7 Best Summer Sneakers in 2022

As summertime approaches, it is inevitable to go over your cabinet and check which of your sneakers fit the warm season. As you swing from your spring clothes to your summer outfits, we’ve concocted a user-friendly guide to help you pick the best summer sneaker you can confidently rock during the dog days.
To help you jumpstart your summer sneaker hunt, we have made several recommendations for five categories.
How we test sneakers
To save you from the inconvenience of opening scores of tabs, we have put together thousands of summer sneakers from a multitude of brands.
- These sneakers were bought using our money to avoid biased reviews.
- To get authentic and actual results, we put them through several tests and comparisons.
- We meticulously collated reviews from the real users of these summer sneakers.
With the results from tests and gathered reviews, we rate these sneakers from 1 to 100. The Corescore scoring system will provide you an overview of how these summer kicks went for the crowd.
Best summer sneakers overall
Corescore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all sneakers.
- Top 8% in sneakers
- Top 15% in Vans sneakers
- Top 1% most popular sneakers
Pros
- A classic silhouette deserving of any wardrobe
- Easy to wear in
- Super comfortable
- Fits true to size
- Incredibly breathable thanks to the all-canvas upper
- Clean aesthetics
- Very durable outsole
- Brakes well on the board
Cons
- Not very durable in comparison to other modern skate shoes
- Collect stains easily
Verdict
After sets of tests and comparisons, the Old Skool surpassed the other 1000 summer sneakers on our list! We picked this forty-year-old sneaker as the best among all the other summer-ready models.
The first to display the iconic Side Stripe, we love how this sneaker kept the acclaimed features that made it relevant even after decades since it premiered. Because of its vast popularity, stepping down from the limelight is far from happening anytime soon!
Vans Old Skool is an epochal classic that made our casual attire look extra fashionable. When we paired it with different styles, this sneaker seamlessly blended! It is easy to mix and match the versatile look of Vans Old Skool to endless kinds of wardrobe.
All-day comfort has never been an issue with the Old Skool. It feels so light and flexible with superb ankle support. We also enjoyed how it kept our feet dry and cool, thanks to its canvas construction.
This no-frill sneaker is a perfect piece to add to your summer wardrobe staple. It allows you to bridge the past and present with a price range that is hard to resist!
Best retro summer sneakers
Corescore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all sneakers.
- Top 29% in sneakers
- Top 21% in Nike sneakers
- Top 1% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Very durable
- Breathable
- The stuff of legends and rightly so
- Huge amounts of colorways
- Great price for a statement shoe
- Fits true to size
- Quality materials
- Easy to clean
- Stain resistant
Cons
- So stiff it asks for adjustment period
- Normal and wide feet find it too narrow
Verdict
More than 600 pairs of summer retro sneakers have undergone meticulous tests and comparisons, and we picked the Nike Air Max 90 as the best among the retro summer kicks.
A must-have in every sneaker collection, the Nike Air Max 90 remained genuine to its running heritage. We were captivated by its retro vibe that instantly gave a legendary hint to our usual attire.
We're so amazed by the piles of colorways available on the market! It was so easy to pick which one suited our personalities. This sneaker not only looks remarkably chic but feels immensely good on the feet, too.
Its breathability makes this pair exceptional! We enjoyed how it kept our feet dry and relaxed as we wore it during the warm weather. It is indeed a perfect summer kick that will make you stylish and comfy during the sunny season.
With its better cushioning, this kick became a fundamental part of our street adventures. We had comfortable strides as we pounded the pavements. We felt no issues or discomfort at all! And it terrifically stayed intact!
All these and more, the Nike Air Max 90 is undoubtedly the best retro sneaker for sunny season escapades.
Best chunky summer sneakers
Corescore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all sneakers.
- Top 29% in Nike sneakers
- Top 1% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Lightweight
- Instantly comfortable without wearing in
- True to size
- Durable
- Can be worn without socks
- Flexible
- Super breathable
- Sleek modern looks
- Crazy number of colorways
Cons
- Heel height might need adjusting to
- Not the best for standing all day
Verdict
It may be displaying a sleek upper, but the chunky sole of Nike Air Max 270 makes it a standout piece among the Air Max arsenal.
After testing 1000 plus summer sneakers, this beefed-up soled AM 270 bagged the top spot as our best pick among the chunky summer sneakers.
Covered with knit and mesh, this sneaker offers a tremendous amount of ventilation. We are amazed how it kept our feet cool and dry after strutting in these sneakers for hours during the humid days.
The second we slid our feet into this, it felt comfortable right away! No break-in time is needed. We enjoyed its lightness and its flexible sole that allows our feet to move freely around.
Durability-wise, this sneaker is a beast! It definitely could take up a beating just like its Air Max siblings.
Another reason why we are head over heels about the 270 is its versatility! Matching this sneaker with virtually any garment is effortless. From your favorite jeans to joggers or even your sweatpants, this sneaker will seamlessly conform.
The Nike Air Max 270 may not have any groundbreaking features, but this sneaker surely deserves its spot as one of the best summer footwear on the current market.
Best Nike summer sneakers
Corescore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all sneakers.
- Top 11% in sneakers
- Top 6% in Nike sneakers
- Top 2% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Secure fit
- Nice in-shoe feel
- Like running on the clouds
- Breathable
- Durable
- Matches many outfits
Cons
- Tight toebox
- Weird sole
- Break-in period
Verdict
Best breathable summer sneakers
Corescore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all sneakers.
- Top 2% in sneakers
- Top 3% in Adidas sneakers
- Top 1% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Unbelievably comfortable
- Fashionably chunky
- Affordable
- Clean details
- Insanely versatile
- Compliment magnet
- Lightweight
- Great for all-day wear
- Hugs the foot
Cons
- Lack of quality materials
- Tight toe box
Verdict
When it comes to breathability, the Adidas Ozweego secures the top spot after testing and comparing it to more than a thousand pairs of breathable summer sneakers.
This summer-staple sneaker is covered with an air-permeable mesh upper. This feature amazingly kept our feet feeling fresh and dry even while using it under the scorching summer heat. This kick is indeed a phenomenal pair for summer adventures.
Furthermore, it has a beyond-compare style. Its '90s-inspired flair instantly transformed our regular outfit into a fashionable and flashy one. We enjoyed its chunky profile! No sweat, we quickly rocked a cool and attention-seeking fashion.
Oops, don't be scared by its beefed-up look, as it will definitely not give you a dragging-down sensation. It is so light and airy that walking faster and smoother is easier with the Ozweego trainers.
As we pounded the streets, we instantly enjoyed its bouncy ride. We love how the Adiprene midsole delivered remarkable cozy steps for hours!
The Ozweego is definitely jam-packed with unique and mind-blowing features. And to make it more unbelievable, Adidas sells this at a pocket-friendly price range! What can be cooler than that?
Best value summer sneakers
Corescore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all sneakers.
- Top 22% in sneakers
- Top 25% in spring sneakers
- Top 2% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Eternal silhouette
- Fits true to size
- Durable canvas upper
- Breathable
- Easy to slip on and off
- Perfect lifestyle shoe
Cons
- Could use some more padding
- Vans' canvas shoes always attract stains
- Not a great year-round sneaker
Verdict
Over a thousand summer sneakers have been tested and compared, and we picked the Vans Authentic as the best budget summer sneakers to date.
Featuring an authentic classic feel, this sneaker conveniently snagged our approval and recommendation as part of our summer staple. Sneakerheads must own a piece or two of the Authentic for its versatility and style that never gets old.
Choose among its heaps of hues available, from the muted white shade to a bolder-styled checkerboard. It is incredible how this sneaker will fit diverse kinds of tastes and personalities.
Another element that we adore about this model is its easy-to-wear style. Perfect for an on-the-go lifestyle, slipping this on and off is going to be a piece of cake.
Are you looking for an all-rounder beater? This sneaker suits you. Its durability is a mind-blowing factor, as Vans built this sneaker to last.
Although this sneaker has a budget-friendly range, Vans made sure not to skimp on its comfort and quality. This sneaker undoubtedly deserves its spot as our top pick when it comes to budget summer sneakers.
Most popular summer sneakers
Corescore
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all sneakers.
- Top 15% in sneakers
- Top 9% in Nike sneakers
- Top 1% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Good all-season sneaker
- Good for sockless wear
- An identifiable piece of fashion history
- Fits true to size
- Near indestructible
- Lightweight
- Feels as athletic as it looks
- Great even for winter
Cons
- Takes some time to wear in
- Attaches to stains easily
Verdict
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What are the most popular summer sneakers in 2022?
What are the cheapest summer sneakers in 2022?
- Reebok Dual Court - from $20
- New Balance X70 - from $24
- DC Lynx Zero - from $24
- Puma R78 - from $25
- Adidas Swift Run X - from $25
- Puma Anzarun - from $25
- Vans Anaheim Factory Sid DX - from $25
- Etnies RLS - from $26
- Reebok Royal Turbo Impulse - from $27
- Saucony Jazz Court - from $27
- Adidas Multix - from $27
- Nike Air Max Plus 2 - from $27
- Saucony Hornet - from $28
- DC Villain 2 - from $29
- Puma Pacer Future - from $30
What are the most expensive summer sneakers in 2022?
- Gucci GG Supreme Sneaker - from $630
- Nike ISPA Road Warrior - from $590
- Air Jordan 1 High React - from $565
- Balenciaga Speed Graffiti - from $560
- Balenciaga Speed 2.0 - from $499
- Nike Rubber Dunk x Off-White - from $499
- Gucci Tennis 1977 - from $409
- Gucci Flashtrek - from $326
- Nike Blazer Mid Premium - from $324
- Nike Dunk Low SE - from $300
- Nike Dunk High Retro - from $269
- Nike Air Force 1 Experimental - from $250
- Nike Air Structure - from $250
- Nike Dunk High EMB - from $250
- Nike Air Max Plus III - from $250