Breathable, Supportive Sneakers to Wear During the Summer Months
Courtesy of Allbirds
Whether you're sticking to a workout routine or taking it easy this summer, it's important to have a pair of breathable, supportive sneakers in your closet that will keep you comfortable when the temperature spikes. Beyond keeping your toes cool, the right pair of tennis shoes will cushion your feet and protect your ankles from the shock of concrete-no matter if you're jogging in your neighborhood, hiking at the beach, or walking to the grocery store.
Breathable, supportive sneakers all have certain design features in common. According to Dr. Thanh Dinh, DPM, the president of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and assistant professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School, "shoes [made] with mesh and knit will allow for airflow and trap less heat," but they shouldn't be too snug around the balls of your feet or your toes. To help you pick the correct pair, we asked several foot doctors for their top recommendations-and included some of our own-so you can stay active, comfortable, and stylish all season long.
Top Picks
Related: The Best Supportive Sneakers to Wear When You Exercise
Under Armour
Available in a pretty, pastel-hued shade, these compression mesh sneakers are ideal for anyone who prioritizes flexibility and cushioning in their shoes-whether or not you run or walk for exercise. These shoes also utilize a technology to give you a "zero-gravity feel" when you're on the move.
Shop Now: Under Armour "HOVR Sonic 3" Running Shoe in Calla, from $84, amazon.com.
Hoka One
Perfect for hikes, jogs, or long summer walks, the Hoka One Bondi 7 sneaker checks all the most important boxes. "They combine a supportive sole and heel counter with a thick cushioned midsole and a wide toe box to give you just a little more room," Dr. Todd Brennan, DPM, of Healthy Feet Podiatry says. Plus, these sneakers are light and breathable when you're out jogging in the hot sun, Dr. Brennan notes.
Shop Now: Hoka One "Bondi 7" Sneakers, $150, hokaoneone.com.
Allbirds
Dr. David Farnen, DPM, from Cutting Edge Foot and Ankle Clinic, explains that these Allbirds sneakers are both lightweight and ventilated while striking the perfect balance of style and support, courtesy of their dual-density midsole. Another bonus? This pair, made from renewable materials that minimize odor and conform to your feet, are machine washable.
Shop Now: Allbirds Women's Tree Dashers in Geyser, $125, allbirds.com.
New Balance
These running shoes from New Balance are true to their name: They won't weigh you down and their foam insole offers a comforting cushion to the balls of your feet. Designed to be ultra breathable, the sneakers come in handy on especially warm summer days.
Shop Now: New Balance "Fresh Foam Sport" Lightweight Running Shoe, $74.99, dsw.com.
Brooks
"Not only are these sneakers supportive and durable," notes Dr. Bret Brennan, DPM, of Healthy Feet Podiatry, "but the lightweight mesh design combined with a strong heel counter makes them both stable and breathable." They also have soft cushioning to absorb the shock that comes with jogging on asphalt.
Shop Now: Brooks "Ghost 13" Women's Road Running Shoes, $130, brooksrunning.com.
On Cloud
These athletic slip-on shoes with elastic laces are considered a "hybrid running-meets-lifestyle shoe," says Dr. Binh Nguyen, DPM, of Healthy Feet Podiatry. They provide the support you need whether you're working out or running errands. "On Cloud sneakers keep your feet light and cool," Dr. Nguyen adds, explaining that these sneakers are especially popular amongst those living in hot, humid areas. Another benefit? Their removable memory-foam insole makes for a flexible fit.
Shop Now: On Cloud Running Shoe in Rose Brown/Camo, $129.99, nordstrom.com.
Adidas
Suited for avid runners, casual joggers, and non-athletes alike, these sturdy shoes have a memory sock-liner that molds to the contours of your ankle and a supportive platform. Dr. Nelya Lobkova, DPM, of Step Up Surgical Podiatry recommends avoiding thin soles since they only minimally support your feet on concrete surfaces-which is why this pair is particularly beneficial (it has the cushion you need). They also promote airflow.
Shop Now: Adidas "Cloudfoam Pure" Running Shoe in Cloud White/Cloud White/Ice Mint, from $39, amazon.com.
APL: Athletic Propulsion Labs
These textured knit sneakers have all the technology necessary to ensure your feet are protected this summer, but are still casual and muted enough to wear outside of an exercise setting.
Shop Now: APL "Techloom Phantom" Sneakers, $165, shopbop.com.
Nike
Designed with Nike's Flyknit fabric, these shoes are ventilated to help keep your sweat under control as you go about your day.
Shop Now: Nike "React Infinity Run Flyknit 2" Sneakers in Mint and Purple, $160, nike.com.
Skechers
These slip-on sneakers made with rounded toes, mesh knit fabric, and cooling memory foam remain comfortable, flexible, and breathable all day long, whatever the weather.
Shop Now: Skechers "Ultra Flex Statements" Sneakers, $60, zappos.com.
Saucony
With stretchy mesh and elastic material, these lace-free running shoes will comfortably get you anywhere your route takes you.
Shop Now: Saucony "Stretch N Go Breeze" Slip-On Running Shoe, $69.99, dsw.com.
