The Summer Shoe Dilemma: Beyond Trends and Into Personal Style
Summer footwear for men has become a playground of endless possibilities. From loafers to sandals, sneakers to mules, the options are dizzying. But what makes a summer shoe truly perfect? Is it about following trends, or is it something more personal? Personally, I think the answer lies in the intersection of functionality, style, and individuality. Let’s dive into what six stylish men have to say—and what their choices reveal about the broader culture of men’s fashion.
The Multitasker: Ralph Lauren’s Huarache Sandal
Bruce Pask, the menswear guru at Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, champions Ralph Lauren’s huarache sandal as the ultimate summer shoe. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it blends tradition with modernity. Huaraches, rooted in Mexican craftsmanship, have been reimagined here as a hybrid between a pool slide and a loafer. It’s a shoe that says, ‘I’m relaxed but still polished.’
In my opinion, this choice reflects a larger trend in menswear: the desire for versatility. Men no longer want shoes that are just for the beach or just for the office. They want something that transitions seamlessly from a casual brunch to a semi-formal dinner. What this really suggests is that the modern man values adaptability—both in his wardrobe and in his lifestyle.
The Timeless Classic: Vans Slip-On
Trevor Gorji, founder of Fugazi, swears by the Vans Slip-On. This shoe is a testament to the power of simplicity. Originally designed for skateboarders, it’s now a staple in wardrobes across the globe. What many people don’t realize is that its enduring appeal lies in its ability to disappear into any outfit. It’s the sartorial equivalent of a chameleon.
From my perspective, the Vans Slip-On represents a shift toward understated cool. In a world where fashion is often about making a statement, this shoe whispers rather than shouts. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most stylish choice is the one that doesn’t try too hard.
The Elevated Derby: Allen Edmonds’ Rowan
Nick Wooster, a street-style icon, opts for the Rowan derby from Allen Edmonds. This shoe is a masterclass in refinement. Its glossy leather finish and sleek silhouette make it dressy enough for a suit but casual enough for a bathing suit. One thing that immediately stands out is how it challenges the traditional boundaries of summer footwear.
If you take a step back and think about it, the Rowan derby is a symbol of the democratization of fashion. It’s a shoe that says, ‘Why should flip-flops have all the fun?’ It raises a deeper question: Are we limiting ourselves by pigeonholing certain styles as strictly casual or formal?
The Bold Statement: Malibu Sandals’ Zuma LX
Kareem Rahma, host of The Subway Takes, is all about sandals—specifically, Malibu Sandals’ Zuma LX in a vivid green. This choice is bold, playful, and unapologetically summery. A detail that I find especially interesting is Rahma’s insistence that men should show more toe, but only on weekends. It’s a quirky rule, but it speaks to a broader cultural shift: men are becoming more experimental with their style, but they’re still navigating societal expectations.
This raises a deeper question: Why are men still hesitant to fully embrace sandals? Is it a holdover from outdated notions of masculinity, or is it simply a matter of comfort? Personally, I think it’s a bit of both.
The Stage-Ready Loafer: G.H. Bass Weejun
Bryan Garris, frontman of Knocked Loose, takes his G.H. Bass Weejuns from the street to the stage. These loafers strike the perfect balance between casual and dressy, thanks to their lug sole. What makes this choice stand out is its practicality. Garris isn’t just wearing these shoes because they look good—he’s wearing them because they work for his lifestyle.
In my opinion, this is a reminder that style isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about function. The best summer shoes are the ones that can keep up with your life, whether you’re touring with Metallica or running errands.
The Streamlined Boat Shoe: Saman Amel’s City Moc
Brandon Mahler, a former Drake’s staffer, is a fan of Saman Amel’s City Moc. This shoe reimagines the traditional boat shoe with a sleeker, more modern silhouette. What’s particularly fascinating is how it manages to be both casual and refined. It’s the kind of shoe that works just as well with tailored trousers as it does with shorts.
From my perspective, this choice reflects a growing desire for minimalism in menswear. Men are moving away from bulky, overly detailed designs and toward cleaner, more streamlined options. What this really suggests is that less is often more—a principle that applies to fashion and life in general.
Beyond the Shoes: What This Says About Men’s Fashion
If there’s one thing these choices reveal, it’s that men’s summer footwear is no longer just about practicality. It’s a canvas for self-expression, a way to tell the world who you are without saying a word. Personally, I think this is a fantastic development. For too long, men’s fashion has been constrained by rigid rules and limited options. Now, the possibilities are endless.
But here’s the thing: with great choice comes great responsibility. The perfect summer shoe isn’t just about following trends; it’s about finding something that resonates with you. Whether it’s a huarache sandal, a derby, or a slip-on sneaker, the key is to wear it with confidence. Because at the end of the day, style isn’t about the shoes—it’s about the person wearing them.
So, what’s your summer shoe? Personally, I’m still deciding. But one thing’s for sure: it’s going to be something that feels like me.
