Believe it or not, back-to-school season has finally arrived, so it’s time to lace up your little one in a fresh pair of kicks for a new school year. Back-to-school shopping can get chaotic with long school supply lists and new activities underway, so consider this expert-approved guide to the best shoes for kids to help you out with prep time before the first school bell rings.
Whether your child is a budding athlete, artist, or the world’s next great scientist, it’s important to shop for shoes that are durable for daily wear and go with everything in their wardrobe. Kids’ everyday footwear should also be supportive and comfortable as their little feet continue to grow, and be able to carry them from the classroom, to the playground, sports practice, and everywhere in-between. One thing to keep in mind? A 2023 study found that more minimalist children shoe styles are the best footwear for kids’ feet, as they significantly help to grow flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) muscle strength (muscles at the bottom of the feet), which aids in stability and support through daily foot movement. That means, shoes with a wider footbeds, roomy toe boxes, and flexible soles can bring long-term benefits to developing feet. You can also shop options for wide fit kids shoes and kids shoes for flat feet with specialized support as their feet continue to grow.
If you’re on the hunt for the best of the best kid shoes on the market, you’re not alone. Over 7 million tapped-in parents on TikTok are searching for the best kids shoes, while 106 million are watching reviews for kids sneakers that are good enough for their little ones. Luckily, there’s a wealth of options on the market to choose from. In 2023, Footwear News reported that kids’ shoes is the fastest-growing footwear market, with brands like adidas , Crocs, and Nike leading the way with exciting collaborations and innovative shoe features. Easy slip-on designs like Crocs Clogs make mornings a breeze before heading to the bus, while adidas walking shoes with hook-and-loop straps and elastic lacing empowers kids to lace up on their own. Plus, brands like Converse and On include extra cushioning and durability features that equip kids for long days of play.
Besides selecting an exceptional everyday shoe, it’s critical to slip kids into their correct shoe size, as constriction can lead to toe curling and longterm foot damage. Podiatrist Dr. Mika Hayashi previously told Footwear News that parents can check their child’s shoe size by starting at the forefoot of the shoes and making sure there is ample room throughout the toe area.
Below, we’ve curated the best kids shoes that deliver on style and comfort, from clogs to Mary Jane shoes , comfortable walking shoes , and kids’ versions of your favorite sneakers
Nike Air Force 1 Low Easyon Size range : 8C to 3Y Colorways : White, pink, black, green, red, blue, yellow, and more Materials : Leather, rubber Special features : Elastic laces, hook-and-loop straps, Flyease $70 Buy Now at Nike It may be your favorite shoe — and there’s one for your little one, too. The Nike Air Force 1 Low Easyon kids shoes feature all the same durable leather uppers and rubber outsoles in the adult icon. They make for exceptional kids walking shoes with just-for-show elastic lacing that allows feet to easily slip in with a secure fit and a hook-and-loop strap.
Price upon publish date of this article: $70
Crocs Kid’s Classic Clog Size range : C11 to J6 Colorways : Blue, green, red, pink, yellow, purple, black, white, gray, and more Materials : Croslite foam Special features : Slip-on design, pivoting heel straps $39.99 Buy Kid’s at crocs $20.99 Buy Toddler’s Now at Crocs $18.74 Buy Infant’s Now at Crocs Crocs Clogs standout as exceptionally light shoes for kids that are easy to clean. They’re great for play or walking from class to class, and these kids waterproof shoes are ideal if your kiddo loves to jump in puddles or dance in the rain. They maintain Crocs’ Croslite foam cushioning you know and love with adjustable straps and a simple slip-on design. Plus, these kids Crocs come in a rainbow’s range of color options to satisfy your kid’s favorite hue, along with sizing options for every stage of development — making these affordable slip-ons some of the best walking shoes for babies and toddler walking shoes on the market.
What testers say : “Perfect fit and easy for the little ones to put on.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $18.74
adidas Superstar Shoes Size range : 10.5K to 3 Colorways : Black and white Materials : Leather, rubber Special features : Hook-and-loop closure, molded sockliner $60 Buy Now at adidas adidas Superstar Shoes are ideal for kids to protect their feet on the playground. This top shoe style for kids features three hook-and-loop straps, and comes cushioned with a molded sockliner for all-day comfort. The throwback sneaker, which debuted in 1969, is as much a staple as ever with an average five-star rating on adidas.com from happy parents.
What testers say : “Great shoes! Perfect pair of trainers for a young child to feel comfy and stand out from the crowd!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $60
On Cloud Play Shoes Size range : 10.5 to 3 Colorways : Green, pink, red, gray, blue, and black Materials : Recycled polyester, rubber Special features : Hook-and-loop closure, stability cushioning, extra rubber pads $100 Buy Now at nordstrom $100 Buy Now at zappos $100 Buy Now at on On’s best-selling Cloud Play shoes are finally available for kids — and they’re perfect running shoes for kids to sprint on any terrain. Made with 80 percent recycled materials, these shoes features durable reinforcements along with lightweight Cloudtec running technology that cushions and stabilizes from the heel to the midfoot. Cloud Play is also specifically designed with growing kids in mind, thanks to wider outsoles and a no-tie lacing system.
What testers say : “My 5 almost six year-old loves these shoes. Super comfortable, easy to get on by himself and no ties. Win for mommy too! Going to get the yellow ones too.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
Chuck Taylor All Star EVA Lift Platform Canvas Size range : Little kids 10.5 C to 3Y; big kids 3.5Y to 6Y Colorways : Black, white Materials : Canvas, rubber Special features : Foam sockliner, EVA platform $50 Buy Little Kids at Converse $55 Buy Big Kids at Converse Canvas shoes are a fuss-free option for kids who are constantly moving. Not only are they lightweight and minimal, they’re also easy to throw in the wash for a refresh. Converse Chuck Taylors are the gold standard, and serve as good basketball shoes for kids. This iteration comes with stacked EVA foam cushioning and foam sockliners for optimal underfoot support.
What testers say : “My daughter loves them! They look great with everything.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $50
Sam Edelman Kids’ Maeve Micah Mary Jane Flats Size range : Toddler 11M to 12M; little kids 13M to 3M; big kid 4M to 5M Colorways : Gold, silver Materials : Leather, rubber Special features : Adjustable strap with buckle closure On Sale 30% off $47.59 Buy Now at nordstrom $68 Buy Now at sam edelman These metallic Mary Jane flats from Sam Edelman are a comfortable alternative to kids sneakers for school, family parties, dance recitals, or other more dressy occasions. The style’s soft, stretchy uppers avoid constriction and blisters, while adjustable buckle straps and rubber outsoles keep their feet secure and stable throughout the day.
Price upon publish date of this article: $47.59
adidas Kids Unisex Gazelle Shoes Size range : 3.5 to 7 Colorways : Green and pink Materials : Pigskin suede upper, rubber cupsole Special features : Ortholite sockliner $55 Buy Now at adidas adidas Gazelle shoes are some of the best daily shoes for adults and kiddos alike. The silhouette dons fun colors too, like this green and pink pair, and feature the same elements of the iconic shoe with premium suede uppers and grippy rubber cupsoles.
What testers say : “Very stylish. These are such a lovely shade of green. My daughter loves wearing them all day.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $55
APL Kids’ TechLoom Bliss Sneakers Size range : 8 to 10 Colorways : Yellow Materials : Textile, rubber Special features : TechLoom upper, Propelium midsole, slip-on design $100 Buy Now at APL A mini version of the adult favorite, APL Kids’ TechLoom Bliss sneaker is made for young, aspiring athletes and active kids on the go. These best kids’ shoes for running can be worn from P.E. class to running errands with mom, as the slip-on shoe is delivers great energy return with a custom milled elastic strap that keeps feet comfortable, yet secure. Opt for a sneaker style in a sunny shade like this Energy variation or snag it in one of several neutral shades.
What testers say : “These little shoes are so amazing! I love that you can wash them and that my kids can match me. My toddler can put them on himself which is such a time saver for me. I will be buying these exclusively for my kiddo from now on.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
adidas Kids Unisex Samba Og Shoes Size range : 3.5 to 7 Colorways : White, navy, red, purple, and black Materials : Leather upper, gum rubber outsole Special features : Ortholite sockliner $60 Buy Now at adidas Whether your kid is a soccer star or a trendsetting prodigy, adidas Samba shoes are a stellar adidas running shoe for kids and daily wear. White uppers allow these sneakers to pair with any color or pattern in their closet, while grippy gum outsoles add a touch of retro cool. This kiddo style comes with a plush Ortholite sockliner for added cushioning, along with elastic laces for easy-on wear.
What testers say : “Great fit! My son loves them and they go with so many outfits.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $60
New Balance FuelCell 990v6 Hook and Loop Shoes Size range : Little kids 10.5 to 3 Colorways : Gray, black, and navy Materials : Leather, rubber Special features : FuelCell foam, reflective details, hook-and-loop closure $109.99 Buy Now at New Balance $109.99 Buy Now at amazon If you’re looking for tons of cushioning, the best New Balance shoes are where it’s at. The cult-favorite FuelCell 990v6 style comes shrunken for kids to enjoy, with hook-and-loop straps and reflective uppers that keep them safe on their walk to the bus. FuelCell foam midsoles work to stabilize and propel each step for new walkers or sports stars, while durable suede uppers in neutral tones are ideal for every day of the school week.
What testers say : “Really great shoes for my 5 year old son. Very well put together and look great too!”
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items. Learn more about us here .
Meet the Experts
Dr. Mika Hayashi , DPM is a podiatry specialist basedin New York, NY with over 19 years of experience. She is affiliated with medical facilities NYU Langone Hospitals and Nantucket Cottage Hospital.
Meet the Author
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes and edits shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. At Footwear News, she regularly reports on exciting new releases for various needs and activities from top brands. She updated this guide to the best shoes for kids with new shoe releases, insight on foot-healthy shoe options, and kids’ back-to-school outfit ideas.
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