Keep your feet from sweating in hot weather with these breathable running shoes
Summer usually means lots of sunshine and clear skies, making it ideal race weather. But unfortunately, the summer heat can also make your runs more difficult – and even if you take precautions like running at the right time, wearing sunscreen and drinking plenty of water, you can still end up with sweaty, uncomfortable feet.
Indeed, your usual running shoes may not be as breathable as needed in the summer. Because air can’t move in and out easily, your feet sweat, causing odor, blisters, and other irritation. If you opt for a well-ventilated pair of shoes, you can avoid these problems.
If you want to keep running in the heat, these well-ventilated running shoes can help you run safely and comfortably all summer long.
What to look for in running shoes for summer
Ventilation
When it’s hot, it’s essential that your running shoes provide some type of ventilation that lets air in and out. Some shoes feature mesh panels or full mesh uppers that provide excellent ventilation. Other pairs have vents that allow air to move through the shoe in a specific area. You can also find running shoes with cooling inserts to help improve ventilation. Finally, some styles simply use breathable materials like wool to promote better airflow.
Moisture wicking
In addition to adequate ventilation, you want your summer running shoes to wick moisture away from your feet. This prevents sweat from building up and possibly causing blisters. Some running shoes have uppers that contain moisture-wicking materials like wool or synthetic materials. It’s also helpful to choose running shoes with a moisture-wicking interior to keep your feet dry.
Odor control
Sweaty feet don’t smell good – that’s just a fact. That’s because sweat is the perfect breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. In the summer, running shoes with an antimicrobial lining can fight this bacteria and control odor even if your feet sweat a little.
Best Well-Ventilated Running Shoes for Summer
Less than $100
Under Armor Men’s HOVR Sonic 3 Running Shoe
With a flexible design, these running shoes are comfortable enough for the most grueling summer runs. The uppers are made of well-ventilated compression mesh and micro yarn that dries quickly. The foam midsole also helps maintain your energy. Sold by Amazon
adidas Women’s Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe
These comfortable running shoes have a stretch mesh upper for a highly breathable design. The cloudfoam memory foam sock liner is moldable which conforms to the foot to provide excellent cushioning. The shoes are also extremely lightweight, so they won’t slow you down. Sold by Amazon
New Balance Men’s 520 V5 Running Shoe
These lightweight running shoes have a breathable mesh upper that keeps your feet cool and comfortable in hot weather. They have injection molded EVA foam that provides lightweight support, but they also include a comfort insert for extra cushioning. The sturdy rubber outsole can also last for many runs. Sold by Amazon
Mizuno Men’s Wave Rider 23 Waveknit Running Shoe
With a knit upper, these running shoes are well-ventilated and lightweight, making them perfect for summer runs. The knit material stretches with your foot, for the most comfortable fit. The foam padding also provides effective shock absorption. Sold by Amazon
$100 to $150
ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus 23 Running Shoe
With an engineered mesh upper, these running shoes offer the breathability you want in the summer heat. They also have gel cushioning for shock absorption and foam to give the shoes superior bounce. The mesh material is also made from 20% recycled materials. Sold by Amazon
Available in a wide range of colors, these cushioned running shoes provide exceptional shock absorption with every stride. They provide neutral support and are ideal for road running, cross-training or gym workouts. They are also light and comfortable enough for long distance runs. Sold by Amazon and Dick Sporting Goods
Nike Revolution 5 Men’s Running Shoe
Made from a lightweight knit textile, these running shoes offer breathability and comfort in summer weather. Reinforced heel and overlays enhance durability, and rubber outsoles provide effective traction. They also have light padding for added support. Sold by Amazon
New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam 1080 V10 Running Shoes
These breathable and lightweight running shoes are perfect for summer runs. They have a special Ortholite sock liner to keep your feet cool, while the engineered knit upper allows for plenty of airflow. Its 3D heel also helps improve fit and comfort. Sold by Amazon and Dick Sporting Goods
ASICS Men’s Glideride 2 Running Shoes
With a synthetic mesh upper, these shoes offer top notch ventilation in hot weather. The curved sole design and rigid toe box provide excellent shock absorption and prevent muscle fatigue in your legs. The cushioning is also lightweight, so you’ll never feel slowed down. Sold by Amazon
HOKA Women’s Clifton 8 Running Shoes
These streamlined running shoes are lightweight and comfortable for summer running. They have a plush collar that helps relieve pressure on the Achilles tendon and an elongated heel to provide a more comfortable landing. Sold by Dick Sporting Goods
Brooks Men’s Glycerin 19 Running Shoes
Made of mesh, these running shoes allow efficient air circulation to keep your feet cool even in hot weather. They use 3D printing technology to ensure the best fit, and the internal stretch booties have a soft, plush feel. Padding also helps with shock absorption and fatigue. Sold by Dick Sporting Goods
ASICS Women’s Noosa Tri 13 Running Shoes
These performance running shoes have an engineered mesh upper to increase airflow in hot weather. They have a sock liner and foam padding to make them more comfortable. The unique soles are also very durable and help you save energy while running. Sold by Amazon and Macy’s
$150 or more
Adidas Terrex Two Ultra Primeblue Women’s Trail Running Shoes
If you need a more rugged shoe for trail running, this pair has a knit upper with a sock-like fit that provides ideal ventilation in hot summer weather. The lug outsole provides ideal traction on rough and uneven trails, and the cushioned midsole helps fight fatigue. The wire is also made from recycled plastic. Sold by Dick Sporting Goods
Nike Women’s ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 Running Shoes
With lightweight lateral supports, these running shoes don’t need an arch band to provide effective arch support. They also feature mesh areas where you need more breathability in hot weather. The lightly padded tongue reduces pressure on the top of your foot. Sold by Dick Sporting Goods
Saucony Men’s Endorphin Pro 2 Running Shoes
These shoes have a single layer engineered mesh upper for a lightweight and breathable design. The outsole is reinforced with high abrasion materials to provide superior traction and improve durability. They also have non-slip laces to keep the shoes secure even when running at top speeds. Sold by Dick Sporting Goods
adidas Women’s Ultraboost 4.0 DNA Running Shoe
These sharp-looking running shoes have an extremely breathable and well-ventilated knit upper, ideal for hot weather. The molded heel provides a comfortable fit that helps relieve pressure on the Achilles tendon. The rubber sole provides excellent traction in wet or dry conditions. Sold by Amazon and Dick Sporting Goods
HOKA Women’s Bondi 7 Running Shoes
These comfortable shoes feature an open mesh construction for increased breathability. They also have a super soft memory foam collar that hugs the ankle for added support and stability. The beveled heel design allows for smooth transitions and improved durability. Sold by Dick Sporting Goods
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