The ten Finest Water Footwear for Toddlers to Put on on the Seaside, Pool, or Park

Whether or not toddlers are operating via a sprinkler, wading on the seaside, climbing via a creek, or splashing at their water desk, water play can preserve them occupied for hours on finish. Water footwear are one of the simplest ways to guard their tender soles from sizzling pavement or slippery, rocky surfaces, with out having soggy socks or too-sweaty toes. The finest water footwear for toddlers function high quality supplies, considerate design, and luxury via any exercise. 

Whitney Fedor, DPT, PRPC, a bodily therapist at Therapydia New Orleans, says water footwear are nice for splash pads, poolsides, water parks, or seashores, particularly for defending toes from sizzling concrete. She additionally provides some options for selecting footwear for toddlers. “I want to have kids with creating toes in a shoe with much less rigidity and a wider toe field to permit for nice intrinsic muscle energy and toe operate improvement,” Dr. Fedor says. For energetic youngsters concerned in a wide range of actions, take into account a flexible sneaker-like shoe or sandal that may be worn all season. For swimming, go for light-weight, breathable water socks. 

We researched dozens of best-selling toddler water footwear to seek out these sturdy, high-quality, and fast-drying or waterproof picks. We additionally spoke with a podiatrist and a bodily therapist for insights into what to search for in protected, supportive water footwear for toddlers. The result’s a group of water footwear for toddlers in all kinds of colours, sizes, and costs that work for a number of conditions. 

Our Favourite Water Footwear for Toddlers

Finest Water Footwear for Toddlers: Crocs Children Basic Clogs

Why We Like It

There’s a purpose Crocs are so standard: They’re light-weight, comfy, and sturdy sufficient to face as much as absolutely anything, together with water play. Crocs are fabricated from a molded foam that’s waterproof and floats. They dry shortly and have holes for air flow, so that you don’t want to fret about overheating. The clog design means they’re not too cumbersome. In addition they have a pivoting heel strap for a extra adjustable match. You should utilize the strap behind the heel for extra stability, or push it up so the shoe may be slipped on and off like true clogs. 

I’ve a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old, and these are our go-to footwear all summer time. They’re nice for the seaside, summer time camp, or taking part in within the yard. They maintain up extraordinarily properly and are tremendous simple to wash. Basic Crocs are unisex and are available a wide range of colours and designs, from neutrals like white and black to brilliant neons, tie-dye, and glitter. The design is customizable, too. You’ll be able to place Croc charms, known as Jibbitz, within the air flow holes. There are literally thousands of charms, which toddlers will love choosing out. 

However Take Observe

The sizing, particularly for youthful youngsters, could also be tough to determine. Whereas the Crocs official web site provides a measurement chart with measurements, the Amazon web page doesn’t, so it may be complicated to seek out what’s going to work. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: Toddler to grownup
• Materials: Proprietary Croslite (a kind of froth)

Finest Slip-On: Native Footwear Children’ Jefferson Sneaker

Why We Like It

These Native waterproof sneakers provide each safety and flexibility. Not like sandals, they’re absolutely enclosed, so that you don’t have to fret about your little stubbing their toe or scraping their heel. They’ve a slip-on type that makes them simple to get on or take off, and so they’re additionally fabricated from a particularly light-weight rubber materials that makes them really feel like air. Holes throughout preserve them breathable and well-ventilated, and so they dry shortly in the event that they get moist. 

Regardless of their gentle materials, the footwear are sturdy and sturdy. They’re shock-absorbent and comfy, with good traction. They’re additionally odor-resistant, which is right for footwear which may spend a number of time within the water. They’re obtainable in a rainbow of colours, and so they don’t seem like water footwear, which makes them a very good match for nearly any outfit. Plus, they’re very simple to wipe clear, even when they’ll’t be thrown within the washer. 

However Take Observe

These provide little to no stretch, so in case your baby has wider toes, they could be onerous to get on or off. You’ll be able to attempt sizing up, however that will make them too large. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: 4T-13C; 1-6Y
• Materials: Rubber and EVA 

Finest Funds: DSG Direct Toddler Water Footwear

Why We Like It

These toddler water footwear are proof that you simply don’t have to spend so much to get an ideal high quality product. At lower than $15, these sneakers provide loads of consolation and suppleness. They seem like slip-on sneakers, however they’ve a Velcro closure alongside the highest that offers them a way more adjustable match. This additionally makes it loads simpler to get these on and off, particularly for toddlers who’ve wider toes. 

They’re fabricated from a stretchy, breathable jersey cloth that feels much more versatile than many different choices, with a thick, grippy EVA sole and a firmer toe field for higher safety. Their type makes these look extra like common toddler sneakers than water footwear, to allow them to simply transition from outside to indoor play. The jersey is light-weight sufficient that these by no means really feel too cumbersome or heat. 

However Take Observe

Relating to colours and prints, these are a little bit restricted. They’re solely obtainable in 4 print choices, in order that they gained’t match each outfit. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: 4T-12C 
• Materials: Jersey and EVA 

Finest for Water Parks: Columbia Children Techsun Wave

Why We Like It

These Columbia sandals are perfect for locations like water parks, the place youngsters will in all probability be operating between swimming pools, water rides, and sizzling pavement all through the day. They’re additionally well-suited for taking part in in a yard or wooded space. The closed-toe sandal type protects toes, whereas the rubber outsole provides loads of traction on moist surfaces. The hook and loop strap and bungee laces provide a extra adjustable, versatile match. General, their sturdiness and flexibility imply you should use all of them summer time lengthy. 

The cushioned footbed makes them actually comfy to put on, and their hydrophobic lining and fast-drying building guarantee they’re water-friendly. The mesh ventilated sides all through make them a breathable choice for warm days, and the playful shade combo choices are enjoyable for little ones. Bonus: They are often thrown within the washer after they have to be cleaned. 

However Take Observe

Whereas these are nice for operating round, they’re not excellent for swimming. One other observe is that the sizing could also be a bit off, in line with some mother and father, so some guesswork and returns could also be required. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: 4T-13C; 1-7Y
• Materials: Mesh and leather-based, rubber outsole 

Finest Slipper-Like: Merrell Naked Steps H20

Why We Like It

These light-weight, slipper-like water footwear provide full safety, help, and traction. That makes them nice for a number of conditions, whether or not youngsters are operating on slippery grass or sizzling pavement, or wading in shallow water. Dr. Fedor is a giant fan of this feature, saying, “I used these as my baby’s day-to-day footwear in the summertime” as a result of they “test all of the bins.” The Merrell’s barefoot really feel makes them cozy and breathable, which is particularly nice for little ones who don’t like cumbersome or heavy footwear. The quick-drying, water-friendly uppers and linings imply you don’t want to fret about soggy toes.

They’re versatile, with a Velcro closure for adjustability, and an extra-wide toe field and outsole with a rounded edge to assist in correct foot improvement. The nonmarking grooves within the outsole give loads of grip for slippery conditions. These high-quality, long-lasting kicks are additionally easy to wash and are available all kinds of enjoyable colours. 

However Take Observe

Dr. Fedor notes that these aren’t excellent for swimming, so should you’re on the lookout for a water shoe to make use of within the pool, these in all probability gained’t work. The insole could come out simply when the shoe will get very moist. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: 4T-10C
• Materials: Leather-based, EVA, rubber

Finest Open-Toe Sandal: Teva Psyclone XLT Sandal

Why We Like It

Open-toe sandals may be nice in hotter climate, particularly if you’re coping with chubby toddler toes. These picks are fabricated from breathable mesh materials with loads of open house to maintain small toes from getting overheated and sweaty. One factor we actually love about them is how adjustable they’re: there are two hook and loop closures that can help you discover the right match on your toddler, which is especially good should you’re coping with large toes. 

The cushioned EVA foam midsole and light-weight general really feel guarantee most consolation. The rubber outsole is made to have nice traction and be very sturdy. They usually gained’t get pungent quick—they’re coated with a peppermint-based anti-odor therapy to maintain them smelling contemporary. That’s undoubtedly a plus since a number of water play could make water footwear scent musty after some time. 

However Take Observe

Whereas open-toe sandals may be nice, remember the fact that they don’t provide a lot safety on your baby’s toes. It additionally appears tough to seek out all of the sizes in all of the obtainable colours. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: 4T-13C; 1-3Y
• Materials: Mesh, EVA foam, rubber

Finest Closed-Toe Sandal: Eager Seacamp II CNX

Why We Like It

Eager sandals have lengthy been a go-to favourite amongst mother and father for his or her high quality, sturdiness, and safety. These rugged sandals needs to be summer time staples for toddlers who love getting exterior and exploring. They’re waterproof and repellent, with a quick-dry lining that makes them simple to put on for hours on finish. The multi-directional lug sample on the underside is one you gained’t discover on each sandal and provides distinctive traction. The rubber toe field offers extra safety. 

These even have a hook and loop closure and bungee system for a extra versatile, adjustable match. There’s arch help and a foam footbed for consolation, and so they’re surprisingly light-weight. They’re additionally mechanically cleanable. General, we love these for operating on uneven floor, slippery surfaces, and heat climate hikes. 

However Take Observe

These undoubtedly have a extra outside vibe to them, so aesthetically they’re not as versatile as another sandals. And at over $50, they’re additionally on the costlier facet for sandals your baby could develop out of shortly. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: 4T-13C; 1-7Y 
• Materials: Rubber, EVA, polyester webbing

Finest Non-Slip: Robeez Water Footwear 

Why We Like It

If traction is your high precedence, look no additional than Robeez. The TPU materials on the only real grips the ground to make sure that newbie walkers can’t simply journey or slip. There are many different issues to like about these, too. Product of stretchy neoprene, they’ve a really versatile really feel, and the Velcro closure and bungee straps give them extra adjustability. They utterly cowl the foot, with a powerful rubber toe field for added safety, however the cut-outs and light-weight materials preserve them breathable. 

The higher is waterproof and quick-drying, to allow them to be worn for hours with out feeling soaked. In addition they have a padded insole for a bit extra cushioning, and a pull loop on the heel makes them simple to get on or off. Plus, we love the designs and brilliant colours which are provided. 

However Take Observe

Evaluate their sizing chart earlier than you order as these footwear could run large. The insoles could come out simply after they’ve gotten moist a couple of instances. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: 5T-10C 
• Materials: Neoprene, rubber 

Finest Aqua Sock: Inexperienced Sprouts Water Socks

Why We Like It

These water socks are your finest wager should you’re on the lookout for footwear that may be worn whereas swimming and supply safety from sizzling or slippery surfaces. These water socks could appear overly easy, however as Dr. Fedor factors out, that’s not a nasty factor. “These are nice for foot improvement and security across the pool,” Dr. Fedor says. “My thoughts goes to much less is extra: Let the foot work extra and never depend on the shoe for help.” 

These are each chlorine- and salt-water-resistant, and the fabric is quick-drying so that you don’t want to fret about pulling them off the second they get out of the water. They’re fabricated from stretchy neoprene materials that appears and goes on like a sock and has a nonslip sole. They’ve a pull loop by the heel, making them comparatively simple to get on and off. They’re additionally tremendous light-weight, cheap, and take up just about no house in your seaside or pool bag. 

However Take Observe

These are nice to be used within the water, however they’re not as protecting or sturdy as lots of the different water footwear on this listing. If you’d like a shoe for climbing or multipurpose on a regular basis use, these in all probability aren’t it. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: 3-10T
• Materials: Neoprene 

Best to Put On and Take Off: Adidas Children AltaSwim 2

Why We Like It

For wiggly toddlers with large toes, slip-on footwear could also be out of the query. That’s why we love these Adidas. With a large footbed and two adjustable straps, these sandals are one of many best pairs to get on and take off, even when your toddlers’ toes are on the chubby facet. The 2 hook-and-loop straps are strategically positioned to provide you a extra customizable measurement, and with each open, you by no means have to fret about jamming a clammy foot inside a tiny shoe gap. 

They’re fabricated from a tremendous light-weight artificial materials that ought to dry shortly. The contoured footbed is comfy and roomy. They’ve some respectable traction and are constructed to final. And with an open toe and loads of cut-outs, these are very breathable and funky on sizzling days. 

However Take Observe

These run large, so it’s possible you’ll wish to measurement down when ordering. In addition they don’t provide as a lot traction and sturdiness as different choices on this listing. 

The Particulars:

• Dimension vary: 3-9T 
• Materials: EVA

Our Evaluate Course of

We checked out greater than 30 top-rated water footwear in the marketplace to seek out the very best choices for toddlers. We studied their design and options, learn via buyer opinions, and saved a detailed eye on purchasing developments to seek out essentially the most sturdy and versatile choices. When assessing water footwear, we thought of consolation, supplies, high quality, traction, foot safety and help, closure sort, and worth. We additionally used our personal expertise as mother and father of children who love the water to tell our selections.

Our Consultants

We spoke with two consultants to achieve insights into what toddlers want in an ideal water shoe. Based mostly on their suggestions and our personal analysis, we selected a variety of choices, from sandals to slip-ons, to suit into any funds. 

• Mark Mendeszoon, DPM, podiatrist, foot and ankle surgeon, and doctor spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation
• Whitney Fedor, DPT, PRPC, bodily therapist at Therapydia New Orleans

Sorts of Toddler Water Footwear

There are a number of forms of water footwear obtainable. Some will probably be appropriate for each operating across the yard and taking part in within the water, whereas others are meant just for swimming. 

• Water footwear: Toddler water footwear will look much like every other pair of toddler footwear, besides they’re fabricated from sturdy supplies that make them appropriate for water play. They’ll dry sooner than different footwear or they’ll be waterproof in order that they don’t keep moist. They’re additionally slip-resistant, sturdy sufficient to face as much as rocky surfaces or bumpy pavement, and protecting sufficient to maintain little toes from getting harm or burned. 
• Water sandals: Toddler water sandals additionally look much like every other pair of sandals, however once more, they’ll be fabricated from supplies that may face up to water play and never keep moist. Whereas these are perfect for sizzling climate, they aren’t all the time as protecting as water footwear: they could depart the toe or heel open and is usually a bit extra light-weight. 
• Water socks: In case you’re on the lookout for footwear that your toddler can swim in, water socks are finest. Product of versatile materials, these sock-like slip-ons are light-weight, made to get soaking moist, and gained’t weigh them down within the water. Whereas they need to preserve toes protected on sizzling, tough, and slippery surfaces, they’re not as sturdy, sturdy, or protecting as water footwear or sandals. 

Components to Think about When Shopping for Water Footwear for Toddlers

When on the lookout for the very best pair of water footwear on your baby, Dr. Fedor recommends contemplating the actions you can be partaking in and the way ceaselessly you propose to make use of them. “Is it for a splash pad, summer time enjoyable within the yard, or simply to be used in and across the pool?” she says. Your funds is one other necessary consideration, as is the type of shoe you suppose will present the smoothest expertise getting footwear on and off a wiggly, moist toddler. Different issues to consider embrace:

• Supplies: Not all water footwear dry shortly, so in order for you one thing your youngsters can put on for a complete day, go for a pair created from a foam-like EVA or mesh materials. Dr. Mendeszoon particularly recommends mesh as a result of its breathability helps keep away from pores and skin points attributable to damp circumstances, akin to “maceration and pores and skin infections akin to athlete’s foot, plantar warts, and bacterial infections.” The only real materials ought to have some traction. Dr. Fedor suggests a rubber sole as the most suitable choice: “If we’re shopping for footwear for the pool, then we’re OK to go together with one thing extra versatile, whereas for the yard we’d want a thicker sole.” 
• Design: The most effective design on your baby relies upon loads on the actions they love to do. As an example, a sneaker is finest for teenagers who love operating round, whereas one thing with a extra substantial sole is a better option for teenagers who’ll be romping within the woods and creeks. Take note of the traction of the only real to attenuate the chance of your baby slipping and falling. Examine the development of the shoe’s straps to keep away from the shoe sliding off throughout play; Dr. Fedor prefers Velcro straps for adjustability. And at last, take into account whether or not you like an open- or closed-toe type. In case you’re stocking up on water footwear for summer time camp or daycare, know that many services require closed-toe footwear. 
• Dimension and Consolation: It doesn’t matter what, if the shoe doesn’t suit your baby properly or is just not comfy, they gained’t wish to put on it. Remember to take note of on-line sizing guides for water footwear as a result of they’ll generally differ from commonplace sizes. Take into consideration how the shoe will match when it’s moist (will it turn into tighter, looser, considerably heavier, and so forth.) and when your baby’s toes swell within the warmth. And don’t purchase one thing too large within the hopes it can last more. 

Use Toddler Water Footwear Safely

Match is without doubt one of the most necessary points of water shoe security, says Dr. Fedor, noting that poorly fitted footwear are inclined to fall off a toddler’s foot. The American Podiatric Medical Affiliation (APMA) recommends all the time measuring your baby’s foot earlier than shopping for footwear to make sure the right match. The APMA additionally recommends measuring toes and looking for footwear later within the day, as toes usually tend to swell because the day goes on. You’ll wish to purchase the bigger measurement in case your baby’s toes are barely totally different sizes. 

Traction is one other security consideration. Water footwear have to be able to dealing with slippery surfaces, like slick pavement, rocks, or grass. “Keep away from minimal grippiness,” Dr. Fedor says. “You wish to be certain the shoe is safe on the kid’s foot so after they method water, the traction retains them from slipping.” If you buy water socks, know they could solely be appropriate for sporting within the water relatively than operating round a yard. 

Can Children Put on Water Footwear All Day? 

Many forms of water footwear may be worn all day, so long as they supply help for teenagers’ toes and dry shortly. Water socks, alternatively, aren’t applicable for all-day put on, as they don’t provide as a lot safety and help. 

Does My Toddler Want Water Footwear for the Seaside? 

For little ones who aren’t strolling but, water footwear aren’t crucial. In the event that they’re starting to toddle, water footwear may also help shield their toes from the recent sand or sharp rocks and shells. 

Who We Are

Jessica Sales space is a contract author who covers parenting, purchasing, wellness, leisure, and wedding ceremony content material. She has been freelance writing since 2017 and earlier than that, she labored as an editor at a web based publication for seven years. She has written for websites akin to Brides, Individuals, Insider, Bustle, Romper, Refinery 29, Cosmopolitan, Delish, The Every day Beast, Reviewed, She Is aware of, Scary Mommy, The Knot, and What to Count on. She additionally has two younger daughters and has gone via many, many pairs of child and toddler footwear with them.