10 Best Dog Shoes For Heat in 2026

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The Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Shoes are the best overall for heat, thanks to a Vibram outsole that blocks hot pavement heat and breathable ripstop fabric that keeps paws from sweating. For a lightweight, easy-on option, the SlowTon Breathable Dog Boots earn top marks for breathable mesh, and the QUMY Mesh Dog Boots are our pick for dedicated hot-pavement walks.

Walking your dog in summer heat means every step on asphalt, concrete, or sand can burn tender paw pads within minutes. The real challenge isn’t just finding any boot, it’s finding one that blocks heat without trapping moisture, stays put during a sprint, and doesn’t take ten minutes to fasten.

We evaluated ten pairs based on manufacturer specs, material science, and patterns from thousands of owner reviews. This guide gives you the straight facts on fit, traction, breathability, and durability so you can choose with confidence.

Top 10 Dog Shoes For Heat in the Market

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The Best Dog Shoes For Heat, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Shoes

Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Shoes
Sold AsPair (not set of 4)
OutsoleVibram non-slip rubber
Upper MaterialRipstop with breathable mesh
ClosureHook-and-loop ankle straps
Weight per shoe0.2 pounds
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What We Like

  • Vibram outsole for hot pavement traction
  • Breathable ripstop blocks heat and moisture
  • Sold in pairs for mixed front/rear sizing
  • Adjustable straps resist zoomie-induced slips

Trade-offs

  • Sold as a pair, so four paws need two purchases
  • No reflective elements for low-light visibility

The Vibram outsole is the single most important feature here for anyone buying dog shoes for heat. That rubber compound is the same stuff used on premium hiking boots, and it gives you non-slip traction on hot pavement, slick tile, and rocky trails alike. The ripstop upper breathes while blocking heat and moisture, so paws stay cooler on a scorching sidewalk without turning the shoe into a sauna. For dogs that pull hard or hit sudden zoomies, the hook-and-loop ankle straps and ergonomic shape do a decent job of keeping the boot planted. This is the pair to reach for when you need reliable all-terrain protection and don’t want to chase a shoe down the block.

The obvious trade-off is that you get only two shoes per package. The product description is upfront about it: front paws are often wider than rear paws, and selling in pairs lets you mix sizes for a custom fit across all four feet. That means buying two packages if your dog needs different sizes front and back, more upfront cost and a little extra measuring work. If you have a dog with symmetrical paws and a tighter budget, a four-pack option might suit you better. But for dogs that need a precise fit and serious heat protection, this is the better tool.

Best for: Dogs that need a precise, stay-put fit and premium heat-blocking traction on pavement and trails. Not ideal for owners who want a single package covering all four paws.

Product photos

#2Best Breathable Mesh

SlowTon Breathable Dog Boots

SlowTon Breathable Dog Boots
Upper Material3-layer breathable mesh
Sole MaterialSoft rugged rubber
ClosureDual adjustable hook-and-loop straps
WaterproofYes (space leather toe cap)
ReflectiveStraps are reflective
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What We Like

  • 3-layer breathable mesh prevents stuffiness
  • Dual adjustable straps stay snug during play
  • Soft rubber sole grips slick indoor floors
  • Wide opening for quick on and off

Trade-offs

  • Mesh upper less durable than solid materials on sharp debris
  • Waterproof only at toe cap, not full boot

The three-layer breathable mesh upper provides a soft, ventilated fit with no rubbing or stuffiness, making these boots suitable for warm-weather walks on hot pavement. Dual adjustable hook-and-loop straps with reflective stitching keep the booties secure and prevent them from falling off or spinning during activity. The wide opening allows quick, easy on and off, and the soft yet durable rubber sole offers strong traction on slick surfaces like hardwood floors.

Because the upper is made of breathable mesh, it may not be as protective against sharp debris as a solid material. The waterproofing comes only from the space leather toe cap, so while it keeps paws dry on rainy trails and damp grass, the mesh upper is not fully waterproof. For dogs that primarily walk on hot sidewalks or indoor floors, these boots provide good ventilation and a secure fit.

Best for: Dog owners who need breathable boots for hot pavement and indoor use, with a secure fit and easy on/off. Not ideal for deep puddle crossings or rugged trail hiking.

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#3Best For Hot Pavement

QUMY Mesh Dog Boots

QUMY Mesh Dog Boots
Weight0.4 pounds
Upper MaterialBreathable mesh
ClosureTwo adjustable velcro straps
Sole TypeAnti-slip rubber
Sizes Available8 sizes (1-8)
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What We Like

  • Breathable mesh keeps paws cool
  • Anti-slip sole for hot pavement
  • Reflective straps for night safety
  • Wide split-seam opening for easy on/off

Trade-offs

  • Width measurement critical for correct fit

The breathable mesh upper is the defining feature here: it’s tightly woven to keep dirt and debris out while letting air circulate, which is exactly what you need when summer pavement gets hot. QUMY designed these for protection from hot pavement, and the anti-slip rubber sole provides stability and traction on smooth surfaces. With eight sizes from 11 to 88 pounds, you can match most medium-to-large breeds, but the key is measuring paw width, not just weight.

The QUMY Mesh Dog Boots weigh 0.4 pounds per set. That is heavier than the Ruffwear Grip Trex at 0.2 pounds per pair, so dogs sensitive to extra weight on their paws may take longer to adjust. The mesh construction is designed for ventilation and keeping out dirt and debris, making it a good match for pavement and groomed paths. Owners must measure paw width carefully because the sizing chart uses width as the primary guide and weight only as a secondary reference.

Best for: Dog owners who walk on hot pavement and need a lightweight, breathable boot that's easy to put on and take off. Not ideal for off-trail hikes with sharp rocks or heavy brush.

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#4Best For All-Terrain

LUCKYPAW Dog Boots

LUCKYPAW Dog Boots
SizeSize 6 (2.6" W x 3" L)
Upper MaterialUltra-mesh (breathable)
Sole MaterialFlexible rubber with anti-slip texture
ClosureTwo adjustable reflective straps
Water ResistanceNot fully waterproof
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What We Like

  • Breathable ultra-mesh for hot pavement
  • All-terrain rubber sole with anti-slip grip
  • Adjustable reflective straps for night safety
  • 360° anti-slip inner lining stays put

Trade-offs

  • Not suitable for deep snow or wet grass
  • Breathable mesh lets water seep through

Size 6 measures 2.6 inches wide by 3 inches long, and the boots are sized based on your dog’s paw width and length, not by breed or weight. That precision matters for all-terrain use because a boot that fits poorly slips off on rocky trails or hardwood floors. The breathable ultra-mesh upper keeps paws cool on hot asphalt and desert terrain, while the flexible rubber sole with anti-slip textures handles everything from icy sidewalks to prickly plants. This combination makes it a strong fit for dogs that hike varied ground in warm weather, where airflow and grip are the main concerns.

The trade-off shows up when the trail gets wet. The mesh upper that keeps paws cool also lets water seep through, so these boots are not for deep puddles, wet grass, or heavy snow. Compared to the Ruffwear Grip Trex, which offers weatherproof protection, the LUCKYPAW is better suited for dry or summer conditions where breathability matters more than waterproofing. If your dog mostly walks on hot pavement, dirt trails, or indoor floors, the anti-slip lining and reflective straps add practical safety without the bulk of a fully sealed boot.

Best for: Dog owners who need breathable paw protection for hot pavement and dry trails, with all-terrain grip. Not suitable for deep snow, wet grass, or heavy rain.

Product photos

#5Best Lightweight

Dimicoo Breathable Dog Boots

Dimicoo Breathable Dog Boots
Weight0.2 pounds
MaterialAir mesh fabric
SoleDurable rubber with puncture-resistant tread
ClosureAdjustable straps with reflective strips
CareHand or machine washable
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What We Like

  • Air mesh fabric keeps paws ventilated
  • Non-slip rubber sole with puncture-resistant tread
  • Reflective strips for night visibility
  • Easy on/off with wide openings

Trade-offs

  • No sizing for extra-large or giant breeds
  • Not suitable for small breed dogs

At 0.2 pounds per set of four, these boots are lightweight enough that most dogs won’t notice them on a walk. The air mesh fabric lets heat escape while keeping debris out, so paws stay cooler than they would in a sealed rubber boot on hot pavement. If your dog tends to lift its feet or slow down with heavier footwear, this pair is designed to feel unobtrusive.

The trade-off is that the mesh construction is not built for extreme conditions. The rubber sole includes puncture-resistant tread, but the boots are best used for the activities listed by the manufacturer: walking, running, hiking, hunting, and swimming on varied terrain. For summer heat protection on daily neighborhood walks or trips to the park, the Dimicoo is a suitable choice.

Best for: Dog owners looking for a barely-there boot for hot pavement and casual walks who prioritize light weight and breathability. Not ideal for small breeds or heavy-duty trail use.

Product photos

#6Best Easy On/Off

SCENEREAL Reflective Dog Shoes

SCENEREAL Reflective Dog Shoes
MaterialSoft velvet interior, splash-proof fabric
ClosureDrawstring with plastic cord locks
SoleNon-slip rubber
Size (for #2)Paw width 1.1", paw length 1.5"
Pack6-pack
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What We Like

  • Drawstring closure for quick slip-on
  • Soft velvet lining for comfort
  • Non-slip rubber sole on tile and sand

Trade-offs

  • Not fully waterproof, avoid puddles and wet grass
  • Only sized for small dogs (paw length up to 1.5")

The drawstring closure with plastic cord locks lets you slip these on and cinch them tight in seconds, no fumbling with Velcro straps or buckles. That single design choice makes these boots the easiest option to get on a wiggly dog before a quick walk. The soft velvet interior is meant for comfort, and the non-slip rubber sole grips tile and sand, which helps keep your dog steady on hot pavement or indoor floors. For small-dog owners who value speed and simplicity over rugged protection, these boots deliver exactly that.

The splash-proof fabric is not fully waterproof, so a puddle or wet grass will soak through. That limits their use to dry conditions and light outdoor trips, unlike the Ruffwear Grip Trex which offers weatherproof paw protection. If your dog sticks to sidewalks and you need something you can pull on in ten seconds, the SCENEREAL is a practical pick. Just don’t expect them to hold up in wet conditions beyond light use, they’re built for quick trips, not extended exposure to moisture.

Best for: Small-dog owners who want a fast, fuss-free boot for hot pavement and dry walks. Not ideal for wet conditions or dogs that need waterproof protection.

Product photos

#7Best Quick Adjust

paatata Knob Dog Boots

paatata Knob Dog Boots
AdjustmentQuick-adjust knob
SoleThick wear-resistant rubber
UpperBreathable mesh
SafetyBuilt-in reflective strips
Size 41.57 x 1.34 in, 3-7 lbs
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What We Like

  • Quick-adjust knob for snug fit
  • Thick rubber sole protects from hot pavement
  • Breathable mesh upper keeps paws cool
  • Reflective strips improve night visibility

Trade-offs

  • Only fits dogs up to 7 lbs in size 4
  • No sizing option for dogs over 7 lbs

The quick-adjust knob on these boots lets you lift, twist, and press to lock a snug fit in seconds, avoiding sticky straps and fur pinching. The thick rubber soles shield paws from scorching asphalt, sharp rocks, broken glass, thorns, and winter salt, while the breathable mesh upper keeps paws cool on summer walks. For small dogs up to 7 pounds, this is a fast on-and-off solution that doesn’t sacrifice protection.

Size 4 fits paws 1.57 inches wide and dogs 3-7 pounds, so it won’t work for larger breeds. The knob system lets you lift, twist, then press to lock a snug fit in seconds, no sticky straps or fur pinching. Most dogs adapt within a few walks when you reward with treats and follow the included fitting guide. Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Shoes come as a pair and cover larger paws with a different closure, but the paatata gives you four booties with a faster adjustment. For a small dog, speed of use wins over traditional straps.

Best for: Owners of small dogs (3-7 lbs) who want fast, no-fuss boot adjustment for hot pavement walks. Not ideal for large breeds or dogs that resist wearing any boot at first.

Product photos

#8Best For Paw Injuries

Hipaw Breathable Dog Boots

Hipaw Breathable Dog Boots
MaterialBreathable air-mesh
SoleNon-slip soft sole
ClosureElastic straps
CareHand washable / machine washable
IncludedAll 4 booties
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What We Like

  • Breathable air-mesh keeps paws cool
  • Non-slip sole prevents falls on slick floors
  • Elastic straps lock booties in place during activity
  • Stops licking and allows airflow for paw injuries

Trade-offs

  • Not recommended for small breeds

The breathable air-mesh upper is the key feature here, letting air flow around the paw so moisture and heat don’t get trapped. That makes these boots a practical choice when a dog has a cut, scrape, or hot spot and needs to stop licking it while still letting the injury breathe. The non-slip soft sole also means the dog can walk on hardwood or tile without sliding, which is important for a pet already favoring a sore paw.

The Hipaw boots are built for comfort and breathability, not for heavy-duty trail work, so they are best for short walks on hot pavement or indoor use on hardwood floors. The lightweight mesh and soft sole let your dog move naturally without rubbing or chafing, which owners say helps speed up healing when a paw is injured. Just keep in mind the brand advises against these for small breeds, so measure your dog’s paw before ordering.

Best for: Dog owners needing breathable paw protection for hot pavement or indoor use, with a focus on preventing licking of injuries. Not recommended for small breeds.

Product photos

#9Best For Small Dogs

Symphonyw Summer Dog Shoes

Symphonyw Summer Dog Shoes
MaterialBreathable mesh fabric
SoleSoft rubber, anti-slip
ClosureTwo adjustable reflective straps
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What We Like

  • Breathable mesh for hot weather
  • Reflective straps for night safety
  • Soft rubber sole resists slipping
  • Easy on/off with adjustable Velcro

Trade-offs

  • Soft sole wears faster on rough gravel
  • Sizing runs large so careful measurement needed

A lightweight mesh upper and soft rubber sole make these shoes a practical choice for dogs who need paw protection on hot pavement without feeling weighed down. The two adjustable reflective straps let you dial in a snug fit quickly, and the Velcro closure means no wrestling with laces on a wriggly pup. The design uses breathable mesh and a soft, abrasion-resistant rubber sole, which suits daily use on lawns, hardwood floors, or hot pavement.

The soft rubber sole and mesh body are designed for everyday surfaces like pavement and grass, not for sharp rocks or extended off-road hikes. If your dog mostly faces hot pavement during walks, the Symphonyw shoes provide lightweight protection. For heavy trail use, a boot with a more rugged sole may be a better fit.

Best for: Small dogs who need lightweight, breathable protection from hot pavement on daily walks or quick trips outside. Not ideal for heavy trail use or dogs that chew through soft materials.

Product photos

#10Best Waterproof Option

CPPGUZ EVA Dog Clogs

CPPGUZ EVA Dog Clogs
MaterialEVA with rubber sole
ClosureAdjustable hook-and-loop straps
FeaturesReflective strips, waterproof
WeightUltra-lightweight
Size (example)2.1" x 2.7" for 50-65 lbs
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What We Like

  • Waterproof rubber sole with tire tread
  • Heat-resistant EVA with 360° ventilation
  • Reflective straps for night visibility
  • Easy to clean, rinse and go

Trade-offs

  • One-piece EVA less flexible than fabric boots

A thickened, tire-tread rubber sole that’s fully waterproof makes these clogs the obvious pick if your summer walks include puddles, wet grass, or poolside splash zones. The EVA body is heat-resistant and perforated for 360° airflow, so paws stay cooler than they would in a sealed fabric boot. Adjustable hook-and-loop straps with reflective strips keep the fit secure and visible in low light, and the one-piece molding rinses clean in seconds, no soggy fabric smell to deal with.

The one-piece EVA construction is less flexible than fabric boots, which some dogs may notice during high-energy activity. Compared to the Ruffwear Grip Trex, which uses a solid breathable mesh upper, the CPPGUZ clogs trade some flexibility for easier cleaning and true waterproofing. Best for owners who prioritize dry paws and quick rinse-off over total flexibility.

Best for: Dog owners who walk on wet pavement, grass, or trails and want a waterproof, easy-to-clean shoe that keeps paws cool. Not ideal for loose sand or fine gravel terrain.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Dog Shoes For Heat

We built this guide by cross-referencing manufacturer specifications, material datasheets, and expert round-ups from veterinary and canine-rehabilitation sources. We then compared those claims against the real-world patterns reported by owners, what actually holds up on a July sidewalk versus what slides off mid-walk.

Three criteria mattered most. Heat protection meant looking at sole materials (Vibram rubber, EVA, thick thermoplastic) and their published thermal-conductivity ratings. Breathability came down to fabric construction, single-layer mesh versus multi-layer ripstop versus solid rubber. A boot that traps heat can be worse than no boot at all. Fit security was non-negotiable: the best sole is useless if the boot spins around or flies off when a dog hits full zoomie speed.

A research-led evaluation has limits. We didn’t put boots on a dozen dogs and run them across a temperature-controlled test track. For deeper context on sizing and material choice, our guide to choosing booties covers the full decision tree.

What To Look For In Dog Shoes For Heat

The right boot keeps paws cool, stays on during activity, and doesn’t turn a five-minute walk into a wrestling match. Here’s what separates the winners from the also-rans.

Look for a heat-blocking sole (thick rubber or EVA), breathable uppers (mesh or ripstop), and a closure system that won’t slip. Measure your dog’s paw width and length, not just weight. Avoid boots that rely on a single strap or thin fabric.

Sole Material and Heat Protection

The sole is your dog’s only barrier between tender pads and pavement that can become dangerously hot on a sunny day. Thick rubber compounds like Vibram offer the best thermal protection because they resist heat transfer and provide a stable wear surface. EVA foam soles, common on budget and waterproof boots, also block heat well but wear faster on abrasive surfaces. Thin rubber or soft fabric soles may feel flexible but transfer heat quickly.

Look for a sole that’s at least 3-4 millimeters thick with visible tread. Smooth soles can be dangerously slippery on hot pavement, and a dog that slides will panic and pull harder. For a deeper look at sole materials, our guide to dog shoes for hot pavement breaks down which tread patterns grip best on blacktop.

Breathability and Moisture Management

A boot that traps heat is worse than no boot, it creates a sauna inside that can cause pad maceration and discomfort. Mesh uppers are the gold standard for airflow. Single-layer air mesh (used on the Dimicoo and SlowTon boots) offers maximum ventilation but less abrasion resistance. Multi-layer ripstop mesh (used on the Ruffwear Grip Trex) balances airflow with durability.

Avoid solid rubber or heavy nylon boots unless your dog will only wear them for very short walks. The trade-off is straightforward: more breathability means less protection from sharp debris and water. If your walks involve both hot pavement and wet grass, consider a boot with mesh uppers and a waterproof toe cap rather than a fully sealed boot.

Fit Security and Closure Systems

A boot that slips off on the first step is worse than no boot. The most secure designs use two adjustable straps (Velcro or buckle) that cinch above and below the ankle joint. Drawstring closures offer the fastest on/off but can loosen during activity. The Ruffwear Grip Trex uses a dual-strap system with a reinforced heel cup that locks the boot in place even during sharp turns.

Measure your dog’s paw width at the widest point and length from the longest toe to the back of the pad. Many brands size by paw length only, but width is critical, a boot that’s too narrow will cut circulation, and one that’s too wide will spin. For a complete breakdown of sizing pitfalls, our dog shoe guide covers measurement techniques for every paw shape.

  • Measure paw width and length while the dog is standing (weight-bearing paws are wider).
  • Check that the closure system allows independent adjustment of the ankle and pastern straps.
  • Test the boot on carpet first, if it spins there, it’ll slide on pavement.
  • Look for reflective elements if you walk near traffic at dawn or dusk.

A boot that fits snugly enough to stay on but loosely enough to allow natural paw splay is the sweet spot. If you can pinch the boot fabric at the ankle, it’s too loose.

Dog Shoes For Heat Compared

The table below compares all ten picks across the features that matter most for hot-weather walks: sole material, closure type, breathability rating, and best-use scenario.

ProductUpper MaterialSole MaterialClosure
Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog ShoesRipstop with breathable meshVibram non-slip rubberHook-and-loop ankle straps
SlowTon Breathable Dog Boots3-layer breathable meshSoft rugged rubberDual adjustable hook-and-loop straps
QUMY Mesh Dog BootsBreathable meshAnti-slip rubberTwo adjustable velcro straps
LUCKYPAW Dog BootsUltra-mesh (breathable)Flexible rubber with anti-slip textureTwo adjustable reflective straps
Dimicoo Breathable Dog BootsAir mesh fabricDurable rubber with puncture-resistant treadAdjustable straps with reflective strips
SCENEREAL Reflective Dog ShoesSoft velvet interior, splash-proof fabricNon-slip rubberDrawstring with plastic cord locks
paatata Knob Dog BootsBreathable meshThick wear-resistant rubberQuick-adjust knob
Hipaw Breathable Dog BootsBreathable air-meshNon-slip soft soleElastic straps
Symphonyw Summer Dog ShoesBreathable mesh fabricSoft rubber, anti-slipTwo adjustable reflective straps
CPPGUZ EVA Dog ClogsEVA with rubber soleRubber soleAdjustable hook-and-loop straps

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dog shoes necessary for hot pavement?

Yes. Pavement temperatures can become hot enough to burn paw pads quickly. If you can’t hold the back of your hand on the pavement for several seconds, it’s too hot for bare paws. Dog shoes with heat-blocking soles provide an immediate barrier.

How do I measure my dog’s paws for boots?

Measure each paw while your dog is standing to get the true weight-bearing width and length. Trace the paw on paper, then measure the widest point and the longest toe-to-heel distance. Most brands provide a sizing chart based on these two numbers, never rely on breed or weight alone.

Can dogs wear shoes all day in summer?

No. Even the most breathable summer shoes should be removed indoors to let paws air out. Prolonged wear traps moisture and can cause skin irritation or fungal infections. Use boots only for the duration of the walk, then take them off and check the paws.

What’s the difference between dog shoes and dog booties?

Dog boots typically have thicker soles and more structured uppers for heavy use on pavement and trails. Booties are lighter, often made of soft fabric or thin rubber, and designed for short-term protection on hot or rough surfaces. For summer heat, boots with mesh uppers and rubber soles offer the best balance of protection and airflow.

How do I keep my dog cool in summer beyond paw protection?

Combine paw protection with other cooling strategies: walk during the coolest hours (dawn and dusk), carry water, use a cooling vest or bandana, and avoid strenuous activity in high heat. Shade and rest breaks are essential, dogs regulate heat through panting and paw pads, so protecting both matters.

The Bottom Line

The Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Shoes are the best overall for heat because they combine a heat-blocking Vibram outsole with breathable ripstop fabric and a dual-strap closure that stays put on active dogs. They’re the right choice if you need a boot that handles pavement and trails equally well and you’re willing to buy two pairs to cover all four paws.

If you want something lighter and more affordable for casual walks, the SlowTon Breathable Dog Boots deliver excellent ventilation and a secure fit at a lower price point. For small dogs that need fast on/off access, the SCENEREAL Reflective Dog Shoes or paatata Knob Dog Boots offer fuss-free closures that don’t require wrestling a squirming pup.

The single most important factor is fit. A boot with the best sole and most breathable mesh is useless if it slips off at the first curb. Measure your dog’s paws carefully, choose a closure system that matches your dog’s activity level, and prioritize sole thickness over looks. Your dog’s paws will thank you.