When summer hits, wearing the right shoes can make a big difference. No one wants hot, sweaty feet, whether you're at work or just hanging out. Picking the right shoes isn’t just about looking good—it’s about staying cool and comfy, too.
The trick is choosing the right materials. Fabrics like cotton, mesh, and canvas let air flow, keeping your feet cool. Light leather and suede work well if they’re breathable. Some synthetic materials are great because they help keep your feet dry. Choosing the right material can make hot days much more comfortable.
Factors to Consider when Choosing Summer Shoes
Here’s a list of materials that work well for summer shoes:
- Cotton - Lightweight and breathable, helps keep feet cool and comfortable. Popular with Sandals, and casual shoes.
- Mesh - Excellent for ventilation, allowing air to flow and moisture to escape. Regularly used in Sandals & Trainers.
- Canvas - Breathable and durable, canvas is often used for casual sneakers.
- Lightweight Leather - Natural and flexible; works well if it’s thin and breathable.
- Suede (Lightweight) - Soft and stylish, but best when treated to be breathable. Widely used in boots & shoes for all seasons.
- Moisture-Wicking Synthetics - Helps keep feet dry by drawing sweat away. Very popular in running shoes, hiking & trail running shoes.
- Bamboo Fabric - Naturally breathable, moisture-wicking, and eco-friendly. Used for inner lining, popular in casual shoes & moccasins.
- Knit Fabric - Flexible, breathable, and commonly used for athletic shoes.
- EVA Foam - Lightweight, comfortable, and often used for sandals and sneakers. EVA is a very popular material used in the midsole of running shoes.
- Cork - Natural, breathable, and provides good support, especially in sandals & casual shoes. Used in the midsole.
Choosing breathable, lightweight materials can make a huge difference in keeping your feet cool and comfortable during hot weather.
Comfortable Men’s Casual Shoes
When it comes to casual summer footwear, nothing quite beats the classic casual shoes. These lightweight, stylish shoes have been a warm-weather staple for generations, and it's easy to see why they've stood the test of time.
Casual shoes offer the perfect blend of comfort and style, making them ideal for everything from beachside strolls to laid-back backyard hangouts. Their flexible, well-ventilated construction keeps your feet cool and supported, no matter how high the mercury rises.
If you live an active lifestyle or are planning summer adventures, casual shoes from brands like Vivobarefoot and Clarks are a great choice. Their durable rubber soles provide excellent traction and grip, whether you're exploring a new city or hitting the hiking trails. And their lightweight nature makes them easy to pack and travel with.
Easy On & Off: Men’s Slip-On Shoes
Let's be real - who has time for laces and fuss when the sun is shining, and summer adventures await? That's where slip-on shoes come in. These men's summer shoes offer the ultimate in warm-weather ease and convenience. Simply slide your feet in and go!
If you're looking to keep things classy while still embracing that laid-back summer vibe, a pair of leather or suede loafers is the way to go. With their sleek, minimalist designs, these slip-ons can easily transition from the office to happy hour drinks. You can pair them with chinos, shorts, or lightweight linen trousers. But maybe you're more of a low-key, casual kind of guy. In that case, slip-on sneakers or canvas kicks are your best friend.
The beauty of slip-ons from brands like Ugg, Ecco and others is that they're so incredibly versatile. Dress them up or down, wear them to the beach or the bar - these shoes do it all while keeping your feet cool, comfortable, and blissfully free from any lace-related hassles.
Adventure Ready Outdoor Sandals for Men
When you're gearing up for summer's greatest exploits, from scaling mountain trails to conquering whitewater rapids, you need footwear that can keep up. That’s where outdoor sandals come in.
These sandals are built for action, with rugged, non-slip soles that'll keep you steady on your feet, no matter how treacherous the terrain. Plus, they come with adjustable straps to ensure a secure, customized fit, so you can tackle any adventure with confidence. Many outdoor sandals also feature quick-drying materials and antimicrobial linings to keep your feet fresh and odor-free, even after a long day of activity.
Brands like Ecco and Keen are masters at crafting durable, high-performance outdoor sandals that can handle any summer pursuit. Many outdoor sandals from these brands also feature quick-drying materials and antimicrobial linings to keep your feet fresh and odor-free, even after a long day of activity.
Summer-Ready Men’s Boat Shoes
No summer shoe roundup would be complete without a nod to the classic boat shoe. Originally designed for life on the water, these shoes have become a beloved choice for their versatility and effortless style.
One of the standout features of boat shoes is their incredible traction. The non-slip soles provide an excellent grip on wet or slippery surfaces, making them a practical choice for summer activities near the water. Additionally, many boat shoes feature breathable uppers and moisture-wicking linings, ensuring your feet stay cool and dry even on the hottest days.
Timberland's Classic Boat Shoe is the perfect example of this style with its hand-sewn construction, 360° lacing for a secure fit, and availability in classic brown leather as well as pops of color like navy, yellow or burgundy. You can go for a timeless tan or white pair, or make more of a statement with bolder shades.
Driving Moccasins: Refined Leisure
Driving moccasins, also known as driving shoes, are a stylish and comfortable option for those who seek a more refined summer look. These slip-on shoes, with their sleek, minimalist designs and flexible, rubber-studded soles, were originally designed for optimal pedal control while driving, but they've since become a popular choice for everyday wear.
Iconic brands like Clarks and Red Wing have perfected the art of driving moccasins. The soft, supple leather uppers conform to the shape of your feet, while the flexible soles and cushioned insoles provide excellent support and shock absorption. Many driving moccasins also feature breathable linings, ensuring your feet stay cool and dry even on the hottest summer days.
Men’s Smart Shoes for Endless Sophistication
Sure, summer is all about embracing that laid-back, carefree vibe. But let's be real - there are times when you need to kick things up a little in the style department. Maybe it's a fancy wedding, a big work event, or just a night out where you want to look like a total stunner. That’s when smart shoes come in. We're talking leather or suede loafers, oxfords, or monk straps in rich, timeless shades like deep burgundy, classic tan, or luxe navy.
The best part about men’s smart shoes is, they are incredibly versatile. You can easily dress them up with chinos, a crisp button-down, and a blazer for a sophisticated summer ensemble that'll turn heads. Or go a little more casual with slim-fit shorts and a polo shirt - these shoes can handle it all with effortless style.
Brands like Loake and Pikolinos pride themselves on using premium leathers and suedes, ensuring their smart shoes not only look impeccable but will also stand the test of time. With their breathable linings and durable Goodyear-welted construction, your feet will stay cool and supported through every summer occasion.
The Breathable Men’s Summer Trainer
When summer's heat is beating down, the last thing you want is for your feet to feel stifled and sweaty in a heavy, constricting sneaker. This is when lightweight, well-ventilated summer trainers become a must-have for an active warm-weather lifestyle.
Innovative athletic brands like Hoka and On Running have dedicated designs to crafting the perfect summer-ready trainer. Styles like the Hoka Bondi 7 and On Cloud X feature breathable engineered mesh uppers that maximize airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry. Responsive cushioning ensures impact protection and all-day comfort, no matter your summer pursuit.
Ultimately, breathability is key. Prioritize mesh paneling, perforated uppers and moisture-wicking linings to ensure optimal ventilation and prevent sweat buildup. With the right summer trainer, you can embrace an active lifestyle while keeping your feet cool, dry and comfortable, no matter how high the temperatures rise.
10 Best Summer Shoes for Men
Finn Comfort Baden Leather Men's Shoes
The perfect blend of style and comfort for your summer adventures. Crafted with high quality materials and attention to detail these shoes are designed to provide lasting support and a luxurious feel.
- Premium durable nubuck leather upper.
- The shoes are lined with a lightweight and breathable fabric that enhances airflow keeping your feet cool and comfortable.
- Equipped with a cushioned insole for excellent arch support and shock absorption allowing you to stay on your feet all day.
- Featuring an innovative airflow technology for enhanced breathability to keep your feet feeling fresh and cool.
- The sturdy and slip resistant sole is made from durable rubber for superior traction and stability.
Pikolinos Azores Men's Moccasins
Perfect for the summer, the Azores 06H-5303 shoes from Pikolinos can easily be dressed up or down. Keeping your feet well-ventilated and stable, these loafer style shoes offer vibrant style and optimum comfort for an incredible wearing experience.
- Soft calfskin leather upper.
- Breathable leather and textile lining for abrasion-free wear.
- Removable, leather and textile lined insole for cushioning and support.
- Low Profile construction for ankle mobility.
- Flexible, durable synthetic sole for supreme grip.
Keen Clearwater CNX Men's Sandals
Enjoy the holiday season with the sandal that started it all, the grey and brown Clearwater men's sandals from Keen feature a washable, waterproof leather upper.
Rugged sandals feature hydrophobic mesh lining for natural odour control and a TPU stability shank gives it a firm foundation for support when needed. The secure fit lace capture system will keep your feet locked and cosy.
Outdoor footwear features a compression moulded EVA midsole and metatarsal ridge for natural underfoot support. The Metatomical footbed is covered in soft microfiber and its internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support and cradle the natural contours of the foot.
The sole of these summer sandals razor sipped with multi-directional lugs to ensure maximum ground traction and grip combined with its non-marking rubber these sandals will make sure you don't lose track. These sandals use PFC free materials.
Clarks Torhill Lo Men's Shoes
The Torhill Lo shoes from Clarks add a good dose of style to any footwear collection. Incorporating sneaker styling, and lace-up closure, these sneakers are easy to wear and will keep your feet looking fabulous all day long.
- Premium textile upper for breathability.
- Soft textile lining for abrasion-free wear.
- Removable, leather contour insole for cushioning and support.
- Lace up closure provides secure fit.
- Durable rubber sole for grip and traction.
Clarks Wallabee Evo Suede Men's Shoes
The Timeless Classic for Effortless Style! These iconic wallabee shoes have been loved for decades, and their enduring design continues to make a statement in modern fashion.
- Premium and durable suede leather upper.
- Soft and breathable leather and textile lining for comfortable fit.
- Moulded contour cushion lined footbed for comfort and support.
- Functional lacing system for flexible fit.
- Durable rubber sole for grip and traction.
Birkenstock Milano Birko-Flor Sandals
Incredibly stylish and comfortable, the Milano slingback sandals from Birkenstock will make you stay on the move all day long. Encouraging foot health and maintaining a natural posture while walking, the Milano slingback sandals are light and summery companion that offers outstanding comfort.
- Durable Birko-Flor synthetic upper.
- Soft fleece lining on the underside of the upper.
- Contoured cork footbed to conform to the shape of your foot.
- Three adjustable straps with metal buckles for a flexible fit.
- Flexible, lightweight and shock-absorbing EVA sole.
Birkenstock Arizona Unisex Sandals
Incredibly stylish and comfortable, the Arizona Soft Footbed slide sandals from Birkenstock will make you stay on the move all day long. Encouraging foot health and maintaining a natural posture while walking, the Arizona open-back sandals are light and summery companion that offers outstanding comfort.
- Durable soft oiled nubuck leather upper.
- Soft leather lining for comfort.
- Contoured cork footbed to conform to the shape of your foot.
- Two adjustable straps with metal buckles for a flexible fit.
- Open-back construction for easy on and off.
- Anatomically correct, suede lined, natural cork-latex soft footbed.
- Pronounced arch support with an extra layer of super soft foam for cushioning.
- Raised toe bar to encourage natural gripping motion.
- Neutral heel profile and deep heel cup to distribute your body weight more evenly.
- Flexible, lightweight and shock-absorbing EVA sole with bone pattern.
Sperry Authentic Original Men's Boat Shoes
The Authentic Original 2 Eye hand-stitched boat shoe from Sperry that started it all. This shoe features non-slip rubber soles, rawhide laces and corrosion-resistant brass eyelets. The shoe is made of durable leather. A real moccasin that ideally adapts to your feet, perfect pair for your everyday outfit.
- Durable leather upper.
- Leather lining for comfortable, abrasion free wear.
- Soft leather lined insole for comfort.
- Traditional lacing system for flexible fit.
- Durable rubber sole for grip and traction.
Ecco Soft 60 Men's Casual Shoes
These Soft 60 are simple yet sophisticated shoes are for the new casual generation, these comfortable shoes provide a superb feel when walking. Ecco is a brand that is specialised in comfort, its soft lining provides optimum comfort.
- Premium leather upper for durability.
- Soft and comfortable leather lining.
- Leather-covered soft footbed for breathable and excellent cushioning.
- Low-on-the-toe lacing system for flexible fit.
- Synthetic shock absorbent soft sole for support underfoot.
Pikolinos Fuencarral Men's Fisherman Shoes
The Pikolinos Fuencarral shoe is a stylish and versatile choice for men looking for a comfortable and trendy footwear option. These semi-open shoes feature a unique and eye-catching design that can easily elevate any outfit.
- Premium leather upper for durability.
- Soft leather lining for abrasion-free wear.
- Leather lined insole for cushioning and support.
- Fully-adjustable with comfortable hook and loop closure.
- Durable synthetic sole for grip and traction.
Answers to some Popular Questions
Are sneakers good for casual wear?
Absolutely! Sneakers are a perfect casual shoe option. They're comfortable, versatile, and come in endless styles from classic canvas kicks to modern knit designs. Sneakers can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
What are work casual shoes?
For work casual settings, you'll want something a little dressier than your everyday sneakers. Loafers, driving mocs, and boat shoes are great options that strike that perfect balance of relaxed and refined. They've got that polished vibe that works for the office, but they're still super comfy. Just avoid anything too sporty or beachy like sneakers or flip-flops.
Are driving moccasins good for walking?
Driving mocs (or driving loafers) were designed for easily working the pedals while driving, but their flexible construction makes them decently comfortable for casual walking too. Just don't plan on going on any intense urban hikes or trail expeditions in them. They're really meant for more low-key strolls and running errands in style and comfort.
What is the point of boat shoes?
Boat shoes were originally created for sailors who needed a shoe with crazy good traction on slippery decks. Those non-marking soles with the wave-like grooves gave them a great grip. Today, they've become more of a laidback summer style move that channel those classic nautical vibes. Additionally, they're made from water-resistant materials and often have quick-drying properties, making them great for both water and land activities.
What are the best walking sandals?
If you're going to be clocking some serious miles, you'll want proper sport sandals built for walking and hiking. Brands like Keen & Ecco make awesome options with contoured footbeds that support your arches and rugged outsoles with a great grip. They're perfect for hitting the trails, exploring new cities, or any adventures where you'll be on your feet all day.