by Ada Maria Francesca Romeo
Summer 2026 is all about versatile footwear that blends comfort, craftsmanship and timeless style. As warmer days call for lighter fabrics and more relaxed silhouettes, the right pair of shoes becomes the foundation of every well-balanced outfit. Whether you’re dressing for the city, a beach getaway or a summer evening out, choosing the right footwear can elevate your entire look.
To help you navigate the season in style, this is a selection of the essential shoe styles every man should consider adding to his wardrobe for Summer 2026. From suede driving shoes and leather boat shoes to refined sandals, luxury flip-flops, knitted sneakers and espadrilles, these are the footwear to keep on the radar this season.
Driving shoes
Driving shoes are one of the most elegant alternatives to classic leather loafers during the summer months. Originally designed to provide extra grip behind the wheel thanks to their signature rubber pebble sole, they have evolved into an icon of refined casual style. Crafted from soft, luxurious suede or classic leather, they offer slipper-like comfort while maintaining a polished appearance. Pair them with linen trousers, chinos, or unstructured tailoring for an effortlessly sophisticated summer look.
Tod’s Gommino Bubble Driving Shoe
Hermes Member leather driving shoes
Sandals
Leather sandals are the perfect choice for staying cool without sacrificing style. More refined than traditional flip-flops, they strike the ideal balance between comfort and elegance. They work particularly well within a resort or smart-casual wardrobe, pairing effortlessly with linen trousers, tailored shorts, polo shirts and linen shirts. A brown leather pair is versatile enough to take you from a relaxed daytime outfit to an evening look by simply swapping swim shorts for lightweight cotton trousers.
Fratelli Rossetti suede sandals
Manolo Blahnik Marvin leather sandals
Boat Shoes
A true summer classic, leather boat shoes have remained a menswear staple for decades. Originally designed for sailing, their moccasin construction and non-slip rubber sole quickly made them a favorite beyond the marina, becoming synonymous with Ivy League and preppy style. Today, they are appreciated for their versatility, sitting comfortably between loafers and sneakers. Wear them with straight-leg chinos, tailored shorts or denim for an easy, timeless look.
Velasca Bilanzér leather boat shoes
Timberland 3-Eye Lug Leather Boat Shoes
Sneakers
Few shoes are as practical for summer as a lightweight knitted sneaker. Breathable, flexible and exceptionally comfortable, they are designed to keep your feet cool throughout the day. Their technical construction makes them equally suitable for everyday wear, travel or light training, while minimalist designs in neutral colours can be effortlessly incorporated into almost any wardrobe.
Flip-Flops
Flip-flops have evolved far beyond their reputation as simple beach footwear. Today’s premium versions feature leather straps, substantial rubber or leather soles and elevated craftsmanship, transforming an everyday essential into a sophisticated summer option. Luxury flip-flops are increasingly styled with relaxed tailoring, linen separates and contemporary resortwear, proving that simplicity can be remarkably elegant when executed with premium materials.
Jacquemus Tatanes leather flip-flops
Espadrilles
Espadrilles are one of the defining shoes of summer, celebrated for their lightweight construction and Mediterranean charm. Traditionally crafted with a canvas upper and a braided jute sole, they offer the perfect balance between comfort and effortless style. Ideal for warm-weather dressing, they pair naturally with linen trousers, tailored shorts and lightweight cotton or linen shirts, making them equally suitable for holidays and city life. Whether in their classic canvas form or updated in suede and leather, espadrilles remain a timeless choice for understated summer elegance.
Castañer Pablo organic cotton espadrilles
Loro Piana Basque Walk espadrilles
