Oxford shoes originated in Scotland and Ireland and made their way across the pond to the US in the 1800s. Their sleek look and durable design have made them a fashion staple for centuries. Derby shoes build upon this foundation and add an open-lacing system for comfort, and a design that allows for easier breaking-in. While oxfords have been the go-to for men's professional wear, some are looking to derbies for a style that stands out while staying in the good graces of the higher-ups. With sneaker-like comfort and traction, these derbies will go wherever you do.

Where leather stands out in durability and water resistance, it lacks in breathability. JOUSEN Suede saw this and developed their derbies with a lightweight and breathable insole. This keeps your feet sweat-free and cool, while the marbleized rubber outsole provides the stability you need to be able to stay on your feet all day.

Calf leather is made from the skin of younger cows, hence the name. This makes it more lightweight, but also thinner than cowhide leather. It is sometimes considered stronger than cowhide ounce for ounce due to the fibers being closer together, though in practicality it offers similar durability to standard cowhide. Using half leather for these derbies makes them lightweight, and the thinner overall material reduces break-in time.

While these are lacking in arch support, the Rambert derbies have a cushioned insole that's both soft and supportive, while being durable enough for long-term use. This, along with the lightweight calf leather, provides the comfort you need for all-day wear, no matter where you're going. Priced similarly to most of the products on our list, Calvin Klein's Rambert derbies offer a lightweight calf leather exterior and a durable synthetic outsole, with the same quality and modern design you've come to expect from a designer brand, at an accessible price.

While the Tilden looks stylish and is great for the office, it has the expected Clark’s comfort features the company is known for. The cushioned insole reduces the impact of being on your feet, and the elastic panel in the upper stretches for those small adjustments you need during the day. An elastic side gore allows for a more comfortable fit when lacing up, unlike a closed laced Oxford shoe.

This shoe looks right at home in the office or at a semi-formal event. The Tilden goes with suits, dress pants and even a dressy pair of jeans. The cap toe and double stitching give the shoe a little detail without being overdone. It’s a clean, classic look perfect for any occasion and comes in a few color varieties to suit your unique tastes. The Tilden gives you great value at a good price. Getting this comfortable business and casual business shoe in a basic color is money well spent. Slightly more than the Viotti, the extra comfort Clarks are known for is reflected in the price, so if comfort is of utmost importance, this is a great selection for your derby shoe.

With smooth leather on the cap toe and quarters and diamond textured leather on the vamp, the Bram Diamond adds a noticeable flair to your ensemble. It gives classic formal shoe styling an upgrade in sophistication. The stacked heel and finished laces complete the look of prestige and sophistication.

The Bram Diamond has an open lacing system for getting the correct adjustment for your foot. It’s padded footbed, and rubber sole absorbs shock and keeps your feet comfortable, and the partial leather lining protects against unwanted chafing as you walk. The rubber sole allows for durability and stability, creating a non-slip grip to any surface you tread upon. This dressy shoe is a little pricier but is still a good value for your money. For a designer name shoe, however, it’s a solid purchase. The Bram Diamond adds flair to your wardrobe and keeps your feet comfy when you’re required to be on your feet, and give that added sophistication to classic styling.

While leather is one of the most durable materials available for footwear, rubber outsoles can wear over time, and in extreme cases may even begin to separate from the rest of the shoe. To combat this, Rockport used a durable cemented construction. This allows for a stronger adhesion of the outsole to the rest of the shoe, making them far less likely to wear and separate over time.

Ortholite insoles are made of an advanced polyurethane material and recycled rubber and are a popular choice for many brands today. Unlike traditional insoles, the compression rate of Ortholite insoles is about 5%, meaning a longer life from the insoles and having to change them less frequently. The open-cell foam is made to be breathable and allows air to circulate in and around the insole, keeping your feet cool all day long. This also allows them to manage sweat and moisture with ease, which will prevent odor build-up and reduce the chance of blistering. Another mid-range option, Rockport's Room Wingtip derbies are made with an EVA heel up and ortholite insole for the comfort and support you need, and all of the quality and durability you'd expect from the brand.

The Ashton is stylish without being overly formal. Seen in the quality with the raised stitching and leather upper is a shoe well constructed to last even the roughest of days. And let's not forget the burnished leather look that can appeal to many seeking comfort hidden in sophistication. Doctors or nurses that spend all day on their feet will appreciate the Ashton for its durable comfort, while still maintaining an office style aesthetic.

When you find that favorite shoe, it feels like we found a new friend. And with a removable footbed and depth to accommodate a custom orthotic, you want to keep it as long as possible. The welt on this shoe allows it to be resoled so you can extend the life of the Ashton. One of the most expensive on the list, but very well made, it’s an excellent investment for those looking to buy a pair of shoes that will stand wear and tear of everyday use. It gives the extra room needed for custom orthotics, or just need more space in your shoe. With the option to be resoled, this pair of derby shoes will long outlast the price paid upfront!

Dr. Martens are built to last, and these are no exception. The premium leather upper holds up to your day-to-day activities, and the thick sole is attached to the upper with the Goodyear welt for long-lasting flexibility. The 8053 is easy to clean should you get them dirty during wear as well. Simply wipe with a damp cloth and allow to dry! After that initial breaking in period, the Original 8053 is known for comfort. The traditional lacing lets you tighten and loosen the fit as needed, and the cushioned footbed absorbs impact as you walk. Add to this a padded collar, and walking around a conference or event won’t leave you with blistered heels or irritated ankles.

Dr. Martens are a great bargain when you look at the longevity and durability of this shoe. They look great and are built to last. Compared to others on our list, they run a tad on the expensive side, but if you’re looking to buy a long-term pair for everyday wear, it’s a solid investment!

Who says a good looking pair of dress shoes have to be stiff and uncomfortable? The Melville are outfitted with a full memory foam insole that forms to the unique shape of your foot, for the exact amount of cushioning you need. This allows you to stay comfortable all day, no matter how long you plan on being on your feet.

The Stacy Adams Melvilles are made to turn heads. Four pairs of eyelets allow for a secure and comfortable fit, while the glossy leather and triangular perforations give them a look that's daring enough for your personality while being professional enough to wear to work meets and
casual events.

We would say these are priced about average for derby shoes. The triangle perforations and glossy leather give these a modern and stylish look, while the memory foam insole makes them comfortable enough for all-day wear. These shoes are a worthy investment and will look good both at work and out on the town.

This shoe has the classic derby silhouette with a cap toe to add visual appeal. A one-inch stacked heel adds to the clean look, along with a rounded toe to make this shoe a good choice for your business wear. Also, to those looking for a uniform shoe or formal occasion shoe, the Bostonian Kinnon pairs great with a uniform dress, or tuxedo wear. The Bostonian Kinnon is lightweight and gives you all-day comfort with a specially designed footbed to cushion and breath. The rubber sole gives you extra support when you are on your feet, and gives added traction to slippery surfaces. Open style lacing gives you the ability to tighten the shoe as needed.

This shoe is a great general dress or uniform shoe for those occasional semi-formal events, but also as an everyday shoe worn to the office. Some colors and sizes vary in price, but it is a great investment for whatever your attire may be. Dress up jeans or slacks, or pair with more formal tuxedo or uniform dress, coming in at an average price on our list for derby shoes; it’s well worth the money spent.

Cole Haan teamed up with Nike and used their signature Lunarlon technology for their LunarGrand Wingtip derbies. Lunarlon is an innovative cushioning system that, according to Nike, will “have you feeling like you’re walking on the moon,” and was inspired by astronauts bouncing on the surface of the moon. It’s made of a soft and responsive foam that reduces shock and provides both stability and comfort. While it’s unlikely that any of us will ever get to walk on the moon, at least you can feel like it with these shoes.

Derbies have become popular as a more casual alternative to the classic oxford. The brogue seaming and wingtip detailing give these derbies their iconic style that will fit in well both at work and on the town. While these are a slightly more expensive option than some other shoes on this list, the Cole Haan LunarGrand Wingtip derbies offer exceptional comfort and style, making them a worthy investment.