The 15 Greatest Toddler Footwear of 2024

As a mom of a really energetic baby, I’ve seen first-hand how necessary toddler sneakers are for his or her correct growth, from taking these first steps to operating and leaping in puddles. Over the previous couple of years, my son has examined several types of toddler sneakers, permitting me to find out what withstands a toddler’s tough play. For starters, the precise sneakers defend tiny ft on completely 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 type you’re searching for, from informal to fancy, toddler sneakers ought to be cozy, supportive, and match effectively (and be lovable—however that goes with out saying). “Take into account your baby’s distinctive foot form, and don’t be afraid to attempt a wide range of types. It could be that one model is simply too slender or huge on your particular person baby (or runs small or massive), whereas one other model suits good,” says pediatrician Whitney Casares, MD, MPH.

To seek out the very best toddler sneakers, we spoke with specialists and had dad and mom and their youngsters (between the ages of 1 and 4.5) put over two dozen pairs of sneakers by way of a number of assessments at dwelling, evaluating their design, match, stability, adjustability, breathability, and total worth. A pediatrician from our Knowledgeable Board additionally reviewed the contents of this text for medical accuracy, together with particulars like when youngsters ought to begin carrying sneakers and easy methods to discover the precise pair.

Our Favourite Toddler Footwear

How you can Measure Toddler Toes for Footwear?

Utilizing an everyday family ruler, measure your kid’s foot from heel to toe. You may as well have them stand on a chunk of paper, hint round their ft, and measure the gap between the heel and the longest toe. We suggest that you just 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 dimension. In fact, you may also take your baby to a shoe retailer for an correct measurement. In line with specialist Mark Mendeszoon, DPM, ft ought to be re-measured each six months to make sure accuracy.

Shoe sizes for kids are damaged down into a number of classes: toddler, toddler, little children, and large children. The toddler, toddler, and little child sizes vary from 0 to 13, whereas massive child sneakers begin over at 1 to 7 (the equal of a males’s 7). Toddler sneakers often embody 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 need to at all times verify the scale chart earlier than buying. 

Greatest First Strolling Footwear 

Stride Ceremony Gentle Movement Zips Runner Sneaker

Why We Like It 

The Stride Ceremony Gentle Movement Zips Runner Sneakers are simple to placed on, trendy, and comfy 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 way 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 a wide range of surfaces, together with exterior within the rain. The anti-stink mesh lining proved true—we observed zero odor and dampness regardless that the baby carrying them sometimes runs sizzling. 

However Take Observe 

Sadly, these Stride Ceremony toddler sneakers will not be on the corporate’s machine 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 appeared good as new. 

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 3 to six
• Materials: Leather-based and textile higher
• Sole kind: Laborious (rubber)

Nike Flex Runner 2

Why We Like It 

From walks across the neighborhood to taking part in 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,” mentioned our tester’s guardian.

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

However Take Observe 

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

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 2 to 10
• Materials: Not listed
• Sole kind: Laborious (foam) 

Ten Little First Walker

Why We Like It 

Though our 18-month-old tester solely began strolling a number of months in the past, she actually put these sneakers to the take a look at at day care and the park. Flat rubber soles have superb traction and help for infants or toddlers studying to stroll. We recognize the cotton-polyester higher and cotton lining, which hold ft dry and forestall overheating. 

One in every of our favourite options of those first strolling sneakers is the adjustable Velcro straps, which permit dad and mom and caregivers to discover a safe match—no matter how thick their baby’s socks are—that may final all day. 

However Take Observe 

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

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 3 to six
• Materials: Cotton and polyester higher, cotton lining
• Sole kind: Laborious (rubber)

Greatest 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 may “confidently discover completely 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 recognize that the froth insole absorbs shocks from uneven surfaces and supplies arch help 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 Observe 

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

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 4 to 7
• Materials: Polyester webbing higher
• Sole kind: Laborious (rubber)

Croc Traditional Clog

Why We Like It 

Out there in additional than two dozen colours, the Crocs Toddler Traditional Clog suits true to dimension and includes 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 scrub and dry. As well as, the clogs have holes to convey airflow to the ft, an excellent characteristic that retains ft from overheating on the pool and seaside. And you’ll at all times pair socks with these sneakers when it is cool exterior. 

However Take Observe 

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

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 4 to 10 
• Materials: Croslite
• Sole kind: Laborious (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 growth. Rounded edges, a large open-toe field, and a versatile grippy outsole provide stability for toddlers to run, soar, and climb safely. The lovable buckle particulars are secretly Velcro straps with an additional strap across the heel to supply a personalized 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 Observe 

These sneakers match true to dimension, so we suggest ordering a half dimension up in case your baby is on the cusp of their shoe dimension (or if you would like room to develop). 

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 4 to 10
• Materials: Not listed
• Sole kind: Laborious (recycled rubber)

Greatest Toddler Operating Footwear

New Stability Rave Run V2

Why We Like It 

Along with operating, toddlers can simply soar, climb, and deal with any playground tools 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, abandoning odors and sweaty ft. We recognize the sneakers’ light-weight really feel, flexibility, and machine-washable materials. 

However Take Observe 

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: 

• Dimension vary: 2 to 10
• Materials: Not listed
• Sole kind: Laborious (rubber)

Adidas Racer TR 23 Footwear

Why We Like It 

These sneakers are referred to as “Racer” for a motive; our youngsters had no downside kicking balls, operating, and taking part in sports activities in them. They match true to dimension with sufficient wiggle room within the toes and tremendous cozy 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 not less than 50% recycled supplies. 

However Take Observe 

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

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 1 to 10 
• Materials: Mesh higher, Cloudfoam midsole
• Sole kind: Laborious (rubber)

Cat & Jack Toddler Parker Sneakers

Why We Like It 

For those who’re searching for 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 capable of put these sneakers on by herself. The outsole gave her good traction on completely different surfaces, however we suggest sneakers with extra grip for snowy climate. 

However Take Observe 

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

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 4 to 12
• Materials: Cotton
• Sole kind: Not listed

Greatest Mini-Me Toddler Footwear

Reebok Traditional Leather-based Footwear – Toddler

Why We Like It 

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

However Take Observe 

These Reebok toddler sneakers characteristic a stretch lace closure, so you possibly can’t alter them like Velcro straps. We adopted the sizing information and located that the sneakers match true to dimension, which eradicated the necessity to alter. 

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 4 to 10
• Materials: Full grain leather-based higher and EVA foam insole
• Sole kind: Laborious (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 edges of the sneakers. Our testers wore them whereas operating and driving their scooters in all varieties of climate, and their ft by no means felt sizzling 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 Observe 

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

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 4 to 10
• Materials: Suede
• Sole kind: Not listed

Nike Courtroom Legacy

Why We Like It 

Sturdy, cozy, and classy, the Nike Courtroom Legacy toddler sneakers are a success with dad and mom and youngsters. Like grownup Nike Courtroom 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 children down. One massive Velcro strap is adjustable and uncomplicated, permitting children to maneuver independently (and really feel like massive children). 

However Take Observe 

The leather-based materials isn’t breathable, and if worn all day, it might trigger children’ ft to sweat and typically odor. Moreover, the white leather-based dirties simply. Whereas we had been capable of clear scuffs with a wipe, they by no means appeared crisp white once more.

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 2 to 10
• Materials: Leather-based
• Sole kind: Laborious (rubber)

Greatest Toddler Footwear for Huge Toes

Stride Ceremony Winslow 2.0 Sneaker

Why We Like It 

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

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

However Take Observe 

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

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 5 to 10
• Materials: Artificial leather-based
• Sole kind: 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 huge widths. The medium width appeared huge to us, nevertheless it match a 2-year-old effectively sufficient for him to comfortably run and stroll at day care, dwelling, and the streets of Manhattan. The rubber outsole has grooves to grip varied surfaces and supply stability. Our favourite characteristic of those sneakers is their materials; the leather-based and mesh higher give children a lot of breathability, and the anti-stink lining prevents odors from forming. 

However Take Observe 

One in every of our dad and mom wasn’t a fan of the general look of the Saucony toddler sneakers, saying, “it’s a superb possibility for college or daytime as a result of it’s snug, however I don’t see it working double responsibility as a pleasant sneaker to put on to fancier events.” 

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 4 to 10
• Materials: Leather-based and mesh higher
• Sole kind: Laborious (rubber)

New Stability 574 New-B Hook & Loop

Why We Like It 

Fairly than two width choices, these New Stability toddler sneakers have three: medium, huge, 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 preserving ft in place, small toes have further wiggle room with out the sneakers feeling too slender 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 college however works for different events, each informal and dressy, no matter terrain, due to its sturdiness and noticeably prime quality. 

However Take Observe

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

The Particulars: 

• Dimension vary: 2 to 10
• Materials: Artificial higher
• Sole kind: Laborious (rubber)

Different Notable Toddler Footwear 

• Stride Ceremony Wes Sneakers: We love the Stride Ceremony Wes Sneakers as a result of they provide very good traction, simple adjustability, and a snug match. Cleansing them isn’t superb (they’re not machine cleanable); you need to spot-clean the fragile leather-based and suede materials. On the plus aspect, we used a moist rag and just a little elbow grease, and so they appeared good as new.
• Ten Little Furry Excessive High: 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 sizzling could 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 provide incredible stability, two adjustable straps, and a brilliant cute look. Sadly, that lovable design dirties simply, and the sneakers aren’t machine cleanable (spot clear solely). 
• Ten Little On a regular basis Sandals: We recognize the pliability and adjustability of those sneakers. Plus, they’re simply downright cute. Nevertheless, we want the Velcro opened just a little 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 shoes. Nonetheless, the Nike high-tops didn’t cease children from transferring, stretching, wiggling, and dancing. 

How We Examined Toddler Footwear

To seek out the very best toddler sneakers for water, on a regular basis put on, and past, we requested over a dozen parenting editors and their youngsters to include one or a number of pairs into their each 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 dad and mom and caregivers to press down on the entrance of the shoe, watch their baby run, soar, and stroll, and make notes about stumbling or unnatural actions. 
• Adjustability: If relevant, dad and mom famous easy methods 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 every single day whereas partaking in common actions. We needed to know if the sneakers had been simple to stroll or run in, supplied ample traction, had versatile but stable soles, and had been simple to placed on and take off. 
• Breathability: Like adults, youngsters can have sweaty ft, so we needed to ensure the sneakers on our record had been breathable. Dad and mom carried out a sniff take a look at on the shoe and their baby’s ft for any odors after which felt their ft to see in the event that they had been sweaty or overheated. 
• Design: For the general design, dad and mom described the feel and appear of the sneakers and requested their youngsters what they considered them when doable. We additionally washed the sneakers when essential, figuring out if they’d simple or difficult cleansing directions and the way the fabric held up. 
• Worth: The toddler sneakers we examined value between $10 and $65. We requested testers if the sneakers had been price their value and if they might proceed to make use of them past our testing interval. 

Our Consultants

We spoke with a number of specialists about what dad and mom 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 Youngsters 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 Particular person You’re Meant to Be, and founding father of Fashionable Mommy Doc.

Elements to Take into account in Toddler Footwear

• Dimension: Toddler sneakers differ in width and dimension, so checking sizing charts is essential to make sure your baby will get a correct match. “Shopping for sneakers the following dimension up might be useful, as children develop so shortly, and so do their ft,” Dr. Mendeszoon says. For those who’re not considering buying a full-size bigger for longevity, attempt a half-size as much as discover the precise match. 
• Design: Select a shoe on your baby that permits their foot to maneuver and develop naturally. Footwear that are not overly inflexible and laborious will assist your toddler develop sturdy, wholesome ft and posture. “Kids’s ft are extra variable in width and form than grownup ft; accordingly, getting them fitted or sized, particularly within the toddler years, is usually a massive assist,” says Dr. Fradin. Furthermore, go for sneakers that provide breathability and luxury and a sturdy sole to face up to a number of surfaces. “Once 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. “Once you’re out and about on the concrete or different laborious surfaces, that’s when more durable, sturdier soles will serve you greatest.
• Building: Regardless that toddlers outgrow their sneakers shortly, they’re laborious on them within the meantime, so sturdy sneakers are important. “Search for sneakers which might be light-weight and versatile as an alternative of inflexible and laborious to maneuver in,” says Dr. Casares. “Your child is studying easy methods to navigate the world. Make it as simple as doable!” Encourage your baby’s newfound independence by discovering sneakers which might be simple to placed on and take off. “Except a baby is aware of easy methods to lace their sneakers, Velcro is essentially the most handy and most snug kind of shoe for them,” says Dr. Mendeszooon. 
• Function and Season: Will your toddler be rocking these sneakers whereas taking part in with toys exterior or on a household stroll? Footwear they’ll use as their on a regular basis pair will probably differ from these they use for dressing up. Additionally, relying on the place you reside, your toddler will probably want a unique 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, hold the seasons in thoughts when looking for toddler sneakers. No matter season, the very best toddler sneakers ought to match effectively, present help, and be cozy.

When Ought to Kids Begin Carrying Footwear?

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

Whereas sneakers stop damage, Dr. Mendeszoon recommends children go barefoot as a lot as doable till 2 years previous. This advice permits a baby’s ft to develop usually and develop muscle tissue and power, together with toe greedy. Nevertheless, there are some exceptions, Dr. Fradin particulars. “I do favor toddlers barefoot until there are developmental causes corresponding to toe strolling or weak point on the ankle joint main them to learn from extra help,” she says.

In any other case, going barefoot has its advantages, in response to Dr. Casares. “For those who’re simply hanging out at dwelling together with your toddler, attempt to let your baby go barefoot as usually as doable to allow them to study to optimize proprioception (the place their physique is in area) 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 very best merchandise for households, pregnant individuals, and youngsters of all ages. She’s researched 1000’s of child merchandise, toys, presents, and extra and personally examined a lot of them. In her spare time, you’ll probably 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, laborious sole with traction, and a snug match.