogs · slides · lightweight shoes · summer footwear
Our recommendationcrocs.co.ukLightweight summer footwearWarm indoor slippers and socks
Slippers with a firm sole and a fleece or wool lining help you stay warm at home in winter. Pair them with thick socks that do not restrict circulation.
Search termswinter slippers · slipper socks · warm socks · indoor footwear
Our recommendationtotes.co.ukWinter slippers and socks
Where to start shopping
Begin with a simple audit. Take out the shoes you wear most, note which ones hurt, leak or look worn, and write down the two or three gaps your wardrobe really has. Then choose one or two stores that match those needs. Clarks at clarks.com is a sensible first stop for everyday leather shoes, smart flats and walking-friendly boots, and it is worth checking the width options. For casual summer sandals and comfort-focused footwear, mahabis.com is a useful place to compare. If you want to see trainers, boots and shoes from several brands in one place, thehut.com lets you browse styles side by side. Set a budget before you start, and buy seasonal pairs as the weather changes rather than all at once.
Before you order
- Measure both feet at the end of the day, as they are usually largest then.
- Wear the socks you plan to use when trying shoes on.
- Check the widest part of your foot fits without pinching or sliding.
- List the situations you need shoes for, such as commuting, walking or wet weather.
- Look at the sole for grip and the upper for water resistance before choosing a colour.
- Check the returns policy before ordering online.
- Set a budget for each season so you buy as the weather changes.
The stores at a glance
clarks.com
Best for everyday shoesUseful for leather shoes, smart flats and walking-friendly boots, with a range of widths to check.
Recommended for Leather or suede lace-up shoes
drmartens.com
Sturdy winter bootsGood for robust boots and shoes designed to stand up to rough weather and daily wear.
Recommended for Waterproof ankle boots
mahabis.com
Comfort-focused sandalsA sensible choice for casual sandals and comfort footwear for warmer months.
Recommended for Breathable summer sandals
crocs.co.uk
Lightweight summer footwearHelpful for clogs, slides and sandals for warm days and short trips.
Recommended for Lightweight clogs or slides
thehut.com
Widest brand mixLets you compare trainers, boots and shoes from several brands in one place.
totes.co.uk
Winter slippers and socksUseful for warm slippers, slipper socks and gloves to complete a cold-weather wardrobe.
Recommended for Warm indoor slippers and socks
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Frequently asked questions
Should I buy shoes a size up for winter?
Not automatically. Thick socks can make shoes feel tight, so try them on with the socks you plan to wear. If the fit is snug but comfortable without them, a slightly roomier pair may suit winter better.
Are leather shoes suitable for wet weather?
Most leather shoes are not fully waterproof. Treating them with a suitable protector helps, but for regular rain a shoe with a water-resistant upper and a rubber sole is more practical.
How many pairs of shoes do I need for the year?
Many people manage well with three or four pairs: one smart, one everyday, one for wet weather and one for warmer months. Rotating them gives each pair time to dry and recover.
Can I return shoes bought online if they do not fit?
Usually, yes, but terms vary between retailers. Check the returns policy before you order and keep the packaging and tags in case you need to send them back.
TransparencySome links to stores may be partner links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission – the price stays the same for you. We choose the stores independently. How we make money
