The Best Shoes to Wear with Shorts

As the temperature rises and the trousers retreat to the back of the wardrobe, there’s one summer style question that surfaces year after year: what are the best shoes to wear with shorts? The answer is simple – it all depends on the type of shorts you are reaching for and the occasion you’re dressing for. Whether you’re deciding which trainers will pair best with your everyday sweat shorts or you’re unsure how to strike the perfect smart-casual balance with the right shoe to match your chino shorts, we’re here to ensure you get it right every time.

Keeping your look considered, effortless and sharp in the warmer weather, the key is to find the perfect balance between formality and ease, ensuring your footwear option pairs well with the rest of the outfit and keeps you comfortable. From casual afternoons in the beer garden to seaside getaways and city strolls, making the right footwear choice with your shorts will ensure you look and feel your best all summer long. Read on as we uncover what footwear options are best for various styles of shorts and occasions.

Loafers with chino shorts

Chino shorts are the smart-casual hero of summer wardrobes. Polished enough to wear to the office or a formal event, and relaxed enough for casual weekend activities, the beauty of chino shorts lies in the style’s versatility, and the right shoes can help you lean either way on the style spectrum. With this style of tailoring, loafers are a great footwear option to wear with chino shorts that stray from the expected shorts and trainers combo. Loafers and boat shoes add just the right amount of refinement to your outfit while still feeling easy and breathable in warmer weather.

Whether you opt for a pair of classic beige chino shorts or a darker wash, a pair of leather boat shoes or suede loafers will pair perfectly with any pair of chino shorts to give you a clean, modern look. Not only does this style of shoe keep your look polished and put together, keeping you looking your best for all occasions, but it also provides all-day comfort with comfort insoles and moulded uppers. To find the perfect pair of shoes to complete this smart-casual look, browse through our full collection of men’s summer shoes, featuring a variety of versatile styles and colours to suit you.

Stylish trainers with denim shorts

Denim shorts are the ultimate summer wardrobe staple to give you that easy-going, stylish look that is incredibly versatile. A good pair of denim shorts requires an equally laidback, yet stylish pair of designer shoes to accompany them. If you’re thinking, ‘what shoes to wear with denim shorts?’, the good news is that due to their versatile nature, denim shorts play well with a wide range of footwear, so you’ve got plenty of options depending on where you’re headed and the type of style you’re going for. A top tip is to avoid footwear that is too formal, as it will contradict the naturally laidback nature of the shorts and completely change your look.

We suggest opting for a classic white trainer or a high-top silhouette that pairs well with other pieces in your wardrobe if you’re wanting to make more of a statement with your outfit. White trainers are a great option for those looking for footwear that will pair with any outfit, all year round, giving a clean, minimalist look. This style lets the denim do the talking, but if you’re after something with a bit more edge, swap out the white for a retro-inspired high-top trainer that complements the effortlessly cool vibe of the denim.

Sliders or Sandals with swim shorts

Swim shorts might be built for the beach, but chances are you’ll be wearing them beyond the water’s edge this summer. Whether you’re heading to a poolside bar, grabbing lunch on the promenade, or strolling through a coastal town, knowing the right footwear to pair with these shorts is key to creating an outfit that is relaxed, functional, and can handle a splash or two without looking out of place. Comfort and practicality are at the top of your list when it comes to finding the right footwear, although sliders are an obvious go-to, more elevated sandals and trainers can also be great options depending on what you’re up to.

Easy to slip on and off for around the pool or dipping in the sea, a pair of sliders in a monochrome colour gives you the versatility to get creative with your swim shorts if you choose to. Sliders are usually waterproof too, meaning you can keep your feet protected whilst exploring rocky shores. However, if you want something a bit more put together that will be more practical for walking longer distances, a pair of sandals like Birkenstock’s is perfect. These types of sandals are timeless and always on-trend, pairing well with everything from your swim shorts to evening chinos and beyond.

Sports trainers with sweat shorts

Sweat shorts have become a modern summer essential loved for their relaxed and surprisingly versatile vibe. Whether you’re running errands, going to the gym or enjoying a walk in the sun, making your sweat shorts look intentional (and not like you’ve just rolled out of bed) lies in your choice of footwear. For everyday wear, a pair of clean, white trainers is a fail-safe option – think crisp white leather or chunky retro-inspired designs for a sportier vibe. If you’re leaning into a bolder style, adding a pair of statement colourful trainers can add visual intrigue and elevate your sweat shorts look into something more intentional.

If you’re reaching for your classic grey sweat shorts, then a colourful trainer is the perfect way to switch up your look, especially when paired with a graphic tee, turning an everyday, relaxing-at-home ‘fit into one suitable for hanging out in the sun with friends. However, if colourful footwear really isn’t your thing, inject colour with your shorts and keep the trainers simple to give you versatility with the rest of your look. These looks are not only fashionable but ensure you are comfortable all day long, perfect for longer days out.

Step out in style this summer with Standout

Whether you’re all about laid-back trainers, breezy sandals or something a little sharper, the right footwear can turn even the simplest outfit into a standout look. Browse through our full collection of men’s designer footwear and shorts to find the perfect combo.