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Brightly coloured trainers are the summer shoe trend to know – shop 7 of the best, from Adidas to Asics
Brighter days just got even brighter
It's no secret that trainers have rightfully earned their place at the centre of everyday wardrobes. But, with the weather finally reaching appropriate summer temps, the appetite for a plain white sneaker is feeling low. No, we call for fresh, vibrant hues that match our outside-all-day energy!
Breaking up the monotony of one-tone outfits is easily done with a pop of red, while a flash of cobalt blue can completely transform your favourite jeans-and-a-nice-top formula into something fashion-forward. Whether it’s via Puma’s bright yellow Speedcats or Adidas’s forest green Gazelles, bold coloured footwear is one of the quickest ways to elevate everyday ensembles.
And the brands have caught onto such desires: the market has become somewhat saturated. But worry not, the right pairs are the ones that offer style, comfort and playfulness combined, and we’ve done the groundwork finding 7 of the very best colourful trainers to match any and every summer plan you have this season.
Below, our edit of the best bright, zesty trainers to see you through summer and beyond.
Adidas Muenchen Suede Low-Top Trainers
Vibrant green suede and gum soles are a match made in heaven. These Adidas Muenchen are the perfect answer to transeasonal footwear, working just as well in mid-winter as at the height of summer.
Puma Speedcats have been *that girl* for a few seasons now, so we can safely say they are here to stay. The sleekest of street style sneakers, the Speedcat in yellow imbues a cool confidence. If you're looking to create a statement, style with clashing colours. Alternatively, lace up with your favourite denim for a more casual approach.
A pop of red is a the easiest way to inject a little life into a monochromatic outfit. This retro-inspired pair from Alohas is timeless, trendy and endlessly comfortable.
The pop of pink isn't the only thing that makes these trainers stand out — we especially love the double lace detail and ability to add charms to the shoe. Customisable sneakers for summer '26? Count us in!
This Hoff sneaker is the final boss of summer trends. Not only does the shoe combine various vibrant colours, but the crochet design means the shoes are super breathable in hotter weather. In a trending slim silhouette, these trainers are bold with a capital B.
Adidas x Wales Bonner Karintha Leather And Crochet-Trimmed Satin Sneakers
Adidas x Wales Bonner Karintha Leather And Crochet-Trimmed Satin Sneakers
Of course, the pinnacle of colourful footwear is anything from Adidas's ongoing collaboration with Wales Bonner. This blue satin pair is a far cry from the retro browns and greens of previous drops, but the new hue paired with the cutsey crochet trim feels fresh for 2026.
Asics put the comfort in fashion — a rare thing! We love this yellow, black and silver colour-way that straddles the line between retro and contemporary.
Julia Storm is the Multiplatform Fashion Editor at ELLE UK, where she spotlights emerging designers, highlights breakout trends and shares considered shopping intel. She previously held roles at British Vogue, contributing to both print and digital platforms. Follow her on instagram @juliaa_storm
Amy May Ellis (she/her) is the SEO Manager for Cosmopolitan UK, Women's Health UK, Men's Health UK, and Runner's World UK. Her love for all things beauty, fashion, and wellness is evident in her work with these lifestyle and fitness brands. Providing content recommendations for everything from new gut health supplements to the latest fashion trend, Amy has a keen eye for detail and loves to spot trends before they fully flourish.
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