Finding the best shoes for kids can be a daunting task for parents. Not only do they need to be comfortable and stylish, but they also need to be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of active kids. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to know where to start.
When it comes to purchasing shoes for kids, the most critical factor to consider is fit. Ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort and even lead to foot problems down the road. It’s essential to measure your child’s feet regularly and ensure that the shoes you purchase provide enough support and room for growth.
Another important consideration is the type of shoe. Different activities and occasions call for different types of shoes. For example, sneakers are ideal for running and playing, while dress shoes are better suited for formal events.
After researching and testing various options, we’ve compiled a list of the best shoes for kids. Our top picks are not only comfortable and stylish but also provide the necessary support for growing feet. Whether your child is running around the playground or attending a formal event, we’ve got you covered.
Best Shoes for Kids
When it comes to finding the best shoes for kids, there are a few important factors to consider. Comfort, durability, and style are all important, but so is fit. Kids’ feet can grow quickly, so it’s important to find shoes that fit well and offer room for growth. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best shoes for kids that meet all of these criteria. Whether you’re looking for sneakers, sandals, or dress shoes, we’ve got you covered.
Adidas Unisex-Child Modern 2 Little Kid Sand/Sand/Sand
If you want a stylish shoe for your kid, the Adidas Unisex-Child Modern 2 Little Kid Sand/Sand/Sand is a good option.
Pros
- The rubber sole provides good traction.
- The throwback styling of the shoe combined with modern sneaker trends creates a unique and fresh look.
- The shoe features oversized Adidas branding on the tongue, which gives it a bold and distinctive appearance.
Cons
- The shoe has a low rating of 3.5 stars, which may make some buyers hesitant.
- The shadowy aesthetic of the shoe may not be to everyone’s taste.
- The shoe has only three ratings, which may not provide enough feedback for some buyers.
The Adidas Unisex-Child Modern 2 Little Kid Sand/Sand/Sand is a shoe that combines throwback styling with modern sneaker trends. The shoe features a stealthy base mesh on the toe, mid-panel, and tongue, with tonal leather overlays covering the mid-panel and forefoot. The shoe also has a red suede mudguard that breaks up the shadowy aesthetic of the upper. The oversized Adidas branding on the tongue and the smaller red embroidered Adidas logo on the heel tab give the shoe a bold and distinctive appearance.
In terms of performance, the Adidas Unisex-Child Modern 2 Little Kid Sand/Sand/Sand has a rubber sole that provides good traction. This makes the shoe a good option for kids who like to run and play. However, the shoe has a low rating of 3.5 stars and only three ratings, which may make some buyers hesitant.
Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish shoe for your kid, the Adidas Unisex-Child Modern 2 Little Kid Sand/Sand/Sand is a good option to consider. However, the shadowy aesthetic of the shoe may not be to everyone’s taste, and the low rating and limited number of ratings may make some buyers hesitant.
Merrell Trail Chaser Jr Hiking Sneaker
Parents looking for a durable and comfortable hiking shoe for their active kids should consider the Merrell Trail Chaser Jr Hiking Sneaker.
Pros
- The non-marking rubber outsole with M Select GRIP provides superior traction on various terrains.
- The hook and loop closure allows for a precise and secure fit.
- The EVA removable footbed adds extra comfort and support.
Cons
- The shoes may be a bit heavy for some kids.
- The sizing may run a bit small.
- The shoes may take some time to break in.
The Merrell Trail Chaser Jr Hiking Sneaker is designed to keep up with kids on the trail or the playground. The suede and mesh upper provides durability and breathability, while the non-marking rubber outsole with M Select GRIP offers superior traction on various terrains. The hook and loop closure allows for a precise and secure fit, and the EVA removable footbed adds extra comfort and support.
Parents should keep in mind that the shoes may be a bit heavy for some kids, and the sizing may run a bit small. Additionally, the shoes may take some time to break in. Overall, the Merrell Trail Chaser Jr Hiking Sneaker is a great option for parents looking for a durable and comfortable hiking shoe for their active kids.
Under Armour Unisex-Child Grade School Assert 9 Running Shoe Big Kid (8-12 Years)
A great running shoe for kids that is comfortable and durable.
Pros
- Lightweight mesh upper with 3-color digital print provides breathability
- Durable leather overlays offer stability and support
- One-piece EVA midsole turns cushioned landings into explosive takeoffs
Cons
- May run small, so consider sizing up
- Limited color options
- May not be suitable for wider feet
These Under Armour Unisex-Child Grade School Assert 9 Running Shoes are perfect for active kids who need a comfortable and supportive shoe for running and other activities. The lightweight mesh upper with 3-color digital print delivers breathability, while the durable leather overlays provide stability and support. The one-piece EVA midsole turns cushioned landings into explosive takeoffs, making these shoes a great choice for kids who love to run and jump.
One potential downside to these shoes is that they may run small, so it’s important to consider sizing up. Additionally, the color options are somewhat limited, which may be a drawback for kids who want more variety in their shoe choices. Finally, these shoes may not be suitable for kids with wider feet, so it’s important to consider the fit before making a purchase.
Overall, these Under Armour Unisex-Child Grade School Assert 9 Running Shoes are a great choice for active kids who need a comfortable and supportive shoe for running and other activities. With their lightweight design and durable construction, they are sure to provide long-lasting comfort and support for kids on the go.
Nike Grade School Jordan 3 Retro “Georgetown” Midnight Navy/Cement Grey-White
If you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable shoe for your child, the Nike Grade School Jordan 3 Retro “Georgetown” Midnight Navy/Cement Grey-White is a great option.
Pros
- The shoe features a rubber sole, providing good traction and durability.
- The design is eye-catching and trendy, making it a popular choice among kids.
- The shoe is available in a range of sizes, ensuring a good fit for most kids.
Cons
- The shoe is on the pricier side compared to other kids’ shoes.
- Some customers have reported issues with the sizing, so it’s important to double-check before purchasing.
- The shoe may not be suitable for all types of activities, such as running or hiking.
The Nike Grade School Jordan 3 Retro “Georgetown” Midnight Navy/Cement Grey-White is perfect for kids who want to look stylish while also being comfortable. The rubber sole provides good traction and durability, making it suitable for everyday wear.
The design of the shoe is eye-catching, with a trendy and modern look that is sure to appeal to kids. Available in a range of sizes, it’s easy to find the perfect fit for your child.
However, the shoe is on the pricier side compared to other kids’ shoes, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget. Additionally, some customers have reported issues with the sizing, so it’s important to double-check before purchasing.
Overall, if you’re looking for a stylish and comfortable shoe for your child, the Nike Grade School Jordan 3 Retro “Georgetown” Midnight Navy/Cement Grey-White is a great option.
NIKE Air Max 270 Kids’ Shoes
These shoes are a great choice for parents looking for a stylish and comfortable pair of shoes for their kids.
Pros
- The flex grooves in the sole provide a natural movement sensation, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- The soft foam cushioning ensures that your child’s feet remain comfortable throughout the day.
- The textile fabric provides a structured fit and ventilation where it is needed most.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the shoes are narrow and small, so make sure to check the size chart before purchasing.
- The shoes may squeak when walking, which can be annoying for some users.
- The white color of the shoes can get dirty easily, requiring frequent cleaning.
These shoes are perfect for active kids who need a comfortable and supportive pair of shoes. The flex grooves in the sole provide a natural movement sensation, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods. The soft foam cushioning ensures that your child’s feet remain comfortable throughout the day, even during high-impact activities. The textile fabric provides a structured fit and ventilation where it is needed most, ensuring that your child’s feet stay cool and dry.
Some users have reported that the shoes are narrow and small, so make sure to check the size chart before purchasing. Additionally, the shoes may squeak when walking, which can be annoying for some users. Finally, the white color of the shoes can get dirty easily, requiring frequent cleaning. However, overall, these shoes are a great choice for parents looking for a stylish and comfortable pair of shoes for their kids.
Nike Air Force 1 White/Pink Foam
If you’re looking for a classic style with a modern twist, the Nike Air Force 1 White/Pink Foam is a great option for kids.
Pros
- The hidden Air-sole unit provides comfortable cushioning for all-day wear.
- The real and synthetic leather materials are durable and easy to clean.
- The rubber sole offers excellent traction for safety and stability.
Cons
- Some reviewers noted that the shoes run large, so it may be necessary to order a smaller size.
- A few customers mentioned that the shoes are thinner than regular all-white Air Force 1s.
- The price point may be higher than some other kids’ shoe options.
These shoes are a great choice for kids who want a stylish and comfortable shoe that can be worn for everyday activities. The modern pink foam accents add a fun touch to the classic all-white design.
The hidden Air-sole unit is a standout feature, providing cushioning and support for active kids. Additionally, the real and synthetic leather materials make these shoes durable and easy to clean, which is a plus for parents.
While some reviewers did note that the shoes run large, overall they seem to be true to size. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the sizing chart before ordering.
Overall, the Nike Air Force 1 White/Pink Foam is a solid choice for kids who want a comfortable and stylish shoe that can be worn for a variety of activities.
New Balance 515 Classic Kids’ Sneaker
The New Balance 515 Classic kids’ sneaker is a great choice for parents looking for a stylish and durable shoe for their kids.
Pros
- The sturdy synthetic upper comes in fun seasonal colors that kids will love.
- The solid rubber outsole is designed to stand up to daily wear-and-tear, making these shoes perfect for everyday wear.
- The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, so parents can rest assured that their child’s shoes will stay on during active play.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the sizing runs a little large, so parents may want to consider ordering a half size down.
- The shoes may not be the best choice for kids with wide feet, as some customers have reported that they run narrow.
- The synthetic upper may not be as breathable as some other materials, which could be an issue for kids who tend to sweat a lot.
Overall, the New Balance 515 Classic kids’ sneaker is a great choice for parents looking for a stylish and durable shoe for their kids. With fun seasonal colors, a solid rubber outsole, and a secure lace-up closure, these shoes are perfect for everyday wear. However, parents should be aware that the sizing may run a little large and the synthetic upper may not be the most breathable material.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying shoes for kids, it is important to pay attention to certain features to ensure that you choose the best product. Here are some factors to consider:
Size and Fit
The most important factor when buying shoes for kids is getting the right size and fit. Ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort and even lead to foot problems. It is recommended to have your child’s feet measured regularly and to try on shoes before purchasing them. A good fit should allow for some room for growth, but not be too loose or too tight.
Comfort
Kids need shoes that are comfortable and supportive. Look for shoes with cushioned insoles and good arch support. The material of the shoe should be breathable to prevent sweating and odor. Shoes with a flexible sole will also provide more comfort and allow for natural movement.
Durability
Kids are active and their shoes need to be able to keep up with them. Look for shoes with sturdy materials and reinforced stitching. Shoes with a rubber sole will also provide better traction and durability.
Style
While comfort and durability are important, kids also want shoes that look good. It is important to find a balance between style and function. Consider your child’s preferences and choose shoes that they will enjoy wearing.
Price
Lastly, consider the price of the shoes. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a good quality pair of shoes will save you money in the long run. Cheaper shoes may need to be replaced more frequently, while a good quality pair can last for several months or even years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some affordable options for kids’ shoes?
Parents looking for affordable options for their kids’ shoes may want to consider brands such as Skechers, Adidas, and Nike. These brands offer a range of shoes at different price points, with some options costing as little as $30.
Are New Balance shoes a good choice for kids?
Yes, New Balance shoes are a good choice for kids. They are known for their durability and comfort, and they offer a range of styles for both boys and girls. Additionally, New Balance shoes often come in wide sizes, making them a great option for kids with wider feet.
What are some recommended shoes for girls?
Some recommended shoes for girls include the Adidas Superstar, Converse Chuck Taylor All Star, and Nike Air Max. These shoes are all stylish and comfortable, and they come in a range of colors and sizes.
Are ASICS shoes a good option for kids?
Yes, ASICS shoes are a good option for kids. They are known for their quality and durability, and they offer a range of styles for both boys and girls. Additionally, ASICS shoes often have features such as gel cushioning and breathable mesh, which can help keep kids’ feet comfortable and supported.
What are some popular sneakers for 10 year-old boys?
Some popular sneakers for 10 year-old boys include the Nike Air Max, Adidas Ultraboost, and Under Armour Curry. These shoes are all stylish and comfortable, and they offer great support for active kids.
What are some recommended shoes for toddlers by podiatrists?
Podiatrists recommend shoes that provide proper support and fit well for toddlers. Some recommended shoe brands for toddlers include Stride Rite, Pediped, and See Kai Run. These brands offer shoes with features such as flexible soles and adjustable straps, which can help ensure a proper fit and support for growing feet.
