April 9, 2025
The Best Warm Weather Shoes for Summer
After a long, cold winter, it’s safe to say we’re more than ready for summer. Warmer days are creeping in and with them comes the chance to refresh your wardrobe, starting with your footwear. The best warm weather shoes are the ones that go well with everything in your closet and keep you comfortable and cool while looking your best. The problem? There are countless options to choose from, so getting it right takes a little time and research.
Luckily for you, we’ve taken the guesswork out of choosing your next favorite pair this season. With picks ranging from breathable alpargatas to some of the best summer sneakers for both men and women, this guide rounds up our top warm weather shoes. We’ll discuss why they work for sunny days, how to style them and what makes each worth adding to your rotation.
8 Best Summer Shoes for Men
Tired of wearing the same worn-out sneakers every summer? Warmer weather is a time for shoes that keep you comfortable and stylish all day long. From beach days to city walks and everyday outfits, these shoes are built for sunny days.
1. Alpargatas
Lightweight, breathable and easy to wear, Alpargatas are a summer staple for a reason. The classic slip-on design makes them perfect for those days when socks are a no-go, and the soft canvas upper feels comfortable even when temperatures rise. Perfect for a casual afternoon out, vacations or everyday wear.
- Cost: Starting at $50.
- Material: Canvas upper with a flexible rubber outsole.
- Why we love them: Simple, comfortable and easy to pack for travel.
- Styling tips: Wear them with cuffed jeans and a T-shirt, or with linen pants or shorts for something a little more elegant.
2. Loafers
Some summer plans call for something a little more dressed up than the usual flip-flops or sneakers. For dressier days, loafers make it easy to look put together while still feeling fresh and comfortable. They work well for warm-weather weddings, dinners or office days, adding a sophisticated touch while staying cool and breathable.
- Cost: Starting at $60.
- Material: Leather, canvas or soft suede with a flexible sole.
- Why we love them: They’re versatile enough to wear with anything from shorts to trousers.
- Styling tips: Combine them with linen trousers and a button-down, or wear them with cuffed chinos and a polo.
3. White Sneakers
A great pair of summer sneakers can carry you through the entire season, particularly white ones with their clean look and comfortable fit. Plus, in this day and age, sneakers are appropriate for all sorts of settings and looks, from daytime lunches to something a little more refined. With the right pair, you can wear them just about anywhere.
- Cost: Starting at $55.
- Material: Canvas, suede or leather with a durable rubber sole.
- Why we love them: Clean, easy to style and always in rotation.
- Styling tips: Go classic with jeans and a T-shirt, or switch it up with cuffed chinos and a light button-down. You can also pair sneakers with a linen suit for weddings and work events!
4. Dress Casual Sneakers
When sandals feel too relaxed but dress shoes are too much, the best sneakers for summer have to be dress casual sneakers, which offer the best of both worlds. A sophisticated yet wearable shoe for casual and stylish plans, like summer weddings, date nights or any occasion where looking sharp still means feeling comfortable.
- Cost: Starting at $40.
- Material: Soft suede, canvas or leather with a cushioned sole.
- Why we love them: A step above everyday sneakers but just as comfortable.
- Styling tips: Wear them with lightweight trousers and a linen shirt for an evening out, or keep it simple with rolled-up jeans and a polo.
5. Espadrilles
Espadrilles have summer written all over them. Originally designed for easy-going coastal living, they’re light, flexible and perfect for warm days by the beach or pool. The woven sole adds texture, and the slip-on design makes them easy to wear. They’re the type of shoes you throw in a bag for a weekend away and end up wearing every day.
- Cost: Staring at $70.
- Material: Canvas or suede with a jute-wrapped sole.
- Why we love them: Easy to pack, easy to wear and always in season.
- Styling tips: Pair them with linen shorts and an open collar, or wear them with cuffed jeans and a simple tee.
6. Slide Sandals
Slide sandals are about as easy as it gets — no straps, no laces and no bulky soles. Plus, they come in a variety of styles from more casual to dressy, making them appropriate for anything from a quick coffee run, a lazy afternoon by the pool or a beach trip with the family or friends.
- Cost: Starting at $55.
- Material: Soft suede, canvas or leather with a contoured sole that adjusts to your feet.
- Why we love them: No hassle, all comfort.
- Styling tips: The possibilities are endless. Wear them with swim trunks, joggers, shorts or linen pants.
7. Oxfords
Elegant and timeless, Oxfords add a little extra polish to warm-weather dressing. They’re a great option for semi-formal events, business casual settings or any time sneakers just don’t cut it.
- Cost: Starting at $86.
- Material: Leather, suede or canvas with a durable sole.
- Why we love them: Classic, refined and perfect for summer-chic events.
- Styling tips: Oxfords look great with linen trousers and a blazer, cuffed chinos and a short-sleeve button-down.
8. Mules
Just like loafers, mules are a great summer shoe for when you need to look stylish but don’t want to spend too much time planning your outfit. The backless design keeps your feet cool, and the simple silhouette makes them easy to dress up or down. A great alternative to sandals when you want a little more coverage but still want to feel light on your feet.
- Cost: Starting at $55.
- Material: Suede, canvas or leather with a cushioned footbed.
- Why we love them: Easy to slip on but still sophisticated enough for dressier outfits.
- Styling tips: Mules go well with trousers, jeans, shorts or even a lightweight suit.
Want more effortless styling options? Check out these shoes every man should own, with easy options for every style.
8 Best Summer Shoes for Women
Summer outfits should be fun and easy, with shoes that work with everything in your closet, feel cool and comfortable and, most importantly, keep up with whatever the day brings. Some are made for outdoor adventures, others lean more sophisticated, but they all bring the versatility that makes getting dressed super simple. Here are some of our favorite summer styles:
1. Espadrilles
Something about espadrilles just fits with summer. Maybe it’s the textured jute sole or the easy slip-on design, but they bring a certain effortlessness to any outfit. Wear them with a loose dress and they give off a relaxed vacation vibe. Pair them with cuffed jeans and a linen button-down, and suddenly, they look more elegant but still casual. The possibilities are endless!
- Cost: Starting at $70.
- Material: Canvas or suede with a jute-wrapped sole.
- Why we love them: Classic, comfortable and easy to dress up or down.
- Styling tips: A lightweight sundress, woven tote and a few gold accessories make for the perfect summer look. If you’re going more casual, swap the dress for cropped denim and a soft linen top. Get more tips on how to wear espadrilles!
2. Mary Janes
Feminine style can be whatever you want it to be — especially when you’re wearing Mary Janes. Go the more classic route with a tea dress or capris, or give them an unexpected twist with more masculine pieces, line cargo pants and an oversized tee.
- Cost: Starting at $70.
- Material: Soft leather, raffia or suede with a cushioned footbed.
- Why we love them: They add the right amount of character to any look.
- Styling tips: Mary Janes look great with dresses, skirts, denim, overalls and more. Add a crossbody bag or layered jewelry to pull it all together.
3. Slip-On Shoes
For those days when you just need to get out the door but still want to look like you put some thought into your outfit, slip-ons are one of our favorite casual sneakers for summer plans. They have the same throw-on-and-go appeal as sandals but with a little more coverage and support, which makes them perfect for everything from weekend trips to city exploring.
- Cost: Starting at $55.
- Material: Canvas, linen, lace or suede with a flexible sole.
- Why we love them: No laces, no extra effort but somehow always stylish.
- Styling tips: For a modern vibe, pair your slip-ons with a jumpsuit and trendy sunnies, or go classic with denim shorts and a T-shirt or button. Not sure which pair is right for you? Check out our hand-picked list of the best slip-on shoes.
4. Mules
Mules are a step up from sandals while still giving you many of the same benefits, like the open-back design and comfort factor. A great pick for when you want something a little different from a standard flat or sandal.
- Cost: Starting at $40.
- Material: Suede, raffia or leather.
- Why we love them: A little more refined than sandals, but just as easy to wear.
- Styling tips: Mules look elegant and summery with anything linen and woven, while cropped trousers and a tank top make them a great choice for warm evenings.
5. Platform Sneakers
The best sneakers for the summer can also look chic and give you a little boost, like platform sneakers, which are equal parts fun and functional. If you’re a heels lover, you’ll love that platform sneakers will enhance your weekend looks and add a bit of edge anytime you want to switch up your usual kicks.
- Cost: Starting at $40.
- Material: Canvas, suede or leather with a thick rubber sole.
- Why we love them: Comfortable, playful and easy to style
- Styling tips: High-waisted shorts, a tucked-in tee and a bucket hat give them a sporty edge, while a midi dress makes for an unexpected combo. There are endless ways to style platform sneakers, so have fun with it!
6. Ballet Flats
There’s a reason ballet flats never go out of style — they’re comfy, elegant and easy to dress up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re heading to work, traveling or just want to keep it simple, flats add a trendy and feminine touch to any outfit.
- Cost: Starting at $70.
- Material: Soft leather, suede or canvas.
- Why we love them: Classic, reliable and always stylish.
- Styling tips: You can’t go wrong with ballet flats, so wear them with anything from wrap dresses and delicate jewelry to relaxed denim and an oversized blazer.
7. Sandals
The quintessential warm weather shoe, a great pair of sandals can handle everything from vacation days to weekend outings. Some styles are minimal, others more supportive but the right ones will keep up with whatever the day throws at you. Discover the best sandals for walking and living life to the fullest!
- Cost: Starting at $80.
- Material: Leather, canvas, raffia or rubber with a comfortable footbed.
- Why we love them: They go with almost any warm-weather outfit.
- Styling tips: A maxi dress, tote and stylish sandals make for a perfect summer outfit that transitions beautifully from day to night.
8. Block Heels and Wedges
You knew we couldn’t leave off a summer staple: wedges. Some outfits call for a little extra oomph, and heels and wedges are the perfect way to dress up without going overboard. Wedges give stability for long nights out, while block heels keep you comfortable for all-day events. They’re both great options when sandals might be too casual but stilettos feel too out of place.
- Cost: Starting at $80.
- Material: Leather, denim, raffia, basket weave or suede with a sturdy heel.
- Why we love them: Adds height without taking away comfort.
- Styling tips: From dresses to shorts to denim, there are a million ways to wear heels! Pair wedges with flowy maxi dresses for an effortless summer look, or style them with jeans and a breezy blouse for casual elegance.
Tips for Picking the Best Shoes for Summer
From summer trainers to a comfy pair of sandals, finding shoes that truly work in warmer weather can take a little thought. Why? Because you want something comfortable enough for being on your feet for long periods but still fashionable and practical. Here are a few quick tips to help you choose the perfect summer pair:
- Choose shoes with flexible materials: Canvas, suede or soft leather help your feet stay cool and comfortable when temperatures rise.
- Go for styles you can dress up or down: So you can easily switch between casual days out and nicer occasions.
- Look for shoes you can easily slip on and off: To simplify your summer routine.
- Stick to neutral shades or colors you wear often: So you’ll get more use from every pair.
Wear TOMS. Wear Good.
Ready to step into summer with comfort and style? The right warm weather shoes can make everyone’s favorite season even better. At TOMS, we have plenty of options for men and women, all thoughtfully designed, practical for daily wear and stylish enough for special moments.
Plus, every pair you buy from TOMS gives back to communities, so you’ll be helping create positive change, too. Learn more about our impact.
Shop our men’s shoes and women’s shoes today to find the best shoes for the summer season.