Best shoes

9 best shoes for San Diego in September

highs of 81°F, lows of 68°F, 1 rainy days — here's what to put on your feet.

Primary: Walking sandals · Backup: Breathable sneakers · Usually skip: Nothing critical — pack what you already walk in

Why these shoes for San Diego in September

San Diego in September averages highs around 81°F, lows near 68°F, 1 rainy days.

Breathability wins in hot, dry weather. Mesh uppers and open sandals will keep you from sweating through a full day of walking.

One well-chosen pair covers this climate month for most travelers — add a second only if you need dress or activity-specific footwear.

Our picks focus on walking sandals, breathable sneakers, slip-ons — enough range to cover day-to-day walking without overpacking.

How many pairs?

One solid pair is enough

Recommendation: 1 pair

  • A versatile everyday shoe covers most of this climate month.
  • Skip a second pair unless you need dress shoes for a specific night.

Best sandals for San Diego in September

Puffy Puffy Braided White Slide Sandals

Puffy

Puffy Braided White Slide Sandals

$$

A soft, braided strap adds texture and interest to this minimalist slide sandal. The cushioned footbed provides all-day comfort for warm-…

Breathable for ~81°F highs

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ForecastStyle pick Everyday Black Leather Slide Sandals

ForecastStyle pick

Everyday Black Leather Slide Sandals

$$

These simple slides feature a molded footbed for all-day comfort. Their minimalist design pairs effortlessly with everything from linen t…

Breathable for ~81°F highs

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ForecastStyle pick Black Leather Cushioned Slide Sandals

ForecastStyle pick

Black Leather Cushioned Slide Sandals

$$

A molded footbed and buttery soft leather straps make these slides comfortable enough for all-day wear. The minimal design pairs easily w…

Breathable for ~81°F highs

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Best breathable sneakers for San Diego in September

Cloud Cloud White Cushioned Walking Sneakers

Cloud

Cloud White Cushioned Walking Sneakers

$$

Lightweight white walking sneakers with max cushion for 15k-step city days. Clean silhouette that pairs with jeans or joggers and packs f…

Breathable for ~81°F highs

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ForecastStyle pick The Summit Chunky Trail Sneaker in Gray

ForecastStyle pick

The Summit Chunky Trail Sneaker in Gray

$$

A rugged sole provides all-day comfort and traction for city adventures or light trails. The versatile gray color and streamlined silhoue…

Breathable for ~81°F highs

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ForecastStyle pick All-Terrain Trail Runner Sneaker in Mint

ForecastStyle pick

All-Terrain Trail Runner Sneaker in Mint

$$

A lightweight and durable sneaker designed for rugged terrain and everyday wear. The cushioned sole and breathable upper provide all-day …

Breathable for ~81°F highs

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Best slip-on shoes for San Diego in September

ForecastStyle pick Black Low Block-Heel Slingback Flats

ForecastStyle pick

Black Low Block-Heel Slingback Flats

$$

Black slingback flats with a low block heel for dinners and theater nights. Secure strap and flexible sole keep them practical for short …

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ForecastStyle pick The Pointed Toe Leopard Flat

ForecastStyle pick

The Pointed Toe Leopard Flat

$$

A classic pointed-toe flat in a bold leopard print adds instant polish to jeans or dresses. The versatile design transitions easily from …

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ForecastStyle pick The Archive Chunky Lug-Sole Loafer

ForecastStyle pick

The Archive Chunky Lug-Sole Loafer

$$

A substantial lug sole adds a modern, utilitarian edge to this classic loafer silhouette. The cushioned insole makes them comfortable eno…

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Wear them with these outfits

Climate-matched looks for San Diego in September.

More outfits for San Diego in September

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FAQ

Are waterproof shoes necessary in San Diego in September?

Not usually — only around 1 rainy days. A shoe that dries quickly is enough.

Do I need boots in San Diego in September?

Not really — average lows near 68°F stay above the boot threshold. A supportive sneaker is enough.

Can I wear sandals in San Diego in September?

Absolutely — with highs around 81°F, sandals are the daily driver.

Can I get by with one pair of shoes in San Diego in September?

Yes — one versatile pair (or sandals + one closed backup for restaurants) usually covers a hot, dry month.

What about dressy dinners in San Diego?

Most cities accept clean sneakers or light boots for smart-casual dinners. If you have a black-tie night, pack one dress shoe and wear your walking pair on the plane.

Any tips for packing shoes for San Diego?

Wear the bulkiest pair on the plane, stuff socks into the packed pair, and use a shoe bag so damp soles do not ruin clothes. Pack a thin spare pair of socks for rainy days.

See the full packing list for San Diego in SeptemberOutfit ideas for San Diego in SeptemberAll months — best shoes for San Diego