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Best Khaki Shoes Reviewed & Rated
Footwear in this shade is widely available nowadays, and is chosen in all styles - from sneakers to pumps, you will find khaki shoes for almost any occasion. Not only are they a great buy seeing that the color goes well with everything, but they’re often the preferred choice in hiking and outdoors gear. The list below presents the best khaki shoes currently available for purchase.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
This is underrated in all kind of performance shoes. We can’t say it enough; uncomforting shoes will never let you reach optimal performance. Some people make the mistake of forcing themselves into uncomforting shoes. If a shoe feels uncomfortable, it means there’s something wrong. Uncomfortable shoes are not an option for outdoor activities. Off-road events alone are harsh for our feet, imagine adding hours of unpleasant experience on top of that.
Comfort is directly related to your technique. The more comfortable you are, the best you’ll do. Various things mark the level of comfortability in a pair of khaki shoes. Cushioning is the first one. An outdoor shoe must have enough cushioning to support comfortable motions; especially trail running ones. Most shoe brands apply their own cushioning and shock absorption technologies on their designs. For instance, Adidas' Boost midsole diminishes impact, increases comfort and offers more stability.
The materials are another factor. If the materials used in your khaki shoes are completely stiff, any motion becomes uncomfortable. Don’t get us wrong – outdoor boots must be firm. However, there’s a difference between firm and inflexible. Flexibility is a must to execute motions in a natural manner. A shoe should never become an obstacle to your motions. The best outdoor shoes will flex as your feet require it, resembling their movement as naturally as possible.
Depending on the location and weather, you should be looking for a breathable pair of khaki shoes or one that retains heat. A breathable shoe is the last thing you want in winter. Look for something that seals your feet away from the cold, as it’s important to keep them warm. In hot locations it’s the whole opposite; heat should not accumulate on the inner shoe.
No matter where you are, one thing is for sure; you’ll need waterproofing. Wet shoes (and feet) will become an uncomfortable obstacle anywhere, anytime.
Color
Khaki is neutral in the same way that beige or tan or nude is neutral. So are white black and grey, sometimes brown or blue will do the trick, too. They are colors that don’t compete with other colors. Almost all of these have an undertone so have to watch for that because a blue with a green undertone isn’t the same as one that tends toward sapphire.
Because is it neutral khaki is a great color for boots and walking shoes. Khaki shoes are hardly the color of all dirt but they would blend it rather well and proudly sport a layer of dust without appearing to be really dirty. Often used in suedes, the only drawback is the wet weather but even after a few dousings, khaki colored suede will still be a shade of khaki. Some have nearly pink undertones and others a kind of orange. There are so many!
One of the really great things about the color is that, despite its plainness, it can create a very dramatic effect when paired with other colors. Navy blue trim on a pair of khaki shoes makes a real statement as would a pure red. White and khaki create a very soothing, somewhat elegant and the same is true of black. For some reason the dark, rich, brown leathers make a pair of mostly khaki shoes look absolutely luxurious. Texture also gives khaki varying looks. Smooth leathers are very pretty in khaki. Woven khaki fabrics can look like the best possible linens.
Versatility
Khaki shoes travel well in any climate. Mountain boots are often khaki colored and tolerate nicks very well without appearing too worn. In fact, khaki colored leather weathers very well and deepens into a nice rich, brownish color. Khaki linen uppers on a rubber bottom with rubber or leather sides are often used for boots in wet weather. They clean up well and the mud almost complements the khaki color.
As khaki is often the color of a classic raincoat, many boots and rain shoes are made to contrast perfectly. You can always dress your khaki shoes up with wonderful shoelaces that provide contrast or whimsey like a neon green or plaid or polka dot.
Sneakers, sandals, and espadrilles are often khaki colored and work wonderfully for travel or vacation. These types of khaki shoes look great with denim and linens and peasant skirts or shorts. Even if you have a taste for very loud prints or colors, khaki is a good base and won’t clash with anything. Perhaps this is why the color is often chosen as a vacation shoe where it is likely to be asked to support a new, unusually colored purchase. Mauve or blue, fuschia or gold, they’ll all work just fine with a humble khaki colored sneaker, boot, loafer, pump or heel.
People have worn a color similar to khaki since they stopped tying furry skins to their feet. Plain skin or buckskin moccasins often bleach out to something resembling khaki or nude colors. Tanned leather is sometimes made to come close to khaki colors when the base skin is already light. By the time rope and fabrics were combined into the making of a shoe or boot, the natural light browns of the materials would have been similar to khaki. Certainly, the wheaty color of jute and early unbleached linen are very similar to khaki shades.
Style
We thought very hard and couldn’t think of a shoe that could not be khaki color for any reason and we found as many different types and styles as we thought you’d enjoy. It really all depends on what you plan to pair it with but a pair of khaki shoes is a wonderful base for most outfits. Yellow pumps may have their season but they will hardly be welcome year after year as fashions change. And rarely will yellow work in bad weather unless it’s on a pair of rain boots.
Khaki is unlikely to go out of style in the same way that brown and white or grey will always be welcome in our closets. Khaki isn’t bland it’s just not very loud so it plays well with a lot of colors under a lot of different circumstances and in many situations. Khaki shoes are more versatile than khaki clothing which may drift in and out of favor in the fashion world while khaki shoes hang around, still making everything else look terrific.
Durability
There’s a little bit of a difference when it comes to the durability of an average shoe vs. an outdoor shoe. The main difference is that you can use your outdoor wear as walking shoes – and look good while doing so. But it doesn’t work like that the other way around. Using your casual walking wear will make you look more like a newbie, not to mention that those shoes are going to get totally wrecked.
It’s as simple as this: regular shoes can’t endure outdoor activities. You need materials that resist rocks, scratches, water, and heavy duty usage. Think of it as placing a big motor in a small car, and the other way around. The small car still works with a larger engine, but the big one can’t run with a smaller one.
When going on outdoor adventures, you’ll encounter roots, mud, dirt, water, debris, rocks, and another bunch of obstacles. The issue is not what you encounter, what is important is that your khaki shoes are prepared for it. We know outdoor shoes are not cheap, which is why we gathered a list of durable shoes that feature resistant builds. Nobody likes throwing money down the drain, just like nobody likes having to replace shoes after one month.
You have two options when it comes to durable materials: leathers and synthetics. The toughest one is unquestionably reverse full-grain leather. However, other factors such as weight, waterproofing, and versatility play a role when choosing materials. For camping and other light outdoor activities, rubber khaki shoes are also a great choice, along with mesh uppers as these will remain breathable as well as offering waterproof or quick drying properties.
Top 10 Khaki Shoes
1. Crocs Santa Cruz
Famous Crocs comfort and support in their specially formulated foam resin sole. Whatever secret sauce they use to make this light, soft and flexible foundation, called Croslite, it’s miraculously engineered with even more cushioning. Their amazing manipulation of shock-absorbing materials has everything to do the Dual Crocs all-day comfort. What used to be a wonderfully utile gardening or beach shoe has made a spectacular entrance into the fashion world.
Canvas Croc loafers! Need we say more? Comfort meets style and fun in the Santa Cruz khaki shoes. A little extra stretch on each side of the tongue makes this an easy slip-on with a little frayed-edging around the top for that lived-in look. It’s a go anywhere style with a practical slip-resistant sole that will never mark up the floors. Comfortably padded heel cups fold down if you want that, I’m-on-vacation freedom and there are tiny little nubs on the footbeds that actually massage your feet when you walk!
Now you can take all the comfort and ease of a Croc to work in a lightweight, fully supportive pair of khaki shoes that looks like a legit loafer. Not a dress up shoe and no dress up prices, either, this is a reasonably priced, easy fit shoe that will get you through the day in style and comfort. Goes great with shorts on vacation or slacks at work; the only place you probably won’t wear them is under your tux. But someone else just might.
2. Adidas Ultraboost 19
One of Adidas’ most advanced running models, these khaki shoes are made for daily jogs on road surfaces. Featuring neutral support and a removable insole, you can easily wear these even if you need additional arch support in terms of custom orthotics. Great for training and casual everyday wear alike, these will do well in the hot summer months thanks to the highly breathable Primeknit upper that features stretch fibers and molds to your foot like a sock.
The upper of these khaki shoes was designed as a bootie that offers a lightweight, seamless in-shoe experience, made more supportive through two notable features. The first is a thin cage that wraps up from the sole and allows the user to adjust the fit through a set of laces. The other is a 3D heel frame that provides the type of lock in you’d expect from a pair of shoes of this caliber. You’ll also find that the collar is very soft and lightweight, resembling a sock, while the back of the heel features some lightweight padding to protect the sensitive achilles area.
But, what differentiates these khaki shoes from any other model listed is the high-tech midsole that has become an absolute favorite since it was first introduced several years ago. The Boost unit is made up of thousands of TPU pellets, and it is these that contract and expand with every step or landing. They absorb shock and protect the foot from impact, but also go back to their original form quickly, increasing energy return. A Torsion System insert increases lateral stability, and the whole sneaker racks up a small weight.
The outsole on these khaki shoes uses Continental rubber which is highly efficient in providing grip on both dry and wet surfaces, and that lasts a good time. As for cost association, this pair of khaki shoes goes for a price that’s higher than average, but if you want the best from a reliable brand like Adidas, then you’ll find that this is it. Plus, it’s one of the most comfortable pairs of footwear you can invest in.
3. Cole Haan Juliana
Cole Haan has been a synonym for impeccable style for over 90 years now. The brand prides itself on high-quality dress footwear that not only looks good but feels good as well. The Juliana pump is no exception. This tan khaki design has a classic silhouette that is suitable for both work and play and is made from premium leather materials. Not only that, but the Juliana is outfitted with the Cole Haan signature Grand.OS technology for that all-day comfort that we all look for in high heels.
The Juliana has a genuine leather upper, smooth and minimalist. The pointy toe front adds poise to this pair of khaki shoes, and the heel is about 1.75 inches high, which makes it comfortable to wear for hours on end. The inside of the pump is fully lined and padded, and the Grand.OS technology is there to cushion your ride and improve your heel wearing experience. This system offers flexibility, as every part of the design moves with your foot, cushioning in the form of energy foam to soften all the pressure points, and breathability as it promotes airflow all throughout the design.
If you are looking for that one pump that goes well with everything, you certainly found it! Its color matches any outfit and any situation, and thanks to its boost in height and elegant toe shape, it is perfect for the office, for a formal event, and even for a fun night out at the club! There is nothing you can’t do in the Cole Haan Juliana!
4. Cobb Hill Gabby
From the company that brought us the first modern ‘walking’ shoe for recreation, Rockport knows how to put together rubber soles that last for miles and miles with gorgeous leather uppers. With the Country Walker in the early 70s, the casual leather lace-up replaced sneakers and sports shoes for people who just liked to walk in comfort and style.
Cobb Hill Gabby booties are about 4” from the arch to the ankle with a small but stylish ½” rubber-soled platform and a 1 ⅛” heel. A soft suede upper and EVA footbed supply plenty of comforts; these khaki shoes are cute, chic and great to wear! They zip up in the back, but the front laces adjust to allow for more or less pressure depending on how much you need this day, this hour, this minute. Super light and very flexible.
This is an adorable bootie that goes with just about everything. The Gabby dresses up and down as well as any casual pump, but the style is a little fancier than an espadrille and the fit of these khaki shoes is just as comfortable. True to their tradition, Rockport’s Cobb Hill brand is so comfortable it’s great for walking distances and enjoying the view.
5. Sperry Bahama II Baja
Another pair of sneakers on this list of the highest rated khaki shoes available for purchase. The Sperry Bahama II Baja is a hybrid model that brings the best from both boat shoes and sneakers. Ideal for wear both on and off boats, this summer model will definitely become your go to pair of footwear on your next vacation, and we’ll completely understand if you decide to wear it year-round too.
The upper of these khaki shoes is made with a woven canvas material, while the lining features a slightly softer fabric that allows you to wear them with or without socks. In addition to a high level of breathability, this choice of material also means a lightweight construction, so you can easily opt for this model whatever activities you wish to partake in. The 360 degree lacing system (using rawhide laces) allows you to find the ideal fit, and the metal eyelets are rust-proof and reliable, just as you’d expect from Sperry.
The most notable feature of this pair of khaki shoes has to be the rubber outsole made out of a non-marking compound and featuring a highly efficient traction pattern. Using wave-siping, the sole of these khaki shoes provides excellent grip even on slippery wet surfaces such as wet tiles and boat decks, making these an overall good choice. Additionally, the insole is cushioned and removable, so you can easily adjust the type of support and shock absorption you receive from this model.
The price of the Sperry Bahama II Baja is below average compared to the other models on this list, and can even be found on sale, making it a stellar investment for the summer months. If you’re looking for some casual khaki shoes you can wear on holiday, these just might be the winning choice.
6. Skechers Porter Zevelo
It’s hard to believe that Skechers is now third among US athletic footwear brands. From the early days of skate shoes and utility boots with chunky platforms and thick-soled or casual sneakers to the incredible variety of shoes they make today, Skechers is still the comfort brand for people with aching feet and pedal limitations.
Very much like the classic yacht shoe, this pair of khaki shoes includes a classy bit of leather at the top of the tongue and very sturdy canvas uppers, thick padding around the collar and a clean old fashioned rubber around the sole. Memory foam at the midsole gives this a soft, walking-on-air feel when wandering around foreign bazaars and the air-cooled structure makes getting errands done on the weekend a breeze.
While this pair of khaki shoes is most definitely a casual sneaker the Porter Zevelo will easily blend in at work whenever a khaki color would be acceptable. With jeans or chinos or on vacation in shorts, these are comfortable and ready for action. Non-skid soles can take you on a rocky walk at the shore or the fish market in safety. Very much a good buy for style, comfort, and versatility.
7. Vans Era 59
We’re all familiar with the classic Vans design, the laid-back skater sneaker that all the cool kids are wearing. The Era 59 is similar to that, but also a little different - a little less skater and a little more preppy. This pair of khaki shoes can practically pass for a dress sneaker, with its low-top silhouette, a double-stitched canvas upper and leather accents. The Era 59 is a sneaker which looks great with jeans, shorts, and skirts, and wherever you take it, you will look classy yet casual at the same time!
The Vans Era 59 has an upper made from sturdy canvas material. Canvas is breathable and soft to the touch, meaning that your feet won’t sweat or suffer from any nasty blisters or abrasions. The collar of these khaki shoes is padded for extra comfort and flexibility. As all Vans designs, the Era 59 also has a waffle outsole, which serves to provide better board feel for skateboarders. However, for those of us who don’t frequent skate parks, this outsole provides good grip and traction on any type of surface.
It goes without saying that you don’t have to be a skateboarder to enjoy Vans sneakers! These have become a fashion staple, and everyone needs to have a pair in their wardrobe. The Era 59 is a versatile pair of khaki shoes that is a perfect balance between relaxed and elegant, and a sneaker that you will love wearing in nice weather!
8. Viscata Tossa
With traditional techniques, Viscata’s artisans craft natural materials into authentic espadrilles in Spain. Designed in Barcelona these espadrilles have the simple elegance of the Mediterranean vibe that inspired them. Hand-wrapped jute and quality natural rubber and cork soles form the base of a comfortable walking shoe in every product they make. A superior brand in every way, these are a shoe to invest in.
Espadrilles are a design that just screams luxury and relaxation. They’re a chameleon-like fashion statement feigning an easy style of dressed up peasantry or with shorts and jeans for a dressed down elegance. Wear these khaki shoes on the weekend for extra ease, wear them to work when you need a break. Just the best, only the best, lovingly crafted in a boutique workshop, these espadrilles have a soft cotton canvas upper. So easy to keep clean with a little soap and water and a brush. Trim the jute now and then with regular scissors and they never look worn.
It won’t affect your bottom line, but you may want to figure in the fact that Viscata uses natural materials to create their khaki shoes. Most definitely priced appropriately for the quality you get, these khaki shoes will last long, take care of your feet and soothe your conscience all at once. What a deal!
9. Vibram V-Trek
The first Vibram sole was made for mountain climbing in 1937 and it’s still the most popular sole in that market. The Italian company never stopped its tradition of innovation creating long lasting and superlight soles, breaking into casual and dress markets and introducing PU shock-absorbing materials and Ecostep to reduce waste and encourage the use of natural products in the industry.
Independent toes are protected by a grippy Vibram sole, designed to provide traction and protection on whatever terrain you encounter. Sockliner is ½ wool, ½ polyester for warmth, dryness, and comfort. The idea here is to allow your body to run the way it was made to, instead of putting too much foreign structure between you and the surface you run on. It may make your feet healthier and stronger just by doing what they’re made to do.
There are plenty of five-toed designs on the market but Vibram’s sole is the product of almost 100 years of manufacturing and innovation. You really can’t beat these khaki shoes in quality and reputation, and the price is about the same as a really good pair of running sneakers that might not hold up under the rugged conditions these were made to take on.
10. Vionic Wave Toe Post
When summer rolls around, when temperatures rise and humidity sinks in, all we want is to free our feet from confining footwear and let our toes wiggle happily. And for such an occasion, the Vionic Wave Toe Post is a great option! At first glance, this is a standard flip-flop sandal that we’ve seen many times over. However, Vionic wouldn’t be Vionic if they didn’t infuse their designs with all the latest comfort technologies and materials to make sure that you are comfortable and supported in your khaki shoes all day long.
The Wave Toe Post has a biomechanically engineered footbed for superior arch support and help with heel pain (perfect for those suffering from plantar fasciitis). It has an EVA midsole which absorbs shock and staves off foot fatigue, and a TPR outsole which provides good traction with its patterned tread. The straps are made from nylon that doesn’t dig into your skin or cause any lacerations, and thus the pair of khaki shoes is great to wear for as long as you like!
We admit that this option is not the most versatile, as it is not suitable for a work environment, or really any situation where you need to look presentable. However, for your time off where all you want to be is comfortable and cool in hot summer days, the Vionic Wave Toe Post has you covered! With its Orthaheel Technology, you will have a hard time parting from these khaki shoes at the end of the day!
Sources
- , So THAT’S Why We Call Them ‘Khakis’, online news
- , The Rise and Fall of Khaki, blog
- , So, is khaki a color or a style?, blog
- , Khakis, blog
- , Khaki Pants & Chinos: A Classic Style Staple, eZine