You wouldn’t wear a fur-lined parka in the desert in the middle of summer, would you? When it’s 90 degrees Fahrenheit outside, is the first thing you grab your heavy wool peacoat?
We switch out our thicker, heavier clothes when spring shows up. And we switch them back in again when autumn rolls back around. Why wouldn’t we do the same with our shoes?
If this thought hadn’t yet occurred to you—and don’t worry, it’s not something we talk about often—let me present to you my favorite men’s summer shoes… five warm weather-appropriate pairs that are worthy additions to your closet!
Summer shoe #1: Espadrilles
If you’re like me, you’re heading for the nearest body of water as often as you can, just like every other spring and summer.
Espadrilles are the perfect shoe for these getaways.
The most common style consists of a flexible sole—traditionally made from Esparto rope, though modern versions most likely are made from jute or other natural fiber—plus a cotton or canvas upper.
An eco-friendly jute sole, easy-to-wear print, and blanket stitches that have just enough give to fit to your foot perfectly.
Because of how espadrilles look and are designed, they’re best worn in tropical, warm-weather places—you’re not wearing these in Chicago in the winter—or when you’re on the coast, at the beach, or at the pool.
Soludos is an easy go-to for good-looking espadrilles in a variety of uppers, from canvas to leather (the leather versions are more “around town” appropriate).
Sea Star Beachwear reimagined the espadrille while keeping its aesthetic largely the same, making their version with a neoprene upper and a deck shoe sole.
Summer shoe #2: Knit sneakers
Here’s why a knit shoe is necessary for your summer wardrobe:
- It’s a great substitute for your go-to full leather sneakers
- It’ll keep you cooler as the weather warms up
- They’re super lightweight and flexible
- They’ll keep you comfortable even as your feet expand and shrink (totally happens as you move throughout your day!)
A refreshed Flyknit upper uses Flywire technology for support and breathability where you need it. Great for running, but also for casual days where you're walking a lot.
If you’re not a guy who wants to show his feet in polite society, a knit sneaker is an easy, stylish way to switch up your shoe game for summer. Consider a pair in a light color for a cool, breathable feel and fit.
Megan Collins, Style Girlfriend
You can go with a classic tennis sneaker silhouette or a trainer with a more sporty look – you’re wearing these casually anyway.
Summer shoe #3: Tan leather loafer or double monk
The tan leather loafer—specifically one with an apron toe—or a sharp double monk (or both!) are the best possible additions to your lean wardrobe.
Not only do they go with
"When you want to go classic, but not as formal as an Oxford, the Roy Loafer is the shoe for you.... The Roys play it cool with cuffed jeans and shorts. They also get down to business when paired with a suit or dress pants." –Beckett Simonon
I love this tan, cognac color in particular because it’s a bit more fun than your typical dark brown or black, and much more appropriate in the spring and summer as well.
They work with all your menswear neutrals and your lighter-colored summer outfits. My favorite combo is a pair of tan leather loafers with white denim and a navy linen
Summer shoe #4: Unlined Italian loafers
You may be wondering, “Why would I need two different loafers?”
The tan leather loafer from Ace Marks is perfect for the office, or worn with denim for dinner and drinks on the weekend.
This second loafer looks very similar, but is unlined, made from suede, and is much more casual yet still super sharp… think linen or light cotton pants, or even sharp tailored shorts with a linen
Meermin is a decades-old, family-owned and operated business based in Mallorca, Spain, specializing in well-made Goodyear welted shoes.
These loafers look perfectly at home on the coast, whether Miami or Positano, as well as in the city when the sun is beating down and you want to look sharp and put together… but they feel loose and laid back.
It’s not always easy to find the perfect lightweight, unlined, suede, apron toe loafer. The best I’ve seen recently is from Meermin (bottom left in the photo).
If you can get close—i.e. have most or some of these qualities: lightweight, unlined, suede, apron toe—then, good enough!
Summer shoe #5: Suede chukkas
The key word you want to remember for your summer clothes and shoes: Unlined.
Your sport coats should be unlined. Your loafers, unlined. And your
Chukka styles can vary, but the specific one I’m suggesting is lightweight, with an unlined suede upper and a crepe sole.
Leather uppers can work during the summer as well, just make sure the leather is soft and unstructured. So can leather soles (though they’re decidedly more dressy).
The best summer-friendly
You’ll love these with lightweight denim or cotton chinos around town, and they’re the perfect spring and summer traveling shoe (easy to slip on and off at the airport security line).
The Best Men’s Shoes For Spring and Summer!
Which ones are you adding to your wardrobe this season? Let me know on Instagram.