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Step aside, sandals: Summer sneakers are equally essential for a warm-weather wardrobe.
The best summer sneakers can add a lot to your outfit, whether you prefer something classic or something trendy. “Summer is the perfect time to try a clean white sneaker or add a vibrant pop of color to your footwear wardrobe,” Will Cooper, senior president and GMM of women’s shoes, handbags, and accessories at Saks Fifth Avenue, tells Bazaar. (At the top of my personal wish list is a pair of Wales Bonner silver sneakers since their retro silhouette and bold palette add a cool touch to even a simple jeans-and-tee combination.)
But the perfect pair doesn’t just have to look good. Warm weather means spending time outdoors on your feet, so it’s important to have a pair of sneakers with support. If you tend to suffer from overheating feet during the summer, consider that as well. “For the summer season, we see customers gravitate towards sneakers that are breathable for hot days, whether that be a mesh fabrication, cotton canvas, or perforation in leather styles,” says Cooper. You may want to leave leather for evenings or cooler days and spring for more lightweight options when the temps are pushing 100.
Below, find the 15 best summer sneakers to wear all season long.
Adidas Sambas have been the It sneaker for several years now, and their reign continues into summer 2024. They are a favorite for a reason: These sneakers have an easy, low-top silhouette that looks great with everything from floral dresses to button-downs and jean shorts.
Sizes: 6½–14
Colors: White, black
Isabel Marant Beth Low-Top Sneakers
“Clean white sneakers are a summer staple,” Cooper says. “This elevated classic style by Isabel Marant features grip-tape straps, making them easy to slip on and off while you’re on the go this summer. The perforated leather will keep your feet cool.” Style them with cropped trousers and a blouse for a casual workplace, or with a swimsuit and denim cut-offs for a beach weekend.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Colors: White
Whether you have a camping trip on the books or a day hike with friends planned, the proper footwear will be the most important part of your look. Made with heavy-duty rubber soles to help you navigate muddy patches or rocks, these sneakers will make feel supported all day long.
Sizes: 5½–14
Colors: Black, white
If you’re looking for an on-trend pair of statement sneakers to carry you through the summer, these are at the top of my shopping list. The combination of red, beige, and silver is totally unique.
Sizes: 35–42 EU
Colors: Silver
“Chloé’s Nama sneaker is the must-have shoe for summer,” Cooper says. “This unique, effortlessly cool style is offered in vibrant color variations and features an eco-conscious design partially constructed from recycled materials.” Signature whipstitching, patchwork detailing, and a platform sole add dimension and a stylish spin to the classic kick.
Sizes: 35–42 EU
Colors: Creamy lilac, biscotti beige, dark ruby, cosmic blue, and more
Veja’s sneaker is made with materials that are durable and eco-friendly, like Amazonian rubber, sugar cane, recycled polyester and organic cotton. We love this style in white with the steel-blue trim, for an airy palette that’s dreamy and laid-back.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Colors: White/steel
You can’t go wrong with an icon. Converse’s Chuck Taylor high-top sneaker has been around since 1922. Designed originally as a shoe for men’s basketball, they are now wardrobe staples for any occasion. The optic-white colorway is especially perfect for summer days, thanks to a canvas upper that is breathable and lightweight. And don’t worry about them getting dirty—the worn-in look is part of the high-tops’ timeless charm.
Sizes: 5–15
Colors: Optic white and black
“Loewe’s Flow Runner sneakers offer a retro vibe that is perfect for summer,” Cooper says. “This laid-back style is offered in a ton of fun color combinations, as well as lightweight and breathable fabrications including nylon and denim.” Whether worn with sweat shorts for a casual, athletic look or a sundress for something dressier, these sneakers are worth investing in.
Sizes: 5–11
Colors: Shitake, gold, white, and more
Another sleek and effortless option that never goes out of style is a Vans slip-on sneaker. Completely laceless and made from canvas for breathability, they are perfect for summer. The infamous checkerboard pattern adds a fun styling twist to any basic bikini, denim bottom, or miniskirt.
Sizes: 5–11
Colors: White, black checker
If you prefer to keep things simple, these sleek lace-up shoes are a classic style you’ll find a million ways to wear. Pack them on any summer trips for a versatile option you can dress up or down.
Sizes: 35–41 EU
Colors: Black, white, navy, beige
Nodding to ’80s and ’90s basketball culture, the Out of Office sneaker offers a fresh spin on modern classics. The low-top shape is made with a lace-up design, and fabricated in leather upper with a rubber sole for traction, no matter your destination. Try the white colorway for a shoe that transitions well from city bodega runs to long walks on the beach.
Sizes: 35–42 EU
Colors: White
Summer break doesn’t mean time off from training. Pack these sneakers for a seaside jog, morning miles or a hotel gym sweat sesh. Extremely lightweight with plenty of cushion, these Hoka running shoes are as functional as they are fun. Choose a playful colorway for a little mood boost during warmer months.
Sizes: 5–12
Colors: Black, coral, nimbus, and more
Tap into the Nike archive with a Y2K-inspired shoe silhouette that’s been modernized for today. The iconic swoosh across the sides brings a graphic punch to the overall minimalist style of the white leather shoe. Pair with a ribbed tube sock and bare leg for an athletic, on-trend feel.
Sizes: 5–13½
Colors: White, silver, mauve, and more
One of Keds’ most beloved styles, the Champion sneaker has been in the brand’s repertoire for decades. Still made with a rubber sole and a cushioned footbed for all-day comfort, this version swaps the traditional canvas upper for white leather. Lean into a ’90s minimalist-prep vibe by pairing them with a linen button-down and pleat-front trouser shorts.
Sizes: 4–12
Colors: White
New Balance lace-up sneakers are a classic casual option for low-key days when you’re running errands. Lean into the chill nature of this style by pairing them with baggy summer jeans and tank top on the weekend.
Sizes: 7–13
Colors: Taupe
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