Your summer footwear demands maximum comfort that doesn’t compromise on style, and in our latest article we’ll look at footwear which meets that demanding specification.
Why switch to sneakers for summer?
When 90% of your week is spent in formal footwear, switching gears to a more relaxed downtime option can often provide an immediate comfort boost, even when your workwear is as comfortable as a brand like Santoni. You only have to look at the original purpose of the sneaker to discern why this is - as footwear designed to facilitate sports performance, the mission statement is very different from that of a formal shoe. As we typically become more active in the warmer months, this comes into its own, allowing us to travel longer distances in comfort, particularly when following the tourist path on summer vacation.
Recommended sneaker brands and styles for summer
When it comes to style and comfort in a sneaker, there are two brands we’d espouse - Santoni and Paul & Shark. Both are Italian in origin, and have spent decades refining their products. Santoni in particular produces a wide range of colours and styles, all made to their exacting standards using high-end materials.
Santoni Oly Suede Sneaker
Featuring a wonderful muted “dusty blue” colour, these sneakers echo the footwear of tennis legends past. Durable suede forms the upper, and the rubber cupsole provides a confident grip.
Paul & Shark Green Shark-Wave Technical Knit Sneakers
More overtly performance-focused than our first Santoni option, these trainers pack hidden waterproofing which could be vital when holidaying in a region prone to sudden downpours. They’re designed to function as a running shoe, with the features you’d expect to find in such a practical sneaker.
Santoni Navy Double Buckle Tumbled Leather Sneaker
Featuring a look inspired by Santoni’s double buckle shoes (hence the name, despite the lack of buckles on this lace-up), these cashmere-lined sneakers are truly luxurious. Although the featured colour is navy, they are also available in brown leather and an eye-catching light blue suede, amongst others.
Paul & Shark White Hybrid Leather & Tech-Fabric Sneakers
Another dual-function sneaker from Paul & Shark, this pair combines Paul & Shark’s technical fabric with durable leather to create a hard-wearing performance silhouette.
Santoni Navy Stretch Knit Double Buckle Sneaker
Offering a dynamic function-based design, this pair from Santoni would be perfect for a Mediterranean tourist trail, with stretch fabric and a sock that provides a secure fit. The chunky grips won’t let you down if the terrain gets rough, and when you’re back they can also function as a running shoe.
Santoni Black Tumbled Leather No-lace Sneaker
In the name of maximum comfort, we’d like to present to you Santoni’s “no-lace” tumbled leather sneakers. They use a clever system of hidden elasticated inserts to provide you with the style of sneaker, and the function of a slip-on, and shouldn’t be underestimated when it comes to making a choice for your summer wardrobe.
How to clean your sneakers
Of course you’ll want to keep your investment immaculate, but dusty terrain may have other ideas. For durable leather, a soft cloth and polish will be enough to condition and protect. We’d recommend a toothbrush to keep the seams clean of dirt, although you can also purchase a purpose-built solution. When cleaning suede there are a variety of products on the market which use a cleaning foam - these products should always be spot-tested somewhere unobtrusive, just in case they will have a deleterious effect on the appearance of your most comfortable footwear.
If you have any questions or would like recommendations for sneakers that need to meet a specific requirement, please do get in touch.
