Bartending is all about standing for long hours, serving drinks, and moving through wet and slippery areas. Being on the move and dealing with hectic shifts without good footwear wears out your feet, so selecting the proper shoes for bartenders can be very beneficial. A good pair of shoes keep you comfortable and complements your outfit. In this article, we will talk about the best types of shoes for bartending and some styling tips to maintain a professional look.
Non-slip Work Shoes
Since modern bartenders have to move around different work areas to serve large crowds, and the chances of walking through greasy, wet, or sticky floors are much higher. The non-slip work sneakers provide you with the traction you require to prevent slipping and falling. Unlike regular shoes, these sneakers help you to walk fast and safely in places where spills are frequent.
The best part? These types of work sneakers are fashionable and practical. For example, non-slip bartender shoes go well with different bartender attire, whether it is a professional dress code or a comfortable uniform.
You can wear a matte or leather-finish pair to maintain a clean and professional look. If your bar permits a fashionable flair, non-slip sneakers can add a little touch of elegance to your personality. For this, you can opt for monochrome prints or muted patterns that go well with your bartending attire.
Classic oxfords
If you're working in a high-end establishment with a strict dress code, these classic leather oxford shoes will keep you looking smooth and classy. And if corporate party or gala bartending makes up most of your day, these can be the "go-to" for you to keep up with the party atmosphere. Newer styles of traditional Oxfords provide lasting comfort throughout long shifts!
You can try traditional Oxfords with different styles. For a formal appearance, you can combine glossy brown or black Oxfords with dress pants that are slim-fit.
However, in case you want to get away with a semi-formal appearance, suede or matte-finish Oxfords will do nicely with dark jeans or chinos and a fitted blazer.
Slip-on Loafers
Those who prioritize comfort in their work shoes must try slip-on loafers. Since they come with a "no-lace" design, you can wear these shoes quickly and even slip them off during short breaks. As per your convenience, you can search for slip on loafers that have a snug fit. Another benefit of these loafers for bartenders is that they can be worn with various bartender uniforms and give a fashionable and adaptable look.
For dive bars and breweries, slip on loafers look amazing with a plaid or flannel shirt, fitted jeans, and utility apron. But for upscale settings, you may rock an "all-black look" with polished leather slip-on loafers.
Dress Sneakers
For high-end restaurants or lounges, bartenders require a neater appearance, and dress sneakers are the best option for these settings. Unlike thick bartender sneakers with flashy accents, these kinds of sneakers have clean and elegant designs that can be a fantastic choice for a clean-cut figure. Plus, they even help with walking ease on various floor types.
Dress sneakers can be paired differently in order to achieve a professional or even smart-casual appearance. Wear streamlined leather dress sneakers together with formal-fit trousers and a button-down shirt. Nonetheless, to achieve a relaxed but professional feel, have dark-washed jeans, a fitting top, and bartender sneakers that have a neutral color palette.
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Casual Sneakers
If you want to keep it sporty or functional, casual sneakers offer a professional but more relaxed vibe. These can be ideally worn in busy environments like busy bars or nightclubs. It's because casual sneakers are relatively easier to maintain than other leather bartender shoes. Casual sneakers can handle scuffs and wear and are even easier to clean with a wipe or damp cloth.
Select neutral-colored sneakers to keep your attire looking sleek yet casual while also suiting dress codes in bars and nightclubs. Alternatively, go for brown casual sneakers to match earthy colors for an elegant contrast.
Arch Support Shoes
Another standout type in shoes for bartenders is arch support shoes. It's because, during a long shift, your feet have to endure constant pressure, especially on the arch. These kinds of shoes allow proper support and even body weight distribution. For bartenders who are on their feet for hours, good arch-support shoes prevent pain and may also aid in overall foot health.
Are arch-support shoes just for comfort? Well, fortunately, these can be worn perfectly with bartender uniforms. For most of the bar environments, you can wear these kinds of shoes with a printed or plain t-shirt and slim-fit jeans to maintain the casual look. Otherwise, Go for cushioned leather brogues or Oxfords with arch support to add both the style and all-day comfort.
What to Consider While Buying the Shoes for Bartenders For Men
Now, the question arises of how to select the best shoes that can pair well with your work clothes and performance needs on a daily basis. For that, you have to think about a few things, including:
Non-slip design
Due to spillage and oily floors in your working environment, you should opt for a shoe design that is stable and has high traction. In this regard, you can opt for shoes with high-quality rubber outsoles that have good grip.
Comfort
As long shifts will heat up your feet and make them sweaty, opt for shoes with soft insoles and tops. And look for cushioned insoles, arch support, and shock-absorbing midsoles to avoid fatigue.
Waterproof
Bartenders constantly deal with spills, splashes, and wet floors. Hence, look for materials like treated leather that repel liquids and prevent moisture from seeping in. Plus, go for materials that prevent odors.
Minimal Upkeep
Bartending shoes need maintenance due to high performance, which is why you should look for shoes that are easy to clean simply with a cloth or tissue. Opt for designs with stain-resistant coatings to keep them looking fresh with minimal effort.