Shopping·8 min read

12 of Our Favorite Breathable White Sneakers for Summer

White sneakers women allbirds and keds
Design: theSkimm | Photos: Nike, Free People
May 14, 2024

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White sneakers are a timeless summertime staple — and they almost always look good with everything, from athleisure to dresses. We’ve found trendy platform options, running shoes, and retro styles that are having a comeback, so no matter the occasion, it’s you and your white sneakers taking on the world. Psst…if you want to keep them clean, try our favorite shoe cleaner. Time to lace up.

air-force
Nordstrom

The Nike classic that needs no introduction…

There’s just something about a crisp white Air Force 1 in the summertime. This sneaker came back in a big way a few years ago, and for good reason since it’s still one of the most comfortable shoes we’ve ever worn. It looks great with athleisure and somehow even better with dresses or jean shorts. ($115, Nordstrom)

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platform-sneakers
DSW

Platform sneakers by a comeback brand…

We put these TikTok-famous sneakers to the test and found the anatomical cushioning to provide great support while walking for miles in a new city. Plus, they pair nicely with almost any outfit, so they’re great for a travel capsule wardrobe. The under-$100 price tag doesn’t hurt, either. ($69.96, DSW)

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gazelles
Dick's Sporting Goods

An Adidas sneaker that not everyone is wearing…

Though Adidas Sambas have been having a moment, Gazelles have always been cool. We love the minimalism of these leather sneakers, and the rubber bottom ensures you can walk for miles. They come off dressier than canvas or athletic styles. ($99.99, Dick’s Sporting Goods)

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reebok
Free People

A vintage-looking pair that’s incredibly comfortable…

While they’re more off-white, these sneakers are our go-tos for any activity and with any outfit. Running errands in your favorite athletic dress? They match it perfectly. Dressing down for brunch? They work for that, too. We’ve worn them to concerts and been on our feet for hours, and they never give us blisters. ($90, Free People)

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new-balance
Nordstrom

The white sneakers all the cool kids are wearing…

Enter: the New Balance 550s. Originally a basketball shoe, these sneakers are about as clean as it gets, even though this colorway is really more of an eggshell. We love wearing ours with sporty outfits and high socks. True to the brand, you can bet these will be comfortable no matter what you’re doing. ($109.99, Nordstrom)

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Superga white sneakers women
Zappos

White canvas sneakers that’ll keep your feet cool…

A true closet essential for the summer, these are made from a sturdy, unlined cotton canvas and have a 1-inch-high rubber platform. You can walk miles in these without blisters or sore feet and can wear them with or without socks. You can easily pair them with your favorite pair of jeans or a breezy summer dress. ($58.54+, Zappos)

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Hoka white sneakers women
Hoka

Cushioned shoes you can run and walk in…

We’ve tried several different Hoka styles and can confidently say they’re our running shoe of choice. These are soft, lightweight, and have a breathable mesh upper perfect for even the hottest summer days. They even have a sizing option for wider feet so you can find your just-right fit. ($145, Hoka)

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Allbirds white sneakers women
Allbirds

Allbirds sneakers made from renewable materials…

These are made from eucalyptus tree fibers, which makes the knit breathable, so hot temperatures won’t be a problem. They’re also machine washable and very lightweight. The midsole is made from Brazilian sugarcane, so it’s bouncy, contoured, and yet another feature that makes this sneaker carbon neutral. ($105, Allbirds)

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Converse white sneakers women
Converse

High-top sneakers that will never go out of style…

These Chuck Taylor All-Stars have the brand's classic canvas upper and “All Star” ankle patch. Plus, the white colorway comes with the signature white and blue rubber stripes. They’re always comfortable for all-day wear. When in doubt, you can never go wrong slipping on a pair of Chucks. ($65, Converse)

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White sneakers women athleta
Athleta

Lightweight, breathable sneakers you can work out in…

These are ideal for low-impact workouts at the gym or outdoors, and are made from a breathable microsuede. They have a flexible tongue that hugs your feet, and have been sculpted to fit the shape and form of the female foot. ($150, Athleta)

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Vans white slip on shoes
Vans

Cult-favorite slip-on sneakers you won’t get tired of…

These classic Vans slip-ons are super sturdy, comfortable, and never go out of style. They have the same low-profile canvas uppers, padded collars, and waffle outsoles we all know and love from the original Vans, and they run true to size. Nothing like a slip-on to go with a fresh pair of denim shorts. ($55, Vans)

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Keds white sneakers women
Keds

Casual sneakers the whole family can twin in…

We’ve been going back to Keds for a breathable sneaker ever since we can remember. These are made from 100% cotton and have a memory-foam footbed and padded collar for comfort. They’re basically a perfect match with anything in your summer wardrobe. You can also grab a pair for your kids. ($54.95, Keds)

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