Never Wear Your Sports Shorts With Trainers—They Look Coolest With These Shoe Trends Instead
Nope, not trainers—track shorts look coolest with these non-sporty shoes.
This just in: denim shorts are taking a back seat this summer, and sports shorts are at the helm of our warm-weather wardrobes. Whether it's the football-fuelled energy of summer or the endless stream of run clubs popping up across the city, athletic-inspired dressing is all of a sudden one of the chicest trends you can buy into.
As the trend gains momentum, it would be easy to assume that sports shorts are best styled with your favourite trainers. However, I'm here to tell you that there are far more fashion-forward shoe pairings worth considering.
From elegant sandals to French-girl-approved flats, read on to discover the non-trainer shoe trends that work best with sports shorts.
1. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: There are very few items in my wardrobe that I wouldn't pair with ballet flats, and sports shorts are no exception. Putting a French-girl spin on the athletic trend, this effortless combination makes styling sporty shorts feel surprisingly easy. Just as comfortable as trainers but significantly more polished, ballet flats lend track-style shorts a refined edge that makes them feel far more wearable for everyday dressing.
Shop Track Shorts and Ballet Flats:
2. Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: As high summer settles in, there are few shoes I reach for more often than a pair of strappy sandals. Luckily, they make a natural partner for sports shorts. Bringing contrast to the outfit, the delicate silhouette elevates the casual nature of the shorts and makes the overall outfit feel more considered.
Shop Track Shorts and Strappy Sandals:
3. Pointed-Toe Heels
Style Notes: Without question the most elevated pairing on this list, pointed-toe heels have the power to make sports shorts feel genuinely elegant. The sharp silhouette contrasts beautifully with the relaxed nature of the shorts. Balance the outfit with a simple knit and a few pieces of jewellery for a polished high-low ensemble you'll want to wear all season long.
Shop Track Shorts and Pointed-Toe Heels:

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.