<p>Maybe you’re here early and counting down the days until your summer Fridays in the office start rolling in. Maybe summer is in full swing, and you’re in immediate need of a a solid, versatile <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/g36384400/best-mens-leather-sneakers/” target=”_blank”>sneaker</a> for you this season. Either way, the right summer sneaker has to absolutely bring it in terms of style, cushioning, and versatility, and the picks on the list below check off all those boxes, plus a few more. </p><p>You can be a <a href=”https://www.esquire.com/style/mens-fashion/a33515057/vans-old-skool-sneaker-review/” target=”_blank”>Vans</a> guy and keep it classic or a Koio man who prefers to lean towards all things luxe. No matter which path you choose, these are the sneakers you’ll be wearing this summer.</p>” data-next-head/>
Skip to Content
Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. Here’s how we test products and why you should trust us.
Nike
best comfortable summer sneakers
Nike Nike Killshot 2 Leather Shoes
Pros
A modern look on classic performance tech
Retro-inspired rubber gum sole adds traction
Cons
Buyers report the toe box fits snug
The Killshot 2 has everything a summer sneaker should have: a sick profile, a smooth ride, and a lightweight, still-cushiony design that allows you to roam freely all day, every day.
Colors
11
Sizes
7-15
Materials
Leather, Rubber
best stylish summer sneakers
New Balance Made in USA 990v6
Pros
Has FuelCell foam technology to drive you forward
Reflective accents are great for nighttime wear
Cons
On the pricier side
I’ve already waxed poetic about New Balance MADE in USA, and the latest version of the iconic 990s are all about fusing fashion with function. These kicks make for the perfect lifestyle sneaker all throughout summer, and with a breathable upper, you’ll find yourself wearing them everywhere.
Colors
Camo
Sizes
4-14
Materials
Leather, Mesh, Foam
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
best lightweight summer sneakers
Cariuma OCA Low Canvas Sneakers
Pros
Cork insoles are ridiculously comfortable
Fully-stitched outsole for durability
Cons
Not a lot of arch support
Our editors love the OCA Lows, and you will, too. This is a sneaker so lightweight, it feels like stepping on a cloud. Plus, you can’t go wrong with this timeless, minimalist design, whether you opt for these shoes in canvas, suede, or leather.
Colors
20
Sizes
5-13
Materials
Cotton, Rubber, Cork
best everyday summer sneakers
On Roger Advantage Sneakers
Pros
Mesh tongue for comfort and performance
Leather upper is easy to dress up or down
Cons
Only available in black and white
On makes a damn good tennis shoe, but you don’t have to be in your Challengers era to get wear out of these all summer long. With a sleek, minimalist design, plenty of cushioning, and CloudTec technology, this is a comfortable favorite to keep around.
Colors
5
Sizes
7-14
Materials
Polyester
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
best classic summer sneakers
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Pro
Pros
Practical for skating
Never goes out of style
Cons
Runs slightly large, order half a size down
What could possibly be more classic than a pair of Chucks? Converse has kept things casual and cool over the years, and this is a shoe you’ll be wearing for many years to come, no matter how scuffed up it gets. The iconic low-top silhouette is accompanied by a suede upper that lends some extra style.
Colors
Black
Sizes
3-13
Materials
Suede, Rubber
best sleek summer sneakers
Koio Capri Sneakers
Pros
Plenty of color options
Available in Regular and Wide fits
Cons
No half sizes available
For sleek, easy style, Koio’s Capri sneakers check all of the boxes. These are your go-to vacation shoes, your office shoes, your weekend shoes—basically, you’ll be wearing them all the time. And being as cool and comfortable as they are, why wouldn’t you?
Colors
21
Sizes
7-16
Materials
Leather, Rubber
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
best affordable summer sneakers
Vans Authentic Core Classics
Pros
Has cotton drill lining for breathability
Vulcanized construction offers superior traction
Cons
Not great for wide feet
This is truly an iconic shoe, and it isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Comfort and style are rolled into one with this design, which takes root in California skate culture—but can adapt to go with you anywhere.
Colors
9
Sizes
3.5-15
Materials
Canvas, Rubber
What To Consider
When you’re buying your perfect summer sneakers, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is where you want to wear them. Every pick on this list is a great lifestyle sneaker, but some—like, say, the New Balances—are also going to be suited toward your athletic endeavors.
Another thing to keep in mind is where you plan on wearing them. You can’t really dress up a running shoe with a suit and wear it to work, but you can wear your Koios and Cariumas into the office with just as much ease as you would wear ’em on vacation.
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Why You Can Trust Esquire
We’re not going to say something is great unless it’s actually great. Every product in Esquire’s round-ups is carefully curated by our fashion and e-commerce teams.
Every pick on this list (and our other lists!) comes from years of wearing different things, seeing what we love and what we don’t, and going from there. No two tastes are the same, but if you’re looking for solid, tested recommendations, this is the place to start.