If you’re anything like me, sneakers are an absolute wardrobe essential. Sure, they aren’t as cute as gladiator sandals, as eye-catching as six-inch heels, or as fun as flip-flops. But, when it comes down to it, shoes are there to serve a purpose: protect your feet during your daily adventures. And if there’s one thing summer is full of, other than mosquitoes, it’s adventures.
I’m spending my summer on Mount Desert Island, off the coast of Maine, so I wear sneakers pretty much every day. Between hiking, white-water rafting, ice cream hunting, and walking that daily mile to work and back, anything less just won’t cut it. But, especially since you wear them every day, you don’t want them to be whatever frumpy old sneakers you dug out of your closet after a long winter. With these six summer-friendly sneakers, you’ll be both cute and ready for whatever adventure comes your way!
Toms
I know there are going to be a ton of you who will disagree with me about this one. After all, Toms aren’t for everyone—especially those who need extra arch support or spend lots of time traipsing through puddles. But with their cute look, comfy fit, and wide variety of patterns, I have to admit that I’m a fan. Plus, who doesn’t like buying from a company that sends a pair of sneakers to a kid in need for each pair they sell? I’m sold. ($54, www.toms.com)
Keds
They’ve been in for ages and, frankly, I think they’re here to stay. Simple, fun, and as easily paired with a girly skirt as a pair of cut-off shorts, Keds are just plain old convenient! And, with the new line of summer neutrals, there’s really no reason not to grab a pair before you hit the beach. ($55, www.keds.com)
Adidas Samba
Cute, comfy, and suitable for running, hiking, and biking your way through summer, Adidas Samba sneakers are a great choice for the more active among us. ($60, www.adidas.com)
Rocketdog
With their signature wide fit and reasonable prices, Rocketdog has worked its way into our hearts and shoe collections. This pair, made of organic linen, is both relatively environmentally friendly and quite a deal—on sale for almost $20 off, I’d get it before it’s gone! ($29.95, www.rocketdog.com)
Converse
For a throwback to the good ol’ days (er, middle school?) Converses are still a top pick. Easy to slip on and guaranteed to get you where you need to go—within reason—without much fuss, I’m a fan of the Converse Chuck Taylor All Star line. ($50, www.converse.com)
Tommy Hilfiger
Sure, you’re more likely to think of Tommy Hilfiger when you’re helping your dad go shirt shopping (learn to recognize a lost cause when you see one), but the Hilfiger brand also offers some pretty cute sneakers. Though I don’t own a pair myself, I have friends that can vouch for the durability and comfort of the sneaks. ($39.99, www.shoeaffair.com)
Happy Adventures!