Our guide to summer shoes

It's always the same question that comes up in summer: how to be stylish without dying of heat?

On one side, there are clothes: we choose light materials, shorts, light colors... here for the full summary . And to choose your summer pants, it's 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 best suited to high temperatures. And we also don't forget the inspirations that we love so much.

I warn you, no talking about Havaïanas !

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°.

• Canvas sneakers , often made of cotton, more rarely linen. They are cooler than leather and can be worn below as well as above 30°. Above 25°, canvas sneakers start to be more interesting than leather sneakers.

• Mesh sneakers, with a net look. The wide weave of the mesh makes these sneakers airy and therefore suitable for hot weather. A little note of caution: the mesh is often synthetic, so beware of bad odors!

Here are some inspiring looks with sneakers:

The loafer has been making a comeback in recent years. All the good reasons to get started can be found here .

This shoe is characterized by the absence of laces and, instead, there is a so-called plateau seam that goes around the front of the shoe. The shape of the shoe makes it more open than other city shoes.

More formal than sneakers, less than derbies, the loafer fits into many silhouettes.

For even more freshness, you will also find soft moccasins, the interior of which is not lined.

Wear slightly rounded loafers for casual chic outfits.

If you like sartorial art, more formal outfits, a more elongated shape will suit.

To vary the pleasures, you also have loafers with tassels , or with a bit (with a metal bar on the front).

For truly casual outfits, you finally have the spiked loafers , so called because their soles are covered in them.

Called drivers in English, the grip provided by the studs is adapted for driving, so that the foot does not slip on the pedal.

Here are some ways to wear loafers in summer: you just have to help yourself!

Although originally reserved for sailors and other sailing enthusiasts, these little shoes have become popular in urban areas.

We can distinguish two types of boat shoes:

• Flat sole boat shoes . This is the classic style of boat shoes, more discreet.

• Cleated boat shoes. The cleated sole brings a touch of character to these shoes that will please some, in addition to a certain extra grip.

Don't hesitate to move away from the obvious associations with shorts and sailor shirts. On the contrary, take them out of their nautical origins ! They can easily fit into casual, streetwear or even slightly more dressy outfits. The integration is allowed by the material and color of the shoes: smooth brown leather. In this sense, they are a bit like a pair of brown derbies.

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 refer to it, describing it as we already know it today.

This is the ultimate holiday shoe , clearly not made for getting worked up. Comfortable in the city and by the sea, there's only one watchword: put them on and stay spontaneous!

You'll find sandals of all kinds: from inexpensive models with limited comfort and durability to more high-end models, ready for several seasons.

For those who like a more formal style, you will also find leather sandals that will fit into summer outfits with more chic accents.

Here's an outfit that shows that espadrilles can also have their place in a more formal outfit .

But with a soft, lightweight blazer, a denim shirt and colorful pleated pants like here, they have their place.

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 as much with sweatpants as with suits. Birkenstock exploded. The brand was even bought by LVMH in 2021.

Comfortable and lightweight, one can understand its appeal.

To remember:

• Choose leather models, with real thought put into the straps and sole.
• Opt for 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 feet .

Here are some inspiring looks:

The final word...

Where there is heat, there is sweating.

For the sake of your shoes, more than ever, alternate wearing them .

Also think about shoe trees that 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 well.

Click here for a 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 loafers, sneakers, sandals? Tell us everything in the comments!