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10 Best Kids and Toddler Shoes Reviewed in 2024

last updated Apr 14, 2021

The growth spurts are cute until you’re on yet another trip to the store to size up on those tiny sneakers or boots. Somehow, little feet do not equate a long lifespan when it comes to shoes. Due to how quickly they’re growing, some companies suggest checking every three to four months to ensure that your child is still wearing properly fitted footwear. If you have a little one burning through those rubber soles, you’ll need to revisit new shoes often. For the active kiddos needing a good pair of boots or sneakers, check out some of our favorite footwear for kids and toddlers.

This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:

icon
Dream Pairs Mary Jane Rhinestone
97/100 our score
Protection
98
Comfort
96
Durability
97
Dream Pairs Mary Jane Rhinestone
Why is it better?

Made from man-made sued that is available in stunning vibrant iridescent colors

Has a pretty bow accent at the top with studded with a rhinestone and pearls

Ballerina flat sole that makes them easy to walk in.

Ankle strap that is embellished with pearls and a rhinestone that is closed by velcro

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Dream Pairs Mary Jane Rhinestone
Test Winner: Dream Pairs Mary Jane Rhinestone
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
52
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
42
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
15
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Justina Fuller:

Even though going barefoot during the summer is fun, children still need shoes to protect their adorable, tiny feet. We have selected some of the best, most stylish shoes for your children in this post. However, how to ensure we have chosen the best shoes (and you choose the best ones for your children!), we have expanded upon several sections so you can make the most informed decision. These products’ descriptions have all been updated to reflect the most up-to-date information possible. We also made sure all these shoes were mildly comfortable for your child!

Sorting Options
Protection Comfort Durability By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
99
Protection
99 %
Comfort
99 %
Durability
99 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98.3
Protection
99 %
Comfort
98 %
Durability
98 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
Protection
99 %
Comfort
97 %
Durability
98 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97
Protection
98 %
Comfort
96 %
Durability
97 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
$27.99
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96
Protection
97 %
Comfort
95 %
Durability
96 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Protection
96 %
Comfort
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Protection
95 %
Comfort
93 %
Durability
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Protection
94 %
Comfort
92 %
Durability
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
$27.80
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Protection
93 %
Comfort
91 %
Durability
92 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
$60.04
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91
Protection
92 %
Comfort
90 %
Durability
91 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (27.04.24)
Amazon Link
$31.35

10 Best Kids & Toddler Shoes Reviewed

1. Converse All Star Canvas Low Tops

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
99
Converse All Star Canvas Low Tops
Converse All Star Canvas Low Tops
Converse All Star Canvas Low Tops
Amazon Link
Protection
99
Comfort
99
Durability
99
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Rubber sole

Machine washable

Eleven different colors

Classic low top Chuck Taylor style

Lightweight and breathable

They run large, so read the other reviews to compare how much you want to size down

These little kicks are cool in a classic kind of way. Converse sneakers go with just about anything, and people of all ages still seem to enjoy them.

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Protection

We know Chuck Taylor All Stars are a staple in many teens’ and adults’ closets--so why can’t the little ones join in on the fun? These adorable low tops are a lace-up, lightweight sneaker. The rubber sole provides protection against the elements and any stray items on the floor that might result in crocodile tears once stepped on. The canvas is breathable, making these a good choice for little ones that are still highly attached to being barefoot.

Comfort

These shoes come in eleven different colors, from classic navy or red to a poppy pink. Kids love these kicks, from the way that they feel, to their sleek vintage look. They tend to run a little large, so make sure you size down accordingly, and they can be washed in cold water and machine dried on low heat to help break them in or remove future stains!

Durability

These shoes are supportive enough to keep kids’ little toes safe outside, while also being breathable and lightweight. Plus, they look cool, and they come in bright colors that children will love! The thick rubber soles are difficult to wear down, and these shoes will last your child a long time. The soft, canvas material makes the shoes comfortable, while also being long-lasting and easy to clean. These shoes can even be put into the washer and dryer if you so choose.

2. Stride Rite Soft Motion Kellen

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98.3
Stride Rite Soft Motion Kellen
Stride Rite Soft Motion Kellen
Stride Rite Soft Motion Kellen
Amazon Link
Protection
99
Comfort
98
Durability
98
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Features deep and flexible grooves to help your baby balance

Strong Velcro-style closure for quick and easy put-on/take-off

Available in wide and extra-wide sizes

The insole is made of memory foam for maximum comfort

The suede material may not stand up to wet conditions without ruining the fabric

The seams can fray easily over time, causing loose strings

Finding shoes for chubby, wide, or flat-footed babies can be extremely difficult and we love that these adorable shoes are available in wide sizes! Not only do they come in wide sizes, but they also are very comfortable so your little one will not cry when their feet start to hurt. Since these shoes are so comfy, they might be the most stylish shoes, but variety makes up for it. With a variety of colors, there are plenty of options for your little one to choose from!

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Protection

When your baby is still an infant, buying shoes is more about style and warmth than functionality. Once those little toes start walking, however, your little one will need much more support. The Stride Rite Soft Motion Kellen sneakers have been specifically designed to aid your new walker.

Comfort

These sneakers are made of a soft suede material that is gentle against your baby’s skin. Deep grooves that flex as your child walks give your little one maximum traction without inhibiting their natural movement. About the same time your child starts to need proper shoes, they will start to stink up their shoes! Sweat, water, dirt, spilled food, potty accidents--all of these can leave your kiddo’s kicks so smelly you may not even allow them in the house! Fortunately, Stride Rite has designed these sneakers with a special mesh lining. Not only does this improve the shoe’s breathability but it has also been coated with an anti-microbial treatment that can kill off the bacteria that cause foot odor.

Durability

These shoes are some of the few options we have found that are available in wide sizes. This can be ideal if your child suffers from flat feet or simply has overly chubby toes! The tongue pulls the shoe open wide, allowing for simple and quick put off and take off that will encourage your little one’s self-independence. The large hook-and-loop-style closure keeps the shoe tight against their foot while also allowing for adjustability as their foot grows. These sneakers also use a rounded-edge style to help decrease the likelihood that your little one will stumble or fall.

3. French Toast Cole Oxford

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
French Toast Cole Oxford
French Toast Cole Oxford
French Toast Cole Oxford
Amazon Link
Protection
99
Comfort
97
Durability
98
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Quality manmade Oxford style design

Non-slip traction gripping sole with a half inch heel

Comfort and shock absorption

Velcro closure at monk strap to make it easy to slip on and off

Shoes will start to scuff up over time and are really not for daily use but only special occasions

Getting a boy to wear a dress shoe or the dress up can be a challenge. This shoe with its comfort and easy to get on construction can help eliminate some of the battles of getting a boy to wear dressy shoes.

Read more

Protection

Every boy is going to need a good nice pair of dress shoes and that if what the French Toast Cole Oxford is. This shoe is not only dressy but will also provide a comfortable fit. The French Toast Cole Oxford shoe is the ideal shoe for a boy to wear for a wedding, graduation or any other special occasion.

Comfort

The French Toast Cole Oxford are man-made and have classic Oxford shoe features. These include the fine tonal stitching and a hook loop strap. There is also a rubber sole and heel to help keep a bounce in a boys step.

Durability

Let’s face it boys don’t really want to wear dress up shoes. They are more into sneakers and athletic type shoes mainly due to comfort. But that is the beauty of the French Toast Cole Oxford, these are a dressy shoe that provides comfort. With this shoe, even a boy will see the importance of having at least one pair of dress shoes for their wardrobe.

4. Dream Pairs Mary Jane Rhinestone

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97
Dream Pairs Mary Jane Rhinestone
Dream Pairs Mary Jane Rhinestone
Dream Pairs Mary Jane Rhinestone
Amazon Link
Protection
98
Comfort
96
Durability
97
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$27.99

Made from man-made sued that is available in stunning vibrant iridescent colors

Has a pretty bow accent at the top with studded with a rhinestone and pearls

Ballerina flat sole that makes them easy to walk in.

Ankle strap that is embellished with pearls and a rhinestone that is closed by velcro

The shoe is somewhat delicate and not really made to take a whole lot of abuse from kids, best worn for only special occasions

While there is a heel on the shoe, it is small enough that it won’t hinder your child’s ability to walk. Not only do the rhinestones look great but they have been attached securely so your little princess can enjoy countless outings in these flats.

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Protection

While there is a heel on the shoe, it is small enough that it won’t hinder your child’s ability to walk. Even though the glitter is tantalizing, the overall design of the shoe will keep your child’s foot protected. The thick sole on the inside of the shoe will also protect your child from broken items on the ground that he or she might step on. The sparkly shoe, while pretty, will also protect your child from blisters and bruises. This shoe is perfect for a special occasion!

Comfort

Your little girl can feel like a princess every time she puts on her Mary Jane Ballerina Flats. The pearl suede material is accented with rhinestones that will have your child’s feet glistening. The flats are available in black, gold, pink, red, and silver. Equipped with a strap closure, these flats will fit securely on your child’s feet. The insole is padded which makes the shoes comfortable to wear.

Durability

The heel is age appropriate as it is only 0.2 inches tall. With the heel being so small, your child can easily walk without tripping. These adorable flats can easily be paired with both dressy and casual outfits. The rhinestones are securely attached to the flats which allow these shoes to still look great after several wears.

5. Oakiwear Rubber Rain Easy-On

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96
Oakiwear Rubber Rain Easy-On
Oakiwear Rubber Rain Easy-On
Oakiwear Rubber Rain Easy-On
Amazon Link
Protection
97
Comfort
95
Durability
96
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Side handles that make it easy to slip the boots on feet and come in handy when storing boots away

Made from rubber that makes them easy to clean off and maintain

Comes in a variety of colors and patterns that should appeal to any child

A quality sole that makes boot not only ideal for rainy weather but for fishing or camping as well

Can be a bit of a challenge getting the boots off feet since like other rain boots these don’t have a zipper closure.

Rain gear is something that everyone needs, and rain boots are definitely important since water can damage standard shoes. These rain boot by Oakiwear have a reputation for being the best because of the high-quality standards that makes the boots so versatile. They have a tall shaft, so your child can jump in puddles without having to worry about getting super wet. The rubber is also extremely durable, so it will last through multiple puddles and storms. It is also the perfect substitution for an old pair of boots.

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Protection

Rainy day weather is an inevitable part of life. So for any toddler and kid, a good pair of rain boots is an essential part of their wardrobe These rubber rain boots from Oakiwear are the ideal lightweight rain boots for a child. These boots will not only keep a child’s feet dry but will also protect their other shoes from water damage.

Comfort

The shoes are made of quality rubber and have a clever feature of two handles on the side to make them easy to slip on. The soles of these rain boots also have good traction which is ideal to keep from slipping on the cold wet ground. These Rubber rain boots are ideal for toddlers and kids. Also, because these come in so many colors and patterns are ideal for both genders.

Durability

Rubber rain boots are a must-have for anyone who has to brave the stormy weather. These attractive cute rubber rain boots will certainly keep little feet protected and a kid's shoes as well. These rain boots will have bright colors and patterns kids will love, but also have a non-slip sole with good traction, no doubt something parents will love. Simple in design but effective to get the job done.

6. Ufatansy CPS Light up Wheels

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Ufatansy CPS Light up Wheels
Ufatansy CPS Light up Wheels
Ufatansy CPS Light up Wheels
Amazon Link
Protection
96
Comfort
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Features a mesh material upper body that provided maximum breathability

Bright LED lights line the base of the shoes and function through vibration

Wheelie-style shoes have a single wheel that pops out and function as roller skates

Velcro and lace-up styles available to meet a variety of needs

Lights are not rechargeable and only last for 10 to 30 days

The shoes can be very heavy and may be difficult for some children to walk in

These sneakers light up AND have wheels, they are the kid epitome of cool!

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Protection

As parents, we want our children’s shoes to have some amount of function over form. We want them to be sturdy, durable, and comfortable. Our children, on the other hand, want them to be cool. They have to look the part, not just act the part. Fortunately, CPS Kids Light Up Roller Wheel shoes fit all of these needs. These stylish sneakers use a comfortable mesh to provide a secure but airy upper.

Comfort

They utilize poly-synthetic leather, known as PU leather, which has been designed to look and feel like genuine leather but can withstand wet conditions and weather. These sneakers also combine two of the design features most requested by kids--lights and wheels. A row of multi-colored LED lights lines the base of the shoes and light up automatically as your child walks. If they get tired of walking, or maybe they are running late for class, simply pop out the single roller skate-style wheel at the heel and you will soon be zipping down the hallways!

Durability

Unlike many online shoes, these sneakers are very true to form and will provide an excellent fit for a variety of foot sizes. They are available in a plethora of color options to fit your child’s unique style needs. They are available mainly in Velcro closure-style design to easily put on/take off, but some larger sizes also come with lace-up options for older children. The material is scuff- and scratch-resistant, preventing them from wearing down quickly and extending the life of the shoes.

7. Silver Lilly Animal Slippers

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Silver Lilly Animal Slippers
Silver Lilly Animal Slippers
Silver Lilly Animal Slippers
Amazon Link
Protection
95
Comfort
93
Durability
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Padded and cushioned for extra comfort while walking with a good traction sole

Faux fur lined to keep the foot warm and to add more comfort

Cute animal head at front of slippers to add to the novelty and the fun

Comes in sizes for smaller kids all the way to adults

The stitching on the head of the dog especially around the nose area starts to come undone over time and wear.

Standard bedroom slippers may seem boring to younger kids. These precious little slippers with the adorable animal face will delight kid and make them a joy to wear.

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Protection

A good pair of bedroom slippers to keep a child’s feet warm and protected when they are ready for bed are another essential piece of footwear. Thanks to the Silver Lily Animal slippers, the bedroom slipper doesn’t have to be mundane but fun and adorable, the type of slippers a child will want to wear. This pair features the adorable Plug pug dog whose cute little face seems to be smiling back at the child.

Comfort

No doubt will be a hit since these days animal slippers seem to be quite popular. The faux fur that the slippers are lined with will also add warmth and comfort. The sole of the slippers has good grip traction along with cushioning to add to the comfort. Not into pug dogs, not to worry these precious little slippers come in various types of cute animal characters and colors.

Durability

These cute little animal slipper by Silver lining are the type of slipper a child will no doubt love to wear. These are adorable and are also comfortable. These precious little slippers defy age and can be worn from toddler age on since they come in a variety of sizes. Roomy, comfortable, and offer a good solid sole bottom to protect the delicate bottom of the foot.

8. Hush Puppies Lexi Uniform Mary Jane

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Hush Puppies Lexi Uniform Mary Jane
Hush Puppies Lexi Uniform Mary Jane
Hush Puppies Lexi Uniform Mary Jane
Amazon Link
Protection
94
Comfort
92
Durability
93
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$27.80

Made from genuine leather which will avoid scuff marks

Memory foam footbed with antimicrobial treatment technology within the shoe

Certified to be ideal for a school uniform.

Rubber sole bottom for shock absorption

The shoe is a bit narrow in design could be a bit of a problem when fitting a wider foot

The Mary Jane is one shoe that never seems to go out of style. This particular Mary Jane shoe is also perfect for the school uniform dress code that kids face these days. But besides being appropriate to wear with a school uniform, they are also a very practical shoe that can be worn with almost anything. Daddy daughter dance? This show will have them dancing all night long. Christening? This shoe is perfect for church. Just playing outside? This shoe can handle that too. The strap across the top keeps your child foot securely in place.

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Protection

No doubt when we think of the classic Mary Jane shoe this is the type of image that will spring to mind. The basic black leather flat shoe with the buckle strap that adds to support. These pair of Mary Janes may seem basic but there are a few features that put them on this list.

Comfort

First, there is the fact that these are put out by a trusted manufacturer of comfortable footwear Hush Puppies. Second, this particular pair of shoes has actually been certified to be worn with a school uniform. This is an important element since these days schools have gone to a dress code which requires certain clothing to be worn along with certain shoes.

Durability

Mary Janes have stood the test of time when it comes to being a part of a girls wardrobe. This pair of shoes also give your girl an essential pair of shoes to wear with her school uniform. Not only are they are a basic black but also built to last. These shoes have officially past the test which makes them an essential element to a young girl’s wardrobe.

9. Adidas Samba Classic Leather

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Adidas Samba Classic Leather
Adidas Samba Classic Leather
Adidas Samba Classic Leather
Amazon Link
Protection
93
Comfort
91
Durability
92
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$60.04

Three color options

Classic Adidas style

Rubber soled

Comfortable enough for all day, everyday use

Fits well, even on wider feet

A few earlier reviews claim that these are knock-offs but recent reviews seem happy with the product, so Amazon has likely addressed the issue

These are simple but classic and stylish. More importantly, kids claim that they’re comfy. There’s nothing more difficult than a child who is determined to not be wearing a vital part of his or her wardrobe. Skip the fuss, mess, and hassle--get them a pair of shoes they’ll happily kick around in all day.

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Protection

These Adidas kicks are sporty, stylish, and comfortable. Made from textile and synthetic materials, they feature a rubber sole that gives kids some traction without being so clunky or heavy as to trip them and weigh them down. They sport the usual Adidas logo and signature side stripes. The shoe is a rounder style and fit and could be classified as a soccer shoe

Comfort

These low top sneakers come in three different color schemes, all a combination of white and black. They’re well-suited for wider feet, and are a heavier duty design than many mesh running shoes, without being clunky and awkward for kids. Little ones can live in these all day, and the dark colors tend not to show huge amounts of wear and tear so you can get by with them looking new for longer.

Durability

These shoes are great for active kids. They’re supportive, well-fitted, and durable, while still being light and breathable.

10. Northside Frosty Winter Boot

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91
Northside Frosty Winter Boot
Northside Frosty Winter Boot
Northside Frosty Winter Boot
Amazon Link
Protection
92
Comfort
90
Durability
91
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$31.35

Has a durable rubber shell that goes over the foot that is waterproof

The upper part of the boot is nylon and is insulated to add to the warmth

Has easy to open and adjust closures

Rubber sole has good non-slip traction

Boots come in a large variety of colors and patterns

The seams of the boot can start to come on done over time.

Kids love to play in the snow and so it’s important to make sure they have good snow boots to protect their feet from the ice. The Frosty is a snow boot that is designed to not only protect the feet for the wet cold weather but are also insulated to add extra comfort.

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Protection

The Frosty Winter Snow boot by Northside is considered one of the most popular kids snow boots on the market today and with good reason. The snow boot consists of two parts, the rubber waterproof shell which cradles the foot and the nylon upper part with a thermal lining to keep the legs warm

Comfort

The snow boot has a sole that has good durable traction to help a child to maneuver in snowy weather. The Frosty is built to withstand the cold bitter weather and to protect a child’s delicate feet from it.

Durability

In snowy weather, kids want to go out and play in the cold. This is where a good pair of snow boots such as the Frosty will come in handy. These boots are built to tackle the cold weather. These are also easy to get in and out of after the winter play is over.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Protection

This is the main reason why all of us wear shoes. To protect our feet from the harsh elements of the outdoors. For a young child, this protection is vitally important since young feet can be quite delicate. So, finding shoes that will provide good protection, covering the entire foot and supporting the ankle is important. These components lead to a child having extra added support when walking and can help prevent falls.

Comfort

Iit’s important to make sure that a shoe isn’t causing friction on a child’s foot which will lead to pain and even blisters or that the toes have enough room so they aren’t pinching. In other words, not only is it a good idea to see how much cushioning the shoe has to offer to but to also make sure the shoes fit well since a good fit will also provide comfort while wearing the show. The comfort of a kid's shoe is an important factor otherwise a child may not want to wear the shoes and this could also be a problem since the parent invested in getting the footwear for the child.

Durability

Although it is important for a toddler and kids' shoes to be flexible to promote movement, it is also important that the shoe be well-made. A kid can be hard on their footwear and shoes that are built to take the hard knocks are essential to ensure that a shoe will withstand the wear and tear a kid puts it through. So, quality material that is durable enough to take whatever the youngster encounters during the day is important to look for.

Most Important Criteria (According to our experts opinion)
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#1
Protection
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Durability
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Parents, did you know?

There is no denying that some experts feel it’s best to have a child’s foot professionally sized. But unfortunately, we don’t live in a perfect world where this is always financially possible. The best course of action though whenever possible is to at least take a child to the shoe store that specializes in kids footwear the first time to have their foot sized there.

Parents, did you know?

Parents also want shoes that are built to last. So, shoes can be a wardrobe in themselves, serving various needs. When creating this list, we wanted to not only address these components on our list but also find toddler and kid's shoes that will meet certain criteria as well.

Parents, did you know?

The comfort of a kid's shoe is an important factor otherwise a child may not want to wear the shoes and this could also be a problem since the parent invested in getting the footwear for the child.

Parents, did you know?

With a younger kid, Velcro is probably more desirable, but when a kid starts to mature, shoes with laces will also be a great idea. Just make sure that the child learns how to tie their laces themselves.

Other Factors to Consider

Breathability

When it comes to footwear no matter the age, this is the main thing we look for. We want a shoe that will not only fit well but also be comfortable. For a child, this is vitally important, because we want our kids to not have shoes that pinch them or hurt their feet in any way.

Design

This is perhaps the thing that a young girl wants in footwear--for the shoes to match her outfit. For a boy, it would be having the kind of cool shoes that their friends have. In other words, they want to make a fashion statement no matter what kind of shoes they have. So, finding shoes that fit this parameter will give a child a desire to wear shoes. For kids, beautiful, fun or cool shoes can be a key component in footwear.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Can kids shoes be purchased online, such as the ones on this list?

a:

There are many wonderful shoes for kids that can be found online, as we have illustrated here. But this option is only best when a child’s shoe size is known and it hasn’t changed due to growth. Online shopping is convenient but there are some things that can be challenging to purchase online and shoes are one of them. It is always a good idea to be able to try a shoe on first in a shoe store or athletic store, not just to ensure the fit, but to also ensure that the shoe is comfortable.

q: Can a toddler's shoe be bought a bit bigger so they could grow into them?

a:

That would depend on whether the shoes were going to be put away till when the child properly fits in them. A common mistake that parents make is buying a shoe for their toddler that is a bit bigger than the child's actual foot size. There is a common misconception that kids need larger shoes for room to grow. Yes, footwear at a young age is challenging in the fact that a kids foot is still growing, but it’s important that a shoe fits well. Safety wise, this isn’t a good idea, because a child is more likely to trip or fall if a shoe is even just half a size bigger than their feet. Also, a kid could be prone to blisters and calluses if shoes are too big just as if a shoe is too small. So, when it comes to toddlers and even preschoolers, it’s not a good idea to buy a pair of shoes that are bigger than the child’s actual foot size. The only notable exception to this are shoes such as a few on this list that tends to run a bit small when the child’s actual shoe size, which is quite common in boots.

q: Is it possible to keep shoes a child outgrew and pass on to a younger sibling to wear?

a:

This is something that no doubt a parent will be tempted to do. With good reason, at a younger age a kid’s foot can always be changing, so buying footwear can be a costly proposition. However, some experts feel that it’s not a good idea to do this, because the pair of shoes has been conformed to the other child’s foot. However, there are also experts who say it’s alright to buy shoes that are second-hand. The best course of action is to see if the shoes actually fit the feet of the younger sibling and that they are comfortable on the child’s foot.

q: Isn’t a stiffer shoe better for a toddler to protect their feet at this stage in development?

a:

Actually, a stiffer shoe isn’t beneficial to a toddler's foot, in fact, it’s just the opposite. A stiffer shoe actually weakens the muscles in a child’s foot and can cause more accidents. So, even at a young age, a flexible, pliable shoe is more beneficial.

q: When is it time to buy a kid a new pair of shoes?

a:

Sometimes a child will complain about the shoe hurting, maybe displaying blisters or red areas on their feet. This is a sign that kids need a new pair of shoes. Another thing to do if the child isn’t complaining but you know some time has gone by since the shoes were bought is to look at the shape of the shoes. If they seem to be showing signs of wear and tear, then it could be time for a new pair.

Sources

  1. Sheryl Faber, What Happens When Children Wear Shoes That Are Too Big?, Blog Article
  2. Get the right fit and the right material, What Parents Should Know About Shopping for Children's Shoes, Informative Blog Post
  3. Elf Martin , How Fast Do Children's Feet Grow?, Blog Article
  4. mom 365 Staff, 10 Things to Know About Choosing Shoes for Toddlers, Informational Blog Article
  5. Emily Green, Tips on Choosing Best Sports Shoes for Kids, Blog Article