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As soon as the mercury rises, it’s time to stash away those heavy boots and closed winter shoes at the back of the closet. But men’s summer shoes are a trickier chapter than you might think—it’s all about balancing comfort, breathability, and style, and the choices are more plentiful than ever. Will it be laid-back espadrilles for the beach, classic boat shoes for summer sailing, elegant loafers for the party, or minimalist sneakers for a city stroll? We’ve explored this season’s offerings and highlighted the categories—and stores—worth keeping an eye on.
Espadrilles Make a Comeback
The lightweight, summer-friendly espadrille with fabric and rope soles is one of the most underrated shoe types for men, but this year it’s taking up more space in the wardrobe. You can find a large selection in more budget-friendly segments at ASOS, which boasts an enormous range of fabric shoes, and at H&M Man, where espadrilles and slip-ons rarely break the bank. For a more Mediterranean-inspired look, Mango Man is worth a visit for their moccasins and sandals with a Southern European flair.
The Loafer – Summer’s Most Versatile Shoe
The loafer is the shoe that works just as well with a linen shirt at an outdoor café as it does with a lighter suit at a summer wedding. For those looking to invest in quality, Myrqvist is a Swedish name worth knowing—hand-sewn premium loafers and suede shoes in classic designs. A more affordable and extensive range, with everything from classic leather shoes to elegant summer models, can be found at Rizzo, while Care of Carl caters to those who want to go all out with premium and luxury loafers, driving shoes, and boat shoes.
Sneakers for the City Stroll
The white or light summer sneaker remains a staple no one can escape. The classics are naturally found at the major sports giants: Adidas with their iconic Stan Smiths and summery slides, Nike with lightweight running models, and New Balance, whose retro sneakers breathe exceptionally well on hot days. For those leaning more towards streetwear and sneakerhead styles, Sneakersnstuff—often abbreviated SNS—and Caliroots are two Swedish players with exclusive and sometimes limited models. For those seeking truly rare pairs, or looking to sell their own, the second-hand market StockX is an intriguing source.
Boat Shoes and Deck Shoes for a Summer on the Water
Few shoes signal summer and sea as clearly as the classic boat shoe. Sebago is considered one of the more premium names in the genre, while Timberland offers a broader range of both durable deck shoes and lighter fabric models. Those seeking the original in the category should look for Sperry, often sold through retailers like Footway.
Sandals and Slippers for the Hottest Days
When the thermometer really climbs, it’s the sandal’s turn to take over. Birkenstock remains the undisputed king of ergonomic summer sandals, while Crocs offers an extremely comfortable—albeit debated—option for the garden or beach. More outdoor-oriented options, with functional sandals for hiking and outdoor life, can be found at Naturkompaniet and Addnature.
Scandinavian and Minimalist
For those who prefer a more streamlined, understated summer wardrobe, Scandinavian fashion houses are a natural stop. Arket and COS both offer minimalist leather sandals and sneakers with a clear design language, while Vagabond represents Swedish shoe design with plenty of leather and high quality at its core. Tiger of Sweden delivers the same sleekness but with a focus on dressed loafers and leather sneakers for those looking to elevate their summer look a bit.
When You’re Willing to Spend a Little More
The search for the perfect summer shoe doesn’t end with the big chains. For designer-close options and exclusive collaborations, Mr Porter, Farfetch, and SSENSE are three of the most renowned online destinations, offering a range that stretches from luxurious sandals to handmade loafers from renowned Italian houses.
No matter the budget or style, the point remains the same: the best summer shoes are those that truly let your feet breathe. So before the next heatwave hits, it’s time to review your shoe lineup—and maybe treat yourself to a new pair.
