Finding the right pair of casual sneakers is a tricky but imperative task. For guys, there are, of course, tons of options to choose from and a myriad of different stylistic influences tugging at us from all directions. Sneakerhead culture– with its collector’s mentality, kaleidoscopic approach, and limited-edition snobbery– has had a dual effect on the male sneaker shopper. Some have tried to embrace the moment whole-heartedly, taking full advantage of the new availability of old school styles and the newfound acceptability of increasingly brighter colors.

Continue reading, GearCravers, for more on how to pick the right pair of sneakers for your wardrobe.

Others have taken the path of the self-consciously plain-vanilla gentleman, who, intimidated by the sheer volume of options and the pressure to pick the coolest one (or, more importantly, the least uncool), retreats into the safety of banality–under the guise of ’simple-kinda-guy’ style. This is part of the reasoning behind the crippling banes of modern male style that are the New Balance M574 (see also 992), in tragically boring gray or brown suede, and everything Skechers and Diesel have every produced.

With regard to New Balances, yes, I get that they’re comfortable and unassuming, but seriously, guys, you really have to stop wearing them all the time. There is a difference between smartly understated and unflatteringly bland.

Think of it this way, when you’re looking for a pair of athletic shoes, you’re looking for sneakers that will perform, that’ll offer support, stability, and comfort. If you wanted something that was there just to land between your sole and the pavement when your foot hits the ground, you’d wear flip-flops or house slippers. So, why doesn’t the same go for your casual footwear–sneakers whose purpose is to complement your carefully considered clothing? Why put all that time money and effort into your ensemble only to throw on a pair of sneaks that just sit there under your jeans, yawning with indifference? You want sneakers that are gonna do work for your style, just like you want running shoes that are gonna support your stride

When it comes to finding a sneaker that’s right for you, I think there is a relatively short but diverse list of styles that work for just about everyone, with just about anything, for just about every sneaker-appropriate situation.

One thing that often goes overlooked when choosing a sneaker is shape. It’s important to think about the shape and size of your foot and what sort of shoe structure will look best on it. For instance, if you have wide feet, particularly if they’re big, look for something slimming, with a sleek profile, like a Vans authentic– possibly the most flattering shoe profile of all time. If you have narrow feet, look for something with a firm structure, with a broader, more athletic last, like a Nike Vandal or Dunk. Don’t wear something that’s going to collapse on your foot, like a Converse All-Star; it’s shapeless canvas will just make your feet look clownishly submarine-like.

There are no hard and fast rules. Just remember to make your shoes do work. Your casual sneakers should do just as much for your appearance as your athletic ones do for you game. And, keep it simple there’s nothing wrong with muted colors and simple shapes. Don’t be afraid of color but think subtle accents not neon Jackson Pollack. Give these a try…

Don’t move past the Vans brand all-together. Vans are as classic as they come. It is impossible not to look good in a pair of Vans Authentics. Plus, at $40, they’re the ultimate best buy on any sneaker list. Tips: 1. Stick with solid colors 2. Keep them clean 3. Don’t shy away from the Red ones. They make anything blue, gray or khaki crackle and pop. They could be your sartorial secret weapon. (For a little variety the the the the the the the Chukka.) Buy: $37-$40

With all the to-do about Air Force Ones and Dunks, the Vandal is an oft overlooked classic that I think is actually more wearable than its cousins. Essentially built on an AF1 last, the Vandal’s main difference is its slightly slimmer physique its canvas or nylon body. The colored piping is also a key style element. Along with the Dunk, it was one of the first Nike sneakers to be popular with skateboarders, and it’s one of the few high-tops that pretty much anyone can pull off. Looks great in American colors.

Not to be outdone the Air Jordan 1 is the predecessor to the Dunk but sports a slimmer toe box and a sleeker sole. It also comes in some pretty sophisticated colorways–like the “Father’s Day” edition (left) we wrote about not too long ago or equally well-named “Opening Day” version (right). Buy: $99.99

Common Projects has developed a reputation among savvy style-seekers as the epitome in label-less class. Adorned with only a gold-painted number, each pair is the embodiment of simplicity. A little pricey but definitely a shoe for those in the know. Buy: $295

Kim Jones has done wonders with his line for Umbro. They’re a little hip, a little, sporty, a little Euro-street. And nobody does all-white like Mr. Jones. Buy: $114

An impeccable classic. The Adidas Stan Smith is the main reason some people call all sneakers “Tennie shoes.” This is actually a new slimmer version called the Stan Smith Slick. Comes in lots of colors and fabrics, but the white leather with green heel tab is unbeatable. Looks great with dress pants and no socks. Buy: $140

Creative Recreation is a West Coast DIY shoe label that’s kind of taken off in the last few years. Their shoes take elements from a lot of familiar sources but always come out looking pretty darn original. They all have sly, vaguely Romanesque names, like the Cesario (probably the most popular style) and the Dicoco. But, my favorite is the Ponti. Buy: $143

Special Note: Don’t be afraid of high-fashion brands. There are some very cool menswear designers and fashion houses whose take on the sneaker have brought a subtle touch of luxury to the field. Some standouts include, from left to right, Gucci, Lanvin (fast becoming the luxury sneaker of the hip-hop elite), and Alexander McQueen for Puma (which you might remember from here).