schuh Buyers' Picks: Summer 2026

Summer? Still very much in session. We might be deep into the hottest months of the year, but chances are your calendar is still packed with city plans, festival weekends, and maybe even a last-minute beach escape. Translation: your summer shoe rotation is nowhere near ready to clock off.

Need a little summer shoe inspo? Our schuh Buyers have done the trend-spotting and ‘fit planning for you. From trainers that’ll carry you straight into autumn to sandals made for beaches, busy streets, and everything in between, these are the silhouettes earning a place in our summer picks edit.

Consider this your insider guide to the shoes seeing summer through its final act – and staying firmly in rotation afterwards.

The Sneakerina: Summer’s Main Character

First in our buyers’ picks is the sneakerina, also known as the ballet trainer – and according to the schuh buying team, it’s a very strong contender for shoe of the summer. Combining the sleek shape of a classic ballet flat with the comfort and sporty feel of a trainer, it’s officially one of the season’s biggest footwear stories. Leading the pack? The PUMA Speedcat Ballet.

One thing we love about the Speedcat Ballet: the colourway options are next level. Go for a classic pick like the sporty-but-chic black and pink, go full balletcore with the light green’s ribbon finish, or add some edge with the metallic grey colourway, complete with a brown side stripe and buckle detailing.

For styling, balance the sleek silhouette with oversized shapes – wide-leg denim, baggy jorts, and parachute pants all work perfectly. A fitted baby tee or tank top keeps the proportions on point, while crisp socks add another nod to the ballet-meets-streetwear vibe.

“We’re 100% backing the sneakerina this season. The Speedcat Ballet has that sleek, low-profile look that everyone’s loving right now, but the sporty detailing keeps it feeling fresh rather than overly delicate.”

Amberley, Senior Sports Buyer

Techy Trainers for Every Plan

Next on the buyers’ radar: city tech. Think retro running-inspired silhouettes, metallic finishes, breathable mesh, layered panels, and performance-coded soles that can handle any summer plan. 

Got a summer calendar packed with festivals, gigs, raves, and city days? Techy trainers have your back (and your feet). You can’t go wrong with the Nike P-6000: a sneaker that literally needs no introduction with its layered retro runner shape and that iconic Swoosh. The ASICS GT-2160 is another top pick, delivering sleek lines and signature sport-tech energy, while the effortlessly cool Saucony Guide 7 brings a more unexpected archival feel.

Wondering how to style your techy trainers? Lean into the gorpcore aesthetic with parachute trousers, a simple vest, and wraparound sunglasses, or use your shoes to add contrast to a softer ‘fit. A maxi skirt, baby tee, and silver-accented trainers is an elite combo.

“City-tech trainers are still very much on our 2026 radar. The metallic details make them stand out, but they’re still the kind of pair you can throw on for a full day of plans.”

Amberley, Senior Sports Buyer

Low-Key Cool in Vans Slip-On Checkerboard

Into a throwback vibe? Us too. Next on our buyers’ list is the Vans Slip-On Checkerboard. This OG skate-wear icon is low-profile, instantly recognisable, and easy to wear without overthinking it – making it the perfect companion for jam-packed summer days and last-minute plans.

The iconic black and white colourway? Cool since forever. Looking to bring some easy colour to your ‘fits? Opt for bright red for a clean colour pop, or go for a twist on an icon with the pink and black colourway, complete with a turquoise and beige checked sole.

They may be nostalgia-coded, but you don’t need to recreate a full 2010’s Tumblr look to make them work. Style yours with Bermuda shorts – denim, cargo, or tailored – then add an oversized tee or loose shirt. For cooler evenings, throw on a workwear jacket and let the checkerboard do the work.

“We’re so here for the checkerboard Vans comeback! The Slip-On is one of those styles that never really leaves the conversation. Easy to wear, full of personality, and serving just the right amount of throwback energy – it’s a true icon.” 

Amberley, Senior Sports Buyer

Havaianas for Hot Days & City Streets

It’s no secret that flip flops are firmly back in the spotlight for summer 2026 – and Havaianas are top of our buyers’ list. Easy, colourful, and ready to wear on repeat, they’re made for squeezing every last bit out of summer.

Bright colourways are the move when the sun’s out. Think bold reds, yellows, and blues – an effortless way to bring the summer energy to simple ‘fits. Keep the rest of your look neutral with loose linen trousers, denim shorts, or a floaty white skirt, or add swimwear, sporty shorts, and an oversized shirt if you’re kicking back poolside.

Spending summer in the city? Switch to neutral shades and cleaner shapes. The Havaianas Slim Square Flip in chic brown, black, or white takes this laid-back silhouette beyond poolside duty, pairing easily with denim, tailoring, and floaty pieces. Style yours with wide-leg jeans and a tank top for a street-ready, Scandi-coded look, then finish with a baseball cap or oversized sunglasses. When the temperature climbs, swap the denim for loose linen trousers or a flowing skirt.

“We’re loving flip flops for a city staple this summer. Style a neutral pair with loose-fit jeans for a chic, city-ready vibe, or throw on a colourful pair when you want that full-volume summer energy without changing your whole look.”

Daniel, Senior Lifestyle Buyer

Shop the Summer Edit at schuh

Summer ‘fits are definitely not done yet. From statement sneakerinas and city-tech trainers to checkerboard icons and flip flops made for far more than the beach, these are the shapes, colours, and silhouettes the schuh team is backing right now.

Ready to give your rotation one more summer upgrade? Check out the latest summer shoes at schuh and find the finishing touch your warm-weather looks have been waiting for.