It's always the same question that comes up in summer: how to have style without dying from the heat?
On the one hand, there are clothes: we choose light materials, shorts, light colors... here for the complete summary . And to choose the right summer pants, click here .
On the other hand there are shoes. Not sure if your trusty Doc Martens are the most appropriate for the warmer months.
Here we will ask ourselves which shoes are most suitable for high temperatures. And we don't forget the inspirations that we love so much.
I warn you, it is forbidden to talk about Havaïanas !
1. The most comfortable: sneakers
It's hard to ignore them when the mercury rises: light, comfortable and easy to wear, sneakers are one of the best options for this season.
We can distinguish between three main types of sneakers:
- Leather sneakers. A porous material by nature, leather is a completely breathable material. They will do the job for a good part of the summer but will still show their limits if it is really very hot, above 30°.
Our Bari sneakers, which can blend in with most of your summer outfits!
- Canvas sneakers , often in cotton, more rarely in linen. They are cooler than leather and go both below and above 30°. Above 25°, canvas sneakers start to be more interesting than leather sneakers.
Our Nazare linen sneakers will certainly become your favorite for the summer!
- Mesh sneakers, with a mesh look. The wide weave of the mesh makes these sneakers airy and therefore suitable for hot weather. Small point of caution: mesh is often synthetic, so beware of bad odors!
Here are some inspired looks with sneakers:
Sneakers well integrated into a casual chic outfit. To remember: beige, green and white and a combo that works every time. Credit: Casatlantic
Volume, monochrome with character: this is the simple recipe applied here. Novesta x Good Quality Sneakers.
Simple canvas sneakers, worn with a beautiful knitted polo shirt and very well cut white shorts. @dsqflo
2. The most elegant: moccasins
The moccasin has made a comeback in recent years. All the good reasons to get started can be found here .
This shoe is characterized by the absence of a lace and, instead, there is a so-called platform seam which goes around the front of the shoe. The shape of the shoe makes it more open than other dress shoes.
More formal than sneakers, less than derbies, the moccasin fits into many silhouettes.
For even more freshness, you will also find soft moccasins, the interior of which is not lined.
© Meermin unlined moccasins. The flexibility of the shoe is clearly visible
Meermin unlined moccasins. The flexibility of the shoe is clearly visible.
Wear slightly rounded loafers for casual chic outfits.
If you like sartorial art, more formal outfits, a more elongated shape will be suitable.
To vary the pleasures, you also have tasseled or horsebit moccasins (with a metal bar on the front).
© Crockett&Jones
For truly casual outfits, you finally have spiked moccasins , so called because of their soles which are covered with them.
Called drivers in English, the grip allowed by the pins is adapted for driving, so that the foot does not slip on the pedal.
© Velasca
Some ways to wear moccasins in summer: all you have to do is help yourself!
Brown suede leather moccasins, always a good choice in summer. Brilliantly worn here by @stevecalder in a shades of light tones (white, ecru, beige)
Tasseled moccasins, on a casual chic outfit with pleated shorts and a lavender shirt with a button-down collar.
A look with more raw accents with more imposing moccasins and shorts with raw edges, by @brut_archives
3. The most Riviera: boat shoes
Although originally reserved for sailors and other sailing enthusiasts, these little shoes have become popular in urban environments.
We can distinguish two types of boat shoes:
- Flat sole boat shoes . This is the classic style of boat shoes, more discreet.
- Boat shoes with cleats. The lug sole brings a touch of character to these shoes which will please some, in addition to a certain extra grip.
Don't like boat shoes? Our all-terrain Karysta with their Vibram® sole may change your mind.
Don't hesitate to move away from obvious associations with shorts and sailor tops. On the contrary, take them out of their nautical origins ! They can easily be integrated into casual, streetwear or even a little more dressy outfits. Integration is enabled by the material and color of the shoes: smooth brown leather. In this sense, they are a bit similar to a pair of brown derbies.
Cleat boats in a more streetwear look. A simple combination that works well (white t-shirt, faded jeans, brown shoes, beige cap). Aimé Leon Dore x Timberland
Boat shoes can be integrated into more dressy outfits (but not too much either!), replacing a pair of moccasins for example. @quentin_menstyle
4. The most summery: espadrilles
The history of these shoes is closely linked to the Pyrenees region, both on the French and Spanish sides. Catalan texts from the 14th century already make reference to it, describing it as we already know it today.
It's the ultimate vacation shoe , clearly not made to take the headache. Comfortable in the city and by the sea, just one word of advice: put them on and stay spontaneous!
You will find sandals of all kinds: from inexpensive models with limited comfort and durability to more high-end models, ready for several seasons.
For lovers of a dressier style, you will also find leather sandals which will fit into summer outfits with more chic accents.
Patterned espadrilles in a colorful summer outfit. T-shirt , shirt, Bermuda shorts and BonneGueule espadrilles.
Two successful elegant outfits with suede leather espadrilles with clean lines, which replace moccasins in a way. Credit: Morjas
Here's an outfit that shows that espadrilles can also have
But with a soft and light blazer, a denim shirt and colorful pleated pants like here, they have their place.
5. The most daring: sandals
Until recently, two main categories of people wore sandals: children and German tourists.
Then, as is often the case, luxury took over. On the catwalks, sandals are worn with sweatpants as much as with suits. Birkenstock exploded. The brand was even bought by LVMH in 2021.
Comfortable and lightweight, we can understand its appeal.
A closed leather sandal at Steve Mono
A more open sandal, in green nylon, at Buttero
To remember :
- Choose leather models, with real thought put into the straps and sole
- Go for rather closed sandals if you are not yet completely comfortable with the idea of showing your feet in public
Another little clarification is necessary: do not wear sandals if you do not take care of your little toes .
Here are some inspiring looks:
Fullness, fluidity, light colors, and sandals to finish it all off. @shuhei_nishiguchi
The good old Birkenstocks in a very modern look with straight chinos, a tank top and a printed shirt. @carlos_domord
The final word...
Who says heat says sweating.
For the good of your shoes, more than ever, alternate wearing them .
Also think about shoe trees which will absorb the moisture left in your shoes and opt for light socks made of natural material (cotton or linen), for pairs that are suitable for this. You can read this article to choose your socks.
Click here for the complete reminder on how to care for your shoes .
And you, what type of shoes do you prefer to wear in summer? Are you more into moccasins, sneakers, sandals? Tell us all about it in the comments!
