Kids’ feet may be tiny, but their needs aren’t, especially when it comes to finding them the best summer shoes. Parents know just how much strain an energetic child can put on a pair of footwear. If you want your kid’s shoes to last all summer long, through the stress of waterparks, beach trips, and summer sports, you need one of the best summer shoes made for kids.
What should you look for in the sandals, aqua shoes, and lightweight casual summer shoes your little one needs? Our top 10 ranking list factors in all of the considerations that real parents – and real kids – care about the most when looking for kids summer shoes.
These shoes are durable enough that you can expect your kid’s feet to grow out of them before they wear out. They’re made of quality materials and are built to last. Many are waterproof, though some are perfect for summer events on dry land.
Of course, no matter how sturdy a shoe may be, it’s no good if the messes that are an inevitable part of summer vacation render them unusable. The best summer shoes for kids are easy to clean and smell resistant. Instead of worrying about whether or not your child’s shoes will be ruined, you can focus on the family fun and making the memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Kids care just as much about looking cool as grown-ups do, so we factor in style and a variety of colors and patterns because your kid deserves shoes that make more than just his or her feet happy. Due to the differences in preferences, the best 6 year old shoes will not be the best shoes for 13 year olds – the colors, for example, will likely be brighter for younger kids but more muted for older children.
Comfort is another important factor. Kids have no patience for uncomfortable shoes, and you don’t have time for blisters and sore feet to slow down your summer. To some degree, comfort is subjective and has to do in part with proper size and fit.
However, the more a manufacturer integrates smart, ergonomic design and cutting-edge comfort technology – and the more reviews from real buyers back the company’s claims of comfort – the more credit a shoe deserves in this crucial category.
Finally, cost and value matter. You want the best shoes for the most reasonable price, not a bank-breaking pair of shoes that won’t earn its keep or a cheap but cheaply made shoe that sacrifices quality.
It could take all season to navigate your way through the massive world of kids’ summer footwear, but we’ve made your job easy. Read on to find the perfect pair of summer shoes for your little ones, no matter the occasion.
Check out our “Things to Consider” Section!
1. KEEN Unisex Kid Newport H2 Sandal
These water-resistant sandals top our list of the best summer shoes for kids, but we’re not the only ones impressed by KEEN’s Unisex Kid Newport H2 Sandal. With well over 4,000 favorable reviews on Amazon, it’s safe to say this bestseller lives up to the hype as among the best toddler boy summer shoes.
These sandals may not look like water shoes, but their combination of quick-dry webbing, odor control technology, and water-resistant leather makes them suitable for summer camp, waterparks, the beach – and even the washing machine. There’s no shortage of color combinations, so you’re sure to find one that fits your kid’s style and personality perfectly.
As for comfort, KEEN’s H2 sandal goes the extra mile with a foamy ethel vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole atop the durable rubber outsole. The vented upper is breathable enough to keep feet comfortable even in hot temperatures. Kids love the barefoot feel these molded shoes provide, and parents love the protection of the durable, multi-surface slip-resistant shoe offers for tender little feet.
Such a combination of comfort, durability and ease of use as well as eye-catching styles made it the best toddler sneakers for the summer season. Classed as a performance hiking sandal, this is one water shoe that will stand up to whatever your kid puts it through, all summer long, and look cool all the while.
What We Love
- A toe guard that protects your little one’s feet from sharp shells, stones, and other debris
- KEEN’s environmentally conscious efforts include using a proprietary eco anti-odor technology called Cleansport NXT for natural, chemical-free odor control and PFC-free water-repelling technology that’s better for the environment and for your child
- 100 percent polyester quick-dry webbing that keeps the shoes from getting soggy
- Breathable mesh lining and vented design that prevents overheating
- Slip-resistant rubber outsole
- Molded EVA foam removable footbed that keeps feet cushioned and comfortable
- Machine-washable for easy and thorough cleaning
- 60+ color combinations perfect for boys and girls as well as gender-neutral style options
- Decorative bungee lacing that adds a cool touch to the sandal’s style
- Adjustable hook and loop strap combined with elastic cord lace allows for a better, more customized fit
- Intended for use in water, with a water-resistant leather upper shoe
- Removable footbed for comfort and easy cleaning
- Non-marking sole
- More than 4,000 positive customer reviews
- Easy-on, easy-off design with heel pull ideal for active little ones
- Offered in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes
Score
- Durability: 100/100
- Cleanability: 100/100
- Style: 100/100
- Comfort: 100/100
- Cost: 70/100
Overall Score: 94
2. Kvbabby Kids Water Shoes
KVBabby’s Water Shoes are great for the stress and strain kids put on summer footwear at camp, but what about those laid-back days at the beach? The best solution is a pair of toddler boy/girl closed-toe sandals that provide protection for your little one’s feet while also giving them an almost barefoot experience at the beach!
For a great shoe that’s simpler, more lightweight, and more affordable, try these fun and flexible KVBabby’s Kids Beach Shoes. Part barely-there sock, part non-slip protective rubber sole, these flat shoes are ideal for swimming, walking (or running) along the shoreline, and whatever else your little one gets into on the beach.
These quick-dry water shoes are lightweight and flexible enough for crouching in the sand to build a castle with a bottom that’s thick and durable enough to prevent scratches and cuts from stepping on sharp objects in the ocean.
With easy-to-clean, easy-to-dry features, it’s among our best toddler boy shoes because parents shouldn’t be bothered to buy several pairs for a weekend at the beach. Just hang it to dry at the end of the day and voila! The pair is ready to use the next day.
KVBabby’s water shoes also have a fun and stylish upgrade compared to old-school aqua shoes parents remember wearing, with fun patterns and prints kids will be excited to wear (and that means no more fights and tears over wearing shoes!).
What We Love
- Ultra-lightweight for a near-barefoot feel
- Intended for water use, with quick-dry polyester and spandex diving fabric that wicks away moisture and keeps feet from feeling waterlogged
- Non-slip, thick rubber outsole with honeycomb pattern protects feet from hot sand and sharp shells and debris
- 9 brightly colored and adorable designs ranging from ocean themes to pandas and dinosaurs – perfect for boys and girls as well as gender-neutral style options
- The smooth-neck opening minimizes the rubbing and chafing that can lead to blisters on sensitive little feet
- More than 100 positive customer reviews
- Clean up well, with some buyers reporting success with machine washing the shoes
- Easy-on, easy-off slip-on design with heel pull ideal for active little ones
- Offered in toddler, little kid, and limited big kid sizes
Score
- Durability: 70/100
- Cleanability: 100/100
- Style: 100/100
- Comfort: 100/100
- Cost: 90/100
Overall Score: 92
Through Amazon, you can get these in a variety of fun designs to fit your child’s personality!
3. Crocs Kid’s Boys and Girls Crocband II Sandal for Toddlers
When conversations about the best kids summer sandals abound, there’s always one brand that comes to the fore – Crocs! This isn’t surprising considering that the Crocs brand is famous for its boat- and beach-perfect sandals.
Crocs Kid’s Boys and Girls Crocband II Sandal are an almost guaranteed contender for any list of summer shoes. The very first of the popular foam clog shoes were boat shoes, but now the company’s offerings are nearly endless. Our pick for the very best Crocs shoe for kids is the bestselling Crocband sandal.
Combining the comfort of the Classic Croc with design more similar to a traditional sandal, your child gets the best of both worlds when rocking these fun and lightweight Crocs.
Like Classic Crocs, these shoes are made of synthetic and proprietary Croslite foam for a lightweight and comfortable design. With no fabric to absorb water, these sandals can be easily hand-washed and dried in no time.
The sandal style is somewhat sportier than the Classic Crocs look, and the single-strap adjustable closure allows for a more secure fit to prevent accidental slip-offs.
What We Love
- Lightweight and flexible
- The synthetic propriety foam material used in both the upper and sole of the shoe is meant for “360-degree” comfort
- Intended for use in water and won’t absorb moisture
- Adjustable strap that keeps the shoe on and allows for a more customized fit
- Color options are appropriate for boys and girls as well as gender-neutral style options
- More than 400 positive customer reviews
- Easily cleaned by hand washing with soap
- Offered in toddler and little kid sizes
Score
- Durability: 90/100
- Cleanability: 100/100
- Style: 80/100
- Comfort: 85/100
- Cost: 85/100
Overall Score: 88
You can’t go wrong with a trusted name in footwear like Crocs!
4. BODATU Boys’ and Girls’ Summer Outdoor Beach Sports Closed-Toe Sandals (Toddler/Little Kid/Big Kid)
These BODATU Boys and Girls Summer Outdoor Beach Sports Closed-Toe Sandals are reasonably priced and chock-full of great features sure to please kids and parents alike.
The waterproof construction includes breathable mesh, waterproof fabric, and a synthetic sole. This pair of kids closed toe sandals features a rubber toe bumper to prevent painful stubbing and bruising.
You won’t have to worry about slips even on wet terrain with the skid-resistant sole that integrates shock absorption technology for better comfort all day long.
Every parent knows that a comfortable kid is a happy kid, and this comfort plus the stylish design and variety of colors keeps toddlers, little kids and big kids happy.
What We Love
- Closed-toe construction includes a rubber toe bumper for extra protection
- Lightweight and durable shock-absorbing sole is made to last and topped with a soft footbed for comfort
- Intended for use in water with breathable mesh and easy-clean synthetic fabric materials
- Flexible enough to be folded in half and retain its shape when unfolded
- Anti-slip skid-resistant sole keeps kids safer
- Comes in 10 vibrant colors perfect for boys and girls as well as gender-neutral style options
- Decorative bungee lacing that adds a cool touch to the sandal’s style
- An adjustable hook and loop strap allows for a more customized, secure fit
- Easy-on, easy-off design with heel pull ideal for active little ones
- Close to 200 positive customer reviews, most of which assert that it’s the best toddler sandals they’ve come across due to its combination of comfort, support and durability.
- Among the more budget-friendly shoes on our list
- Offered in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes
Score
- Durability: 70/100
- Cleanability: 90/100
- Style: 90/100
- Comfort: 85/100
- Cost: 95/100
Overall Score: 86
5. ikiki Squeaky Shoes for Toddlers with on/off Squeaker Switch
Unless you spend every day at the beach or pool, your child will need more than water shoes to get through the summer. These ikiki Squeaky Shoes are a fun twist on classic canvas shoes made especially for toddlers and little kids.
True to the name, these shoes include a squeaker that’s fun for new walkers and little ones – and, for the parents’ sake, can be switched on and off with ease. The other selling point that makes these shoes such as hit with kids is the array of fun designs available. It’s hard to resist the 16 adorable designs modeled after dogs, cats, giraffes, pandas, hippos and other kid-favorite creatures.
Looks aren’t everything, and fortunately, there’s substance beneath the style of ikiki’s Squeaky Shoes. Made with a soft, breathable fabric and soft rubber soles, these shoes are especially comfortable during the hot summer months, when heavier materials may make kids’ feet feel too hot.
These sturdy shoes cater to new walkers with comfortable high-top ankle support to encourage proper walking posture and a flexible anti-slip rubber sole to minimize falls. The single-strap closure design works well whether kids have narrow or wide feet.
In the mid-price point range, these shoes are a nice little splurge for a gift or special occasion but not so pricy that they break the bank.
What We Love
- 16 fun animal-themed designs sure to make kids smile, with options for boys and girls as well as gender-neutral style options
- Fun squeaker is securely fixed in the shoe so it can’t be removed and pose a choking hazard and can be silenced with an easy-to-use switch
- Made with soft and breathable materials for comfort and coolness
- High-top support without hugging the ankle too much, ideal for teaching correct heel-to-toe walking without discomfort
- Soles are soft on the inside to keep kids comfortable but grippy and non-marking on the outside for slip-resistance
- Different color soles to help kids learn which shoe goes on which foot
- More than 860 positive customer reviews
- Easy-on, easy-off design with heel pull ideal for active little ones
- Adjustable strap that keeps the shoe on and allows for a more customized fit
- Offered primarily in toddler and little kid sizes
Score
- Durability: 90/100
- Cleanability: 65/100
- Style: 100/100
- Comfort: 90/100
- Cost: 75/100
Overall Score: 84
6. Stride Rite Made2Play Phibian Sneaker Sandal
Stride Rite has been a trusted maker of stylish, comfortable and durable kids shoes since 1919 and remains a popular choice for babies’ first walking shoes today. It’s no wonder parents trust the century-old company with their kids’ summer shoe needs.
One thing is for sure: the technology and features used in shoes like Stride Rite’s Made2Play Phibian Sneaker Sandal are much different than they were 100 years ago. The breathable 100 percent EVA foam upper is lightweight and dries quickly, with perforations throughout for better draining. They’re so easy to clean that you can hose them down in the backyard or throw them in the washing machine.
A special antimicrobial lining resists the salt water, chlorine and other not-so-appealing smells that follow a day at the beach or pool. It’s so durable that the manufacturer describes the upper portion of the shoe as “indestructible.”
Although the material is comparable to other shoes on our list – like Crocs sandals and Native’s slip-on sneakers – lacing details and ombre color options add a touch of extra style. Many parents report that these compare favorably to the comfort and performance of Crocs.
A slip-resistant rubber and EVA outsole sole prevents falls on pool decks, at waterparks, and other wet, slippery surfaces. It’s easy to see why Stride Rite calls these popular water shoes “sneaker sandals,” because they offer the best of both worlds for the kid who’s always on the go.
Plus, it’s the kind of toddler summer sandals that can be worn nearly everywhere, from the beach to the park, playground and mall, with or without socks, with shorts or jeans.
What We Love
- Intended for use in water and won’t absorb moisture with a quick-drain 100 percent EVA upper
- Lightweight and breathable construction with scuff-proof design
- Proprietary Aegis and Biome lining resists odors
- Amazon offers 19 color options for toddlers and big kids, while the manufacturer’s website sells the shoe in seven colors for little kids and big kids
- Decorative bungee lacing that adds a cool touch to the sandal’s style
- An adjustable hook and loop strap allows for a more customized, secure fit that keeps shoes on
- Easy-on, easy-off slip-on design with heel pull ideal for active little ones
- Durable rubber sole provides excellent traction for navigating wet terrain
- Easy to clean by hosing off or machine-wash
- More than 1,100 positive customer reviews on Amazon and nearly 150 on the manufacturer’s website
- Offered in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes
Score
- Durability: 95/100
- Cleanability: 100/100
- Style: 80/100
- Comfort: 75/100
- Cost: 70/100
Overall Score: 81
7. Native Unisex Kids Jefferson Slip-on Sneaker
Native’s Jefferson slip-on shoe is the perfect blend of classic sneaker style and waterproof foam construction, a combo of features that make it a great pair of cool shoes for 12 year olds. With dozens of color options including iridescent and marbled shades, it’s hard to imagine a child who wouldn’t be enamored with these unique water shoes.
The 100 percent EVA construction molds to your child’s feet with wear for the ultimate comfort, with a shock-absorbent rubber sole.
There’s just as much for parents to love. The lightweight material is odor-resistant and easy to hand wash with a quick-dry design that won’t hold water.
These slip-on sneakers protect kids’ feet with slip-resistant traction outsoles and a rubber toe for better foot protection.
What We Love
- Intended for use in water, with all-over perforations for easy draining and quick drying
- Comfortable and easy-dry, easy-clean EVA foam construction
- 55 color options perfect for boys and girls as well as gender-neutral style options
- Sneaker style includes a contrast toe cap
- Easy-on, easy-off slip-on design ideal for active little ones
- Rubber sole and toe absorb shock, resist odor and provide superior traction even in wet environments
- Special EVA foam molds to the wearer’s feet for better comfort
- More than 2,300 positive customer reviews
- PETA-approved vegan and cruelty-free
- Responsibly made through a process that results in low energy emissions and zero waste products
- Offered in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes
Score
- Durability: 90/100
- Cleanability: 95/100
- Style: 85/100
- Comfort: 75/100
- Cost: 60/100
Overall Score: 81
8. TOMS Kids Classics (Infant/Toddler/Little Kid)
Another adorable shoe for a day out not at the pool or beach, TOMS Kids Classics are junior-sized versions of the stylish canvas slip-on Alpargata shoes so popular with adults. Think of twinning with your little one – you wear the Alpargata shoes and he/she wears this pair of cool, comfy kids play shoes.
The thin and lightweight feel makes these shoes ideal for summer weather – and in the case of sweaty feet on those hot and humid days, the shoes feature a bacteria-fighting sock liner.
This pair of toddler play shoes is designed to fit well with or without socks, TOMS Classics are a comfortable choice for when your kid needs to complete a dressed-up summer look but can also pair well with casual clothes. Parents praise the shoes for being sturdy and well-made. The comfy slip-on shoes are made with an elastic “V” plus an adjustable strap for easy-on, easy-off wear, and a secure fit.
TOMS aren’t cheap, even in miniature sizes, but the style adults know and love from the brand along with the company’s ongoing focus on social responsibility make it a worthwhile buy for families who are comfortable at this somewhat higher price point.
What We Love
- The kid-sized version of popular adult Alpargatas, these shoes exude style and simplicity and can pair with dressy or casual clothes
- 17 colors and styles available on Amazon and more than two dozen options, including TOMS Exclusive styles, available from the manufacturer
- The array of styles means there’s a TOMS Classic shoe perfect for both boys and girls as well as gender-neutral style options
- A durable rubber sole and bacteria-resistant liner complete the 100 percent canvas upper of the shoe
- Thin and lightweight construction makes full-coverage shoes comfortable even on the warmest days
- Easy-on, easy-off slip-on design with ideal for active little ones
- Adjustable strap that keeps the shoe on and allows for a more customized fit
- Can be worn with or without socks according to your kid’s preference
- More than 80 positive customer reviews
- Offered in infant, toddler and little kid sizes, with coordinating big kid sizes offered without the adjustable strap
Score
- Durability: 80/100
- Cleanability: 65/100
- Style: 100/100
- Comfort: 85/100
- Cost: 70/100
Overall Score: 80
Everybody knows the name TOMS… a quality brand at an affordable price. Check it out on Amazon.com!
9. Speedo Kid’s & Toddler’s Water Shoes – Surf Knit
For a brand whose name is synonymous with swimwear, branching out into water shoes is only the next natural step. These surf-knit water shoes from Speedo have a 100 percent textile upper, a welcome change for kids or parents who aren’t fans of the look or feel of plastic-like foam shoes.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-wear kids slip on sandals, this pair is also a great choice – there are no laces and Velcro straps to worry about.
You might expect a fabric water shoe to get soggier and retain moisture longer than its EVA counterparts, but Speedo uses special Surf Knit Technology. The mesh textile shoes drain and dry fast, with plenty of breathability. The water-dispersing sole prevents them from taking on extra water in the first place.
Between the all-day-long comfort and the stabilizing, supportive protection of the durable rubber sole, what’s not to love?
What We Love
- 100 percent fabric upper made of quick-drying Speedo Surf Knit mesh for ideal comfort and breathability
- A supportive insole and flexible, slip-resistant rubber outsole provide plenty of traction, stability and arch support while dispersing water
- 10 colors available on Amazon, with colors appropriate for boys and girls as well as gender-neutral style options
- Easy-on, easy-off slip-on design with heel pull ideal for active little ones
- More than 80 positive customer reviews
- Offered in little and big kid sizes, and it’s highly recommended as a pair of exceptional shoes for 11 year olds.
Score
- Durability: 80/100
- Cleanability: 80/100
- Style: 70/100
- Comfort: 85/100
- Cost: 75/100
Overall Score: 78
Excellent choice – Buy it on Amazon.com!
10. Merrell Hydro Water Sandal
Merrell’s stylish waterproof sandal is another performance shoe ready to stand up to more stress than your typical aqua shoe can survive. We consider it as the best kids sandals for more adventurous activities outdoors, from the beach to the woods, too. A vented upper made of waterproof leather and textile, combined with a durable, slip-resistant outsole, adds up to a shoe that your child will want to wear for all their summer adventures, wet or dry.
Kids will feel like they’re barefoot, with a cushioned EVA foam footbed and a close-to-the-ground design, but their little feet will have the protection of a rounded rubber toe and an outsole made with M Select GRIP technology for superior traction. If you’re looking for shoes for 9 year olds who love the great outdoors, you may want to take a look at this pair.
What ranks Merrell’s Hydro Water Sandal 10th on our list of the best boys summer shoes? Despite having many of the same features as KEEN, including an odor-resistant lining and stylish bungee lacing, real buyers were somewhat less impressed with the fit and performance of this shoe compared to its similarly priced competitor.
That said, Merrell – a Stride Rite brand – still has hundreds of satisfied customers. For kids with narrow feet who aren’t prone to blisters, Merrell’s relatively wide fit and upper design may be exactly what parents are looking for – and the cool design and assortment of fun colors will be a hit with little and big kids alike.
What We Love
- Durable, flexible rubber sole with M Select Grip for slip resistance on any environment, wet or dry
- Protective wrap-up toe guard defends your little one’s feet from sharp shells, stones, and other debris
- Vented upper with quick-dry textile and waterproof leather
- M-Select Fresh Lining for odor resistance
- 8 fun color combinations perfect for boys and girls as well as gender-neutral style options
- Decorative bungee lacing that adds a cool touch to the sandal’s style
- Adjustable hook and loop strap combined with elastic cord lace allows for a better, more customized secure fit
- Intended for use in water
- Non-marking sole
- Almost 350 positive customer reviews
- Close-to-the-ground design and EVA footbed feels like going barefoot in all the best ways
- Easy-on, easy-off design with heel pull ideal for active little ones
- Offered in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes
Score
- Durability: 85/100
- Cleanability: 60/100
- Style: 90/100
- Comfort: 80/100
- Cost: 60/100
Overall Score: 75
Things to Consider:
What makes a good summer shoe for my child?
Summer shoes for the kiddos are important. They should be durable, as well as comfortable. Otherwise, your child will not care to wear them. When assessing the right shoe to fit your child’s activities, consider the following:
- Are they easy to put on? Who wants to take the time to lace and tie shoes when everyone else is racing out the door to play?!? Shoes with velcro straps may be the easiest for your little one to put on all by themselves!
- Are they slip-resistant? Most summer shoes come with rubber soles to prevent falls. They often have tread on the bottom for traction… which is a good thing!
- Are they made of breathable materials? If your child’s feet sweat in them, they’re hot on the feet, and cause stinky feet… that’s no fun for ANYBODY!
- Are they structured well? Kids need a proper fit, as well as good arch support just as adults do. The toe box needs to have ample room and the footbed should be comfortable. Ankle support is important as well to prevent sprains.
- Are they easy to clean up? Perhaps not much of a concern for kids, but may be for parents. Shoes that are easily spot cleaned will last longer and are presentable for all activities, whether it’s a day at the beach or a church picnic.
How fast will my child outgrow their summer shoes?
As we all know, children grow like weeds, especially in their younger years. The shoes you buy today may very well be too small next month. As little feet may prefer to be free from socks and tennis shoes in the summer, buying the correct size of summer shoe in the first place is key for comfort.
Keep in mind, too, that boys and girls will likely have unique feet shapes and sizes. Boys, for example, may likely have wider feet than girls – and it’s something that should be considered when choosing summer shoes for children. Even the best shoes for 9 year old girls may not necessarily be the best for their male counterparts, regardless if the colors and styles are unisex.
As a general rule of thumb, there should be about a half an inch between the end of the shoe and your child’s big toe. Experts advise to not buy a larger size in anticipation of your kiddo “growing into them” or planning ahead and buying shoes that will “last longer” before growing out of them.
Children’s shoes that are too large will slip off their heels, causing trips or serious injuries. Also, you should check your kid’s shoe size periodically. Shoes that are too small can also cause painful blisters or foot deformities.
Typically, the first three to four years, your child’s feet will grow about two shoe sizes per year. As they mature to school age, their feet will increase by approximately one shoe size per year. As every child’s growth rate is different, it is safe to say this summer’s shoe purchase will not fit next summer!
What if my child is picky about the style of their summer shoes?
True, some toddlers or young children are not concerned with the way a shoe looks on them… but some are! If you have a child with fashion sense at a young age, by all means make sure they approve of the look before buying.
Why would you want to buy a pair of good shoes for kids in your opinion only to have them discarded by their intended wearer? They will not want to wear it and it will be an argument every time you want them to do so, right? Sometimes, we just have to pick our battles, including the best pair of shoes for 8 year olds.
As you will see from our suggestions, there are many “looks” of summer shoes available this year. If your child prefers a specific color or animal design, you will notice that most of our selections also come in a wide array of colors and designs that suit boys or girls. Summer footwear should be fun… save the stuffy socks and hot leather tennis shoes for wintertime!
