The Best Kids’ Shoes on the Market, Based on What Podiatrists Would Recommend

Parents don’t need proof that their kids are growing up fast — the undeniable evidence is the large pile of shoes they’ve outgrown. It probably feels like you’re dragging your reluctant little one shoe shopping every other day looking for the best kids shoes. Shoes can determine your child’s mood, too, so that’s why careful browsing and asking them too many questions about how the shoe fits can feel like the search for Cinderella. An uncomfortable pair can put a damper on their day, whereas a stylish set can put a spring in their step.

Related story The Best Cold-Weather Shoes & Boots for Kids

Top Kids Shoes, at a Glance

• Best Clogs: The Sak Bolinas Crochet Clogs
• Best Sneakers for Toddlers: Plae Charlie WP
• Best Sneakers for Big Kids: Adidas Samba Classics
• Best Running Shoes: Asics CONTEND 8
• Best Loafers: Cat & Jack Alden Suede Slip-On Loafers
• Best Rain Boots: Sperry Port Duck Boot
• Best Snow Boots: Koolaburra by UGG Kids
• Best Hiking Boots: Northside Freemont Mid Boy’s Waterproof Hiking Boots
• Best Slip-Ons: Native Jefferson Shoes
• Best Sandals: Birkenstock Kids

The perfect shoe for playgrounds and beyond, however? That, friends, is hard to find. All too often, kids shoes are either cute or comfortable, stylish or practical. Nay! A one-trick shoe? Come on. There are adventures to be had, things to build and demolish, paintings to paint on the hallway wall. The wrong pair of shoes can bring all that fun to a screeching halt. (Plus, ever dealt with a toddler with a blister? There is nothing that kills a family outing faster.)

We asked podiatrist Dr. Priya Parthasarathy of the American Podiatric Medical Association and Dr. Liza Egbogah — an osteopath, chiropractor, myofascial release therapist and one of the nation’s leading body and posture experts — to give us some pointers on how to choose the best kids’ shoes. We already know which shoes look cute, but these experts’ valuable intel can help us bridge the gap between health, comfort and style.

What to Look for in Kids Shoes, According to a Podiatrist

“When it comes to comfortable healthy shoes for kids the key is really the fit,” says Dr. Liza. “Kids need lots of wiggle room in their shoes and also need to be adequately supported as they are growing. Kids shoes should have some flexibility but still be firm enough to support them.” She says to avoid shoes you can completely twist or fold in half, and instead look for more substantial, shock-absorbing soles “to ease impact to their joints and growing bodies.”

Because kids’ natural state is to play, they’re always walking, running and jumping on hard surfaces like concrete. Their constant movement is typically more high-impact than adults, so their shoes should be able to support these activities, says Dr. Liza. “You also want to make sure kids’ shoes are not too soft, as this can reinforce poor movement patterns as they grow. And, of course, the shoes need to be well-made and durable given the physical demands on the shoes.”

Dr. Parthasarathy advises to be vigilant for signs that your child is outgrowing their shoes. “Children may wear through the sole of shoes more quickly than they outgrow shoes,” she says. “Uneven wear in the toe or heel can indicate a foot problem that should be checked by a podiatrist.” She notes that every shoe fits every kid differently, so trust your child’s input instead of just relying on measurements and make sure to have them try the shoes on with the socks or tights they’ll be wearing with them. “Buy shoes that do not need a break-in period,” she suggests. 

“As a mom of three boys ranging from 7 to 6 months it is also important to remember what stage the child is in,” Dr. Parthasarathy adds. “Do you need a soft, flexible moccasin for a baby or something studier for kids running and jumping? It’s good to find a brand you trust and that fits your child’s foot and go along with their age recommendations from first walker to kids shoe gear. Picking a brand with the American Podiatric Medical Associations Seal of Approval is a bonus you should look for.”

Another good option? Boots and booties. “They tend to be more supportive, have thicker soles and also a roomier fit,” says Dr. Liza. “Since kids are often between sizes, booties can be a good option since they can be worn safely when a little bit big. A bootie encloses the foot so even with extra space kids can still feel secure.”

And no, you don’t have to sacrifice fashion for function. There are plenty of shoes your tots will love as much as you do, be they cold-weather shoes and boots, sunny summer shoes, or sporty sneakers.

We’ve rounded up the best kids’ shoes to buy right now from the comfort of your computer. Comfy, adorable and no shoe store needed. Go ahead and invest in some happy feet.

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. The Sak is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.