Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.

Bostonians expect a lot from their summer shoes. Brick sidewalks, construction everywhere, long commutes on foot, and shoreline day trips all command sturdy footwear that still has sex appeal—we only get a few short months to let our toes breathe, so might as well make the most of it. Depart from the usual mall store circuit (though there's no ignoring the impeccable sandal selections at the luxury department stores) and swing by one of these five downtown destinations for peep toes, sling-backs, gladiators, and wedges.

· All Seasonal Shopping Guides [Racked Boston]