10 Best Toddler & Kids’ Light-Up Shoes Rated in 2024
Outdoor adventures are much more fun when you’re wearing a pair of light-up shoes. Place a pair on your little one’s feet and watch their eyes light up in excitement as they head for the door. Motivated to make the lights flash, they will be busy running, jumping, and playing. The shoes will make it easier for you to spot your child on a crowded playground or as the sun begins to set. With such cool shoes, other kids will be flocking to your child with the hopes of being able to play together.
We’ve compiled a list of the best light up shoes for kids. Whether your child is a boy or girl, a toddler or a school-age child, there are great shoes for them on this list. Get ready for these shoes to become their favorite pair of footwear and a constant item in their daily wardrobe.
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
Available in several different colors
Interior is lined with mesh
Equipped with 11 different light modes
Changing modes and charging is easy
10 Best Toddler & Kids' Light-Up Shoes Reviewed
1. Skechers Flashpod Gore
An on/off switch for the lights
Seams are made to last
Kids are comfortable in their sneakers
Great for learning how to tie shoes
Does not have Velcro
The fashionable Skechers Flashpod Gore Shoes light-up brightly when an amount of force is applied. The wonderful white LEDs are visible in the day and light up the night so beautifully.
Read moreQuality stitching keeps the durable seams together for extended wear. The best part is that these shoes come with an on/off switch. School dress codes banning lights are no problem for these accurately sized Skechers. These shoes are built to stand the test of any three-year-old and last longer than most shoe models do. The lights are easy to set off and are bright enough to turn heads, but they won’t hurt anyone's eyes to look at them. The on/off switch ensures the lights only flash when you want them to, so you save on battery power by having such a switch when they are not in use.
Comfort
Sketchers shoes are well-known for their superb comfort and style for the user. These are super cozy to make the child really want to wear them for comfort as well as the light-up function that delights them.
Ease of use
The on/off switch makes these a great choice for home or school since the child can just flip the switch to be in obeyance of school policy. It will also teach them how to be responsible in only having them on when the lights are most beneficial.
Durability
Most people that have ever had a pair of Skechers shoes will tell you that they are long-lasting and tough. This is one type of footwear that you can count on using for several years of good reliable use.
Style
The solid white lights are somewhat different from other featured models here that use multicolored lights or ones of varied colors. These will certainly be seen at night for the color and the brightness.
2. Skechers Hypno Flash Tremblers
Lightweight materials for faster running
Great arch support
Does not leave skid marks
Lights are long lasting
Comes with a Velcro strap
Sole can be stiff
Made from high-quality synthetic and natural fibers, the upper of this child’s Skechers shoe is comfy and breathable. The marvelous rubber sole provides excellent cushioning and support.
Read moreVelcro strap on top ensures a consistently tight fit while the full range of sizes allows for lots of room to grow. These shoes offer comfort and style to any little boy. Rubber soles ensure a good grip on surfaces as your child zooms around like a strobing champion of awesome. While lightweight materials ensure even faster running than with other shoes, the simple closure ties it all together and offers kids confidence as they prepare to tie laces.
Comfort
Your child will be very comfortable in these shoes since they are well-cushioned and breathable. This is important for kids’ footwear since they exhaust themselves so much with activities and can build up a sweat easily.
Ease of use
Little kids should start off with Velcro straps for closures on their feet before they learn how to tie shoes. Besides being easier, Velcro is a safer option for toddlers and small children to prevent tripping from untied laces.
Durability
Built to last at least a few years of regular use, this Sketcher model gives the support and durability that kids need in footwear. The rubber soles provide them great traction to perform better and quicker.
Style
The ultra-bright lights offer long-lasting illumination in any environment. The non-marking outsole also means these shoes won’t leave streaks when your little angel zooms across the room on hardwood and tile floors.
3. Carter's Record-B Boy's
Breathable mesh reduces foot odor.
Kids love the bright red lights.
Synthetic materials ensure long-lasting wear.
Velcro closure is easy for kids to secure shoes.
The company offers a wide variety of sizes.
Sizes run a little big
The mesh upper of this stylish Carter’s Record-B Boys’ Shoe is all about increasing breathability and decreasing weight.
Read morePlaytime in the water isn’t going to ruin these shoes! The soles offer red lighting that activates when the child applies pressure to the heel. Synthetic soles and Velcro straps hold up well over time. They also come in a variety of toddler and child sizes. Mesh uppers ensure shoes dry quickly after getting wet. Synthetic materials are safe and resist corrosion along with wear. Velcro closures allow kids too young for laces to still put on their shoes. These are the perfect shoes for a little explorer or sporty kid. The red lights stand out and look great from near and far.
Comfort
These shoes keep feet cool while kids run around all day since the uppers are constructed of a breathable and light mesh fabric. For the most active kids, this could come in handy to prevent overheating.
Ease of use
When there is a spill or these get wet, the synthetic materials dry quickly. Corrosion will not be a problem either with these sturdy materials, plus the Velcro straps make it easy for kids to dress themselves at an early age.
Durability
The red lights on the soles of this footwear are not hindered or deterred by water or perspiration, as they will work regardless. This is a tough shoe to damage even with rugged and continuous wear.
Style
The strong mesh upper, double Velcro straps, and durable rubber soles of these incredible shoes combine with the bright eye-catching neon colors of the fabric to give kids a shoe model to be proud of wearing.
4. Ufatansy LED Flashing
Multicolor LED lights
Great for boys and girls
Wheel in heels
Multiple detail styles
Velcro strap and laces
No off switch
Multi-color strobe lighting is just the tip of the iceberg with these UFatansy LED Flashing cool wheelies.
Read moreLaces and a Velcro strap at the top provide a snug fit, while a single, rear-mounted wheel offers smooth sliding on level surfaces. They are even available in a variety of detail styles for the ultimate in personal expression. Great for boys and girls looking to stand out and show off their style, these terrific shoes have a great combination of features that help them make a splash. The strobing lights offer a dazzling display of different colors, and the heel-embedded wheel is perfect for cruising around in style. Laces and a Velcro strap provide stable footing, walking, or rolling. Kids can light-up and roll around in style with these shoes.
Comfort
Both girls and boys will love the comfort they feel in the extra support that these amazing shoes offer the feet. They can walk or run with added security in knowing that the footwear is stable.
Ease of use
These incredible shoes are just as easy to wear as any other ones on this list, but the double closure could pose a problem for some kids. If they have not yet mastered shoelaces yet, then they might try to just close these with the Velcro strap at the top.
Durability
The most durable part of this product is the double closure and security to keep the shoes on the foot. The flexible laces hold the shoe on the foot, and the added Velcro strap at the ankle gives extra support in that area.
Style
Not only do these wonderful sneakers have multi-colored lights all around the outer soles, but there is also a wheel in each bottom heel to allow the child to skate on smooth surfaces.
5. APTESOL Kids Youth Sneakers
Available in several different colors
Interior is lined with mesh
Equipped with 11 different light modes
Changing modes and charging is easy
Charge time is long
Get ready for your child to be the talk of the town when wearing these light up shoes by APTESOL. Whether they are shopping, walking, or dancing these sneakers are great for all occasions.
Read moreComfort
The inside of the shoe is lined with a mesh fabric that is not only comfortable but provides breathability for your child’s foot. The hightop portion of the sneaker will give your child’s ankle support and stability as they wear them throughout the day.
Ease of use
These sneakers are designed with eleven different light modes. Seven modes are static colors and the other four are effects. The effects allow your child to choose between flash, strobe, fade, or smooth. Choosing a mode is easy. Your child will simply need to press the button inside the shoe. They can keep pressing until they reach their desired mode. The lights will only last up to 11 hours, but recharging them is easy. Just like the switch, the USB port is hidden inside the shoe. Plugin the cord and wait 2-3 hours.
Durability
The rubber soles will allow your child to wear these shoes on countless adventures. However, refraining from intense exercises while wearing these shoes will give the LED lights a longer lifespan.
Style
These hightop sneakers are available in several different color options, thus boys and girls can own a pair. When purchasing choose between black, white, red, and even several metallic colors.
6. Skechers Litebeams
High-quality construction
Super lightweight
Flexible and breathable
Anti-marking soles
Simple on/off button
Can slip easily on some surfaces
These light-up shoes are a perfect example of why Skechers remains a top name brand year after year. Litebeams have super lightweight foam soles and mesh uppers, making them very popular sneakers with kids and parents.
Read moreTheir wonderful construction makes them soft, supportive and flexible. The bright lights quickly shine when you apply slight pressure to the heel. Shoe streaks are nothing but a memory with the anti-marking soles. Comfortable and resilient, Skechers sneakers are some of the lightest out there. The breathable mesh upper reduces sweat build-up while the sole provides flexible support. Parents love that they hold up to regular and rugged use, they never leave marks on hard-surfaced floors, and the lights can be turned off during school hours. High quality and lightweight construction make these attractive.
Comfort
The lightweight materials of the mesh and lighter rubber combine to make one incredible shoe for children. Of course, kids will love the flashy colors and lights, but they will also enjoy that these are not heavy on their feet.
Ease of use
It is always best for kids’ shoes to begin with stretchable bands for the closures instead of shoelaces, as this model does. It is not only safer to do so, but it is much easier for the child to dress themselves.
Durability
You can trust that this footwear will not mark up floors and will last for several years of use before the child outgrows the size. The strong sole will give the child the support needed for any type of activity or sport.
Style
Kids love the long-lasting lights and the bright colors that are incorporated into this footwear product. It is certainly one model that would be hard to miss anywhere with the neon hues that get your attention fast.
7. Stride Rite Leepz
Bright neon colors
Leather and textile construction
Rubber outsole is mark-free
Bungee laces keep the shoes snug
The batteries are not rechargeable
With colors straight out of Nickelodeon, the Leapz Sneakers are perfect for kids looking to explore the world. The leather and textile construction look great and hold up well over time.
Read moreThe rubber sole is comfortable and won’t leave streaks on tile or wood. Hook-and-loop closures ensure shoes slip on and off quickly, while elastic bungee lacing provides a consistently snug fit. These colors are bright and wild, just like the little explorers who will be excited to wear them. Flashing lights improve the feel of these knobby sneakers, as the bungee laces hold everything together while little ones discover their marvelous world. These are some of the coolest looking light-up shoes available.
Comfort
With bungee bands for laces, kids will get a snug and secure fit every time they put this footwear model on. There is no need to tighten anything but to just secure the Velcro on the top of the ankle.
Ease of use
The stretchy bands instead of shoelaces will be a welcome for little kids just learning how to dress themselves. The Velcro strap at the top of the shoe is also easy to maneuver for the youngster just learning the ropes of shoe dressing.
Durability
The added construction on the outer soles will make this model last longer, and the stretchable lacing adds stability in the footing. Kids should be able to get a few years of wear from these splendid shoes, depending on their quickness of growth.
Style
With aesthetics harkening back to 90’s children shows, the Leapz footwear stands out from the crowd. The bubblegum-colored features on the upper and the soles are enchanting to look at and fun to touch.
8. SLEVEL Dance Dazzle Sneaker
Easy on Easy off
Designed with a fabric exterior
Rubber soles grant a high level of durability
USB port and light switch are hidden inside the shoe
Some reviewers had issues with their shoes not lighting up
With the Slevel Dance Dazzle Sneaker, your child can light up the streets as they walk, run, or dance.
Read moreComfort
Both the inside and outside of the shoe is composed of a soft fabric. The opening of the shoe is lined with fabric so you don’t have to worry about the shoe chafing your child’s ankle.
Ease of use
Sliding the sneakers on your child’s foot is a stress-free process as each shoe is equipped with a finger tab on the back. The adjustable velcro strap helps children easily put their shoes on and take them off as they don’t have to worry about laces.
Durability
Equipped with rubber soles your child will be able to get countless wears out of these sneakers. If they lights die, simply recharge them.
Style
The lack of laces and cool lights give these shoes a sleek overall look. LED lights line the soles of the shoes. The light switch and the charging port are both hidden inside the shoe as to not effect the overall design. When purchasing you can choose between a purple, blue, or black pair of light up shoes for your little one.
9. Outee Light-Up Rain Boots
Waterproof design
Easy on & off handles
Lightweight and comfortable
Heel lights are bright
Could arrive with an odor and need to be aired out
Who said light-up shoes have to be sneakers? With the Outee Toddler Rain Boots, your child can light up as they splash in puddles.
Read moreThese boots are 100% waterproof, so your child’s feet are guaranteed to stay dry on the wettest days. The lightweight jelly material makes it easy for your child to play in the rain without their feet feeling weighed down. These glittery boots are available in several different colors and sizes. The tops of the boots are designed with handles that make it super-easy for children to pull their boots on and take them off. The heels of the boots light up so brightly that they can easily be seen when it's dark and gloomy outside or when the rain is extremely heavy.
Comfort
The durable, waterproof material will keep your child’s feet fully dry no matter how hard it is raining or how big the puddle is that they jump in. they will also find the soft flexible substance easy to wear and very comforting on their feet.
Ease of use
Kids can easily dress themselves in these wonderful boots since there is a handle to help them. since they are lightweight, children can step and walk easier with them on, much like regular kids shoes.
Durability
Don’t underestimate the soft jelly-like substance that these incredible child’s boots are made. It is a flexible material with give to make wearing them versatile and comfortable.
Style
Unlike all of the other featured footwear in this informative buying guide, this model is not sneakers but boots. The heels light up to make them super-fun to wear and walk in, plus they have handles at the top for ease in getting them on and off.
10. YILAN glitter shoes
Children can easily put these shoes on by themselves
Adorable design
Lightweight soles will not hinder movement
Composed of non-toxic materials
Bow may fall off easily
Fashionistas are going to freak out over the YILAN sneakers. Not only are they covered in glitter but they also light up.
Read moreComfort
These hightops are made with lightweight soles, thus allowing your child to run or walk freely. The inside is made with a breathable fabric that will keep your child’s feet cool on the hottest summer days.
Ease of use
The laces on the front are purely for design. These shoes are taken off and put on via a velcro strap. Your child can increase their independence by putting their shoes on by themselves.
Durability
Designed with a thicked rubber sole, these shoes are designed to outlast every pair in your child’s closet. In fact, the lights are waterproof, thus increasing their lifespan even further.
Style
The entire shoe was out of non-toxic materials, thus they are perfectly safe for your child’s feet. Children will love the glitter and the cool light-up design. Furthermore, they will be enamored with the cute bow attached to the velcro strap.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Kids love to run and play, but foot problems will prevent them from playing regularly. Having the proper shoe size and shape will give children the best comfort that you can buy. Kids also need to wear socks with their shoes. Even if the uppers are advertised as breathable, kids should still wear socks if possible. Socks help prevent the build-up of bacteria by absorbing sweat. Bacteria are known to release gases that cause foot odor and other health issues. Socks also act as barriers that keep feet from rubbing against the shoe and causing sores.
Ease of Use
The light-up qualities of these products are the most exciting part of the shoes. To use this aspect, all they have to do is walk in them to activate the lights. The more they walk, the more the lights are activated to shine. The shoes on our list are safe and easy to use, but they can’t do all the work. It is vital to replace shoes once the child outgrows them, even if they aren’t worn out. Wearing overly loose or tight footwear can lead to long-term problems. But as long as parents buy shoes that fit their kid’s feet correctly, they shouldn’t have to worry about their kid’s feet getting hurt from regular play.
Durability
Our list includes only the best-made, sturdiest, safest, and highest-rated shoes in today’s current marketplace. These featured shoes are not only fashionable, but they are comfortable and made to fit well. You can expect them to last at least a few years to get good use out of them before the child outgrows the size and fit. Quality shoes are available in different widths to help accommodate all types of foot sizes. Good shoes also protect children’s feet because they play and run on them all day long.
Style
Almost all kids love light-up shoes at one point or another. There comes a moment in time when kids run up to their parents and plead for a pair of awesome sneakers that light up as they walk or run. The strobing lights are mesmerizing, and children love the feeling they get streaking across the yard in a pulsing flash. Knock-off light-up shoes may pose a risk to those wearing them. Knock-offs often try to get around regulations which can result in faulty products reaching the market. Children deserve only the best and safest shoes possible.
Buying the right shoe size is essential. The right size helps decrease foot problems that would otherwise arise like blisters, calluses, and corns.
Despite their popularity, not all light-up shoes are the same. Parents should be aware that there are knock-off brands of light-up shoes.
Other Factors to Consider
Brand
The best shoes with these brand names have the highest ratings. Ratings are the best word-of-mouth referrals people have and it is always the most well-known names that top most people’s list for favorites. Sketchers and Stride Rite are two highlighted brands that anyone would recognize. These two shoe manufacturers have several items featured in this buying guide. Our list of these products includes the highest-rated and most popular shoes of this category. Parents usually give high ratings to shoes that are breathable, lightweight, flexible with a suitable fit.
Safety
Kids like to play in the dark, so light-up shoes help keep them visible. The strobing lights are bright enough to be seen across the yard in low-light situations but aren’t harmful. But inside the home, there are still dark areas and corners where kids blend in. The flashing lights can be the difference between dodging kiddo or tripping over them as they dash across your path. It might not be foolproof, but it helps to see them coming.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How and when should I buy shoes for kids?
We don’t recommend hand-me-downs, so new shoe models are always best for kids. When you consider how fast the feet of children grow, it is certainly wise to keep up with that growth with new shoes very often. While the stitching may be serviceable, the soles are often worn unevenly and molded to the previous user’s foot. It doesn’t take much for a shoe to feel strange. There is also an issue with fungus and bacteria on used footwear. The older the sneaker, the longer mold and bacteria colonies have to become established.
q: How do parents know which type of shoes is best for their kids?
Kids should wear sneakers instead of fashion shoes. Fashion shoes look nice but are not built for optimum safety and comfort. Real sneakers keep kids’ feet safe and allow them to run and keep up with the other kids at school. Ensure that there is a good support for the type of foot your child has. Know what type of arch they have and if they need special shoes for them to walk straight without pronation. Pronation is the act of the heel and foot turning one way or another, either outward or inward. This could cause serious problems for kids early in life.
q: What is considered a proper kid’s shoe?
The shoes need to be wide enough and long enough for kids’ feet to fit comfortably. There also needs to be plenty of padding to absorb impact without impeding their walking. Going to a children’s shoe store is the best option to find the right shoe size for kids where their feet can be adequately measured by someone who deals with just shoes.
q: What are minimalist shoes?
Many believe that kids should not wear shoes when they play. Toddlers especially shouldn’t wear shoes because they are learning how to walk, and shoes impede their walking abilities. Minimalist shoes are shoes that barely protect kids’ feet. But they can still feel every pebble and piece of gravel they step on while wearing minimalist shoes. Minimalist shoes don’t protect kids’ feet from glass or other sharp objects. That’s why some parents don’t like minimalist shoes because they don’t provide enough protection for their kid’s feet.
q: When should kids wear minimalist shoes?
Minimalist shoes are better worn inside the home or in the car. They can be worn like socks with tread. Kids feet should be kept dry at all times to keep them from getting sick. But it’s almost impossible to make kids keep their little socks on. Minimalist shoes have straps that help keep them fastened on kids’ feet.
q: When is the right time to start buying shoes for toddlers?
Many people recommend different times to buy kids’ shoes. Some parents start putting shoes on newborn infants. Other parents don’t start putting shoes on their kids until they start to walk during their toddler phase. The choice is really up to each families’ preference. It is a good guide though that if your child is taking their first steps, then you should provide them with a stable baby shoe to give the support and foot guidance they need to walk properly.
Visiting a kids’ shoe store is a good first step in learning what your child needs on their feet. If you wait too long to put shoes on the child, they will not want to wear shoes because they will not be used to having something on their feet. If for nothing else, put shoes on them to train them in the feeling of footwear.
Sources
- How to Buy Shoes for Children, How to Buy Guide ,
- How to Pick the Right Shoe for Your Child, How to Guide ,
- Thoughts on a Proper Child’s Shoe, Minimalist Guide ,
- How to Find the Best Minimalist Shoes (for Adults and Kids), How to Guide ,
- When Should I buy My baby Her First Pair of Shoes?, Timeline Guide ,