The Best Shoes for Kids (You Can Buy Online!)
From slip-on sneakers to the classic Croc sandal, these shoes for kids fit every active family’s needs.
If there’s one thing we know to be true, it’s that kids will keep outgrowing their shoes, whether you get out to the store or not. If you’re anything like us, it feels like the very first thing that gets too small is a pair of kiddo’s shoes. How does that happen?! There’s actually a pretty good explanation (thanks, science!). From ages 1-3 years, kids need a new pair of shoes two to three times a year on average. For older kids, ages 3-10, twice a year. Babies’ feet can grow up to half a shoe size every two months until they hit the 15 month marker! Not only are their feet growing in size, they’re also changing shape rapidly. No wonder we’re always on the hunt for new shoes!
In hopes of making your shopping easier, we’ve found some of the best shoes for kids, and all of them can be bought online. These kicks are from our favorite brands and retailers, so you’re sure to find the right pair for your growing little ones. And, if you’re looking for weather-appropriate shoes for kids, check out our favorite water shoes for kids and the best boots for kids!
Kizik Anaheim
Function meets style with any Kizik shoe. It's the first sneaker that is basically hands-free! All kids need to do is step on it as their putting their food in, then the heel pops down, you foot goes in and the heels is back in action and ready for the day. We love that Kizik's use no-tie stretch laces, have easy match left and right icons so your kids put the right shoe on the right foot, and are made with breathable materials.
KANE Revive Kids
There's a good chance you've seen KANE shoes worn by athletes from the NFL, NBA, NCAA, and CrossFit Games participants. The KANE Revive is now available in kiddos' sizes and we're stoked! Revive is a injection-molded sneaker that offers amazing airflow, blood circulation stimulation, and unbeatable comfort, so they're perfect from soccer practice to the playground! (Don't forget to check out the adult sizes while you're browsing!)
Stride Made2Play®'s Brighton Sneakers
As part of Stride Rite's Project Fit Right line, these sneakers are APMA approved, have Ortholite® memory foam footbeds, are machine washable and come in three colors.
Rainbow High x Crocs
Exclusive! Only at Kids Foot Locker—the Rainbow HIgh x Crocs Collection features both the Classic Crocs and the Classic High Crocs with a platform sole! Lightweight and flexible, these are perfect for the warmer months.
Crocs x Rainbow High ($50.00+)—Buy Now!
Native Shoes' Robbie Sugarlite
Your curious playground adventurers won't just be playing with heart when they wear this brand-new slip-on sneaker; they'll also be paving the way for future generations of environmentally-minded kids. Made from Sugarlite, a proprietary EVA-blend material that contains 40% bio-based content from sugarcane, you still all the features you love best about Natives: lightweight, easy-to-clean shoes, recycled rubber outsole with tons of grip, and the same fit as the classic Jefferson. Even better, the Robbie is fully recyclable through Native Shoes’ Remix[TAG3] project.
Rothy's Kids Strap Sneaker
The new Kids Strap Sneaker is Rothy’s first-ever kids' shoe with velcro! Each pair is made with 100% recycled materials and stands up to the washing machine. Currently, it comes in three colorways (Lavender Sparkle, Jungle Cat, and Bicycle Blue) and is the perfect easy-on and easy-off shoe.
Ten Little Sneakers
Ten Little’s vegan shoes were designed in collaboration with world-class physicians, in hopes of creating a product that supports natural development and movement (think flat, flexible soles). Each pair also comes with fun stickers, so kids can have shoes that are unique to their style and personality.
Rothy's Slip-On Sneaker
This gender-neutral slip-on sneaker from Rothy's, your favorite sustainable shoe company, has been tested out by active, busy kids. The sneakers are washable and offered in 10 different colors and prints inspired by the bright colors of the 1970s. Like all Rothy’s shoes, the sneaker has an athletic outsole, and the stretchy knit is made out of recycled water bottles.
Toms Youth Alp Platform Canvas
The newest spring styles from Toms don't disappoint. We especially love this Alp Platform Slip-On that's easy-on, easy-off. The canvas textile holds up to rough playground play and its cushy insole means your kiddo's feet will stay comfy as she jumps, runs, and climbs.
Plae Ty Sneaker
Plae shoes are designed with the super active kid in mind. The TY is a knit design with velcro straps that makes for a super-light sneaker, which means your kid can run, jump and swing without missing a beat. It's offered in two fun color combos: Amped Aqua and Hyper Blue. Each pair is washable with removable insoles, and every pair comes with the option to sign up for a Growth Spurt Guarantee®.
Vans Ward Sneakers
These classic Vans never go out of style. The cushioned footbed and signature rubber waffle sole are perfect for playground play.
Keen Newport Shoe
We know that your kids spend the summer in their Keen Newport Sandals, so why not spend the school year in the Keen Newport Shoe? The velcro and bungee make this one especially easy to get on. You know the Keens are super durable so these will definitely last you through the school year, or at least until that next growth spurt.
Vessi Kids Weekend
If you have a kid who hates getting their socks wet, Vessi has you covered. These 100% waterproof shoes are totally comfortable and totally cute as well so we love them for the playground. They're available in six colors so you can match your outfit with your kicks.
Skechers Flip Kicks Twi-Lites 2.0
These Flip Kicks high tops from Skecher have unicorn wings! They also have an inside zipper closure and optional lace-up closure as well.
Sperry Little Kid's Spinnaker Washable Junior Sneaker
Offered in three colors, the washable Spinnaker sneaker has velcro straps, memory foam footbeds, and non-marking rubber outsole with grip and traction that are perfect for climbing and running, whether it's during recess or after school.
Sperry Little Kid's Spinnaker Washable Junior Sneaker ($19.66+)—Buy Now
pediped Flex Canyon Water Sandal
pediped Adventure Line is perfect for kids who like to run, jump and get dirty. Plus, the line is made with an eco-friendly, sustainable sturdy microfiber, which is water safe and washable, which makes for easy clean up. Each shoe has a natural rubber sole, foot caps and adjustable velcro straps.
Saucony Unisex Baby Jazz Lite Sneaker
This shoe from Saucony was designed with features that specifically support growing feet. They are made from a machine-washable material, memory foam footbed for added comfort, increased flex grooves for added flexibility and have been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance. Available in lots of different color options!
KEEN Chandler Unisex Kids Sneaker
We love KEEN for their durable and colorful shoes that will last even the most rough-and-tumble playtimes. Pictured here is their best-selling toddler Chandler Shoe, which was just released in new colors in their Spring/Summer.
Merrell Trail Quest Hiking Sneaker
This all-terrain sneaker from Merrell comes in several different color combos, is machine washable and has an easily managed hook-and-loop closure for young kids.
Under Armour Assert 8 Sneaker
There's nothing like a basic sneaker to get your kid off on the right foot. This one from Under Armor has over 15 different colors, has durable leather overlays that lock in your midfoot to help with stability and an EVA-liner that provides step-in comfort.
ikiki Squeaky Shoes for Toddlers with On/Off Switch
Choose from 26 adorable different animal shoes that come with names like Sascha Narwhalski (the narwhal) to Leo Longfire (the dragon). Each pair of shoes comes with ankle support for new walkers, and the squeaker, which is located in the heel, is an orthopedic aid for kids who are prone to toe walking. The best part? You can turn the squeaker off if the sound isn't appealing.
ikiki Squeaky Shoes for Toddlers with On/Off Switch ($37.95)—Buy Now!
Billy Footwear CS High Tops
These sweet high-tops are part of the collection from Billy Footwear, shoes that are designed for kids including kids with autism and sensory issues. They're like Converse and VANS having a perfect shoe baby, and they are easy on and easy off, with side zips. Created by Billy Price, who himself is paralyzed, and wanted to invent a shoe that any kid could rock.
Etnies Marana Sneakers
If your kid’s idea of an afternoon at the playground includes a skateboard, a few vert ramps, and a bowl or two, these Etnies are a good fit. The lightweight, comfy STI Evolution Foam midsole enhances cushioning. Plus, the full-length flex grooves in the rubber outsole add flexibility, and the fused-on rubber toe cap is practically impossible to wear through. Time to grind!
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