What Are The Top 7 Men's Shoes To Wear With Shorts?

Shorts are simple pieces that work great for casual settings. However, when paired with certain styles of shoes to wear with shorts, you can upgrade your look and even make it appropriate for more formal occasions.

In this guide, master the art of choosing the right men's shoes to wear with shorts. We'll talk about the different styles of men’s shoes for shorts and how to choose the best shoes to wear with shorts based on your vibe or the event. We will also give you wardrobe ideas to pull an amazing outfit each time—whether you're styling casual mens summer shoes with shorts or going for more polished options like boat shoes with shorts.

How to Pair Men's Shoes with Shorts?

You don't always have to wear the same shoes for all your shorts. From casual slip-ons to dressier loafers, the right shoes can completely change your outfit. Whether you're looking for the best shoes to wear with shorts on vacation or want stylish men's shoes for shorts at weekend gatherings, having a few go-to pairs makes all the difference. Here are the different styles and types of  men's shoes to wear with shorts. 

Sneakers 

Men's casual sneakers are probably the most versatile shoes you could own. Sneakers with shorts are a match made in heaven. However, there are certain rules to follow to pull off a clean and amazing look. The cut of your shorts is the biggest consideration when deciding which sneaker style to choose. Whether you're aiming for a relaxed vibe or a more refined streetwear look, sneakers are a go-to when deciding what shoes to wear with shorts.

Consider these tips for men's casual shoes to wear with shorts:

• Chunky sneaker silhouettes for wide, long shorts. 
• Minimalist sneakers are a thing these days and are perfect for knee-length and shorter shorts. However, just because they're “in” doesn't mean the chunky kicks are out. These kicks still deserve a spot in your wardrobe, especially if you like wearing wide, long shorts. 
• White sneakers are a must-have.They’re among the best shoes to wear with shorts in almost any setting. Whether you're dressing in denim, chinos, or sporty styles, shoes with shorts like crisp white sneakers always deliver.
• If you're building a summer wardrobe, casual men’s summer shoes with shorts should start with different sneaker styles you can dress up or down.

Loafers 

Want to elevate your look for a weekend brunch with friends but don't want to be over-the-top? Go for loafers with shorts. While they aren't as casual as sneakers, these kicks are very versatile too and easily rank among the best shoes to wear with shorts in smart-casual settings. 

Depending on how formal or informal of an outfit you want, you can pair mens loafers with shorts  in various ways. Shorts with loafers work perfectly when styled with button-downs or polos for a polished summer outfit. Loafers are some of the best shoes to wear with chino shorts and make a great semi-formal outfit for the summertime. 

Can you wear loafers with shorts? Absolutely—just make sure the shorts hit above the knee and aren’t too baggy. Casual loafers with shorts look great with chino, linen, or even tailored shorts. If you're going for something breezier, casual mens summer shoes with shorts like loafers are ideal for warm-weather events.

Meanwhile, if you want to go casual, wear loafers with denim and khakis, and  go sockless during warm seasons. Another stylish option is pairing loafers with shorts and a belt, plus a tailored shirt—perfect for summer gatherings or dinner by the beach. These are versatile men's shoes for shorts that can easily  transition from day to night.

Moccasins 

Moccasins and shorts work well together, basically because they are essentially loafers. When paired with shorts, these kicks make for a comfortable and casual look. 

High-top shoes with shorts, especially in moccasin form,go nicely with jeans, capris, and shorts. You may opt for natural leather and suede colors for a subtle yet distinct look. And just like sneakers, you can wear these shoes with or without socks.

A crew-neck tee and shorts are among the most versatile outfits you can have, whatever the day. Finishing the look with moccasins is a great example of shoes that go with shorts—adding just the right amount of structure and style. They’re perfect if you're aiming for something between sporty and dressy without being too formal.

Boat Shoes

Boat shoes with shorts are warm-weather combo that can instantly dress up your look. Given its versatility, boat shoes can be paired with many different outfits, making them one of the top men's shoes to wear with shorts for summer. 

For smart casual, chinos and boat shoes go hand-in-hand. Consider  rolling up your trousers' cuffs to create an effortless look or swap the chinos for tailored shorts for a relaxed yet refined summer vibe. Mens shoes for shorts like boat shoes offer a more polished option than sneakers but still keep things cool and casual.

If buying boat shoes, opt for colors like navy, tan, white or pale blue. They pair well with tees, polos, and button-downs. While shorts and sandals are a common choice in summer, boat shoes provide a more structured and elevated alternative—especially when choosing shoes for shorts that you can wear to brunch, beach dinners, or travel days. 

Brogues

These wet-weather farm shoes have been around for a long, long time and they are still a popular footwear choice among modern men.  These classic kicks are probably the most versatile men's shoes for shorts and beyond. They are office-ready, suit-friendly, and of course, (first) date-appropriate. Even though brogues are considered men's dress shoes, they also pair nicely with shorts. 

Though traditionally known as men's dress shoes, they also work surprisingly well with shorts. Styling dress shoes with shorts offers a polished twist for summer occasions. Similar to oxford shoes with shorts, brogues add structure without looking too formal.

If you want something more refined than sneakers and less bulky than ankle boots with shorts, brogues are a strong pick. Pair them with tailored shorts and a crisp shirt for a sharp mens summer shoes with shorts outfit.

Can you wear oxford shoes with shorts? 

Unfortunately, they are too formal for shorts. If you want to wear men’s casual shoes with shorts, you can opt for casual loafers, brogues, or boat shoes instead. Brogues and shorts are a killer combo for the warmer months. Ditch the socks and choose shorts that are just above or below the knee. You can pair the look with a shirt, knitwear, and even a blazer. Oxford shoes with shorts may not work, but the right men's shoes to wear with shorts definitely can. You can also wear it with a polo.

Sandals

Sandals with shorts are your best friend during the hot season. They're probably the best option for men's summer shoes with shorts —a winning combo perfect for casual events, whether in the city or at the beach.. Whether you're headed to a backyard barbecue or a pool party with friends, shorts and sandals are the best choice. Don't think they're just good for the groceries. You can look stylish and dressed wearing sandals with shorts too. 

The type of sandal you choose should match the style of shorts. Slightly raised sandals pair nicely with cotton Bermuda shorts, while flip-flops go best with denim or ultra-light cotton shorts. Cargo shorts and sandals are another classic mens summer shoes with shorts look. 

Ankle Boots

Ankle boots with shorts are one of the most versatile combos you can try. They suit a range of outfits, from casual to smart-casual looks and are great shoes that go with shorts when you're after a rugged or polished finish. 

When sporting ankle boots with shorts, your best bet is a pair of Chelsea ankle boots. They are sleek and easy to wear. For your top, you can wear a button-up shirt or a roll-neck sweater. Chukkas and other lace-up styles of ankle boots also pair well with shorts. 

When it comes to must-have footwear for men, ankle boots and shorts always make the list. What’s more, there are so many ways to wear them.  For example, these are perfect shoes to wear with shorts like khaki. On lazy days, you can put together a red plaid long-sleeve shirt, brown or khaki shorts, and a pair of  casual ankle boots. 

How about a polo? Yes, you can pick that too. Go with a pink polo and black shorts for an appealing look. Add some extra depth to your ensemble by sporting black leather boots. For a fancy, casual look, you can try a shirt, biker jacket, and casual boots with shorts and socks. 

Conclusion

So many different styles of men's shoes go beautifully with shorts. If you have sneakers, loafers, brogues, classic shoes, and sandals in your wardrobe, you can ensure a stunning look, whatever the occasion. 

While shorts are best reserved for casual occasions, with the right footwear, you can dress up your outfit and pull off a fashionable look each time.