Toddler shoes . . . where to start?! There are so many on the market. Because of that, it can be overwhelming to compare options and find what’s best for those small but mighty, always-on-the-go little feet. Though kids grow at the speed of light and require the next size up faster than we’re prepared for sometimes, it’s important to choose wisely when selecting shoes for our children. (And let’s be honest, have some fun with all the cute styles!) We’ve done the hard part for you and rounded up some of the best shoes for toddlers below. Happy shopping!
Best Shoes for Toddlers
There’s something for every need and budget in this list, from sandals to winter boots to vegan toddler shoes:
Best Overall Toddler Shoe
Ten Little Everyday Original Sneakers
Cost: $44
Why We Love Them: Why wouldn’t we?! Approved by the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association), built for comfort and stability, and available in over 10 vibrant colors, this is the best toddler shoe for versatility and everyday wear. Bonus: Every purchase comes with a free pack of specialty stickers, allowing your kiddo to get creative and personalize these kicks to their heart’s desire!
Best Beginner Walker Shoes
Livie & Luca Lynx Sneakers
Cost: $52.19-$60
Why We Love Them: These stretchable mesh shoes feature breathable and antimicrobial fabric, light soles, and easy slip-on capabilities. Made for active children, these sneakers will surely ease the newest walkers into the shoe-wearing world comfortably. Simplicity is key here, with two toned-down colors to choose from: powder pink and charcoal.
Stride Rite Zips Kennedy Sneaker
Cost: $19.95-$52
Why We Love Them: A trusted brand for kids’ shoes, Stride Rite delivers style, comfort, support, and practicality with the Zips Kennedy Sneaker. The perks are plentiful, with a memory foam foot bed, eco-friendly lining, and an odor-reducing treatment. They’re also APMA-approved and have rounded edges to prevent your little one from slipping.
Best Podiatrist-Approved Shoes
See Kai Run: First Walker
Cost: Varies
Why We Love Them: This APMA-approved podiatrist and parent favorite shoe offers flexibility to encourage natural foot movement. It also has wiggle room for tiny toes to move freely and a padded collar and tongue for added comfort. See Kai Run shoes are some of the best for toddlers, known for their precise fit and durability.
Stonz Cruiser Breathable Baby Shoes
Cost: $54.99
Why We Love Them: These shoes come in cute colors and are easy for kids to put on themselves! And they’ve been doctor-certified by the American Podiatric Medical Association. We love the soft mesh and flexible sole, making these shoes breathable and supportive.
Best Vegan Toddler Shoe
Ten Little Everyday Original Sneakers
Cost: $44
Why We Love Them: Also APMA-approved, this podiatrist pick has a vegan leather upper and cotton lining. They’re built to withstand any day’s adventures with natural rubber soles. Growing feet will have no problem moving about over time in these sleek kicks, which come in mocha brown, steel gray, lava red, and many more colors.
Best Shoes for Wide Feet
New Balance Kids 574 Core Bungee
Cost: $59.99
Why We Love Them: These comfy sneakers from a household footwear name come in neutral shades of white, gray, and black. The bungee laces make these shoes easy to secure and adjust. They are available in wide and standard sizes, making them an excellent find for little ones needing extra wiggle room.
Stride Rite Kids’ SRT Soft Motion Artie Athletic Sneaker
Cost: Varies
Why We Love Them: These leather sneakers are available in wide and extra-wide sizes and feature a protective, flexible sole for added comfort. They also have a hook-and-loop closure to help them stay on firmly. These come in a range of baby-to-kids sizes, styles, and colors on Amazon.
Livie & Luca Naviglio Sneaker (First Walker)
Cost: $46
Why We Love Them: These beauties offer a wide toe box and a six-month warranty, and they are APMA-approved. Heirloom quality with a humble price tag, this line offers sandals, sneakers, and Mary Janes. Aesthetically pleasing and wide-foot friendly!
Best Shoes For Narrow Feet
Stride Rite SRT Elliot Leather Sneaker
Cost: Varies
Why We Love Them: Built a bit more narrowly than many other toddler shoes, these APMA-approved Stride Rite sneakers offer classic style and durability. Featuring a sleek leather build, this pair’s lace-up design will help ensure you can tighten them accordingly to get the perfect fit for your little one. Choose from white, black, and brown in this sporty design that’s also easy to clean.
Primigi Kids Toddler Shoes
Cost: $32.50-$65
Why We Love Them: Offering a wide variety of sweet designs and unique styles, from Mary Janes to Velcro to lace-up sneakers to sandals, Primigi gives you an abundance of options for toddler shoes. This all-Italian line runs a bit narrower than others and maintains the highest-quality materials. Your little one is guaranteed a comfortable and stylish experience.
Best Diaper Bag (AKA Always Have On Hand) Shoes
Cat & Jack Toddler Parker Sneakers
Cost: $9.99
Why We Love Them: These are available at your friendly neighborhood Target. Say no more, right?! Really, though, these casual Velcro slip-ons come in various adorable designs and feature a hook-and-loop closure, pull-on tab, and soft lining for guaranteed stability, ease of use, and comfort. Plus, that price gives us so much to love.
Best Budget-Friendly Shoes
Cat & Jack Toddler Corey Slip-On Sneakers
Cost: $12.99
Why We Love Them: Similar to the pair above, these cost-effective slip-ons are casual yet incredibly versatile. Comfort and ease are the focus here, with a pull-on tab and a soft, comfortable insole. At a parent-approved price point of $12.99, you truly can’t beat these!
Best Splurge Shoes
Allbirds Smallbirds Wool Runners – Little Kids
Cost: $60
Why We Love Them: Beautifully made and kid-friendly, these elastic-laced runners are made with premium ZQ Merino wool, offering stretch and softness. This stylish option is machine washable and breathable. It also comes from a brand committed to lowering the carbon footprint (no pun intended!) of footwear.
Best Dress Shoes
The Children’s Place Toddler Girls Bow Low Heel Shoes
Cost: $36.95
Why We Love Them: We couldn’t help but add these to our list of best toddler shoes. These sweet shoes feature a low heel, an adjustable strap with buckle closure, and a no-slip rubber outsole. The neutral white and stationary bow look makes this a charming pick suitable for any dressy occasion. This is a great go-to for completing a special occasion look.
Carter’s Child Bauk Boat Shoes
Cost: $33-$45.09
Why We Love Them: Another trusted name in children’s apparel, Carter’s delivers attractive attention to detail and sleek fashion with this classic choice. These slip-ons are machine washable, timeless, and a must for any child’s shoe collection. With beautiful stitching and faux leather, these boat shoes are perfect for fancy occasions.
Best Sandals
Ten Little Everyday Sandals
Cost: $39
Why We Love Them: These bestselling, lightweight, water-resistant sandals are made to be taken out for any summer adventure. They feature extra outsole traction, textured insoles, and quick-drying materials. You can rest assured knowing that your toddler’s feet will be as secure and content as can be in this well-loved pick.
Best Rain Boots
Lone Cone Rain Boots
Cost: $16.99-$29.99
Why We Love Them: Available in a generous selection of possibly the most darling toddler prints out there, these playful boots will brighten up any rainy day. They’re designed with easy-to-grip handles, perfect for toddlers learning to put on their shoes. This popular choice will quickly become a family favorite.
Best Winter Boots
The North Face Toddler Alpenglow II Boots
Cost: $55
Why We Love Them: Quality is essential here with this highly-rated product from a solid outdoor gear brand. These snow boots combine traction, insulation, and flexibility for durability in any winter wonderland. They’re cozy, classic, and kid-friendly. You’ll want to invest in these for your little one’s cold-weather wardrobe.
Best Water Shoes
Centipede Demon Kids Water Shoes
Cost: Varies
Why We Love Them: These basic water shoes are lightweight, fast-drying, and easy to pull on and off. They’re a practical, budget-friendly option for your pool or beach bag, made with stretchy material and a flexible, non-slip rubber sole. We also love the many available prints, as these come in over 30 styles!
Stride Rite Soft Motion Splash Sandal
Cost: $19.95-$48
Why We Love Them: This sturdy yet flexible water shoe features a hook-and-loop closure and soft memory foam. Stability and adjustability for a perfect fit are key perks of these shoes. Plus, there are several cute styles to choose from, including a flamingo and shark print.
Best Statement Shoes
Cat & Jack Toddler Ade Slip-On Footbed Sandals
Cost: $10
Why We Love Them: These footbed sandals from Cat & Jack are really popular and great for kids! They have a cute, quirky look and come in gorgeous, eye-catching pastel shades that are sure to make a statement. They’re also comfortable and affordable, so why not grab a pair or two?
The Bottom Line
We hope these picks for the best toddler shoes helped you narrow down your options! Shoe shopping for your little one doesn’t have to be stressful. With some guidance and trial and error, you’re bound to find the perfect pair for them to walk, run, and explore in!
