Summer is the best time of year to enhance your shoe collection – after all, it’s the time of year when we put our feet on full display. Whether dawning a playful sundress or sassy shorts, cute summer shoes are the perfect exclamation point for any outfit.
What Makes a Good Summer Shoe?
Most of us like to feel the breeze on our faces (and toes) on hot days, and summer shoes are usually open and airy. If the shoe is made up of a closed structure, then the fabric must be breathable. Fabric with moisture-wicking technology is even better, and since summer can mean frequent trips in and out the door, a shoe with an easy on-and-off design can also be desirable.
Top 10 Shoes for Women This Summer
No matter what style of shoe, our guide for the top 10 cute summer shoes this year can help you find the inspiration you need.
Flat Sandal
The flat sandal has a long history of being the shoe of choice for a casual look. When you go neutral, the flat sandal can complement any wardrobe choice.
Our Pick for the Flat Sandal: Flowt Lion Leather Flat Contrast Sole Sandal by Ecco
This classic flat sandal offers cushioned support all day long and breathable strap closures, perfect for warm summer days. The caramel colour is subtle, creating a streamlined effect to elongate the leg.
Heeled Sandal
Pick your heel height and start your strut to turn heads all summer. The high heel of summer can take you from the office to the dance floor and everywhere in between. Heels are always a classic summer shoe to pair with dresses.
Our Pick for the Heeled Sandal: Laureti Grace Black Heeled Sandal by Clarks
A classic black pump stylized for summer, this heel has an open-toe design and a glamorous adjustable ankle strap for a secure fit. The moisture-wicking material is ideal for staying cool, and the OrthoLite® footbed offers long-lasting comfort for all-day wear.
Wedges
Wedges can be the go-to shoes to wear with a summer dress. Like a heel, the wedge offers extra height, but the wedge can offer enhanced comfort with a more natural angle and balanced support for walking.
Our Pick for the Wedge: Houston Blue Wedge Sandal by Remonte
This summer sandal weaves elements of several favourites, with an espadrille-style platform heel and slingback secure fit. The classic denim upper is versatile, while the gold effect on the heel elevates the look.
Gladiators
The gladiator t-bar design is reminiscent of Roman soldiers’ footwear. Straps can cover the ankle or extend as far as the knee. For 2022, consider the lace-up hybrid style.
Our Pick for the Gladiator: Laurel Metallic Caged Sandal by Cobb Hill
The lace-up style of this shoe is trendy, and the metallic colour is sure to catch some eyes. This stylish shoe even offers comfort with an insole cushion and breathable microfiber lining.
Espadrilles
Another favourite shoe option to wear with a summer dress, the espadrille, is having a comeback moment in 2022. This canvas shoe is popular as both a flat and a wedge. Express your style with ties, buckles, or ankle straps.
Our Pick for the Espadrille: Attalea Barbuda Red Espadrille Wedge Sandal by Earth
Turn heads with this sassy red choice. The laser-cut details and metallic studs offer a contemporary twist, and the zipper back offers easy on and off fastening, while the elastic structure offers a flexible fit. You’ll appreciate the all-day comfort and reinforced arch support of this sandal.
Slides
The name “slide” is a nod to the single strap concept of this shoe, which is easy to slide on and off. This is your go-to style for a practical and casual shoe option.
Our Pick for the Slide: Ruffled Beige Leather Slide Sandal by Rieker
The frilly ruffle that edges the leather strap brings a feminine look to this slide. The shock absorption outsole makes it feel like you’re walking on a cloud. Slip this shoe on for any adventure you’re heading on this summer.
Loafer
Like a closed-toe version of the slide, the loafer offers an easy slip-on design that doesn’t require fastening or tying. The loafer is loved for its slipper-like comfort and versatile style. You can pair this shoe with anything.
Our Pick for the Loafer: Windsor Bow Drizzle Grey Loafer by Grasshoppers
With a preppy boat style that screams summer, this shoe is expertly designed for style and comfort. Long days on your feet will be no sweat thanks to the pillow-like MemoryDeluxe footbeds and lightweight soles on this shoe.
Slingbacks
This shoe is your answer to versatility, whether you want a little slingback heel for the office or a more durable slingback sandal for adventurous long walks. This summer shoe shows off a little heel and a lot of style.
Our Pick for the Slingback: Stella Caldera Leather Peep-Toe Slingback Sandal by El Naturalista
With a peep-toe and a slingback, you’ll appreciate the style and breathability of this shoe. The craftsmanship of this shoe is superior, offering a leather insole with antibacterial properties and an exterior water-resistant lux suede.
Sneakers
Summer brings the opportunity for lots of outdoor walking and sportier adventures, and you need a shoe that can keep up. Trust the classic sneaker.
Our Pick for the Sneaker: Loas White Leather Sneaker by Remonte
This classic white sneaker has a shot of springtime flair with multi-coloured floral ribbon laces. Make a style statement with this contemporary sneaker that is still perfect for sportier adventures.
Flip Flops
If you’re heading to the beach this summer, flip flops are essential. Most flip flops are rubber and have a plastic strap ideal for wearing near water. You can also find high-end flip flops made of premium materials. Select a colour, pattern, and finishing touches (like gems) to express your style and personality.
Our Pick for Flip Flops: Brinkley Flora Black White Thong Sandal by Clarks
The Cloudsteppers® Brinkley Flora combines comfort with summer flair. The floral embellishment dresses up the black and white design, while the cushioned EVA midsole protects the foot, offers support, and remains lightweight.
Best Shoes for Daily Use
There’s a reason the flat sandal has the most extensive history, dating back 5,000 years when evidence of the “ancient sandal” suggests Egyptians adopted the footwear – it’s the most versatile. There are no limitations to what you can do when you are in a flat sandal. The general design offers a sturdy base for support and balance, while the top is usually strappy for optimal breathability and security.
If you need to dress your shoe up for the office or a formal occasion, a heeled sandal is an ideal next choice. With a variety of heel heights and structures (platforms, slingbacks, strappy, block, etc.), you can pick the version that brings you the most comfort.
Best Shoes for All Seasons
If you want to pick a summer shoe that can be worn all year long, look at loafers, sneakers, or wedges. Since Canada experiences all types of weather, these summer shoes can get you through any season. The material is a bit sturdier than some of the other summer shoe options, and, of course, all three of these selections come in closed-toe designs.
Snag 2022 Top Sandal Styles
This year’s list of top 10 shoes brings back several classics injected with a few trendy twists. Watch for summer shoe sales if you haven’t already snagged these top styles. Shop a full selection of summer shoes at Walking on a Cloud.
