Traditional Footwear For Men: Styles, How to Wear Them Properly, and What Type for What Occasion

A Traditional Footwear For Men. And to be honest, it was about time. Good quality shoes combine your look with the place they come from and always grow more beautiful with time, not less. Having spent ten years reviewing shoes and consulting the actual craftsmen of shoemaking industry, I can tell that one of the most frequent requests I receive from my readers is shoes that have a story to tell and feel great even after a long walk around the city. This guide will help you understand which styles there are, how to combine shoes with your look, and what to pay attention to when buying a pair.

Answer: What is traditional footwear?

Traditional footwear: Handmade shoes and sandals that evolved in local craft, using techniques passed down through generations. Traditional Indian men’s footwear includes Kolhapuri chappals, padukas made of wood, embroidered leather shoes, and polished traditional footwear worn with traditional outfits. Each type of footwear is made for a specific occasion. So, your selection should be based on the situation and not on the price.

Why Traditional Footwear is Important for Men

Although cheap sneakers are produced in large quantities, there are still many reasons why demand for heritage pairs is high. Traditionally, these shoes are made from natural leather or wood, stitched rather than glued, and made to fit feet perfectly. I have worn dozens of shoes in my life, and all the ones that have lasted have a few things in common: even stitching, flexible sole and a comfortable footbed that does not irritate the foot. Besides durability, the shoes also carry cultural meaning. The most natural option seems to be to wear them on special occasions such as weddings or festivals. Traditional footwear for men is also an easy way to get dressed up for many men. 

Kolhapuri Footwear: The Everyday Classic

Kolhapuri footwear takes its name from Kolhapur in Maharashtra, where artisans have shaped leather sandals for centuries, and the craft now carries geographical indication protection. The classic design has braided straps, a flat sole, and either a toe loop or a closed front. Expect a short break-in period of a week or two, after which the leather molds to your foot. Among all traditional footwear for men, this is the most versatile pick. It works with a cotton kurta, a linen shirt, or even straight-leg jeans, which makes it a smart first purchase if you are new to heritage styles.

Paduka Footwear: Simple. Grounded. Timeless. 

Paduka footwear is a wooden sandal fastened by means of a post that stands between the first two toes. These shoes originated long ago within the territory of India and were used by sages and kept around the temples. These are considered to be among the most ancient forms of traditional men’s footwear. In current models, there is a cushioned footbed and a light sole, thus, being very comfortable. Paduka footwear can be worn at home, during visits to temples and festive occasions. As a tip from my personal experience, toe posts will feel weird during the first several days, so it is better to wear them only indoors for some time.

Jodhpuri Suit with Footwear: Nailing the Pairing

The Jodhpuri suit has a formal style owing to its jacket with a structure and high collar; thus, the shoes should correspond to such an appearance. Here comes the marriage of the traditional men’s shoe and tailoring. The optimal footwear to wear with a Jodhpuri suit is a closed leather shoe with a sleek shape: pointed-toe leather slip-ons, tan or black loafers, dark derby shoes.

There are three simple rules to choose footwear for Jodhpuri suits.

How to Pick the Right Ones

First, pay attention to comfort. Get your feet measured at the end of the day, when they are somewhat swollen, as you'll feel discomfort from tight shoes most at this time of the day. Leather stretches to some extent, but do not choose a pair that pinches your feet at first. Then, pay attention to the sole - it should be able to bend slightly, but should not be too flexible. Pay attention to the seams and stitches, as frayed strings indicate poor manufacture. Finally, think about the climate.

Whenever people ask me what advice I have for selecting traditional footwear for men, my advice is always the same—choose the occasion first, and then select the style.

Care Tips That Prolong the Life

Clean leather by a dry cloth after each wearing, and allow your pairs to have one day off between wearings. Protect pairs from moisture and direct sunlight, which can make your leather dry and crack. Insert paper in the toes during storage and use a leather conditioner.

Step Into Traditions with Asabella 

Looking for your perfect pair? Browse our selection at Asabella, learn more about our traditions, or feel free to inquire with us using the contact form. We’ll be glad to help you select the right sizes and styles for your upcoming wedding, party, or other special events. Get quality tradition shoes for men from Asabella today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the traditional footwear for men?

Traditional footwear for men is handmade footwear that has its origin in the local craft; examples include Kolhapuri sandals, paduka, and embroidered leather slip-ons.

What footwear will go well with Jodhpuri suit?

Black, brown, or tan closed leather shoes, for example, loafers, slip-ons, or derby shoes.

Is Kolhapuri footwear suitable for daily wear?

Yes. It may take a while before getting used to it, but once the leather gets softened, it conforms to the shape of the foot. Open nature of the footwear makes it perfect for hot weather.

Is paduka footwear suitable for walking?

Padukas require some time to get adjusted to due to the toe post. Modern cushioned footbeds have made wearing padukas easy for regular wear.

Can traditional footwear for men be worn with jeans?

Yes, Kolhapuri sandals and leather slip-ons are ideal for straight-leg jeans along with a kurta or shirt.