Looking for some new kicks for summer? Here are our selections for the best shoes for summer 2021.
Summer is one of the hardest seasons to dress for. It’s almost impossible to layer unless it’s a really breezy day, and even then it can still be too hot to layer.
And if you live in a really humid area, your options are even more limited. (Looking at you, southeast US.)
Thankfully, there’s one exception: shoes.
Fall footwear is awesome, but even in summer, you have tons of footwear choices. This means you can still express yourself and show off your personal style even when it’s boiling out.
To give you some inspiration, we’ve curated our 9 favorite shoes for summer and compiled them into this list. From casual
We’ll start with the most formal men’s summer shoes and end with the least formal. Let’s begin!
Table of Contents
Quick Take
Short on time? Here are our top three picks for the best summer shoes you can buy right now:
With its minimalist design, premium Italian leather and timeless silhouette, the Royale is easy to love. It’s also lined with soft leather, which means you can go sockless if you want.
Jay Butler provides great value for money, with these loafers starting at just $145. For that price, you get genuine suede, Blake construction, and hand sewn uppers, all of which make these loafers both cozy and durable.
The Sacca is M.Gemi’s most casual loafer, with a relaxed fit and an unassuming silhouette. They’re made by hand in Toscana, Italy, and that care shows in the construction.
Read on for more info and the complete list…
The Best Men’s Summer Dress Shoes
If you work in any kind of office, you’ll probably still have to wear business formal shoes even when it’s hot. The problem here is that a lot of dress shoes can be really uncomfortable in warmer weather.
The solution? Invest in a pair of breathable, high quality dress shoes. Here are our favorite formal men’s summer shoes:
#1: Beckett Simonon Dean Oxfords
For many men, Oxfords are the shoes of choice for anything business-related. Some Oxfords can be stiffer (and stuffier), so it’s important you choose a pair that won’t overheat your feet. Enter Beckett Simonon’s Dean Oxfords.
Beckett Simonon is renowned for its quality, so you know you’re getting shoes that will last. These sleek Oxfords are crafted from full-grain leather and feature hand-stitched soles and subtle burnishing for maximum elegance.
Oxfords are great for any business situation, from super formal to business casual. Plus, a good pair of Oxfords will last you years (if not decades), and you’ll be able to wear them to just about any formal event. Whether you’re working or going to a wedding, these Oxfords will serve you well.
#2 Jay Butler Naples Driving Loafer
The loafer is a classy alternative to the boat shoe that’s a little more formal and much more elegant. Even if you’re not a fan of preppier styles, you might still appreciate the casual simplicity of the loafer.
There are many types of loafers, but one of the best types for summer is the driving moccasin (or driving loafer). These are comfortable, understated slip-ons that look great without trying too hard.
Jay Butler provides great value for money, with these loafers starting at just $145. For that price, you get genuine suede, Blake construction, and hand sewn uppers, all of which make these loafers both cozy and durable.
#3 M.Gemi Sacca
Another excellent loafer option is the Sacca from Italian brand M.Gemi. A relatively new brand, M.Gemi is a direct-to-consumer brand that offers a range of handcrafted shoes. (Check out our review of M.Gemi for more info.)
The Sacca is M.Gemi’s most casual loafer, with a relaxed fit and an unassuming silhouette. They’re made by hand in Toscana, Italy, and that care shows in the construction. Its unlined construction means that you can feel the soft suede on your feet (if you’re wearing these without socks, which is the Italian way).
While these loafers are extremely comfortable, they’re also quite delicate, so you won’t be taking any summer hikes in these. But if you need a casual shoe for laid-back occasions, the Sacca is a good choice.
#4 Oliver Cabell Chelsea Boot
I know what you’re thinking––boots in summer? It seems counterintuitive, but Chelsea boots are totally wearable in warm weather. You won’t wear them every day in the summer, but if you’re wearing an outfit that goes well with boots, having a good pair of Chelseas will come in handy.
Oliver Cabell offers a line of Chelseas that are simple, smart, and solidly constructed. They feature Venetian suede and a custom crepe outsole, and they’re hand stitched and lasted in Spain. In short, they’re built to last.
They’re also incredibly comfy, which makes them ideal for summer. You get all the comfort of
Men’s Casual Summer Shoes
Now let’s look at some of the more relaxed shoe options. In no particular order, these are our favorite men’s summer casual shoes.
#5: GREATS Royale
Speaking of
The white sneaker is a modern classic because it goes with virtually any outfit, and the Royale is no exception. With its minimalist design, premium Italian leather and timeless silhouette, the Royale is easy to love. It’s also lined with soft leather, which means you can go sockless if you want.
The Royale is also an excellent Common Projects alternative that has a very similar look for about a third of the price. If you want the infamous Achilles look at a lower price point, definitely give the Royale a serious look.
There’s also a high top version if you prefer that silhouette, and there’s also a knit version made from recycled single-use and ocean plastics, which is very cool.
If plain white is too boring for you, try some German Army Trainers instead.
#6: CLAE Ellington Textile
If you’re looking for something a little different, you might like the CLAE Ellington Textile.
CLAE is another great brand with a wide range of options, and their Ellington sneaker is an excellent choice for a summer shoe.
With its streamlined silhouette and brogue-like details, the Ellington seamlessly blends formal and casual design elements. It’s a nice look that offers something a bit fancier than your average sneaker.
While some canvas shoes can be uncomfortable, the Ellington Textile feels great thanks to its solid construction and high-quality materials.
The canvas also gives this shoe an eye-catching texture, especially if you get the umber colorway as shown here. Whether you’re looking for a leather-free option or just dig the look of the material, the Ellington’s canvas won’t let you down.
#7: Beckett Simonon Reid
Another shoe from Beckett Simonon, the Reid is a classic sneaker that’s clean and minimal.
It’s a refined take on the low top that’s very well designed and constructed. At a glance, you can tell it’s an upgrade from classics like Vans or Chucks, but it retains a similar summery vibe.
With padded collars, removable inserts and an ample instep volume, the Reid has a lot going for it. It’s a solid everyday sneaker that you can rely on.
#8: Koio Capri
No, not that kind of capri. This Capri is the flagship low top sneaker of Koio, another made-in-Italy brand with some great men’s summer shoes.
For just under $250, you get handcrafted suede
The Capri comes in a range of colors, so it’s a nice choice if you want to add a little flair to your footwear. The Rose Cloud (pictured below) is a nice blush tone that’s stylish yet unassuming. The Capri also comes in other unique colors, such as Thyme, Mocha and (if you’re feeling really adventurous) Turquoise.
#9: VISCATA Espadrilles
Thinking about combining men’s summer shoes with shorts? Consider espadrilles.
The espadrille is one of our favorite shoes to wear with shorts due to its relaxed fit and casual look. These espadrilles from VISCATA are handcrafted in Barcelona and feature a soft jute sole that molds to your feet as you wear them.
Espadrilles are meant to be worn without socks, which makes them one of the most casual shoes on this list. They’re a nice alternative to boat shoes or loafers if you’re in the market for more unique summer footwear.
What’s Your Next Summer Shoe?
What are you going to be wearing this summer? Whether you’re going with one of these shoes or choosing something entirely different, let us know in the comments what you’ll be sporting!
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