Summer’s here! There’s no better time to get out and about as we only get so long to enjoy the beautiful weather before the grey clouds rear their ugly heads once again. Whether you’re enjoying this summer with friends and family or having some much-needed “you” time, having the right footwear during summer is key to enjoying the warm weather to the fullest.
At Rieker, we want everyone to feel comfortable and look good in their shoes at all times, especially in the summer, a great opportunity to express yourself through your clothing. Different footwear can work for various summer occasions, but what’s the best summer go-to, shoes or sandals?
Our guide will take you through when and how to wear various styles of shoes and sandals this summer to ensure you’re looking your best while enjoying the sunshine in comfort.
Table of contents
- Wear breathable and cooling footwear
- Best shoes to wear in summer
- How to style summer shoes
- How to style sandals in summer
- Summer shoes and sandals at Rieker
Wear breathable and cooling footwear
Summer gets quite hot, doesn’t it? This heat makes keeping our feet as cool as possible throughout the season crucial. The highest blood flow in the body occurs in our hands and feet, so effectively managing their temperature helps control our total body heat.
Naturally, the easiest way to relieve our feet from heat is to give them as much room as possible. Sandals are ideal as your feet are given ample room to breathe without the need for socks.
The lightness and spacious design of sandals make summer strolls as comfortable as lying on the beach. Although shoes are often more restrictive than sandals, our summer shoes at Rieker are made using antistress properties that provide a light and breathable feel with a design that prioritises space.
So if sandals don’t match your style, you can still wear stylish shoes that keep you comfortable and cool in sweltering conditions.
Best shoes to wear in summer
If, to you, summer means long treks in the country rather than simple strolls, sandals may not suffice. Getting the right shoes is important for long walks in all conditions, but especially in the heat of the summer.
Protecting your feet is the priority. We've broken down what you should look for in your warm-weather walking shoes and the best footwear for other summer activities.
Long walks
Breathability is key when walking long distances. Hikes can get the blood pumping and the sweat flowing at the best times, so it’s extra important in hot conditions that your feet can breathe and release sweat consistently so you remain cool.
Each long walk can mean putting pressure on your feet, but we want your shoes to alleviate as much pressure as possible. Shoes with strong shock absorption help take the brunt of hiking away from your feet as they shoulder the responsibility of the terrain.
Casual meetups
If you’re meeting a friend or two for a simple stroll in the park or heading out for lunch in the sun, you’ll need something comfortable that suits your style. Be at the forefront of summer trends with trainers that bring a retro flavour to your sunny look.
Slick trainers resembling any era never go out of style, and our men’s and ladies’ trainers at Rieker help you achieve that laid-back look with a comfortable fit this summer.
Dinners & parties
Everyone loves to get out and about more in the summer, and if you’re lucky, you may be invited to a few dinners and parties throughout the season. Depending on your circle and where you go, you might need something more sophisticated on your feet.
For these more dressy occasions in the summer, ladies can bring elegance and fresh summer style with buckle-on shoes that go with any evening wear At the same time, men can accompany their ensemble with stylish boat shoes. Hot weather should never mean you must sacrifice style; we’ve got it in abundance.
How to style summer shoes
You know what shoes you can wear for different occasions, but what should go with them for the perfect summer look? We’re giving you some good old-fashioned Rieker inspiration to take into your warm-weather wardrobe for this summer and many more to come.
Ladies’ summer shoes
There’s no better season to show off your fashion versatility than summer. Lowkey, casual occasions can become the perfect chance to boast retro-inspired trainers with a simple shorts and t-shirt combo and make it a summer staple. Mix things up with a maxi dress and trendy canvas shoes, or embrace traditional feminine fashion with a flowing evening dress and beautiful Mary Janes.
If you want to keep your options open this summer, use neutral colour palettes to maximise your range. However, nothing is stopping you from going all out and adorning yourself with bright, vibrant colours to match the feel-good summer energy.
Men’s summer shoes
Looking fresh has never has never been more easily achieved with various options available; there’s no excuse not to look your best in the sun’s glow this summer. If you’re off to a fancy dinner and need to be suited and booted, there’s no reason why it can’t still have a summer feel. Give your look a bright and lively feel by pairing a pale suit with brown formal shoes.
Keep things casual with a short-sleeved button-down and glistening white trainers for a look that seamlessly takes you from the park to the town.
How to style sandals in summer
At Rieker, we’re committed to combining comfort and style without compromising on either. Summer brings us so many style opportunities, and you can create outfits to last a lifetime with sandals. Read through some of our favourite looks and get inspired!
Ladies’ sandals
From casual and sporty to dressed up and glamorous, there are so many amazing ways to wear your sandals this summer. Learn how to get the most out of ladies' sandals in the sunshine in our Best Summer Sandals guide that runs through various styles and tricks.
Men’s sandals
There’s nothing wrong with a classic summer combination of sandals, shorts and a T-shirt. This simple fit helps you keep cool when the heat picks up and makes for a perfect beach day look. If you want to up the wow factor, make your sandals the foundation of a charming outfit with a light button-down top and wide-leg trousers. Why not add subtle jewellery like a chain or watch to make the look your own?
Summer shoes and sandals at Rieker
At Rieker, we don't believe there's a definitive "best" option between sandals and shoes in the summer because so many benefits and opportunities come with both! It boils down to your style, preferences and the occasion. Want more freedom for your toes in the beaming heat? Go for sandals. Off for a long walk or want to look trendy? Maybe shoes will suit you best.
Although shoes are often more restrictive than sandals, our summer shoes at Rieker are made using breathable material that provide a light feel with a design that prioritises space.
So if sandals don’t match your style, you can still wear stylish shoes that keep you comfortable and cool in sweltering conditions.
Whatever you choose, we have an excellent selection of summer sandals and shoes. Browse our incredible collections of men's shoes, men's sandals, ladies' shoes and ladies' sandals to find a pair that suits you and helps kickstart your summer!
