323 best summer sneakers

Summer is the perfect time of the year to bask under the glorious sunny weather and just stroll around the city or the beach. Heading out into the summer sun requires a wardrobe and sneaker game plan to achieve that perfect summer outfit.

So what defines the perfect summer sneaker? Is it something colorful, easy-breezy and sweat-free? Or is it something tough enough that would work well on boat decks as well as those summer night dinners out of town? As the temperature rises,  the search for the perfect summer shoe game steps up. 

Just in case there’s still a need to search for that perfect pair to use for the rest of the summer, here is a round up of some of the best kicks for the ladies and gents that deserve a place in sneaker warm-weather rotation.

Top-ranked summer shoes for women

Still don’t know what trendy shoes to wear for the summer yet? Don’t worry, ladies. RunRepeat has collated some of the leading summer sneakers in the market and listed them down with a few important points for some preference.

Adidas Yeezy 350 Boost V2

Regarded as one of the most popular and best-selling Yeezy shoes ever made, the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 debuted in 2016 as the fifth shoe released from the Adidas and Kanye West collaboration. 

• This second generation of the original Yeezy Boost 350 features a higher-cut and an elastic Primeknit upper. 
• The reworked upper with a contrasting stripe bears the mark “SPLY-350”
• The V2 is composed of a BOOST midsole, while the most notable detail is its ribbed midsole.
• With a larger volume Adidas Boost sole and a branded insole, the kicks are sure to have that plush feel.
• This Yeezy features a lace-up front fastening, a pull tab at the rear and a rubber sole.

Balenciaga Speed Trainer 

The black and white Balenciaga Speed Trainer was first launched in November 2016 and became instantly famous for its unique and trendy look. Given the fact that these shoes come from a renowned fashion house with a hefty price tag, these trainers boast of premium quality.

• The knitted sock-like design has a stretch polyamide upper for superb breathability and textured chunky white rubber soles.
• The memory sole technology is shock absorbent and feels super good on your feet. 
• These sneakers are undeniably comfortable and super light which makes them a refreshing choice on a hot summer day. 

These kicks have taken the market by storm especially when celebrities started to show them off on front rows everywhere. They have been spotted on many famous celebrities that include the likes of Jhene Aiko, Hailey Baldwin, Kylie Jenner and a lot more. 

Nike Juvenate

The Nike Juvenate was released in 2015 and was originally called the Zenji. It’s designed for excellent comfort all day, everyday with its foot-hugging construction.

• It is a streamlined sneaker that has an airy and super-flexible mesh upper which helps keep your feet cool in warm weather. 
• Plus, the foldable design is great for easy storage on the go.
• The full-length midsole is made of Phylon for lightweight cushioning.
• Its rubber outsole has a waffle-inspired design for superior traction and durability. 

The Swoosh’s Juvenate, with its sock-like fit, maximum breathability, and minimal construction, is great for the hot days. 

Pharell Williams x Adidas Human Race NMD

From the extremely popular series of Adidas NMD’s by the King of Cool, Pharell Williams comes the first release with several vibrant colorways to choose from. This particular collaboration is composed of a powerful message about the human race and the unity that binds humans together. 

• The unisex PW Adidas Human Race NMD modified construction features a flexible and breathable Primeknit upper with a bold embroidery of  “Human Race” branding down each foot. 
• Its comfort level is praised because of the Boost padding inside the midsoles. 
• The sneakers also boast of its modern designed lace-less system which highlights the TPU black lace cage stabilizer that ties the whole look together giving support, functionality as well as freedom right where it is needed. 

Nike Air Huarache Ultra

Nike’s new Air Huarache Ultra is the upgrade of the ‘90s classic Nike Air Huarache. While the sneaker embraces modern-day technologies, it still preserves the original’s DNA retaining some of its iconic elements. 

• With a chain mesh forefoot and overlay, there’s optimum ventilation to put your fresh foot forward.
• The reduced Ultra Phylon Air midsole has reduced weight and improved flexibility.
• An elasticated heel strap allows for a custom fit with the Nike wordmark and a rubber cage system for support.
• The Air Sole unit assures impact protection.
• For increased traction and durability, rubber pods are strategically placed.

Pharell Williams Tennis Hu

Another Pharell Williams’ creation, these women’s shoes revamped a classic tennis silhouette and are good to go for all-day summer activities. 

• The woven knit upper of this subtly-colored sneaker offers a sock-like fit for that super soft, foot-hugging feel.
• The lightweight EVA midsole and Ortholite sock liners of the Tennis Hu sneaker by Pharrell Williams ensure comfort and performance. 
• Embroidered with the 3-stripes and Pharell’s sign-off on the heel and tongue add a creative flair. 
• A grid pattern on the outsole surely adds extra grip. 

Adidas x Raf Simons Stan Smith 

Captivated by the iconic Adidas Stan Smith, the Belgian designer Raf Simons, collaborated with Adidas to bring a touch of his own minimalist aesthetics to this pair of Stan Smiths.

• The upper and lining of the Raf Simons x Adidas Stan Smith are crafted from premium leather.
• Perforated details in an R pattern are placed on each side in place of the Adidas’ signature stripes. 
• With a cushioned insole and lightly padded ankle for a breathable feel. 
• There’s a raised logo at the midsole with tonal flat laces. 
• The shoes also come in an astonishing color palette.

Ecco Soft 5 Sneaker

Ecco shoes have released its Soft 5 sneaker which is a sport-inspired shoe with a mix of leather and mesh panels, racy accents and a carefree all-day attitude. 

• The design is sleek and sophisticated with a soft interior made of porous textiles for a ventilated feel. 
• Built with a wider last shape, optimal fit and outstanding walking comfort are provided. 
• With a direct-injected polyurethane outsole, it ensures that the shoe is flexible, supportive and lightweight. 
• The lace-up enclosure provides plenty of flexibility. 

Best summer shoes for men

Guys also want to look good for the summer and having a great pair of shoes completes the look. RunRepeat sure has got some neat suggestions on what sneakers to wear for the season and here’s a list of them:

Nike Tanjun

If one wants to go for a fresh athletic style, tie up the Nike Tanjun. The shoe’s sleek and modern design is named after the Japanese word for “simplicity”. It’s an athletic shoe with a mixture of elegance and simplicity.

• The no-sew mesh uppers have diamond patterns for breathability.
• A cushioned midsole provides daylong comfort.
• Its EVA outsoles have flex grooves and waffle pattern for lightweight traction and natural motion. 
• For a secure fit, the lace-up system is featured plus the signature Swoosh logos.

Adidas Lacombe

Want to go for a simple and easy-to-wear style? Then try on the Lacombe sneaker, a fresh revival of a ‘70s classic style which is inspired by the legendary Newcombe tennis shoes. The sneaker’s high-profile design will surely be appreciated by retro heads to the fullest. 

• The soft, high-grain leather upper is accented with a perforated 3-stripes plus a special top-stitched toe piece. 
• Its foam-padded insole ensures all-day buttery-soft feel.
• An off-white soft rubber sole has a vulcanized look and feel. 
• The Adidas Lacombe branding is printed on the tongue. 

Puma RS-X Toys

Puma refined their RS line by releasing the RS-X, a remix of the classic line. With a chunky design inspired by the collectible vinyl toys, the RS-X Toys celebrates extreme reinvention and the same subculture that toys and sneakers have been part of. 

• The bulky sneakers have mesh upper and synthetic leather overlays. 
• Constructed with RS technology for superior cushioning.
• With contrasting colors, embossed TPU heel pieces for the midsole and molded sockliner.
• The full lace closure guarantees a comfortable fit. 
• The rubber outsole provides grip and traction.
• The classic Puma style is retained with the graphic Puma Formstrip overlay.

Nike Air Presto Fly

Nike ditches the shackles from big-time favorite Air Presto, letting it go uncaged to fly free and revealing the new Air Presto Fly. The Air Presto Fly was introduced in 2017 and instantly became a hit just like its predecessor. 

• The TPU lace cage has been stripped away to reveal an all-mesh upper that provides stellar ventilation. 
• The good old Swoosh logo is added to the upper together with the lightweight Flywire lacing system. 
• A flyweight foam midsole, together with the sock-like ankle fit, the shoe gives you that barefoot-like feel.

Adidas EQT Support ADV 91/16 

The Adidas Originals has released a modern silhouette from their 1991 EQT line with the launch of the Adidas EQT Support ADV 91/16. The new line didn’t forget about its roots and still focuses on the performance aspect of the shoe, as well as style. 

• Designed with two-toned, sock-like knitted upper with bold contrasting colors and a nubuck toe overlay.
• The EVA midsole has been molded by compression for comfort while maintaining its aesthetics.
• Ortholite performance insoles provide additional comfort.
• The TPU piece on the heel gives support to the midsole for extra cushioning and optimal support.
• Reflective quarter panels add to the modern aesthetics of the shoe.
• On the bottom of the lace lock, the EQT branding can be seen. 

Pharrell Williams Hu Holi NMD BC

Pharell Williams can’t stop showing his love for the NMD line. For the next round of the line, the partnership between Williams and Adidas releases Pharrell Williams Hu Holi NMD BC or also known as the “Blank Canvas”. The cream-colored shoe’s name is inspired by a spiritual Hindu festival, the Holi Festival, which translates to the Festival of Colors.

• The breathable upper is made of lightweight knit which gives that sock-like fit. 
• Responsive, full Boost midsole that helps return energy in every step.
• The molded EVA midsole plugs are used for that signature NMD aesthetic. 
• With TPU midfoot cage in the side panels which act as stabilizers. 
• The lacing system features two-color laces.
• A rugged outsole for that extra traction. 

Nike Air Force 1 Ultra Fly Knit

Inspired by the iconic shoe that’s been famous since 1982, the Nike AF 1 Ultra Flyknit pays homage to the AF1 in a lighter-than-ever construction. The sneakers debuted in 2016 and marked the first time that the classic sneaker gets a Flyknit technology treatment which makes it 50% lighter than the original AF1.

• The kicks’ upper is updated with breathable Flyknit material while applying the tonal leather on the Swooshies across the side panels. 
• It comes with a cushioned air sole with a perforated toe box for that comfortable running comfort.
• There is an Air system in the heel and the brushed Air logo. 
• The eyelets area are wavy in shape to allow greater flexibility. 
• The rubber outsole still has the same grip and traction as the original AF1.

Frequently asked questions

What are summer sneakers?

These shoes are always suitable for sunny weather. Summer sneakers give your feet actual support, breathability and also refrain them from getting filthy what with all the summer activities that are in store for the season. These are always the go-to kicks in the warmer months. 

Are summer casual shoes always a good idea?

Yes, summer sneakers are always a good idea. But one should know that those fashionable summer sneakers that are meant as a style statement and not for the gym are in a very different category. Those fashion sneakers shouldn’t be worn for more than casual walking and standing and should never be worn for exercise. 

Where to buy these summer shoes? 

During the summer, almost every shoe store has summer shoes readily available for the season. These sneakers are always in demand so there’s no need to worry about where to find them. Also, one can search for shoes online. 

Is it fine to wear socks with your summer sneakers? 

One can opt to wear or not to wear socks with their summer shoes. If one is comfortable with not wearing any type of socks with their sneakers, it will not be a problem since the kicks are well-ventilated and very comfortable. But if one chooses to wear socks, then choose those that are not so thick and would not cause the feet to feel hot. 

How to style the summer season’s sneakers?

Since summer sneakers have great aesthetics and are designed simply, there won’t be any stress over what to wear best with one’s chosen getup. A feasible ensemble would include a pair of jeans, a great-looking shirt and a pair of some comfortable sneakers.

For the ladies, they can show off their sundresses, rompers or cute tops and shorts and round up the look with the perfect footwear to accent their outfits. For the dudes, their go-to pants or summer shorts together with their chosen tops, either a breezy shirt or tank top, will always look good if one can pair it with the right summer kicks. 

Author

Danny McLoughlin

Danny is a sneakerhead turned sneaker industry expert that believes a good outfit begins from the feet up. His aunt currently isn't speaking to him for wearing a pair of kicks at his cousin's wedding. He spends most of his time trying to keep on top of the latest releases, hitting up his contacts and doing what needs to be done to secure his next pickup. Danny has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Washington Post, The Irish Times, Footwear News and the like.

daniel@runrepeat.com