Shopping for shoes, boots, or sandals can be a lot of fun. It also requires paying attention to a few practical considerations. Even if the plan is to buy footwear that will only be worn on special occasions, you want to get the most bang for your buck. Here are a few tips that will help you decide if one of those Clark’s classic models are ideal for you or if something else is in order.

Consider the Materials Closely

Always look closely at the type of materials used for the footwear. You want it to be durable, but it also needs to be comfortable. It also helps if the material is designed to help provide ample support and cushion the feet. Find out what it will take to clean the materials as well as keep them supple and smooth. Keep in mind that materials providing this level of quality will cost more, but it also means you will have footwear that lasts for a long time.

And the Brand

Popular brands become that way because they offer consistent quality. The footwear holds up to a lot of use and tends to look great for many years. They may also be known as excellent for people with certain types of foot conditions like fallen arches or flat feet.

Do research a brand before you buy that first pair of shoes. Learning what you can about it may prove that the pair has more going for it than stylish appearance. You may also find out a few more reasons why the shoes are worth the price.

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Where Will You Wear Them?

There are all sorts of good looking shoes on the market. They’re worth buying as long as they will actually be used. That means before you place anything in the shopping cart, take a moment, and determine where you would wear the shoes.

Perhaps they will be reserved for formal occasions. Maybe they are what you need for work since you’re on your feet most of the day. Maybe they would be something fun and comfortable to wear while you run errands on weekends. They may even be ideal for your plans to start walking every night.

As long as you can envision a real purpose for the shoes, they are worth considering. When you have every intention of wearing them for a specific activity, they become even more of a reasonable choice.

And What Color Suits You?

Color does matter in the world of shoes. Ideally, you want something that will blend in well with the rest of your wardrobe. That’s true whether the footwear is destined for use with your casual, exercise, work, or formal attire. Unless you also plan on adding some new colors to your wardrobe, do focus primarily on shoe colors that look nice with what you already own. This will increase the odds that your brand new Merrell shoes will see more action.

Have fun checking out different options for footwear, but to keep it practical. As long as there’s a reason behind the purchase, you’re less likely to regret it later on.