The 15 Finest Toddler Footwear of 2024

As a mom of a really lively youngster, I’ve seen first-hand how necessary toddler sneakers are for his or her correct improvement, from taking these first steps to operating and leaping in puddles. Over the previous couple of years, my son has examined various kinds of toddler sneakers, permitting me to find out what withstands a toddler’s tough play. For starters, the appropriate sneakers defend tiny ft on totally different surfaces, like wooden chips on the playground and rocks on the sidewalk, with out hindering a busy toddler’s mobility or steadiness.

It doesn’t matter what fashion you’re in search of, from informal to fancy, toddler sneakers ought to be comfortable, supportive, and match properly (and be lovable—however that goes with out saying). “Take into account your youngster’s distinctive foot form, and don’t be afraid to attempt quite a lot of types. It is perhaps that one model is simply too slim or extensive in your particular person youngster (or runs small or large), whereas one other model suits excellent,” says pediatrician Whitney Casares, MD, MPH.

To search out the most effective toddler sneakers, we spoke with specialists and had mother and father and their kids (between the ages of 1 and 4.5) put over two dozen pairs of sneakers by means of a number of exams at residence, evaluating their design, match, stability, adjustability, breathability, and total worth. A pediatrician from our Professional Board additionally reviewed the contents of this text for medical accuracy, together with particulars like when kids ought to begin carrying sneakers and tips on how to discover the appropriate pair.

Our Favourite Toddler Footwear

Learn how to Measure Toddler Toes for Footwear?

Utilizing an everyday family ruler, measure your kid’s foot from heel to toe. You may also have them stand on a bit of paper, hint round their ft, and measure the gap between the heel and the longest toe. We advocate that you simply add half an inch to the foot measurement to get a snug match. Then, use the model’s sizing chart to determine your kiddos’ shoe measurement. In fact, you can even take your youngster to a shoe retailer for an correct measurement. In response to specialist Mark Mendeszoon, DPM, ft ought to be re-measured each six months to make sure accuracy.

Shoe sizes for youngsters are damaged down into a couple of classes: toddler, toddler, little youngsters, and large youngsters. The toddler, toddler, and little child sizes vary from 0 to 13, whereas large child sneakers begin over at 1 to 7 (the equal of a males’s 7). Toddler sneakers normally embrace a “T” or “C” subsequent to the quantity to point that it’s a toddler or little child shoe. Keep in mind that not all manufacturers adhere to the identical language, and you must all the time test the scale chart earlier than buying. 

Finest First Strolling Footwear 

Stride Ceremony Tender Movement Zips Runner Sneaker

Why We Like It 

The Stride Ceremony Tender Movement Zips Runner Sneakers are simple to placed on, fashionable, and cozy on tiny ft. They’re out there in two width choices and a number of colours. We liked how simply these Stride Ceremony toddler sneakers slip on and off by means of the outsized opening. The adjustable hook-and-loop Velcro closure is a breeze to tighten and maneuver, even for unbiased toddlers.

A reminiscence foam footbed was comfortable and supportive for our little tester’s ft as they walked and ran on the park and day care. The versatile but slip-resistant rubber soles have glorious traction on quite a lot of surfaces, together with outdoors within the rain. The anti-stink mesh lining proved true—we seen zero odor and dampness although the toddler carrying them usually runs scorching. 

However Take Notice 

Sadly, these Stride Ceremony toddler sneakers will not be on the corporate’s mechanically cleanable record. Nevertheless, the leather-based and textile higher (made with recycled supplies) didn’t get too soiled after a number of bouts within the mud, snow, and grass. After months of testing, they regarded good as new. 

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 3 to six
• Materials: Leather-based and textile higher
• Sole sort: Arduous (rubber)

Nike Flex Runner 2

Why We Like It 

From walks across the neighborhood to enjoying on the park, these Nike toddler sneakers are sturdy on a number of terrains, due to a sturdy foam sole. “The sneakers had good traction for operating and leaping on the playground’s rubber turf and grass turf, in addition to on concrete,” stated our tester’s guardian.

The toe field is pretty extensive and options ample house for wiggling toes. Pull tabs on the heels and tongue are the cherry on prime of the slip-on design. We seen our tester’s ft have been heat after carrying the sneakers however didn’t odor or really feel sweaty; we credit score the breathable and light-weight materials on the glossy and sporty higher. 

However Take Notice 

These Nike toddler sneakers don’t have any adjustable straps, however that didn’t have an effect on their efficiency. The sneakers match properly due to the midfoot and heel straps, solely slipping off our 3-year-old tester’s ft when he was attempting to climb a steep slope on the playground. In any other case, the trendy sneakers stayed put by means of plenty of operating, leaping, and strolling. 

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 2 to 10
• Materials: Not listed
• Sole sort: Arduous (foam) 

Ten Little First Walker

Why We Like It 

Though our 18-month-old tester solely began strolling a couple of months in the past, she really put these sneakers to the check at day care and the park. Flat rubber soles have superb traction and assist for infants or toddlers studying to stroll. We admire the cotton-polyester higher and cotton lining, which preserve ft dry and stop overheating. 

Considered one of our favourite options of those first strolling sneakers is the adjustable Velcro straps, which permit mother and father and caregivers to discover a safe match—no matter how thick their youngster’s socks are—that can final all day. 

However Take Notice 

The foot-shaped toe field promotes the pure form of ft and suits comfortably, though the rubber toe scuffs simply. 

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 3 to six
• Materials: Cotton and polyester higher, cotton lining
• Sole sort: Arduous (rubber)

Finest Toddler Water Footwear and Sandals 

Eager Toddlers’ Newport H2

Why We Like It 

The Eager Newport H2s are sandals and water sneakers that give toddlers the splash of confidence they should tackle any water journey. After placing these sneakers on, our 22-month-old tester might “confidently discover totally different terrains with out my worrying that she was going to lose her steadiness or the shoe was going to return off,” says her mother. We admire that the froth insole absorbs shocks from uneven surfaces and supplies arch assist for consolation out and in of the water. An adjustable hook-and-loop closure is certainly one of our favourite options of this Eager toddler shoe. We additionally love how the bungee lacing provides an outdoorsy aptitude however doesn’t require tying. 

However Take Notice 

We admire the light-weight rubber sole that helps the roomy toe field. Nevertheless, we discovered that the sneakers scuffed and bought soiled simply. On the plus facet, these toddler water sneakers are mechanically cleanable, and the polyester webbing higher dries shortly, so youngsters don’t have to attend lengthy to take them on their subsequent journey.

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 4 to 7
• Materials: Polyester webbing higher
• Sole sort: Arduous (rubber)

Croc Traditional Clog

Why We Like It 

Accessible in additional than two dozen colours, the Crocs Toddler Traditional Clog suits true to measurement and incorporates a heel strap for a safe match on kiddos. Our favourite half is that these sneakers are simple to slide on and off, as our 3-year-old tester confirmed. 

The corporate makes its sneakers with trademarked Croslite (a resin materials), which we discovered simple to wash and dry. As well as, the clogs have holes to deliver airflow to the ft, an amazing function that retains ft from overheating on the pool and seashore. And you may all the time pair socks with these sneakers when it is cool outdoors. 

However Take Notice 

Whereas not superb for sports activities or operating actions, the Crocs toddler sneakers are a stable choice for most children’ every day actions. The corporate additionally sells them in grownup sizes, so everybody within the household can match. 

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 4 to 10 
• Materials: Croslite
• Sole sort: Arduous (Croslite)

Merrell Little Child’s Naked Steps Sandal

Why We Like It 

The Merrell Little Child’s Naked Steps Sandals showcase your favourite tootsies with out sacrificing correct foot improvement. Rounded edges, a large open-toe field, and a versatile grippy outsole supply stability for toddlers to run, leap, and climb safely. The lovable buckle particulars are secretly Velcro straps with an additional strap across the heel to supply a custom-made match for rising ft. After adjusting the 2 higher straps the primary time our tester wore them, we solely wanted to open and shut the heel strap when placing the sneakers on and taking them off. 

However Take Notice 

These sneakers match true to measurement, so we advocate ordering a half measurement up in case your youngster is on the cusp of their shoe measurement (or if you’d like room to develop). 

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 4 to 10
• Materials: Not listed
• Sole sort: Arduous (recycled rubber)

Finest Toddler Operating Footwear

New Stability Rave Run V2

Why We Like It 

Along with operating, toddlers can simply leap, climb, and deal with any playground gear within the New Stability Rave Run V2s. A sturdy rubber outsole provides small ft excellent traction on slides, grass, and extra surfaces with out slipping. The mesh higher permits loads of airflow, forsaking odors and sweaty ft. We admire the sneakers’ light-weight really feel, flexibility, and machine-washable materials. 

However Take Notice 

Don’t let the laces idiot you—a Velcro strap widens the sneakers’ openings, making it tremendous easy to place sneakers on in a jiffy. We simply want the strap was barely thicker. 

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 2 to 10
• Materials: Not listed
• Sole sort: Arduous (rubber)

Adidas Racer TR 23 Footwear

Why We Like It 

These sneakers are referred to as “Racer” for a motive; our children had no downside kicking balls, operating, and enjoying sports activities in them. They match true to measurement with sufficient wiggle room within the toes and tremendous comfortable cushioning for every step. The sturdy rubber outsole has loads of traction for ft on the transfer, whereas the mesh higher is light-weight and breathable. 

Bonus: The higher comprises a minimum of 50% recycled supplies. 

However Take Notice 

One function that stunned us was the colour of a few of the shoe’s options. Whereas the black fashion mentions “Cloud White” in its description, the stripes, heel tab, again, and tongue tab appeared gentle lavender. We didn’t thoughts, however an older sibling getting their very own pair may discover.

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 1 to 10 
• Materials: Mesh higher, Cloudfoam midsole
• Sole sort: Arduous (rubber)

Cat & Jack Toddler Parker Sneakers

Why We Like It 

In case you’re in search of inexpensive toddler sneakers, the Cat & Jack Parker Sneakers boast a budget-friendly price ticket, so you should purchase a number of sizes or pairs for siblings. Two Velcro closures on the higher are lengthy but easy to regulate, contributing to the sneakers’ glorious stability. We liked that our 19-month-old tester was in a position to put these sneakers on by herself. The outsole gave her good traction on totally different surfaces, however we advocate sneakers with extra grip for snowy climate. 

However Take Notice 

There are a few downsides to those toddler sneakers. In case your youngster’s ft run scorching, they might sweat simpler. The heel pull tab is simply too small to loop a finger by means of, so that you’ll want two fingers to drag on it.

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 4 to 12
• Materials: Cotton
• Sole sort: Not listed

Finest Mini-Me Toddler Footwear

Reebok Traditional Leather-based Footwear – Toddler

Why We Like It 

Match your mini-me with the Reebok Traditional Leather-based fashion you grew up with. Throughout testing, the rubber outsole stored up with an 18-month-old who likes to stroll, run, climb, and play to his coronary heart’s content material. “These sneakers offered extra traction and stability than a few of the others he’s used to,” stated the toddler’s guardian, including that the sneakers even stored up with their son’s sweaty ft. “These sneakers nearly nonetheless odor new, which shocks me,” they stated. 

However Take Notice 

These Reebok toddler sneakers function a stretch lace closure, so you’ll be able to’t alter them like Velcro straps. We adopted the sizing information and located that the sneakers match true to measurement, which eradicated the necessity to alter. 

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 4 to 10
• Materials: Full grain leather-based higher and EVA foam insole
• Sole sort: Arduous (rubber)

Adidas Gazelle Footwear

Why We Like It 

Initially launched within the Nineteen Sixties, the Adidas Gazelles are a streetwear icon. The basic Adidas stripes and the phrase “Gazelle” in metallic gold grace the perimeters of the sneakers. Our testers wore them whereas operating and driving their scooters in all forms of climate, and their ft by no means felt scorching regardless of the suede materials. General, the sneakers slip on simply, due to the 2 Velcro straps (little child sizes have three straps), and have stable traction.

However Take Notice 

Adidas doesn’t present particulars on tips on how to wash the suede materials, however after certainly one of our kiddos caught norovirus, we had no selection however to toss the sneakers into the washer. Dad and mom say these sneakers “went by means of numerous muddy puddles,” they usually got here out like new from the washer and dryer.

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 4 to 10
• Materials: Suede
• Sole sort: Not listed

Nike Court docket Legacy

Why We Like It 

Sturdy, comfortable, and classy, the Nike Court docket Legacy toddler sneakers are successful with mother and father and youngsters. Like grownup Nike Court docket Legacy sneakers, these toddler choices have the retro “Swoosh” and distinctive stitching. The thick rubber sole supplies good traction for leaping, operating, and different actions and doesn’t weigh youngsters down. One massive Velcro strap is adjustable and uncomplicated, permitting youngsters to maneuver independently (and really feel like large youngsters). 

However Take Notice 

The leather-based materials just isn’t breathable, and if worn all day, it could trigger youngsters’ ft to sweat and generally odor. Moreover, the white leather-based dirties simply. Whereas we have been in a position to clear scuffs with a wipe, they by no means regarded crisp white once more.

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 2 to 10
• Materials: Leather-based
• Sole sort: Arduous (rubber)

Finest Toddler Footwear for Large Toes

Stride Ceremony Winslow 2.0 Sneaker

Why We Like It 

For small ft that want a bit of further wiggle room, we advocate these Stride Ceremony toddler sneakers. The toe field may be very roomy, which was an amazing match for our 14-month-old tester. “The most effective half is the adjustable strap,” says one guardian, including, “It’s so simple to get her foot into the shoe with loads of house.” 

The particular tread on the only creates steady traction for early walkers or veteran runners. Plus, these toddler sneakers for extensive ft are authorized by the American Podiatric Medical Affiliation (APMA). The sneakers are additionally out there in medium width. 

However Take Notice 

Sadly, the Stride Ceremony Winslow 2.0 Sneakers will not be mechanically cleanable; we assume it’s as a result of totally submerging them in water might compromise the integrity of the outer artificial leather-based. To wash the sneakers, the corporate recommends wiping them clear.

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 5 to 10
• Materials: Artificial leather-based
• Sole sort: Not listed

Saucony Jazz Lite 2.0 Sneakers

Why We Like It 

Just like the Stride Ceremony Winslows, the Saucony Jazz Lite 2.0 Sneakers are available medium and extensive widths. The medium width regarded extensive to us, but it surely match a 2-year-old properly sufficient for him to comfortably run and stroll at day care, residence, and the streets of Manhattan. The rubber outsole has grooves to grip varied surfaces and supply stability. Our favourite function of those sneakers is their materials; the leather-based and mesh higher give youngsters plenty of breathability, and the anti-stink lining prevents odors from forming. 

However Take Notice 

Considered one of our mother and father wasn’t a fan of the general look of the Saucony toddler sneakers, saying, “it’s choice for varsity or daytime as a result of it’s comfy, however I don’t see it working double responsibility as a pleasant sneaker to put on to fancier events.” 

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 4 to 10
• Materials: Leather-based and mesh higher
• Sole sort: Arduous (rubber)

New Stability 574 New-B Hook & Loop

Why We Like It 

Moderately than two width choices, these New Stability toddler sneakers have three: medium, extensive, and extra-wide. The adjustable hook-and-loop closures on these New Stability toddler sneakers are praise-worthy as a result of they supply a snug and safe match on little ft. Along with retaining ft in place, small toes have further wiggle room with out the sneakers feeling too slim or stiff. 

A rubber outsole was simply what our 2-year-old tester wanted for stability at day care and past. We didn’t see any tripping or falling throughout testing, and the rubber had nice traction on the bottom. General, the design is stable sufficient for varsity however works for different events, each informal and dressy, no matter terrain, due to its sturdiness and noticeably top quality. 

However Take Notice

The one downsides we discovered with the New Stability 574 New-B Hook & Loop sneakers have been the heat and slight odor on our tester’s ft after a full day’s put on. Additionally, due to the respected model identify, New Stability sneakers carry a better price ticket. Nevertheless, we expect the dependable traction these sneakers supply makes them worthwhile. 

The Particulars: 

• Measurement vary: 2 to 10
• Materials: Artificial higher
• Sole sort: Arduous (rubber)

Different Notable Toddler Footwear 

• Stride Ceremony Wes Sneakers: We love the Stride Ceremony Wes Sneakers as a result of they provide excellent traction, simple adjustability, and a snug match. Cleansing them isn’t superb (they’re not mechanically cleanable); you should spot-clean the fragile leather-based and suede materials. On the plus facet, we used a moist rag and a bit of elbow grease, they usually regarded good as new.
• Ten Little Furry Excessive Prime: These Ten Little boots are nice winter toddler sneakers, due to their vegan leather-based higher and heat furry lining. Nevertheless, tiny ft that run scorching might sweat in these boots as a result of the liner runs from toes to ankles.
• See Kai Run Robyne Purple Denim: These See Kai Run toddler sneakers supply incredible stability, two adjustable straps, and an excellent cute look. Sadly, that lovable design dirties simply, and the sneakers aren’t mechanically cleanable (spot clear solely). 
• Ten Little On a regular basis Sandals: We admire the pliability and adjustability of those sneakers. Plus, they’re simply downright cute. Nevertheless, we want the Velcro opened a bit of extra for simpler entry to slide wider ft in.
• Nike Jordan 1M Mid SE: Even the youngest members of the family can sport a pair of Js. Whereas the high-top design is basic, they felt barely heavy, reminding us of trainers. Nonetheless, the Nike high-tops didn’t cease youngsters from transferring, stretching, wiggling, and dancing. 

How We Examined Toddler Footwear

To search out the most effective toddler sneakers for water, on a regular basis put on, and past, we requested over a dozen parenting editors and their kids to include one or a couple of pairs into their every day routine. For months, testers have been evaluating greater than two dozen toddler sneakers on the next attributes: 

• Match: To make sure an accurate match, we requested mother and father and caregivers to press down on the entrance of the shoe, watch their youngster run, leap, and stroll, and make notes about stumbling or unnatural actions. 
• Adjustability: If relevant, mother and father famous tips on how to alter the sneakers, whether or not by way of Velcro straps, laces, or one other technique. 
• Stability: We had our tiny testers put on the sneakers daily whereas participating in common actions. We wished to know if the sneakers have been simple to stroll or run in, offered ample traction, had versatile but stable soles, and have been simple to placed on and take off. 
• Breathability: Like adults, kids can have sweaty ft, so we wished to ensure the sneakers on our record have been breathable. Dad and mom carried out a sniff check on the shoe and their youngster’s ft for any odors after which felt their ft to see in the event that they have been sweaty or overheated. 
• Design: For the general design, mother and father described the appear and feel of the sneakers and requested their kids what they considered them when potential. We additionally washed the sneakers when mandatory, figuring out if that they had simple or difficult cleansing directions and the way the fabric held up. 
• Worth: The toddler sneakers we examined price between $10 and $65. We requested testers if the sneakers have been price their price and if they might proceed to make use of them past our testing interval. 

Our Specialists

We spoke with a number of specialists about what mother and father ought to search for in toddler sneakers: 

• Mark Mendeszoon, DPM, podiatrist, foot and ankle surgeon, and doctor spokesperson for the APMA.
• Kelly Fradin, MD, FAAP, a complex-care pediatrician, director of pediatrics at Atria Institute, and creator of Superior Parenting: Recommendation for Serving to Children By means of Diagnoses, Variations, and Psychological Well being Challenges.
• Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, a pediatrician, creator of Doing It All: Cease Over-Functioning, and Grow to be the Mother and Individual You’re Meant to Be, and founding father of Trendy Mommy Doc.

Components to Take into account in Toddler Footwear

• Measurement: Toddler sneakers differ in width and measurement, so checking sizing charts is essential to make sure your youngster will get a correct match. “Shopping for sneakers the subsequent measurement up could be helpful, as youngsters develop so shortly, and so do their ft,” Dr. Mendeszoon says. In case you’re not serious about buying a full-size bigger for longevity, attempt a half-size as much as discover the appropriate match. 
• Design: Select a shoe in your toddler that enables their foot to maneuver and develop naturally. Footwear that are not overly inflexible and exhausting will assist your toddler develop robust, wholesome ft and posture. “Youngsters’s ft are extra variable in width and form than grownup ft; accordingly, getting them fitted or sized, particularly within the toddler years, generally is a large assist,” says Dr. Fradin. Furthermore, go for sneakers that supply breathability and luxury and a sturdy sole to resist a number of surfaces. “If you’re in carpeted areas the place you’re not involved about sharp objects penetrating a shoe, go for comfortable sole varieties,” says Dr. Casares. “If you’re out and about on the concrete or different exhausting surfaces, that’s when tougher, sturdier soles will serve you greatest.
• Development: Regardless that toddlers outgrow their sneakers shortly, they’re exhausting on them within the meantime, so sturdy sneakers are important. “Search for sneakers which are light-weight and versatile as a substitute of inflexible and exhausting to maneuver in,” says Dr. Casares. “Your child is studying tips on how to navigate the world. Make it as simple as potential!” Encourage your youngster’s newfound independence by discovering sneakers which are simple to placed on and take off. “Except a toddler is aware of tips on how to lace their sneakers, Velcro is essentially the most handy and most comfy sort of shoe for them,” says Dr. Mendeszooon. 
• Objective and Season: Will your toddler be rocking these sneakers whereas enjoying with toys outdoors or on a household stroll? Footwear they’ll use as their on a regular basis pair will doubtless differ from these they use for dressing up. Additionally, relying on the place you reside, your toddler will doubtless want a special pair of sneakers for various seasons. Whether or not it’s a pair of breathable summer time sandals, protecting water sneakers, or cozy winter boots, preserve the seasons in thoughts when looking for toddler sneakers. No matter season, the most effective toddler sneakers ought to match properly, present assist, and be comfortable.

When Ought to Youngsters Begin Sporting Footwear?

“Most youngsters begin carrying sneakers as soon as they start strolling with stability and are prepared to depart the home on their very own two ft,” says Dr. Casares. “This usually begins at about 1 yr previous, although all kids are distinctive.” As soon as kids start to maneuver, sneakers present a security barrier between issues on the bottom. “When kids are largely strolling, we should always put them in sneakers to stop damage, corresponding to strolling on scorching surfaces or sidewalks close to damaged glass or canine poop,” Dr. Fradin provides.

Whereas sneakers stop damage, Dr. Mendeszoon recommends youngsters go barefoot as a lot as potential till 2 years previous. This suggestion permits a toddler’s ft to develop usually and develop muscular tissues and energy, together with toe greedy. Nevertheless, there are some exceptions, Dr. Fradin particulars. “I do choose toddlers barefoot until there are developmental causes corresponding to toe strolling or weak point on the ankle joint main them to profit from extra assist,” she says.

In any other case, going barefoot has its advantages, in line with Dr. Casares. “In case you’re simply hanging out at residence together with your toddler, attempt to let your toddler go barefoot as usually as potential to allow them to be taught to optimize proprioception (the place their physique is in house) with out having to contemplate further cloth or plastic obstacles,” she explains.

Who We Are

Katrina Cossey is a commerce author, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mother. She spent a number of years in broadcast journalism however discovered her true ardour in writing about the most effective merchandise for households, pregnant individuals, and youngsters of all ages. She’s researched hundreds of child merchandise, toys, items, and extra and personally examined lots of them. In her spare time, you’ll doubtless discover her within the stunning open air of Oklahoma together with her husband and 4-year-old son. Katrina extremely recommends toddler sneakers with Velcro straps, a sturdy, exhausting sole with traction, and a snug match.