INSPIRATION AND ADVICE

NO-TOE ZONE: YOUR GUIDE TO SUMMER TRAINERS

By Flo Bellinger, 7 July 2025

We get it, summer is all about embracing a skimpy shoe. But even the most free-spirited among us can admit this year might’ve stepped one toe too far. From sweaty commutes to over-run parks, the recent heatwave has invited a few too many feet to the party. If you’re tired of staring at open toes over your morning coffee, then you’ll be pleased to know summer still belongs to the trainer – you just have to know where to look. So, away with the flip flops (sorry Jonathan Bailey), save those sliders for your nearest and dearest, and reach for one of the following when you next step outside. Besides looking infinitely stylish, your fellow commuters will thank you.

PUMA SPEEDCAT

Puma Speedcat OG trainers in red, £90

Starting strong with a trending trainer that’s dominated street style for the past few months. The PUMA Speedcat first rose to prominence in the 1980s as a favourite of Formula 1 drivers, but made a sudden comeback at the tail-end of last year. With a low-profile silhouette and textured sole, these streamlined shoes are comfortable, durable and infinitely wearable. Whether you opt for a bold colourway like this pillar-box red or a more understated neutral, the lightweight Speedcat is a great choice for summer. Plus, the low-slung style pairs with everything from shorts to denim and trousers – making it a year-round staple, too.

ADIDAS TOKYO

adidas Originals Tokyo trainers in white, yellow and green | ASOS Style Feed

adidas Originals Tokyo trainers in white, yellow and green, £85

Another addition to the low-profile arsenal, the adidas Tokyo is set to be the shoe of the summer. A slimmer version of everyone’s favourite Samba, these flat trainers feel equal parts vintage and modern. The white and green colourway looks like they’re fresh from a sunny game of tennis, but the uber-comfy fit also makes these a great shoe for all your warm-weather excursions. And the best part? They won’t overpower your outfit, so you can dress them up or down (depending on the weather app).

ASICS GEL-NYC

Asics Gel-NYC utility trainers in cream, £155

If slim silhouettes aren’t your thing, opt for something chunkier and sportier — like the ASICS Gel-NYC Utility. ASICS has been on a hot streak with its chunkier soles, making them a formidable brand in an industry dominated by low-slung designs. The Gel range ensures your feet stay cool during the warmer months, with breathable fabric and performance-driven design that’ll keep a dreaded sweaty sock at bay. And in a white and green colourway, these ooze summer retro.

VANS

Vans Authentic trainers in white, £60

You didn’t think we’d seen the last of Vans, did you? After dominating skate parks in the 90s and street style in the 00s, everyone’s favourite canvas shoe slipped off the radar. But like all good things in life, we began to miss them. Amidst a sea of bold new silhouettes and left-field designs, we craved the comfortable familiarity of a good pair of Vans – and now they’re remerging on runways and roadsides, with major fashion houses like Dior and Louis Vuitton taking inspo from the indelible skate shoe. With a rubber sole that prevents scuffs and stains, these airy canvas sneakers are a must-have for toe-adverse summer styling.

CONVERSE

Pictures: ASOS

Converse Chuck 70 Hi vintage canvas trainers in egret, £85

Arguably the most iconic trainer on this list, Converse high-tops are instantly recognisable and endlessly wearable, despite having been around for over 100 years. This ankle-hugging silhouette is on-track to dominate summer 2025, given that they’re comfortable and go with almost any outfit. Like trusty Vans, the classic canvas Converse are lightweight and breathable, so perfect for warmer weather. They’re also incredibly affordable and undeniably durable, so if there’s one investment worth making when it comes to your wardrobe, it’s this.