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Goodbye, Sweaty Feet!

6 Breathable and Airy Sneakers for Summer

Sneaker Summer
Wearing the wrong shoes in summer can lead to unpleasant foot odor–but it doesn't have to be that way! Photo: Getty Images

June 24, 2025, 7:13 am | Read time: 3 minutes

Even in the summer, die-hard sneaker fans don’t want to give up their sporty shoes. However, wearing the wrong footwear can lead to unpleasant foot odor in the worst-case scenario. To avoid subjecting yourself and those around you to this, it’s important to choose the right sneakers for the summer.

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In summer, you need sneakers that not only look good but also keep you cool in the heat. Some models are better suited for high temperatures than others. We explain which sneakers are more suitable for summer.

Sneakers to Avoid in Summer

In summer, you should avoid certain sneaker models or materials, as they can quickly become uncomfortable or impractical in the heat. Sneakers made of thick and firm leather or synthetic leather can trap heat inside the shoe at high temperatures. Your feet get little to no air and start to sweat. You should also avoid lined sneakers that serve well in winter. Similarly, high-top sneakers are often too warm in summer as they cover the ankle.

Summer Go-Tos

Instead of leather sneakers, choose breathable and airy shoes made of fabric, canvas, mesh, or similar materials in summer. Even small mesh inserts provide the necessary airflow your feet need in high temperatures. Also good: small air holes in the shoe, such as those often found in Converse.

Additionally, you can equip yourself with special insoles. In summer, shoe insoles should be breathable, moisture-absorbing, antibacterial, and odor-neutralizing. This way, your feet stay dry and fresh even in the heat.

Nike Cortez in Mesh

The Nike Cortez is available in leather versions but also in breathable mesh material. These sneakers with trendy flat soles are ideal for summer, and thanks to the many colorful designs, they perfectly complement a summer wardrobe.

Nike V2K Run

As the name of the V2K Run by Nike suggests, it was originally designed as a running shoe. Thanks to the fabric and mesh inserts, you won’t sweat in these sneakers even in summer.

Sneakers with Cut-outs

Leather sneakers are generally not suitable for high temperatures. However, if the shoes have small cut-outs, your feet get enough air to breathe, and the fresh breeze on your toes prevents unpleasant sweaty feet. An antibacterial insole supports this effect.

Puma Mostro Fey

The Mostro by Puma is making a comeback and is especially a relief for the feet in summer. It gets even more summery with the ballerina version, which is definitely an eye-catcher on the foot and the perfect mix of sporty and chic.

Also interesting: 9 Tips Against Sweat in the Intimate Area

Adidas Japan

The Japan by Adidas is a sneaker for all retro lovers. Although this sneaker is entirely made of leather, it has breathable holes in the leather that allow the foot to breathe. Additionally, the retro look matches dresses, skirts, and pants equally well.

More on the topic

Classic Converse

Not much needs to be said about Converse sneakers. For decades, they have been seen on feet during the summer months (and by the hardy even in winter). Besides the classic colors like black or white, this year it’s especially shades like lime green that are captivating.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of STYLEBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@stylebook.de.

Topics Sneaker Tracdelight
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