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There’s really very little competition when it comes down to which is the best season. The discussion happens, but deep down we all know that summer is the winner. Sunshine and holidays are two major contributing factors, but let’s not overlook the getting-dressed part. Dressing in summer is carefree and this is never more apparent than in the sneaker department. The best summer sneakers are, essentially, whatever you want them to be.

Here’s why. Summer sneakers don’t have to consider whether there’s going to be a sudden downpour, so suede is well and truly on the cards. You’re unlikely to encounter any wet, muddy patches on your wanders around foreign towns in the sun, so white kicks are also a prime candidate. Hell, why not even go for a pair of white suede sneakers?

Below, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best summer sneakers at MR PORTER. Bright colors take precedence over darker hues while material becomes a purely aesthetic asset: there’s no GORE-TEX or heavy-duty ripstop in sight. So keep scrolling and make sure you’re making the most of the favorable conditions on your holiday this year.

Shop the best summer sneakers below.

Reebok x Maison Margiela Project 0 Memory Of Instapump

ReebokMaison Margiela Project 0 Memory Of Instapump
$400
Buy at Mr Porter

We said that utility was out of the question, right? The Reebok x Maison Margiela Instapump Fury is immaculately white and features cutout sections across the upper. A true hindrance in winter but absolutely ideal for summer.

Balenciaga Phantom Sneakers

BalenciagaPhantom Sneakers
$795
Buy at bloomingdales

One of Balenciaga's less-hyped silhouettes, the Phantom is an underrated proposition for summer. Full mesh uppers in light grey are, again, a no-go for winter but bang on the money for sunny days.

visvim Dunand Sneakers

visvimDunand Sneakers
$990
Buy at Mr Porter

visvim's sneakers always hark back to vintage styles. They're visually pared-back, putting the premium materials in prime position.

Nike Air Max 95

NikeAir Max 95
$350
Buy at StockX

Okay, this pair goes against our lightweight, white summer ideal, but the Air Max 95 is a summer icon. Festivals, hikes, days out shopping; no task is beyond this pair.

Officine Créative Kombined Sneakers

Officine CreativeKombined Sneakers
$495
Buy at Mr Porter

Officine Créative is a purveyor of French nonchalance. This pair of understated sneakers features a full suede upper to add a sense of luxury to the retro runner silhouette.

Maison Margiela Replica

Maison MargielaReplica Sneakers
$540
Buy at Mr Porter

The Maison Margiela Replica is such a beautifully crafted shoe that wearing a suede iteration is almost painful during fall and winter. The danger of scuffing the suede is simply too severe. Make the most of the sun.

Balenciaga Track Sneakers

BalenciagaTrack Sneakers
£615£575
Buy at Mr. Porter UK

Demna knows how to have fun and this pair of Balenciaga Track Sneakers embodies summer fun. Bold, bright, and also ready for action, they might be the season MVPs.

Off-White™ Out Of Office Sneakers

Off-White™Out Of Office Sneakers
$570
Buy at Mr Porter

White and suede? These are out of the question as soon as the sun goes down so don't sleep.

Common Projects Bball Sneakers

Common ProjectsBball Sneakers
£353
Buy at Farfetch UK

Italian label Common Projects is basically the gold standard in minimal luxury sneakers. The Bball is definitely the brand's best silhouette.

Want to keep browsing? Head to the Highsnobiety Shop for more products that we love. Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase.

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