Summer is a time for less. We’re breaking out of our layers and feeling less bogged down with responsibilities. And although we all tend to gravitate towards less on our feet when the temperatures rise – often opting for slides and sandals – sneakers should actually be more of your go-to for the season. With fewer layers of clothing to work with, you can rely on your sneaker choice to do more of the heavy lifting. I’m constantly doing things during the summer and sometimes only have time to grab a basic tee and some shorts. So personally, I want to make sure my sneakers are doing most of the work, opting for bright and bold colorways and silhouettes during the summer. Whether you’re like me and need a statement to elevate your basics or you’re just looking for a pair that will easily complement your entire wardrobe, these are the everyday sneakers you should add to your summer rotation.
Air Jordan 3 White Cement Reimagined
Jordan Brand does a great job at providing updated looks to their list of classic silhouettes that built their brand. These new takes bring bold and fresh elements to the sneakers while also maintaining their cultural relevance. Also, they just look damn good. This year’s Air Jordan 3 White Cement Reimagined is a prime example. The Jordan 3 has always been a favorite of mine because it’s so versatile. Just as Tinker Hatfield intended, the signature Nike Air unit and treaded outsole provide a sporty look, while the tumbled leather upper and elephant print give the shoe a more luxurious feel. For those of you who are looking for an everyday sneaker that l feels less showboat-y but still carries those subtle flare hits, the new AJ3 White Cement Reimagined is for you.
Women’s adidas Gazelle Indoor Orange Peel White
Low-cut sneakers never go out of style for the summer and with the rise of adidas Gazelles within the fashion cycle again, there’s no better time to scoop up a pair. I haven’t always been the biggest adidas guy myself, and to be completely honest, Gazelles intimidated me the most. For big and wide-sized feet, very low-cut sneakers can have you thinking that you’ll look like a clown. But on the contrary, Gazelles do anything but make you look foolish. They come in a variety of colorways, are extremely comfortable, and round out your feet in a way that makes them look compact (my size 11.5 foot actually looks like a 10.5 now). They’re also just so easy to wear. You can wear them with shorts, baggy jeans, trousers, a skirt, whatever. As you can tell, Gazelles have made me a complete adidas convert and I’m almost positive they’ll do the same for you too.
ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 White Pure Silver Slate Grey
I’m sure you guys are tired of us talking about this sneaker but I will die on this hill for the ASICS Gel-Kayano 14. I can’t say enough positive things about this sneaker– I’m currently trying to convince my girlfriend to buy a pair for herself. If you’re really looking for a sturdy sneaker that can handle any daily wear, these are for you. The ASICS Gel-Kayano 14 is packed with comfort, featuring ASICS quintessential GEL cushioning throughout the midsole. Its synthetic leather and mesh uppers provide breathability and durability to the sneaker, making it an absolute powerhouse of a summer shoe. I love my pair of JJJJound Gel-Kayanos and have knocked them around a lot. I’m talking banged on the side of doors, worn for hours through Manhattan streets, and rode my bike while rocking them. And they still look just as white as the day I bought them (minus the outsole, of course). You will not regret buying these and your feet will thank you graciously.
Vans Vault Old Skool Notre Off-White
Vans sneakers are always a solid choice for the summer, they were even founded in the sunny state of California. The Vans Slip-On is usually most people’s go-to since it’s just an easy thing to put on, but many overlook the Old Skool silhouette for the summer. Chicago-based boutique, Notre, added their spin to the sneaker and made it something even more compelling. The red pair that I own is just as much of a workhorse as the Gel-Kayanos and they are comfortable as hell. This white pair, in particular, is a great everyday summer shoe that brings the streetwear kudos that you want from your sneakers.
New Balance 990v6 MiUSA Grey Day
New Balance just had their annual Grey Day celebrating their longevity within the footwear business and their signature grey color that is equated with all of their classic silhouettes. This year’s Grey Day saw the release of a handful of new grey-inspired colorways, one of which made an appearance on the New Balance 990v6. I just convinced one of my friends to get this pair as an intro to New Balance sneakers and he is now a NB fiend. What’s not to get obsessed about though? The upper is made with premium grey suede and beige mesh for that luxe/sporty feel and that famous ENCAP midsole adds the comfort equivalent to clouds on your feet. Nothing beats a New Balance shoe and this 990v6, as an everyday summer staple, is here to keep that statement a fact.
