We’re far enough into summer that you’ve realized where your summer shoes fall short, but we’ve got enough of summer left to make it worth rectifying those issues. Summer is touted as the dream period for sneakerheads and footwear lovers, and by and large, that’s true. But summer is also a time of abundant activity, which means that your selection needs way more variety than at any other time of year.
Of course, you won’t be wearing your city shoes for a walk in the countryside, or your beach sandals when you’re running errands in the city. It’s a puzzle with many moving parts, so we’ve broken the summer shoes conundrum down into its foundational sections: beach, city, and country.
From technical slides to luxury sneakers, our market editors have pieced together the ultimate summer shoes for every occasion with the help of SSENSE.
Shop the best summer shoes for every occasion below.
Shoes for the beach
Nike Offline 2.0 Sandals
Nike's Offline 2.0 Sandals are the pure midpoint between sneaker and sandal. A technical canvas upper features laces while a cork and rubber sole unit ensures comfort even on testing terrain.
Jacquemus 'Les Tatanes Blé' Sandals
You just know that when Simon Porte Jacquemus put the finishing touches to this pair, he was envisioning them with a light dusting of sand.
Gucci Rubber Logo Slides
Gucci slides are nothing new, but this transparent reup of the style definitely is. The classic beach slide gets a bold, modern update.
Shoes for summer in the city
Maison Margiela Paint Drop Replica Sneakers
Maison Margiela's Replica Sneakers are a perennial fixture in our summer — and spring, fall, and winter — rotations. This off-white pair features bright paint drops to the toe box for a colorful finish.
JW Anderson Curb Chain Loafers
Few loafers stand out as much as JW Anderson's Curb Chain Loafers. The massive chain link across the vamp makes sure that everyone's eyes are on your feet.
Dr. Martens Adrian Loafers
Dr. Martens' patented Airwear sole unit positions this pair of tassel loafers as a definitive city-slicking pair. Sharp in style yet big on comfort, they're everything you need when you're out and about.
Shoes for the countryside
Off-White™ Odsy-2000 Sneakers
Off-White™'s deconstructed style perfectly suits this pair of hiking sneakers. A studded outsole and techy uppers feature big, clashing details for a futuristic, dystopian aesthetic.
Reebok Beatnik Sandals
So you want to wear your sandals for a trek? Look no further than the made-for-more Reebok Beatnik Sandals. Heavy-duty Cordura uppers and a rugged sole unit will carry you safely into the wilderness.
Bottega Veneta Puddle Loafers
If you've managed to get this far into summer without copping a pair of Bottega Veneta Puddle Loafers, well done. Consider this your final hurdle. Just do it.
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