Best for: Sneakers

Carnival is one of the biggest and most reliable multi-label chains for street fashion and sneakers. Each branch has a slightly different product focus. The latest white-washed venue focuses exclusively on sneakers from Nike, Adidas and Vans, with some special limited editions. The apparel and accessories shelf also stocks brands like Atmos and Californian streetwear brand Publish as well as shoe cleaner kits from Jason Markk.

 

Best for: Made-to-measure shoes

Located on the lower floor of Dean & Deluca at the Mahanakhon Cube building, Don’s Footwear specializes in traditional handmade shoes and bespoke crafting. Run by engineer-turned-shoemaker Allan Donnelly, the brand started life back in 2009 as an online business (www.donsfootwear.com). It offers over 15 different styles, from classic casual to full-on business kicks. The classic made-to-measure service takes 2-3 weeks in total from first measuring day and ranges from B4,000-20,000 per pair. Every purchase also gets two free shoe shines (usually B80).

 

Best for: Limited edition sneakers  

This restaurant-slash-boutique’s shopping side is all about cult kicks like Nike Jordan, Nike Air, Adidas, Asics, Puma and Reebok. They also have a really well-produced website (www.knockbkk.com) for online orders, which they say will be delivered in two days. Prices range from B3,300-22,000.  

 

Best for: Polished sneakers 

These guys have been around for several years now, clocking up the kind of following you don’t get from making cheap crap. Their designs are classic and basic, but with that slight edge of trend awareness. We like the sneaker collection, especially the all-white Smith (at a totally reasonable B1,990) and, if you’re willing to go just a little edgy, the Theo (B3,990). Also check out the Sean slip-ons (B3,390).

 

Best for: Formal shoes

Richly polished Oxfords and tasseled loafers sit alongside supple leather boat shoes in the windows of this subtle but stylish little boutique. All the shoes are both locally made and designed with a clear eye for how men’s shoes should be shaped (no toe-curling winklepickers here). Prices start at around B4,000.

Siam Square Soi 2, 02-252-5945

 

Best for: Cult labels

The fashion boutique section of this popular Ekkamai coffee shop is filled with mostly imported cult brands, many of them dedicated to men’s shoes. Trending and hard-to-find pairs include Norse Project x Suicoke sandals, sneakers from Japanese brand Shoes Like Pottery and the locally-produced and extremely limited Rompboy shoes. 

 

Best for: Vintage dress shoes  

This Ekkamai staple specializes in rare leather shoes, bags and other accessories for both men and women. There’s a clear sense of style to the selection, with most items imported from Italy and dating from the 1970s, although they go back way further (their oldest ever pair was from 1930). Best thing: the pricing won’t give you a heart-attack, with items ranging from just B380-5,000. To get first pick, make sure you visit on Wednesdays, when new stock comes in.