The best breathable sneakers for hot summer runs

Maya Ernest Aug. 6, 2022 Style Beat the summer heat (and damp socks) with these eight athletic shoes. Hoka One One

Finding a summer running sneaker, let alone the will to run in the heat, can be an arduous process. High temperatures make feet sweaty and stinky, and the last thing anyone wants is to run in damp socks. Nike

You don’t have to sacrifice cushioning or style, though. Just make sure you also have breathable and moisture-wicking materials, which are your best bet to beating the summer heat. These eight options offer a little of everything to ease the burden of running on the hottest days. Urban Outfitters

Hoka One One Clifton 8, $140

Hoka One One has found itself a leader in both running tech and streetwear collaborations . Its Clifton 8 sneaker offers plush cushioning and high energy return, making it great for people with wide feet (or those with feet that swell in the heat). A breathable mesh upper rounds off the kicks. Hoka One One

Asics Gel-Nimbus 23, $150

The beloved Gel-Nimbus from Asics recently got a sustainable upgrade. The sneaker will help keep you, and maybe even the planet, cool with a lightweight mesh upper made of 20 percent recycled material. Asics

On Cloudflow, $140

On’s Cloudflow shoes don’t have the most cushioning— they’re best for racing and road running — but the waterproof upper makes them ideal for hot, sweaty runs. You could even consider running through the rain with these for a cooler ride. On

Saucony Kellen Endorphin Pro 2, $200

The Kellen Endorphin Pro 2 is made with a single-layer engineered mesh upper, ensuring a light and breathable fit. Underfoot, the sneaker features Saucony’s Speedroll technology to propel you forward effortlessly — which in the end, should mean less sweat. Saucony

Plus, sales of the Kellen Endorphin Pro 2 benefit the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta . Saucony

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38, $85

Nike’s Pegasus model is a cult favorite thanks to its responsive foam, but there are other features that make it ideal for summer. The shoe’s updated mesh upper combines comfort and durability, while a wider forefoot gives your toes a little more room to breathe. Nike

New Balance FuelCell Rebel V2, $130

Designed for daily runs and up-tempo workouts, the FuelCell Rebel V2 features “explosive” energy return underfoot. Up top, a lightweight engineered mesh upper makes sure the sneaker is highly ventilated. New Balance

Check out that mesh upper. New Balance

Asics Novablast 2, $130

There are two reasons the Asics Novablast 2 beats the heat. Its engineered mesh upper features large vents on the surface, while slightly longer sizing offers a roomier toe box for better air circulation. No damp socks here. Asics

Saucony Tempus, $160

The Tempus bolsters its lightweight mesh upper with built-in vents, offering more air circulation. Saucony’s Formfit design also contours the sneaker’s upper to your foot for a personalized feel. Saucony