* Pair: This is the most common and practical choice, as shoes usually come in pairs.
* Set: This works well when talking about a coordinated set of shoes, such as a matching pair of dress shoes or a set of athletic shoes.
* Collection: This implies a large and varied group of shoes, often used for shoe enthusiasts or collectors.
* Pile: This is a more informal option, suggesting a haphazard collection of shoes.
Ultimately, the best collective noun for shoes depends on the specific context and the tone you want to convey.