Comfy, Lightweight Summer Shoes For Anyone Who Hates Baring Their Toes

These comfortable and breathable options are perfect for warm weather — and for keeping those little piggies private!

When it’s hot out, keeping you feet bundled up in booties, sneakers and even certain leather flats can feel hot and oppressive.

I love summer sandals as much as the next person, but they’re not always appropriate for offices or other occasions — to say nothing of the fact that some people simply don’t like to have their toes exposed! Luckily, there are plenty of other shoe styles that keep your toes covered while still providing a reasonable amount of airflow and ventilation. Fisherman sandals, mules, cage-like designs and even certain kinds of jelly and water shoes all fit the bill.

We’ve curated a list of comfortable, lightweight and breathable shoes that will get you through the remaining summer season, keep your toes hidden and look good doing it. Keep reading to check out a beautiful assortment of chic, timeless shoes from retailers like Nordstrom, Anthropologie, Etsy, Free People, and more that are sure to become staples in your summer closet.

1. Nisolo huarache sandals

Nisolo

Elegant, timeless and sustainably produced, these gorgeous huarache-style sandals from Nisolo are as functional as they are beautiful. They're made with buttery soft handwoven and water-resistant leather with a no-slip rubber sole that is flexible and comfortable. Get all the breathability of a sandal with the coverage of a more structured flat.

Promising review: "I love these sandals. Compared to my other Nisolos, there has hardly even been any breaking in with these. Couldn't be happier." —MacKenzi V.

Get them from Nisolo for $110 (available in women's sizes 5–11 and in five colors).

2. Vans Trek slip-ons

Zappos

These slip-on rinsable water shoes look just as cool as regular Vans and can be worn at the beach, pool or out and about. They have an iconic Vans checkerboard pattern of drainage holes and a waffle-grid sole for traction. 

Promising review: "This is the IT shoe. I have used the shoe thus far for small walks in sidewalks and dirt terrains and for play and in-office dress. It's very versatile: I've used with and without socks. It was actually very easy and fast to break in the shoe. I usually wear a 9.5–10 in women, and the 9.5 W/8 M was the perfect fit. I have flat feet and A.S. too, and it's very comfortable during my flare ups. Thanks a bunch, Vans!" —Cafecito A

Get them from Zappos for $42.38 (available in women's sizes 5.5–14.5, men's sizes 4–13, and in eight colors). 

3. Camper Dana leather sandals

Camper

I can't get these leather sandals from Camper out of my head. The leather looks so supple it's almost jelly-like, while the block heel gives them just the right amount of height. You could easily dress these up with a cute summer dress or keep things casual with shorts and still look like you've got on a cool outfit. 

Get them from Camper for $140 (available in women's sizes 5–10). 

4. Easy Spirit Dawn sandal

DSW

Get a bit of height and coverage while keeping your feet cool and airy with these clog-like sandals from Easy Spirit. They feature a block heel, a perforated upper, and a wrap-around ankle strap. Best of all, the insoles are cushioned with plenty of arch support.

Promising reviews: "I bought these shoes a month ago for an upcoming wedding. I wanted to make sure they didn't hurt my feet before I wore them all day. They were so comfortable that I was wearing them more than I thought. You won't be disappointed with these shoes. I love the straps that you can adjust when needed." —Wisgal

Get them from DSW for $79.99 (available in women's sizes 5–12, four widths, and in five colors).

5. Maeve wide-banded fisherman flats

Anthropologie

There's nothing I won't do for a good pair of fisherman sandals, and this dad-like silhouette features wide-banded straps that couldn't be cooler. They're slightly retro but effortlessly timeless in a way that goes perfectly with a wide range of aesthetics.

Get them from Anthropologie for $150 (available in women's sizes 36–41 and in two colors).

6. Tory Burch Double T jacquard espadrille

Nordstrom

Fashion lovers know that Tory Burch is having a major renaissance, and these adorable espadrilles are as enticing as it gets. They have Tory's famous embroidered logo on the top and a chic espadrille sole that brings a bit of the French Riviera to wherever you may be.

Get them from Nordstrom for $198 (available in women's sizes 5–11 and in four colors).

7. Margaux Demi woven ballet flats

Margaux NY

These breezy flats have a classic ballet-flat silhouette with a fresh new spin. They're handcrafted by artisans in India and Spain and feature a grosgrain trim and adjustable bow, and have a plush foam sole that is comfortable for walking.

Promising review: "The Demi is a perfect fit! I have always worn a 7.5 N but could never find a good fit in a ballet flat. The Demi not only fits perfectly but is very comfortable on. And it looks great ! I will definitely be ordering the Demi again! I can say the same thing about The Pointe ! I can’t believe my luck in finding Margaux shoes. Smart buy." —Anne S.

Get them from Margaux NY for $245 (available in women's sizes 33–45, three widths, two styles, and in three colors).

8. Eileen Fisher Lee 2 espadrille sandals

Nordstrom

These elegant espadrilles from Eileen Fisher will transport you to the vineyard, spiritually. They are made with soft perforated leather with a jute trim and a lovely espadrille sole.

Promising review: "The shoe is soft and bends with your foot. I like that they’re easy to put on and slip off. They look super cute with dresses and denim." —Ariel Faith

Get them from Nordstorm for $59.97+ (available in women's sizes 5–11 and in seven colors).

9. Etsy mesh flats

Lookie Atelier

Hop on the mesh shoe trend with these beautiful mesh flats that look eerily similar to cult-fave shoes from The Row and Dear Frances — but at a fraction of the cost. And while your toes are remain visible, they are technically covered up, in case you're looking for a loophole. They're fun, breezy and ultra-sophisticated.

Promising review: "The shoes are amazing, I get so many compliments on the style. The seller was so lovely to work with and she took great care to make sure the sizing and measurements were correct." —Caitlin McConnell

Get them from Lookie Atelier on Etsy for $164.99 (available in sizes 3–12 and in four colors).

10. Melissa Aranha Quadrada II jelly sandals

Nordstrom

It doesn't get more summery than a classic jelly sandal from Melissa. These iconic shoes have a fisherman sandal design that covers up the toes while still having plenty of ventilation and a true summer aesthetic. They're waterproof, making them perfect for the beach or pool, but stylish enough to wear out and about all season long.

Get them from Nordstrom for $69 (available in women's sizes 5–8 and in three colors).

11. Pilcro woven flats

Anthropologie

These lovely feminine flats are as simple as they are sweet. The woven leather is ideal for summer, the strappy ankles keep things cool and secure, and the rubber sole makes these shoes safe and non-slip.

Promising review: "So glad I got these. They go with everything — denim, pants, dresses, shorts — and the woven part is surprisingly soft and comfortable. Do not hesistate!" —Floribunda

Get them from Anthropologie for $120 (available in women's sizes 6–11 and in three colors).

12. Nike ACG Watercat+ shoes

Nike

Love the comfort of a sneaker but looking for something waterproof and breathable? Look no further than these distinctly unique Nike shoes. They're made with non-wicking cords that are lightweight and breathable, with a sturdy rubber outside and cushioned insole. They're great for rainy runs, hikes, river exploration, fishing and more.

Promising review: "The Watercat+ lives up to its name by being both a water shoe and a comfortable stable shoe for activities outside the water. The shoes in orange/black are a bold but appealing design. Often water sports accessories tend to feature colors with high visibility and these are no exception. The shoe is extremely comfortable and has great drainage so your feet don't feel soggy when wet. The ability to use these shoes for a hike as well as in a kayak/boat was a huge plus. The soles are a huge step up from your typical water shoe with flimsy fabrics which leave your feet sore on rough terrains or river bottoms. These shoes are a great addition for anyone who enjoys water sports, rockier beaches, or outdoor hikes in wet or hot summer weather." —Amira1616

Get them from Nike for $125 (available in women's sizes 5.5–14.5, men's sizes 4–13, and in two colors).

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.