Summer 2020's Best Shoes, Hold The Laces

Over the course of the past few months, our button-up wardrobes have been replaced by elastic waist bands and ultra-soft fabrics. So, we weren’t exactly surprised to find that online searches for slip-on shoes are soaring, too. Really, who among us can be bothered with something as cumbersome as laces anyway? Luckily, a crop of our favorite brands are turning out elevated styles. Ahead, find classic slip-on shoes of every kind, made more stylish for Quarantine Summer 2020.

Channel sunnier days ahead with these brightly hued slides from cool-girl brand APL. Antimicrobial mesh and a 3D-molded footbed help turn up the comfort factor, but it’s the can’t-miss hue that make these babies stand out on Instagram.

SHOP: APL Big Logo TechLoom Slide, $100, available at APL

Haven’t you heard? Thanks to collaborations with the likes of Rick Owens and Opening Ceremony, everyone’s favorite “crunchy” footwear brand has become painfully cool. While we’re eyeing Proenza Schouler’s new take on the classic Arizona sandal (and one metallic silver pair, in particular), Birkenstock is kicking out its own unexpected takes on the iconic shoe, including this electric purple number, which feels more cool girl than hippie. 

SHOP: Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed in Purple Orchid, $135, available at Birkenstock

This update on conventional summer slides injects a little finesse and a lot of substance into the style. We’re into the double straps and muted metallic, arch support, a springy footbed and PVC-free faux leather that make this number easy on the environment, feet and eyes.

SHOP: Reef Cushion Vista Shoe, $45, available at Reef

With the rugged sole of a street shoe and sheepskin-lined comfort of a slipper, this cozy hybrid from Ugg is just as suited for early-morning grocery store runs as it is for schlepping around the house.

SHOP: Ugg Tasman Slipper, $100, available at Ugg

The iconic Dr. Scholl's slide gets a comfy makeover, thanks to cushioned soles and a more grounded wedge heel. The result: the comfort of a flip-flop and a street-cred worthy vibe.

SHOP: Dr. Scholl’s American Lifestyle Originalist Sandal, $39.95, available at Dr. Scholl’s

Just because you’re dressing down doesn’t mean you have to look the part. Luxury casualwear brand Johnny Was gives the classic pool slides a serious upgrade with a painting-worthy jungle print stamped atop buttery faux leather.

SHOP: Johnny Was Jungle Pool Slide Sandals, $98, available at Johnny Was

Meet the slide-on sneaker for the conscientious consumer, made from reclaimed plastic water bottles by a company with its eye on sustainability. The brand offsets carbon emissions with each purchase, uses biodegradable and recyclable packaging, and cuts fabric waste, thanks to a 3D knitting technique used for every product made. Better yet, these sneakers are machine washable, which not only ensures longer wear, but will mercifully save us from summer stink.

SHOP: Rothy’s The Sneaker, $125, available at Rothy’s

These on-trend tie-dye pool slides don’t just look cool: They’re built for those with a wider footprint so our soles can look Instagram ready without feeling the pinch.

SHOP: Asos Design Wide Fit Foiled Pool Slider, $15, available at Asos

Classic sneakers, like these — originally designed for Japanese athletes competing in the 1968 Olympics — will always look cool. But by replacing cumbersome laces with hidden elastic panels that grip the foot, Onisuka Tiger has created a vegan athleisure sneaker that’s at once relaxed and ready for action. 

SHOP: Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66® Slip-On, $84.95, available at Zappos

Excited to return to the office but aren’t ready to abandon the easier aspects of WFH dressing? Try a pair of loafers, which are easy to wear, but still mean business — and forget horsebit hardware. This option from cult favorite brand Mansur Gavriel pours understated quality into the price tag instead.

SHOP: Mansur Gavriel Vegetable Tanned Sock Loafer, $395, available at Mansur Gavriel

There’s a reason Havainas have become the de-facto flip-flop for endless summers worldwide: The thong doesn’t irritate skin between the toes, a lightly-textured sole helps prevent slippage, and the rubber is tough enough to hold up to years of surf, sand, and sun.

SHOP: Havaianas Men’s Top Camo Flip Flops, $24, available at Havaianas

Whether we’ll make it out on the boat this summer is irrelevant. With a pillowy insole and washable nubuck leather upper, this preppy classic makes wearing no-tie shoes look (and feel) cush.

SHOP: Sperry Authentic Original Plushwave Washable Boat Shoe, $79.96, available at Sperry

The most searched espadrille, according to Google Trends, is this breathable design with a clever upgrade. Cole Haan replaced the traditional jute rope sole with layers of cushioned foam inside to make trekking around less of a pain — even if your journey is just taking you around the neighborhood and back.

SHOP: Cole Haan Cloudfeel Espadrille, $60, available at Cole Haan

This collab between Vans and National Geographic doesn’t just look cool, it serves as a vital climate change reminder with every step you take: Greenland’s disappearing Pine Island Glacier is shown in two stages, one on each foot.

SHOP: Vans x National Geographic Classic Slip-On Shoes, $65, available at PacSun