With picnic blankets filling the park, crowds heading to outdoor events, and travel planning underway, it’s safe to say spring has officially arrived.
If you’re looking to step out in style, these shoe trends for spring will give your wardrobe the refresh it needs for the season. To break down the latest in footwear, Shop TODAY contributor Melissa Garcia joined TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle, highlighting trendy shoes worth adding to your rotation.
Keep reading and check out each style from your favorite retailers, including “glove” flats from Old Navy, boat shoes from Loft and more.
Best spring shoe trends seen on TODAY with Jenna & Sheinelle
Backless and ruched loafers
Timeless but not boring, these loafers are the kind of pair you’ll keep by the door all season. With a classic shape and ruched detail gathered at the toe, these have an elevated yet "less structured" look. And Garcia explains they can be worn with anything, from jeans to shorts to skirts.
If you want the sophistication of a loafer but the ease of a slip-on, these mules are for you. Designed with a classic loafer-inspired upper and an open back, they strike the perfect balance between polish and ease. These are ideal for busy days when you still want to look put together.
Glove flat or heel
Garcia says this style is called the “glove shoe" because it looks like they fit like one — literally! She explains the design has a higher vamp, but the subtle V-cut front gives them a more modern, elongating shape that feels fresh for spring.
Sleek, minimal and lightweight, they’re the kind of pair you can wear every day with just about any outfit, from slacks to sundresses.
With just this one shoe, you can instantly take your outfit from average to effortless cool girl. Along with the gloved, pointed toe, and slim stiletto heel, these are minimalistic while still statement-making. And it's high enough to elongate your legs, but still low enough to comfortably walk around the city.
Thong Kitten Heels
Garcia says '90s minimalism has taken off this year, and this kitten heel is basically the modern, elevated version of a flip-flop. Feminine and perfect for showing off a fresh pedicure, these are the kind of heels that instantly feel like spring. They're easy to slip on, and reviewers say they're surprisingly comfortable to walk in. Shop their more neutral colorways or an adorable pastel pink.
Boat shoes
Boat shoes are quietly making a comeback, and this pair feels like the modern update. With a clean, streamlined shape and subtle detailing, they lean more fashion-forward than nautical, making them an easy way to tap into the trend without going full preppy.
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Technical trainers
"These are the sneaker right now; every fashion girlie is wearing them," says Garcia. "Salomon started as a performance brand, but like New Balance, they have fully crossed into fashion."
These aren’t your average everyday sneakers. Built for movement but styled for daily life, they blend performance details with a distinctly modern edge. Features like Quicklace, which is a one-pull lacing system that lets you tighten the shoe in seconds, and a supportive fit make them as functional as they are cool.
More spring shoes and sneaker trends to shop
The knit material these sneakers are designed with lends to their flexibility and breathability, meaning they’re easy to slip on and wear when going on a stroll.
The ‘70s called, and this style is back. Metallic and faux-leather fabrics paired with low rubber platforms allow these sneakers to remain versatile. You can easily match them with a sundress or jean shorts. They’re available in a range of sizes (including half sizes!), and reviewers love how the memory foam insole and wide toe box work together to provide comfort.
“Retro sneakers are sleek, minimal, and ultra low-profile,” says Garcia. “A key feature of this trend, a super slim sole… the slimmer the sole, the better!”
“White sneakers aren’t just a trend — they’re a closet essential,” says Garcia. “A crisp pair of white sneakers brings a fresh, clean look to any outfit and can go with everything — from flowy dresses to denim [and] slouchy oversized pants suits.”
Inspired by styles worn around the tennis court, this sneaker features a gummy-like sole to provide traction and are made out of a cotton fabric that the brand says will remain breathable.
Reviewers rave about how lightweight these shoes are, despite having a chunky platform sole. The exterior is lightweight, while the interior is lined with a breathable fabric that keeps heat from getting trapped within.
Reviewers recommend sizing up if you have wider feet for a more comfortable fit.
This low-to-the-ground pair is available in multiple spring-ready colors that make it easy to pair with sundresses, shorts and more. They’re easily recognizable (thanks to the triple stripe along the side), while the leather fabric makeup is reminiscent of an early 2000s style.
No laces, no problem. Garcia says this look is “all about efficiency,” with features such as a stretchy lace system that makes it easier to slip your foot in and out of the shoe.
These are also machine-washable, keeping them simple to clean after a day of gardening, accidentally stepping in a muddy patch or after a few months of natural use.
These ballet sneakers feature contoured footbeds, and the seemingly stretchy laces make it simple to slide your feet in and out. They’re also made with mesh fabric for added breathability and are offered in leopard as well as black designs.
It’s true: Ballet sneakers are trending! If you’re skeptical of this style, don’t fret — this affordable option from Converse is an optimal way to buy into the trend.
These sleek sneakers blend metallic tones with the trending ballet-shoe silhouette. They each feature a hook-and-loop strap that’s reminiscent of a Mary Jane design, and they’re even available in three colors: silver, white and gold.
According to a podiatrist, Asics are good for anyone and everyone, no matter their foot type. Whether you wear these running shoes as intended (on a long run) or if you simply love them for their style, you’ll remain comfortable thanks to the brand-specific gel cushioning in the heel.
“This spring, it’s all about the technical athletic sneaker — these look like a running shoe, [but] with a metallic element,” says Garcia. “The key elements to look for with this trend [include] layered mesh and metallic components.”
A sugarcane-based foam fills the midsole of these sneakers, lending to how “cushy” and “plush” they feel, according to the brand. Additionally, a padded heel collar make them comfortable to slide in and out of.
Plus, podiatrists recommend Allbirds for their lightweight design and ample arch support.
This trending sneaker has garnered thousands of views on TikTok, with users raving about its platform sole, color availability and wide toe box. The rubber platform helps them retain traction no matter what you’re walking on — slick concrete, carpeting and more.
“This season, platform sneakers are sleeker without the added bulk, making these the perfect statement sneaker,” says Garcia.
These sneakers rely on curved cushioning to provide support in each step, making this pair one you’ll reach for each and every time.
For those with wider feet, the brand recommends sizing up a half size for a more preferred fit.
Mimicking a traditional ballet flat, these sneakers prove to be more comfortable thanks to soft suede insoles. They come complete with a set of traditional laces, as well as a set of satin laces that are perfect for rounding out the perfect bow.
Meet the expert
Our team features a range of qualified experts and contributors in our broadcast segments to reveal the latest in trends, remarkable sale events and all things shopping across a variety of categories. Products were independently chosen by members of the Shop TODAY team, along with Melissa Garcia.
- Melissa Garcia is a Shop TODAY lifestyle and fashion contributor. She has experience working on national brand campaigns, appearing on major television broadcasts, and hosting fashion events for commerce destinations. With a relatable approach and her own eye-catching personal style, Garcia has become a go-to fashion resource in American media.
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time. Learn more about Shop TODAY.
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