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It’s shorts season, and that means it’s time to lighten up your footwear. Say goodbye to the boots and fleece-lined loafers, and bring out the sandals, light leather sneakers and boat shoes. Whether you’re hitting the beach, heading into the office or going out on the town, shorts can work for almost every summer occasion when paired with the right shoe. Ahead, we’ve put together a list of the 30 best men’s shoes to wear with shorts.

These slide-on sandals from UGG can work with shorts for a dinner date thanks to the lovely leather, but the cushioned footbed and tractioned sole mean they’re good for walking around, too. UGG Wainscott Slide, $99.95 at Zappos

Fisherman sandals call to mind mid-century summer outfits for a day out fishing, but the modern versions are usually made for comfort. This pair from Dr. Scholl’s even has a memory foam footbed. Dr. Scholl’s Gaston Fisherman Sandal, $59.99 at DSW

Sometimes, you just need to throw on a pair of flip-flops. Sure, a rubber pair is fine for the beach or the pool, but for an afternoon out, we like the leather look and sunny color palette of these classic Rainbow sandals. Rainbow ‘301Alts’ Sandal, $55.95 at Nordstrom

OluKai flip-flops are a favorite among people with plantar fasciitis because of their compression-molded EVA midsole and smooth drop-in ICEVA footbed. They’re also water-resistant and quick-drying, so these can be your go-to beach sandals. Plus, there are 20 colors to choose from. OluKai Ohana Flip-Flops, $64.99-$85 at Amazon

Every summer wardrobe needs a pair of inexpensive rubber flip-flops that you can hose off. There’s nothing wrong with the super-cheap pairs, but we prefer to spend a tiny bit more for a pair from flip-flop experts Havaianas. They last for a long time and come in a variety of colors. Havaianas Top Flip Flops, $20 at Zappos

If flip-flops aren’t your thing, a tried-and-true pair of Birkenstock slides are just as easy and comfortable when you’re on the go. This classic option comes in two widths with the original Birkenstock footbed that’s been perfected for cushion and support. Arizona Birko-Flor, $99.95 at Birkenstock

Since these slides are plastic, they’re perfect for the beach or the pool, but, thanks to the monochrome olive green color and sleek design, they’re also just right for running errands or attending a BBQ. Goodfellow & Co Ricky Slide Sandals, $14.99 at Target

For a more contemporary look, these sling-back sandals would work with everything from a pair of patterned shorts to a simple pair of navy chinos. Reposa Sandals, $55 at Aldo

Related: The Best Birkenstock Sandals

Perhaps the most versatile shoe for men to wear with shorts is a pair of white leather sneakers. We like the basic-yet-modern look of this pair, which has a vulcanized rubber sole. And they’ll match whether you’re wearing classic khakis or chinos in a fun summery color like coral. Vionic Baldwin Sneaker, $129.99 at DSW

These sneakers have that classically casual silhouette, but the summery seafoam color makes them really unique. They’d be a fun contrast to denim shorts or would help dress up a pair of plain khakis. ReLeather Tennis Shoe, $100 at Everlane

If you’re looking for a bold color sneaker, look no further. These limited-edition orange sneakers from Brooklyn-based company Greats remind us of a Florida orange. The knit is constructed of yarn made with seven recycled plastic bottles, and the footbed has antimicrobial properties and extra cushioning. And they’re machine-washable, too! The Royale Knit, $119 at Greats

It’s arguable that Allbirds changed the game for men in terms of wearing sneakers to work. Their Wool Runners are the original, but the Mizzles add a waterproof element, which is great for those rainy days when you still have to look professional. Plus, the brand is highly regarded for its sustainable practices. Wool Runner Mizzles, $125 at Allbirds

When you need to give a pair of shorts an extra formal boost, these brown leather sneakers from Cole Haan will do the trick. But even though they might feel dressier than your average sneaker, they’re perforated for breathability and have a lightweight sole. GrandPrø Rally Laser Cut Sneaker, $150 at Cole Haan

Allbirds also makes a slide-on sneaker that is perfect for summer. The Tree Loungers are made of a special eucalyptus-tree-fiber knit that’s not only sustainable but extremely breathable and light. Bonus, they’re machine washable. Tree Loungers, $100 at Allbirds

Vans with plaid shorts is a classic throwback look, but the sophisticated light navy blue color of this pair means they’ll also go well with more formal chinos. Slip-On Sneakers, $55 at Vans

The Columbia brand is known for its outdoor clothing and shoes, and this pair of sneakers (which has a bit of a boat shoe vibe) is no exception. Made of canvas and leather, the sneakers are water- and stain-resistant. They also have a cushioned footbed that’s removable and drainable, as well as a high-traction rubber sole. If you’re going for a casual hike or walking around the lake, this shoe has you covered. Columbia Bahama Vent Loco Relax III, $74.95 at Zappos

Nike Air Force 1’s are classic, but there’s something about the gum sole that makes them feel extra summery. Pair them with casual cargo shorts for a sporty look. Air Force 1 ’07, $100 at Nike

Related: The Best Slip-On Sneakers

When it comes to boat shoes, Sperry is considered the go-to brand. Their original model is as classic as it gets, and we like the tan leather option because of its beige sole, which feels a bit more suited for shorts. Authentic Original Boat Shoe, $94.95 at Sperry

Along with Sperry, Dockers is one of the country’s classic boat-shoe brands. This leather pair has a bit more texture to them, but the neutral color palette ensures they’ll go with almost any pair of shorts. They’ve also been treated with NeverWet, a water and stain guard, so they’re a wonderful option if you enjoy water sports or outdoor activities. Dockers Beacon Leather Casual Boat Shoe with NeverWet, $95 at Macy’s

Toms created a shoe that’s a cross between their beloved Alpargatas (the slides that started it all for the brand) and a traditional boat shoe, and that means it features their proprietary cushioned sole. The chambray fabric is super breathable. Claremont Boat Shoe, $64.95 at Toms

Hey Dude is a new-ish shoe brand that’s gained popularity for its reasonable prices and lightweight construction (a pair starts at just 5oz, which the company says is about the same as a couple of pairs of socks). This boat shoe-esque pair also has a memory foam insole and is made of a bi-component knit in a cool color combo. Hey Dude Wally Sox, $69.96 at Walmart

Related: The Best No-Show Socks

Not only are espadrilles a shoe that is super easy to slip on in the summer, but paired with shorts, they complete a casual-cool resort-wear look. And you know a pair of Toms will be friendly to your feet. Alpargata Rope Espadrille, $59.95 at Toms

For a night out, pair a pair of khaki shorts with a leather espadrille. This pair stands out with a woven leather design. Carlos by Carlos Santana Tito Slip-On Sneakers, $139 at Macy’s

These light lace-up, woven espadrilles are perfect for a hot summer night, especially if you’re at the beach. Derby Espadrilles, $24 at Asos

Soludos is known for their men’s and women’s espadrilles in various styles and colors, but they’re also known for their playful embroidery.  And what’s better than a cold beer and a shot on a hot summer night? The light canvas upper will also keep your feet cool. Beer & Shot Smoking Slipper, $99 at Soludos

Related: The Best Gifts for Men

Part sneaker, part loafer, these slip-on shoes from Sperry just scream summer. We’re partial to the nautical blue, which works for a day out on the boat or a simple afternoon lunch. They’re designed to slip on and off easily, so no struggling to get out the door here. Captain’s Moc Chambray Slip On, $59.95 at Sperry

A leather loafer can feel too heavy for shorts, but this unique white canvas pair from Cole Haan was made for warmer weather. They also have a sneaker sole, so you won’t be sacrificing on comfort. Cole Haan Grandpro Rally Canvas Loafer Shoes, $100 at Macy’s

This is a loafer that feels like it was made for shorts season. Made of Rothy’s signature sustainable knit (it’s spun from recycled plastic water bottles), they’re exceptionally flexible so there’s no breaking-in period. They also have the brand’s signature machine-washability, so feel free to go sockless. The Driving Loafer, $185 at Rothy’s

Cole Haan is well known for its sneaker-like oxfords, which can work with a suit or even a pair of fitted chinos. But for warmer months, they’ve taken the traditional leather design and done them in a lighter-weight knit. If you’re lucky enough to have an office dress code that allows shorts, this is the shoe for you. ØriginalGrand Wingtip Oxford, $150 at Cole Haan

You know a shoe is going to be comfortable if it’s made by Hush Puppies. This pair of suede oxfords was constructed with a flexible fit and special Bounce Plus technology for cushioning and high energy return. The sporty look and sea-and-sand color combo would look super stylish with a pair of navy or taupe chino shorts. Hush Puppies Bennet Oxford, $79.99 at DSW

Next up, here are the best shoes for standing all day.

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Your use of this website constitutes and manifests your acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy, Cookie Notification, and awareness of the California Privacy Rights. Pursuant to U.S. Copyright law, as well as other applicable federal and state laws, the content on this website may not be reproduced, distributed, displayed, transmitted, cached, or otherwise used, without the prior, express, and written permission of Athlon Media Group. Ad Choices

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