The Best Casual Shoes for Men That Aren’t Sandals
Photo Credit:@blvck.sam
When it’s hot, shoes get tricky. You want something breathable, comfortable, and decent-looking—but maybe you’re not ready to show your toes to the world. That’s fair.
This guide skips the flip-flops and slides and gives you 10 casual shoes you can actually wear when the temps go up—without sacrificing your outfit (or your dignity).
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1. When You’re Going Somewhere Casual but Still Want to Look Sharp
On Men's Cloud 6 Waterproof Shoes
$179.99
Go with: A white canvas or leather low-top sneaker
It’s clean, minimal, and works with everything from shorts to light chinos. Breathes better than your winter shoes and still looks put together.
Style tip: Look for perforated leather or organic canvas. Easy to wipe down and doesn’t overheat.
2. When You’re Headed to a Backyard BBQ or Park Hang
adidas Men's Handball Spezial Shoes
$109.99
Go with: A slip-on canvas shoe or hybrid sneaker
You’re on your feet, maybe standing on grass, maybe chasing someone’s kid. You want traction and comfort—but also style.
Style tip: Stick with earth tones, off-white, or faded navy. Looks good dirty. Won’t feel ruined if you step on gravel or ketchup.
3. When You’re Traveling and Need Something Airport-to-Dinner Ready
The Ravello Loafer
$189
Go with: A minimal knit sneaker or tech-laced hybrid
Stretchy, breathable, packs well. These shoes feel like gym shoes but look way better on the security line and the patio bar later.
Style tip: Avoid logos and contrast soles. Keep it sleek so they can pass for “intentional” when paired with a button-down.
4. When You’re Walking the City All Day
Nike Men's Air Force 1 '07 LV8 Shoes
$124.99
Go with: A cushioned low-profile runner or retro sneaker
You’re clocking steps but don’t want to look like you borrowed your dad’s orthopedic shoes. This gives you support and style.
Style tip: Go monochrome (all white, all black, all beige). Feels elevated, even if you’re hitting 12,000 steps.
5. When You’re at a Summer Wedding or “Nice Dinner, But Still Chill”
The Driving Loafer
$189
Go with: A suede loafer or casual derby
You’re not in dress shoes, but you’re also not in trainers. This is the middle ground—something that says “grown man,” not “gym bag.”
Style tip: Skip socks, roll the pants once, and keep the rest simple. You’ll instantly look sharper without sweating through your shoes.
6. When You’re at the Beach but Still Refuse to Wear Flip-Flops
Men's Canvas Slip On Espadrille Loafer
$33.99
Go with: A water-resistant canvas espadrille or slip-on
Still breathable, still low-key—but way less toe exposure. Great for beach towns, resort trips, or even casual pool parties.
Style tip: Natural tones work best here—think sand, olive, or soft navy. Bonus if the insole doesn’t disintegrate after one wave.
7. When You’re Grabbing Coffee or Running Errands in 90 Degrees
V5 Rnr
Nike
$90
Go with: A knit slip-on or breathable trainer
You’re in and out of stores, in and out of your car, and not trying to overheat. Lightweight slip-ons give you speed without sweat.
8. When You’re Headed Into the Office (But It’s 85 Degrees Out)
Samba Og Sneaker
adidas Originals
$100
Go with: A leather or suede sneaker with a slim profile
You want something professional enough but still breathable. No mesh. No logos. Just clean and grown.
Style tip: Match the sneaker color to your belt or watch strap for a pulled-together look that still feels casual.
9. When You Get a Last-Minute Invite Somewhere You Can’t Show Up in Slides
Hey Dude Men's Wally Funk Mono Shoes
$64.99
Go with: A dressy slip-on or hybrid loafer
You didn’t plan for this, but you still want to look like you meant to leave the house. These are your “ready for anything” shoes.
Style tip: Keep a neutral pair on standby—dark tan or slate gray can pair with just about anything you already own.
10. When You Just Want One Pair That Covers 90% of Summer
Wave Trainer
Converse
$130
Go with: A lightweight leather sneaker in off-white or taupe
It’s your most versatile pair. Works with shorts, trousers, jeans, or swim trunks (if you really had to). You wear them when you don’t want to think about it.
Style tip: Keep them clean. Scuffed white leather makes you look tired. Wipe them down once a week. That’s it.
