15 Best Summer Sneakers for Women in 2023

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Slip on, lace up, and get going.

Everyone has a favorite shoe for summer. Some may lean on a flat, leather sandal to get from place to place. Others consider a classic pair of canvas espadrilles their choice du jour. But no matter your preference, summer sneakers remain a must have for every warm weather wardrobe.

The best summer sneakers combine style and function in order to keep feet protected from the elements, whether that be a city sidewalk or sandy beach. "For the summer season, we see customers gravitate towards sneakers that are breathable for hot days, whether that be a mesh fabrication, cotton canvas or perforation in leather styles," Will Cooper, Senior Vice President and GMM of women's shoes, handbags and accessories at Saks Fifth Avenue, tells BAZAAR. Looking for lightweight materials with breathability will keep feet cool and protected through the hottest days of the season.

Color choice is also as important as the fabrication. "Summer is the perfect time to try a clean, white sneaker or add a vibrant pop of color to your footwear wardrobe," Cooper says. And who can resist a fresh white, pair of lace-ups or a slip-on with pizzazz? While an open-toe sandal is always fun, nothing can beat the dependability of a simple sneaker built for walking through the summer months with ease.

Below, find the 15 best summer sneakers to wear all season long.

Everyone seems to have a memory tied to an Adidas sneaker. Prepare to make room for more—this time with a little extra comfort with the Grand Court sneaker. Initially worn by the tennis greats, the shoe has been updated with Cloudfoam Comfort cushioning, to be worn day in and day out with a snug fit. Pair with everything from linen trousers to board shorts this summer.

Size Range: 5-11 US

Colors: Cloud White/Core Black, Cloud White/Lush Red/Purple Glow, Cloud White/Leopard

Adidas Sambas were the It-sneaker of 2022, and their reign continues for summer 2023. They blend those signature three stripes with an easy, low-top silhouette, made to wear with everything from floral dresses to button-downs and jean shorts.

Size Range: 6.5–14

Colors: White, Black

From start to finish, Veja's sneaker is made with materials that are durable, but also eco-friendly. Amazonian rubber, sugar cane, recycled polyester and organic cotton are just a few of the many earth-first approach components that the brand uses. We love this style in white with the steel blue trim, for an airy color palette that's dreamy and laid back.

Size Range: 35-41 IT

Colors: White/Steel

Summer is of course the season to get outdoors, so whether you have a camping trip on the books or a hiking day with friends planned, the proper footwear will be the most important part of your look. Made with engineered air mesh to keep things cool, as well as a compression molded EVA foam midsole, these trail shoes are built for comfort that lasts.

Size Range: 5-11 US

Colors: Baked Clay and Oxford Tan

"Clean white sneakers are a summer staple," Cooper says. "This elevated classic style by Isabel Marant features grip-tape straps, making them easy to slip on and off while you’re on the go this summer. The perforated leather will keep your feet cool." Style them with cropped trousers and a blouse for a casual workplace, or with a swimsuit and denim cut-offs for a beach weekend.

Size Range: 35-41 EU

Colors: White

"Chloé's Nama sneaker is the must-have shoe for summer," Cooper says. "This unique, effortlessly cool style is offered in vibrant color variations and features an eco-conscious design partially constructed from recycled materials." Signature whipstitching, patchwork detailing and a platform sole adds dimension and a stylish spin to the classic kick.

Size Range: 35-42 EU

Colors: Creamy Lilac, Biscotti Beige, Dark Ruby, Cosmic Blue and more.

Nodding to '80s and '90s basketball culture, the Out of Office sneaker offers a fresh spin on modern classics. The low-top shape is made with a lace-up design, and fabricated in leather upper with a rubber sole for traction, no matter your destination. Try the white and sand color way for a shoe that transitions well from city bodega runs to long walks on the beach.

Size Range: 35-42 EU

Colors: White Sand, White Lilac, Salmon Pink Violet, White Fuchsia and more.

"These New Balance lace-up sneakers were inspired by an ‘80s on-court tennis shoe," Cooper explains. "They feature a casual silhouette and mesh design, making them easy and breathable for warm-weather wear." Lean into the casual nature of this style by pairing them with a baggy summer jean and tank top on the weekend.

Size Range: 4-11 US

Colors: Sea Salt

"Autry's Medalist sneakers are the fashion insider's everyday shoe of the season," Cooper says. "This 1980's-inspired vintage silhouette is versatile and comfortable with a padded insole—the perfect sneaker for the woman on the move this summer." Added comfort means more walkability on that upcoming summer trip abroad. Wear with a cropped pant or denim ensemble for an easy, worn-in feel.

Size Range: 36-41 EU

Colors: Blush Pink

"Loewe's Flow Runner sneakers offer a retro vibe that is perfect for summer," Cooper says. "This laid-back style is offered in a ton of fun color combinations as well as lightweight and breathable fabrications including nylon and denim." Whether worn with sweat shorts for a casual, athletic look or a sundress for something dressier, these sneakers are worth investing in.

Size Range: 35-41 EU

Colors: Blue, Yellow, Soft White, Green Brown, White Silver and more.

You can't go wrong with an icon. Converse's Chuck Taylor high-top sneaker has been around since 1922. Designed originally as a shoe for men's basketball, the classic is now a stylish footwear choice for all. The optic white color way is especially perfect for summer days, thanks to the canvas upper that is breathable and lightweight. But don't worry about them getting dirty—the worn-in look is part of the high-tops's timeless charm.

Size Range: 5-15 US

Colors: Optic White and Black

Another sleek and effortless option that never goes out of style is a Vans slip-on sneaker. Completely laceless and made from canvas for breathable wear, they are the perfect addition to any warm-weather outfit. The infamous checkerboard pattern adds a fun styling twist to any basic bikini, denim bottom or mini skirt.

Size Range: 5-11 US

Colors: Color Theory Checkerboard

Tap into the Nike archive with these high-top sneakers, released in 1977 but revamped and modernized for today. The iconic 'Swoosh' in black brings a graphic punch to the overall minimalist style of the white leather shoe. Pair with a ribbed tube sock and bare leg for an athletic, on-trend feel.

Size Range: 5-11.5 US

Colors: White

One of Keds's most beloved styles, the Champion sneaker, has been in the brand's repertoire for decades. Still made with a rubber sole and a cushioned footbed for all-day comfort, this version swaps the traditional canvas upper for white leather. Lean into a '90s minimalist prep vibe by pairing them with a linen button down and pleat-front trouser shorts.

Size Range: 4-12 US

Colors: White

Summer break doesn't mean time off from training. Pack these sneakers for a seaside jog, morning miles or a hotel gym sweat sesh. Extremely lightweight with plenty of cushion, these Roxy running shoes are as functional as they are fun. Choose from the fresh blue or pink color way, embodying the surf-inspired, Y2K tones the brand is known for.

Size Range: 6-12 US

Colors: Blue and Pink

For more than 150 years, Harper's BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what's new and what's next in fashion by working with the world's leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.

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