10 Shoes Every Guy Should Have for Summer

Give your feet some seasonal love.

When it comes to warm-weather footwear, it’s all about keeping cool (in every sense of the word). You want something a little lighter, and maybe a little brighter. Basically, those heavy black boots are best left at the back of your closet. But even though some styles are off the table, options abound. From suede loafers to espadrilles, here are the 10 best shoes to get you through summer.

DESSERT BOOT

When it comes to a hot-weather shoes, these have it right in the title. Originally made for British soldiers in the desert, the desert boot is a menswear stalwart that can be dressed up or down, and worn with or without socks. Pretty much the perfect all-around summer shoe.

Desert boot ($130) by Clarks.

HIGH-END SNEAKERS

Summer style is all about paring back. And nothing is more pared-back than minimalist leather kicks.

Original Achilles leather sneaker ($410) by Common Projects.

LOAFERS

Just watch Cary Grant in To Catch a Thief and you’ll understand why loafers are the perfect summer shoe.

Alek penny loafers ($350) by To Boot.

LIGHTWEIGHT RUNNERS

Look for a breathable upper free from any extraneous bulk.

AlphaBounce beyond knit running shoe ($120) by Adidas.

THROWBACK SNEAKERS

If you want to fully embrace that laid-back spring vibe, go with a pair of sneakers worn by every California surfer and skater since the dawn of time (or since they first started making them).

Old Skool ($60) by Vans.

ESPADRILLES

The ultimate chill-out shoe. Best when paired with a linen suit and a cool rum cocktail.

Espadrilles ($495) by Saint Laurent.

FLIP-FLOPS

This comes with a qualifier: They are to be worn at the beach or by the pool only. But in those two locations, it’s hard to beat a good pair of sandals.

Stripes flip-flops ($24) by Havianas.

BOAT SHOES

Unfortunate frat-bro associations aside, it’s still one of the easiest shoes to just slip on and go. Just avoid wearing a popped-collar polo at the same time (or, you know, ever).

Original 2-Eye ($109) by Sperry Top-Sider.