It’s rare that you’ll find me in anything with laces from May to September. It’s just not my gig. I don’t want to be high maintenance about it, but I’m not going to waste even a second of precious sunlight untying my shoes. I want to be able to kick off a pair of clogs when I walk in the door or slip on some slides to make my way up to my neighbor’s pool. Hell, I’ve even got away with wearing some pretty beat-up loafers to a wedding.
I guess you could say that my summer wardrobe is built for comfort, ease, and perhaps a little style. If that sounds like you, then you’re in luck. These 12 great summer shoes all that fit that bill.
What To Look For in Men’s Summer Shoes
- Style: There are many different styles of summer shoes available, so choose a pair that fits your personal style. Some popular styles include sandals, boat shoes, espadrilles, and loafers.
- Material: Summer shoes should be made from breathable materials, such as leather, canvas, or mesh. This will help to keep your feet cool and comfortable.
- Fit: Summer shoes should fit snugly but not too tightly. You should have enough room to wiggle your toes.
- Price: Summer shoes can range in price from around $20 to $200 or more. Choose a pair that fits your budget and that has the features that you want.
Popular Types of Men’s Summer Shoes
- Sandals: Sandals are a great option for summer because they are comfortable and allow your feet to breathe. There are many different styles of sandals available, from Birkenstocks to flip-flops, so you can find a pair that fits your personal style.
- Boat shoes: Boat shoes are a classic summer shoe that is perfect for casual occasions. They are made from leather and have a rubber sole that provides traction.
- Espadrilles: Espadrilles are a lightweight and breathable shoe that is perfect for hot weather. They are made from canvas or rope and have a rubber sole.
- Loafers: Loafers are a versatile shoe that can be dressed up or down. They are made from leather and have a slip-on style.
The Best Men’s Shoes To Wear All Summer Long
Sabah Shoes Babas
I’m sure you already know that I’m a fan of Sabahs’ loafers, but they have a line of backless slip-ons that deserve some love, too. Made with the same soft leather, they’ll eventually mold around your foot, providing extra comfort and ease when wearing. Keeping it simple, you can wear these to just about anything the summer throws at you. I’m pairing the Palma Green pair with some Dandy Del Mar trunks this weekend and if that ain’t the peak of style, I don’t know what is.
Buy Now $190+
Dandy Del Mar Huaraches
Speaking of Dandy Del Mar, they’ve got some great Huaraches out right now. This traditional Mexican sandal has a tighter weave and a triple-layered sole for comfort. They’re stylish without being ostentatious, giving you endless options from poolside to dockside to throwing your pair back on when it’s time for dinner. These are close to selling out but their slides are a great summer shoe, too.
Buy Now $119
Gauri and Co Woven Mules
If you’re looking for another backless option but still want to have a bit of the huarache feel, I recommend these mules from Etsy shop Gauri and Co. Handmade in India, they have a great silhouette for everyday wear and can easily dress down an otherwise stuffy formal event. Bonus for this company is the incredibly fast shipping from India. I think it was only four days from ordering to having them in hand.
Buy Now $40+
Adidas Adilette Slides
We’re getting into slides territory now and I have to put the reigning champ first on the list. From middle school soccer players to granddads, these slides seem to transcend generational preferences; everyone owns a pair. And for good reason. They’re comfortable, easy to kick off, and are well known without being flashy. And while I like the classic black-and-white combo, there are colors for anyone and any occasion to choose from.
Buy Now $40
Puma Shibui Slides
The time for chunky slides is upon us and I’m here for it. It elevates the shoe game just enough to stay sporty while keeping comfort top of mind. I like the Shibui option from Puma, which has limited branding and an extra-thick sole that I can only imagine feels like walking on two jumbo marshmallows.
Buy Now $45
Birkenstock Arizona Essentials EVA
I used to look down on the EVA models from Birkenstock, thinking they weren’t the “authentic” Arizonas I know and love. How wrong I was. The EVA sandals, which boast extra comfort and are water-friendly, are exactly the type of shoe I’m packing for my upcoming beach trip. I’ll probably opt for black so I can dress them up for dinner, but I enjoy the color options the EVA Arizonas have, including electric blue and a minty green.
Buy Now $50
Gardenheir Italian Garden Clog
Another day, another clog. This time from one of my favorite brands: Gardenheir. Italian-made, these shoes show the potential of elevating a stagnant market such as the garden apparel industry. With a super-thick cork sole, you get the support for long wear while also having a stylish alternative to the cheap sandals most of us throw on when doing yard work. With an array of tones, I don’t mind wearing these outside the garden. In fact, I threw on my lemon-colored pair for Father’s Day and they were a hit.
Buy Now $78
Allbirds Wool Lounger
Look, I know that summer isn’t all beach and pools, so if you’re hanging out indoors, I want you to have some new options too. Allbirds’ wool lounger may seem like a no-fuss house shoe, but the construction of the rubber sole and merino wool outer means you’re going to be able to wear these all day (and minimize sweating for my no-socks brethren).
Buy Now $78
Sperry Top Sider Boat Shoe
Here’s another summer staple that had to make the list. The boat shoe adds just the right amount of prep to your step. It’s comfortable, classic, and a great all-around option. While I’m prone to seasickness, you bet I look the part on the dock with a pair of Sperry’s (comfortably eating an Impossible Burger from the sidelines while everyone else is having fun).
Buy Now $110
Easymoc Buckle
I’m thoroughly enjoying seeing the Easymoc get some well-deserved attention. Taking the boat shoe silhouette and shaving off a bit here and there, you’re left with a buckled-up moccasin that’s unlike many shoes on the market. What’s more, it’s made from full-grain leather and handmade in Maine. Something tells me you’ll feel the quality in every step with these shoes.
Buy Now $280
