From Boating to Beaches: 9 Shoes Men Should Be Wearing This Summer

It's time to put your best foot forward. Want to look cool and stay cool? What's going to help in the hot summer months is wearing shoes that are stylish and practical.

This is where we are going to step in, quite literally. We've taken a long walk and done the research for you. Here are our top nine summer shoes that should be part of every man's wardrobe. 

1. Canvas Casual Shoes

Top Athletic brands are always going to be popular. How about changing from white to off-white suede for a little extra style? You should always select a breathable upper that isn't bulky. 

Canvas casuals look great without socks for a more laid-back look. Keep to a simple design and, if you're going for a color, then a classic grey or royal blue isn't going to show stains as much.

Match these colors up with white or blue laces. These shoes are unlikely to ever go out of fashion but you'll always need to dress down when you wear them.  

2. Espadrilles

These were once considered footwear for laborers and date back hundreds of years to the area that borders France and Spain. These days, designer espadrilles are readily available.

The soles can be flat, or platform and they're normally made from natural fibers. They can also have open toes and backs, making them ideal for the hot Summer months. There is a vast array of prices from bargain basement to luxury high-end.

The espadrille made its American revival in the 1980s due to its success in 'Miami Vice,' in which Dan Johnson's character often sported a pair. 

3. White Bucks

These shoes became synonymous with the trad style. They're a traditional version of the casual Ivy League fashions that were generated in Boston and other northeastern cities.

Bucks were so named as they were often made from buckskin or suede. They're a firm favorite which gives a collegiate look. They're also popular with young professionals looking for a shoe which will go with almost anything.

This isn't the easiest footwear to keep clean so here are some top tips. Use a pencil eraser to get rid of stains. This can be followed by a good rub down with a damp cloth. For really stubborn stains scrub gently with a little white vinegar. 

4. Desert Boots

There aren't many words that conjure up the feeling of heat better than desert. Desert boots are an essential part of any man's wardrobe. 

They were originally made for British soldiers in the desert. They're a versatile shoe which can be used to dress up or down. If you're stuck for choice then you won't go wrong with a pair of desert boots. 

Desert boots are ankle-high and made with suede or leather uppers. They can either have leather or rubber soles. Leather soles are better for the Summer months as they breathe more easily. 

Desert boots have open lacing with two or three pairs of eyelets.

5. Loafers

If you have a summer wedding coming up then look no further than a loafer. These shoes are great for more formal occasions. 

There is an immense range of loafer styles to choose from, such as the penny loafer and tassel loafer. Don't confuse loafers with driving mocs or slip-ons. Loafers are available in leather or suede.

Loafers are great shoes to wear for the office too and work particularly well with lounge suits. Brown loafers tend to be more popular than black.

They can be made from leathers such as suede and cordovan. Socks have also become optional when wearing loafers over the past thirty years or so. 

6. Boat Shoes

Boat shoes are the ultimate preppy choice. There's something about them that can also make you think of the sea. That could be because they were originally designed for sailing. 

Today boat shoes are normally made from leather, suede, and canvas. They incorporate a non-slip sole, tend to have water-resistant uppers and their own unique lacing system. 

In the 1980s until the early 1990s, they were often worn with slouch socks. Many men then put on a pair of tight-rolled jeans to show these off.

7. Driving Mocs

Strictly speaking, this isn't an authentic moccasin and has its roots in Italy. It's usually recognizable because of rubber tabs on the sole.

These can help keep the soles lasting longer. They were originally made for men wanting a bit of grip while driving. Drivers would often change into them so that the car's interior remained free from dirt that had collected on their outdoor shoes.

They're a casual shoe that often comes in bright or pastel colors. They can be worn with shorts and without socks. They are not made to be worn at the office.

8. Havaianas and Sandals

If you're taking a beach vacation or simply heading to the pool, then this is the moment to bring out your latest pair of Havaianas. These are actually a Brazilian brand of flip-flop patented in 1966.

During the 1990s, it became popular to invert the sole and make the colored outsole face upwards. Around 200 million pairs are now sold every year. 

A pair of sandals should also be in your wardrobe but for barbecues and early afternoon outdoor parties only. These are going to let your feet breathe on hot days. Many styles are also waterproof. 

9. Oxford Dress Shoes

A classic black pair of Oxford dress shoes are a wardrobe essential. They can work well with a casual outfit, especially if the weather isn't as good as it should be. They'll also go just as well with a suit for the office. 

They may not match your style on every Summer's day but you should always have a pair at the ready. They're a staple classic that will work on almost any occasion.

Stepping out in Your Summer Shoes

Stick with our choice of summer shoes and you'll have something to wear for almost any occasion. 

Need some socks to match your new shoes? Look here for the latest styles we can offer.