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6 Summer Trainers That Are So On-Trend They Practically Scream

By Swedan Margen

6 Summer Trainers That Are So On-Trend They Practically Scream

For a long time, I overlooked trainers (even trendy pairs) in summer. Sandals felt like the obvious choice—less enclosed, more seasonally attuned. But over the past couple of years, I've come to appreciate how the right pair of trainers can anchor an outfit in a way that’s both cool and comfortable (in all senses of the word). They’ve quietly become a staple of my warm-weather wardrobe (especially when I'm clocking up mile upon mile when on holiday) and, based on what I’m seeing on the streets and in new collections, I’m clearly not alone.

This season, trainers are taking on a softer, more playful mood—more summer-aligned than ever. From pastel tones to unexpected silhouettes, there’s a clear shift towards making your trainers a key talking point of your outfit rather than an afterthought. That might mean choosing a punchy colour that brightens up neutral staples, or going for a detail like charms or sheen that turns even a minimal outfit into something more considered.

Scroll below to see and shop the summer 2025 trainer trends I’ve been spotting everywhere lately.

7 Summer 2025 Trainer Trends I Keep Seeing

1. Butter Yellow

@styledbysara wears a pair of pale yellow trainers with a yellow midi skirt and white vest top

Style Notes: This soft, creamy yellow tone has become the breakout colour of the season, and it works beautifully on trainers. A fresh update on neutrals, it pairs perfectly with denim, whites and even more vibrant tones. Plus, they'll instantly lift a black outfit without making it feel monochromatic.

Shop the Trend:

Contrast Running Trainers

ZARA

Contrast Running Trainers

The contrasting lighter and darker yellow tones give these trainers an edge.

+ on Cloudventure 2.0 Rubber-Trimmed Paneled Recycled-Mesh Sneakers

LOEWE

+ on Cloudventure 2.0 Rubber-Trimmed Paneled Recycled-Mesh Sneakers

Sl 72 Og Suede and Leather-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers

ADIDAS ORIGINALS

SL 72 Og Suede and Leather-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers

Yes that's right—even Adidas is in on the action.

2. Sneakerinas

@rebeccaferrazwyatt wears a pair of ballet-style trainers with long shorts and a lightweight polkadot jacket

Style Notes: A hybrid of ballet flats and traditional trainers, these delicate, dance-inspired shoes are the most elegant addition to this season’s trainer offering and, just like that, one of the most noteworthy. Owing to their pretty nature, they work particularly well with dresses and skirts, making them perfect for city strolls or casual evenings out.

Shop the Trend:

Erika Topstitching Lace-Up Ballet Flats- Silver

JW PEI

Erika Topstitching Lace-Up Ballet Flats- Silver

Tick off another major sneaker trend with a silver pair.

Cece Satin Ruched Bow Sneakers

Charles & Keith

Cece Satin Ruched Bow Sneakers

These come in a handful of colours.

Puma, Speedcat Ballet Shoes

Puma

Speedcat Ballet Shoes

3. Brown

@nlmarilyn wears a pair of brown Nike trainers with black micro shorts and a white shirt

Style Notes: If your black trainers feel too heavy right now, you're not alone. Brown has quietly taken over as the understated option that still grounds a look but feels a touch softer and more seasonally appropriate. Think deep chocolates for a high-end finish, but warmer, more earthy iterations also work here.

Shop the Trend:

Tb490 Rife Sneakers

ALOHAS

TB490 Rife Sneakers

The suede texture makes a brown trainer look even more luxurious.

Kai Trainers

A lighter take on the trend (complete with contrasting laces).

Willow Suede Sneakers

Free People

Willow Suede Sneakers

4. Grass Green

@smythsisters wears a pair of green trainers with off-white sweat shorts and a cream knitted top

Style Notes: Green trainers—especially in vibrant, almost neon shades—are having a moment. Whether worn as a pop of colour against neutral outfits or clashed with other brights, they bring a dose of fun to summer looks that goes hand in hand with the time of year.

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6 Summer Trainers That Are So On-Trend They Practically Scream - Vanity Fair Fashion