The Best Toddler Shoes

Buying Guide

When your little ones start toddling around, you may be on the lookout for some shoes. Keep in mind that when they are indoors, toddlers don’t actually need to wear shoes. It’s better for them to be barefoot, so they can work on their balance and walking form. Being barefoot enables them to grip the ground better with their little toes. When they are outside, of course, they will need some functional footwear to protect their feet from the elements.

When you’re buying your first pair of toddler shoes, it’s best to measure their feet accurately so you purchase the right size. While they are growing, their feet may be two different sizes, up to a half-size apart. Be sure to measure both feet and buy the larger size. Toddler feet grow quickly, so you may need to measure and re-buy shoes on a fairly frequent basis. It’s common for toddlers to curl their toes inwards when they first learn to stand and walk. When you’re measuring their feet, be sure to measure with the toes extended so you can get a better picture of their shoe size.

When trying on shoes for the first time, be sure to have a pair of socks handy. If your toddler will be wearing shoes with socks, then try them on with the same kind of socks. This can make a difference in the size of the shoe you’ll need. Pay attention to how much extra space there is in the shoe. You will want about half an inch of extra space between their big toe and the end of the shoe.

It’s can be tempting to buy toddler shoes in a size bigger, hoping they will grow into them in a few weeks. While toddler feet do grow fast, it’s best for their balance and safety to wear shoes that fit right now. Avoid buying shoes that are too big, which could lead to your toddler tripping and falling.

• STRAPS: One of the most challenging things to do with a toddler is put on their shoes. You want to make sure that the shoes have adjustable straps that are easy to open and close. This will make putting on and taking off their shoes a breeze. It will also help your toddler to learn how to put on and take off their own shoes, and help them feel like a big kid. Some sneakers have a large Velcro hook and loop closure at the top of the shoe, making them simple to put on and remove the sneakers. Others have two elastic laces at the top of the shoe, making them flexible and bendable.
• SOLE: The sole of the shoe is an important aspect to consider because this is what keeps your little one from slipping and sliding. Look for soles that have some tread. This will help them to grip the ground. On the other hand, you also don’t want grooves that are too large on the soles, as those may catch on the ground and cause your toddler to trip.
• MATERIAL: One of the most important things to consider when buying toddler shoes is the material they are made out of. Opt for a breathable material like canvas, cloth or leather, which all allow air to circulate. They are also flexible and soft materials. This is a better choice than plastic or rubber, which can be stiff and hard to move around in. It’s important to provide toddlers with flexibility in their feet so they can work on their balance and gross motor skills without being restricted by their footwear. Some sneakers are made from ethylene-vinyl acetate and have a rubber sole, while other options are constructed from suede with a mesh top panel.
• WATERPROOF: Many kids love to get messy, jumping or splashing in puddles by the side of the road. When that happens, it’s no fun to deal with wet socks and soggy feet. Whenever possible, find waterproof toddler shoes. This way, you don’t have to worry about ruining the shoes if they get wet accidentally. And you don’t have to worry about your little one squelching around in wet socks for the rest of the day.