What To Consider
Materials
The materials used in summer shoes make a big difference when it comes to staying comfortable in the heat. Breathable fabrics like mesh or leather help keep your feet cool and dry, which can prevent blisters and cut down on odor. Look for styles with moisture-wicking features and good airflow—especially if you’ll be wearing them for long stretches.
- Mesh: Lightweight and ultra-breathable, mesh is a go-to material for summer shoes. Its open-weave design allows for maximum airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry even on hot, humid days. Plus, it’s flexible and quick-drying, making it perfect when you want to get active.
- Satin: Satin brings a sleek, elevated look to warm-weather shoes while still feeling light on the foot. Though not as breathable as mesh, it’s smooth and comfortable against the skin, which is ideal for dressier summer occasions. Bonus: its subtle sheen adds a stylish touch to any outfit.
- Leather: Natural leather is durable, breathable, and molds to your foot over time, making it both supportive and long-lasting. In summer styles, softer or perforated leather allows heat and moisture to escape more easily. It’s a versatile option that works just as well for casual wear as it does for dressier looks.
How We Chose
As an associate style editor, I’ve tried tons of shoes throughout the years, from the best walking shoe for women to the best flat shoes. Throughout the year, I go to press appointments and meet with our go-to brands on the latest collections, then I test everything I take home for story inclusion. Only the absolute best products make it into my roundups.
There are more sneakers than I can possibly test, but for this story, I tried and tested 20 pairs of top-rated summer sneaks from my favorite brands at the gym, around the house, at the office, or on long days out and about to see which ones had top marks across comfort, support, style, and breathability. The nine options that made it onto this list were winners in all the above categories and have personally made their way into my day-to-day wardrobe.
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Pros
- Breathable upper
- Roomy toe box for ease of movement
- Wide base and midsole sidewalls are great for added support
Cons
- Tongue isn’t attached to sides, making the shoes harder to slip on
If you’re looking for a cushioned, supportive sneaker that can handle daily jogs and long city walks, the Hoka Bondi 9 is it. As a style shopping editor who runs regularly, I put these to the test through 20-plus miles of pavement pounding, trail running, and even office wear. The verdict? This shoe is ultra-plush, super stable, and thoughtfully designed to keep your feet comfortable for hours.
The Bondi 9 features a higher stack height (that’s the amount of foam between your foot and the ground) than its predecessors and a new, lighter foam midsole that gives each stride a bouncier feel. It’s built for the average runner who likes a wider base, and it has midsole sidewalls to keep your feet in place, making it a great pick even if you feet roll forward during your stride. It also includes subtle upgrades like a more breathable upper and improved outsole durability, which is perfect for summer runs when heat can take a toll on your shoes.
Unlike sleeker styles like the Mach or Rincon, the Bondi is a bit bulkier—but all that cushioning gives it its signature comfort. The Bondi has a roomy toe box and runs slightly large, which makes it especially great for wide feet (I even sized down a half size for a better fit). Reflective details, thick rubber in high-impact zones, and high torsional rigidity—aka it doesn’t twist easily from heel to toe—all add to its well-rounded performance.
While the tongue is a bit flimsy and a chore to slip on, that’s a small trade-off for a shoe that checks nearly every box. For runners and walkers alike who want max cushioning, support, and serious durability, the Hoka Bondi 9 stands out as the ultimate summer sneaker.
Read More: Hoka Bondi 9 Review
| Sizes | 4–12 |
| Colors | 14 |
| Materials | Knit engineered mesh upper |
Pros
- Flexible outsole adds more comfort
- Adidas Sambas lookalike
- Super easy to keep clean
Cons
- Not the most stylish pair on this list
This sneaker is an Amazon bestseller for good reason. First off, it’s one of the comfiest shoes on this list, thanks to the brand’s signature insole tech—think super cushy foam that supports your arches, softens every step, and moves with your foot so you’re never stuck feeling stiff or restricted. The flexible outsole adds even more comfort with extra grip and bounce, making it a great pick for days when you’re constantly on the go.
Another perk? It’s surprisingly easy to keep clean. The shoe is pre-treated with a special coating on the sidewalls that helps repel scuffs and dirt so most marks wipe right off with one swipe.
I’ll be honest: not every Dr. Scholl’s style is my style. But this pair is basically a lookalike for the trendy Adidas Sambas (with just as many color options), and I get compliments on them all the time. People are shocked when I tell them they’re from a brand known more for comfort than cool factor.
| Sizes | 6–11 |
| Colors | 31 |
| Materials | Recycled plastic bottles |
Pros
- Has the support features of a running shoe without
- Made from a breathable material
- Sleek, modern design
Cons
- Not the best for running, even though it’s marketed as a running shoe
When I’m walking around the city in the summer, I want a sneaker that’s ultra-supportive and comfortable, but doesn’t scream “running shoe.” That’s exactly why I reach for the Asics Gel-Kayano 40. It’s designed as a performance running shoe, but its sleek, modern design makes it easy to style with activwear to flowy summer pants or even a casual sundress. It has a bit of a streetwear vibe, so you get the comfort of a high-performance sneaker without compromising your outfit.
Function-wise, the Gel-Kayano 40 delivers. It’s built with Asics’ signature plush cushioning in the rearfoot and forefoot, which absorbs shock and makes walking on concrete softer. The midsole features tons of foam, which gives it that Cloud-like feel, while it’s still firm enough to keep your feet planted. Speaking of, it’s technically a stability shoe—great if you tend to overpronate or just want extra support when you’re on your feet for hours. I also love that the upper is made from a breathable knit material, which keeps my feet cool and dry on hot, humid days.
While it’s technically meant for running, I actually prefer it for long, active days, whether that’s commuting, sightseeing, or just getting in a lot of steps. If you’re looking for a thick, ultra-cushioned shoe for serious runs, this might not be your go-to. But if you want something that blends comfort, style, and versatility for summer, it’s hard to beat. Bonus: it comes in tons of fun colorways, from neutral to bold, so you can pick a pair that fits.
| Sizes | 5–15.5 |
| Colors | 3 |
| Materials | Layered mesh and leather |
Pros
- Serve cool girl energy
- Great for trail or streets
- Lace toggle makes it easy to take on and off
Cons
- Not super cushy if that’s what you’re looking for
Gorpcore has been my uniform. FYI, it’s that outdoors-meets-streetwear aesthetic—think cargo pants, trail runners, speed shades, etc.—and the Saucony Progrid Triumph 4 fits right in. Originally made for long distance runs, the chunky and colorful kick now feels totally at home in a city setting. It’s rugged, cool-looking, and gives major cool girl energy, even if I’m just walking to get coffee.
The sole is on the firmer side, so it doesn’t have that plush, bouncy feel some running shoes offer. But that’s actually what I love about it. It feels more like a low-profile hiker, with enough structure to keep my feet supported all day. After hours of walking around the city (or if I end up on a trail), my feet still feel protected. It’s sturdy, grippy, and holds up well on uneven terrain too, which is why I’ll often toss it in my bag for weekend getaways or spontaneous hikes.
Also: the lace toggle situation is a small but fun detail. It adds to the techy vibe and makes it easy to tighten or loosen the fit without having to fully re-lace your shoes. Basically, this option is a solid mix of style, utility, and comfort, and it’s getting a permanent spot in my gorpcore rotation.
| Sizes | 5–15.5 |
| Colors | 3 |
| Materials | Mesh, rubber |
Pros
- Waterproof knit fabric
- Super durable
- Don’t have clunky rain boot look
Cons
- Not the most stylish option on this list
If you want a sneaker that can handle unpredictable summer storms and still look good with your weekend fit, the Vessi Stormburst High Top is it. Designed with the brand’s waterproof knit, which it calls Dyma-Tex, this shoe keeps your feet totally dry without the bulky rain boot look. The high-top silhouette adds a slightly retro vibe, while the chunky sole gives you extra grip and bounce whether you’re walking through the city or hitting a slippery trail.
Unlike other waterproof shoes that can feel stiff or rubbery, the Stormburst is surprisingly lightweight and breathable, so your feet won’t feel like they’re trapped in a sauna. It’s also great for travel or commuting, since you don’t have to stress if the forecast turns last-minute. I’ve worn mine on rainy walks, weekend hikes, and even to brunch, and it’s held up through them, all. Other great features? Protective toe caps, pull tabs for easy on and off, and reflective detailing for nighttime safety. Basically, it looks like streetwear, performs like all-terrain gear, and won’t leave you with soggy socks. While it may not be the most stylish option on this list, it’s worth it for how protected my feet feel when I’m out and about all day.
| Sizes | 5–11 |
| Colors | 7 |
| Materials | Dyma-Tex |
Pros
- Super stylish
- Super comfortable sole
- Has nice grip in rainy conditions
Cons
- Not a ton of neutral shades
If you’re ready to move on from the Samba craze and want something that’s just as stylish but a little more under-the-radar, let me put you on to my current go-to: the Puma Speedcat. It’s been popping up more and more in the fashion world, and after months of wear-testing, I totally get the hype. Like the Samba, it has that low-profile silhouette and flat sole, but I actually find the Speedcat more comfortable for everyday wear thanks to its EVA midsole—it’s lightweight, slightly more cushioned, and absorbs shock better, so I can stay on my feet longer without regret. Bonus: it grips better in rainy conditions, which I learned after a few soggy walks through the city.
The only downside? The color range is a little limited—there are just nine options, and a lot of them are bright. I have the yellow-and-black pair, which gives major Kill Bill energy (in the best way). And even though the brighter shades take a little more styling effort, they’re such a fun statement. If bold isn’t your thing, the all-black version is a safe bet. Just like the Samba, these work with basically everything in your closet (think jeans, cargos, dresses) you name it.
| Sizes | 4–14 |
| Colors | 9 |
| Materials | Leather, rubber |
Pros
- Flexible to the foot
- Super waterproof
- Wider toe box
Cons
- Not great for those who don’t like a super cushioned footbed
The Merrell Moab 3 is a standout pick for summer hikes that range from quick trails to rocky climbs. While boots are generally best for longer treks due to added ankle support, this shoe is still great for day-long hikes because of its cushioned-yet-firm footbed that keeps my feet cozy an planted. I also like the waterproof design and reliable traction, which helped prevent slips during rainy day treks. The wide toe box also allows for natural foot movement, making it comfortable over long distances.
What sets the Moab 3 apart from other hiking shoes is its breathable upper, which molds to your foot for a flexible yet secure fit. It’s built to handle varied terrain and features a Gore-tex waterproof membrane, so it performs well even in wet weather conditions.
Comfort-wise, this is one of the most cushioned hiking hsoes available, thanks to a plush foam midsole. It also features Merrell’s FlexPlate technology, which is a built-in stability system that helps keep your foot aligned and supported, no matter how uneven the ground gets.
If you prefer a firmer underfoot feel, this might not be your ideal fit, but for those who want a cushioned foam, weather protection, and solid stability on the trails, the Moab 3 is a tough-to-beat choice.
| Sizes | 5–11 |
| Colors | 9 |
| Materials | Waterproof molded leather, textile |
Pros
- Great for tennis or day to day plans
- Keeps your foot stable during movements
- Super flexible on-foot
Cons
- Doesn’t have as much cushion as other tennis shoes we’ve tried, like the On Roger Clubhouse Pro
If you want a tennis sneaker that performs on and off the court, The Roger Spin is the ultimate hybrid. With a low profile cut and the neutral colorways and the addition of plush cushioning, it transitions perfectly from tennis practice to brunch plans without skipping a beat.
What makes it more than just a stylish pick is its smart construction. Reinforced uppers help keep your foot stable during quick lateral movements, making it great for tennis newcomers like me who are still getting their footing. The standout feature is a nylon-blend Speedboard built into the forefoot, which adds flexibility and boosts energy return, which is essentially the bounce of the shoe, with every step whether you’re rallying or running errands.
Trendy yet practical, this sneak is proof you don’t have to sacrifice performance for style. It’s a perfect pick for anyone who wants their footwear to work as hard as it looks. My one note: I’ve also tried the On Roger Clubhouse Pro and find that this option isn’t quite as cushioned, but I like that it looks more like an everyday shoe than a tennis-specific kick.
| Sizes | 5–11 |
| Colors | 2 |
| Materials | Recycled polyester |
Pros
- Super comfortable
- Feel like nothing on-foot
- Super trendy and cute for summer
Cons
- Can’t walk tons of miles in this shoe
Flat shoes, especially ballerina flats, are super on trend right now, but most of them aren’t comfortable due to lack of cushioning. However, this hybrid sneakers, which is a sneaker and a flat molded into one, is an exception. I recently saw another style editor sporting it and was so excited when she said it was from Vivaia. Known for its comfortable shoes, the brand has been pumping out adorable summer styles that I’ve been dying over, and this one takes the cake.
In terms of design, the square toe is so trendy and cute, and the satin laces add a girly touch. However, you can also opt for an elastic shoelace if you want something a bit more low-profile. It comes in so many fun colors (my favorite has to be the pink).
It almost feels like you have no shoes on, but it features a triple-layer sole that provides optimal comfort and makes you feel like you’re walking on clouds. I also noticed that I never got blisters while wearing this shoe, which I find to be quite rare for a flat. Another bonus is that the shoe is foldable, so it’s super easy to travel with. This might not be the shoe to walk miles and miles in this summer, but if you’re looking for a cute new kick to wear to and from the office without a blister in sight, this is your new bestie.
| Sizes | 5–11 |
| Colors | 6 |
| Materials | Satin, elastic |
Lily Wohlner is the associate style & commerce editor at Women’s Health. A sneakerhead, shopping enthusiast, and beauty expert, she’s mastered the art of testing, reviewing, and recommending standout products across every style category. Lily started her career as a freelance makeup artist before diving into the editorial and copywriting world, creating content for brands like Oribe, NewBeauty, and Dermstore. When she’s not training for her next half marathon, you’ll find her in the Lower East Side whipping up high-protein recipes with her roommate or thrifting for the ultimate pair of low-rise jeans.
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