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Top 6 Best Toddler Shoes

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedOctober 23, 2024

It can be a challenging task to look for the right pair of shoes for toddlers. You want to present them as cute, but also need to have some comfort and support for the little one’s developing feet. That is why we have dedicated time and resources to research and come up with the list of the best toddler shoes in the market.

After reading numerous toddler shoe brands and fashion, the following are the best toddler shoes, and the reason behind our choice.

Top 3 Best Toddler Shoes

  1. Simple Joys by Carter's Unisex-Child Bailey Athletic Sneaker
  2. Stride Rite 360 Taye 2.0 First Walker Shoe
  3. DREAM PAIRS Toddler Boys Girls Sneakers Casual Lightweight Kids

As parents, we know that finding the right pair of shoes for our little ones can be a challenging task. Not only do we want them to look adorable, but we also want them to feel comfortable and provide the necessary support for their growing feet. That's why we've put together a list of the best toddler shoes available on Amazon. Our roundup includes shoes that are durable, easy to put on and take off, and designed to promote healthy foot development. Take a look at our top picks and find the perfect pair for your little adventurer.


Simple Joys by Carter's Unisex-Child Bailey Athletic Sneaker Running Shoe

Editor's Choice

Simple Joys by Carter's Unisex-Child Bailey Athletic Sneaker Running Shoe

Simple Joys by Carter's Unisex-Child Bailey Athletic Sneaker Running Shoe offers a blend of comfort and style, perfect for active kids. With a durable design and easy slip-on feature, these sneakers are ideal for everyday play and adventures.

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We highly recommend the Simple Joys by Carter's Unisex-Child Bailey Athletic Sneaker Running Shoe for toddlers who need comfortable and stylish shoes for everyday wear.

Pros

  • The ultra cushioned interior provides maximum comfort for little feet.
  • The flexible sole with super grip ensures safety and stability while walking and running.
  • The stylish design of the shoes makes them perfect for any casual occasion.

Cons

  • The shoes may run small, so it is recommended to order a size up.
  • The synthetic material may not be as durable as genuine leather.
  • The shoes may not be suitable for formal events.

These are specifically some of the classic trainers that you can purchase for toddler if you want to give him or her those shoes for everyday use. The soft fabric small foot space offers gentle touch, lots of cushion for little feet as well as the flex sole with extra grip for walking and running. The shoes are also very easy to wear, and can be put on as well as removed easily for children and parents at large.

The shoes are made with every comfort this generation can think of, from the cushioned interior of the shoes to the sole with maximum flexibility couple with a gripping sole. The shoes are also fully machine-washable, which is a plus, that does not require a lot of washing and caring. Usually the shoes are made from synthetic material though relatively cheaper than genuine leather, and it may not last as long as the genuine leather shoes.

Therefore, it can be concluded that the Simple Joys by Carter’s Unisex-Child Bailey Athletic Sneaker Running Shoe is a worthy buy that every parent with toddlers should consider buying for their children. Some of the good qualities of the shoes are cheap, easy to wash and can be used in all situations.


Stride Rite 360 Taye 2.0 First Walker Shoe

Stride Rite 360 Taye 2.0 First Walker Shoe

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We highly recommend the Stride Rite 360 Taye 2.0 First Walker Shoe for parents who are looking for a durable and comfortable pair of shoes for their toddlers.

Pros

  • The shoes fit great and provide excellent comfort to the little ones.
  • The shoes are easy to put on and take off, which saves time and hassle.
  • The shoes are durable and can withstand the wear and tear of active toddlers.

Cons

  • The shoes may run a bit small, so it is recommended to order a size up.
  • The shoes may not be suitable for narrow feet.
  • The shoes may not have enough arch support for some toddlers.

We have employed the Stride Rite 360 Taye 2. 0 We have used the First Walker Shoe for our toddler and the shoe has always served him well. The shoes accompanied my little ones feet on the right way, the fit is perfect and they are comfortable which is good for toddlers. Moreover, one can slide them easily on and off the feet, moreover, it saves lot of time and energy to put them on this shoes.

They are well made and of a solid enough stitching and material to take the abuse toddlers like to put their shoes through. It has been seen that the shoes retain its form and structure even after multiple uses, that shows the quality of the shoes.

The only thing to note is that it tends to be a little bit small so getting a size bigger should be advisable. Also, one may not be convenient for the toddlers with narrow feet as well as the shoes might be a bit small for them. Finally, it is also important to note that the shoes have little or no support for the arches in the feet of the toddlers.

All in all, we strongly approve the Stride Rite 360 Taye 2. 0 First Walker Shoe for parents who seek for the best shoes for their toddlers that should also prove comfortable and hard wearing.


DREAM PAIRS Toddler Boys Girls Sneakers Casual Lightweight Kids Walking Skate Shoes (Toddler/Little Kid) 8 Toddler Black

DREAM PAIRS Toddler Boys Girls Sneakers Casual Lightweight Kids Walking Skate Shoes (Toddler/Little Kid) 8 Toddler Black

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If you're looking for a durable and comfortable pair of toddler shoes, the DREAM PAIRS Toddler Boys Girls Sneakers are worth considering.

Pros

  • The shoes are made of high-quality materials that are built to last.
  • They are lightweight and easy for toddlers to walk in.
  • The shoes have a slip-resistant rubber sole that provides excellent traction.

Cons

  • The design on the shoe may rub off after a few days of wear.
  • The shoes run a bit big, so you may need to go down a size.
  • The glue holding the sole to the shoe may come loose after a few weeks of use.

Recently, we decided to test the DREAM PAIRS Toddler Boys Girls Sneakers which did not let us down in terms of quality. The shoes are of flannel microfiber material and comes with a rubber sole which ensures a good slip resistance on various surfaces.

Another peculiarities of these shoes that can be mentioned are its low weight. This makes them easy for the toddlers to walk in especially for the young toddlers who are still learning how to walk. The shoes are also very simple to put on and take off, not to mention must be very convenient for parents.

Still, the particular would like design on the shoe might wear off after some days of wearing the shoes. Moreover, the shoes come a bit large, thus one might require going for a size lower to get the proper fit. Lastly, we did observe that the stick that joins the sole to the shoe is likely to come off after several weeks of use and this is something that you will need to check on.

All in all we can confidently refer the DREAM PAIRS Toddler Boys Girls Sneakers to any parent out there longing for their child to wear a strong and comfortable shoe. They are well-made, and light shoes that can easily be used when the toddler is learning to walk or every other day shoes.


Stride Rite 360 Boy's Ethan Sneaker

Stride Rite 360 Boy's Ethan Sneaker

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We highly recommend the Stride Rite 360 Boy's Ethan Sneaker for parents looking for a comfortable and stylish shoe for their toddler.

Pros

  • Lightweight and breathable fabric construction
  • Machine washable for easy cleaning
  • Secure and adjustable hook and loop closure

Cons

  • Suede-like material on the front of the shoe scuffs easily
  • Limited color options
  • May run slightly large

These are among the most suitable shoes for toddler since they can run around a lot. The holes enable air to circulate freely thus keeping your child’s feet cool and dry especially when it is very hot. The fastening system by Velcro ensures that the garments fit well; they are easy to wear and take off by the children.

The fact that these shoes can be washed in a washing machine, has endeared us to them because they are convenient to use. The shoes are also comfortable since they are light in construction thus can be worn by toddlers for long periods of time without getting weary.

There are some issues with these shoes, firstly, the material on the front of the shoe, which looks exactly like suede, scuffs easily, which would not be good news for parents wanting a new pair of shoes that will be wearable for a long time. However, the number of colors available is quite limited which may not be good for some parents who want a specific color to match their kid’s clothes.

All things considered, Stride Rite 360 Boy’s Ethan Sneaker is one of the best shoes that parents can opt for their toddlers based on the factors discussed above.


Gerber Unisex-Child Toddler Boys and Girls Athletic Sneaker Crib Shoe 5 Toddler Blue Colorblock

Gerber Unisex-Child Toddler Boys and Girls Athletic Sneaker Crib Shoe 5 Toddler Blue Colorblock

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If you're looking for a comfortable and stylish sneaker for your toddler, the Gerber Unisex-Child Toddler Boys and Girls Athletic Sneaker Crib Shoe 5 Toddler Blue Colorblock is a great option.

Pros

  • The shoes are lightweight and easy to put on, making them perfect for toddlers.
  • The soft fabrics used in the shoes ensure your child's feet stay comfortable all day long.
  • The shoes are available in a range of sizes, from newborn to toddler, ensuring you'll find the perfect fit for your little one.

Cons

  • Some customers have reported that the Velcro doesn't stick well, causing the shoes to come off easily.
  • The shoes are not very durable and may fall apart after a few weeks of use.
  • The laces are not real laces, but rather just pieces of laces attached to look like laces, which may be disappointing for some customers.

In our case, Gerber Unisex-Child Toddler Boys and Girls Athletic Sneaker Crib Shoe 5 Toddler Blue Colorblock is an ideal shoes for any parent to buy for their toddler. The shoes are light and slip on which is ideal for children who are in constant movement especially the toddlers. The shoes’ soft material soothes your child’s feet throughout the day, which is crucial for their healthy development.

Nonetheless, some observers have stated that the Velcro does not adhere properly to the shoe so that the shoes can be removed effortlessly. However, such shoes are not very strong and may split after a few weeks of use or even weeks. Last but not the least, the shoes do not come with real laces but rather they come with pieces of laces designed to look like laces, this may be an inconvenience to some of the buyers.

All in all, if you are searching for a comfortable and fashionable shoe for your toddler, it will be great if you buy Gerber Unisex-Child Toddler Boys and Girls Athletic Sneaker Crib Shoe 5 Toddler Blue Colorblock. The only thing with Velcro is just ensure that you know that it has some problems with holding and durability.


COODO Toddler/Little Kid Boys Girls Shoes Running Sports Sneakers

COODO Toddler/Little Kid Boys Girls Shoes Running Sports Sneakers

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We highly recommend the COODO Toddler/Little Kid Boys Girls Shoes Running Sports Sneakers for parents looking for a stylish and affordable option for their little ones.

Pros

  • The shoes are made of high-quality materials and are very durable.
  • The hook and loop closure makes it easy to put on and take off the shoes.
  • The shoes have a cute style and are available in various colors.

Cons

  • The shoes don't have much traction, which may be a concern for some parents.
  • The sizing may be off, so it's important to measure your child's feet before purchasing.
  • The shoes may not be suitable for children with wide feet.

These shoes are ideal for little, early walkers, and running kids who enjoy playing games. The knit upper and EVA outsole allow them to wear it comfortably and the good air circulation while the hook and loop closure help to fit into it perfectly. The shoes are also quite cheap, it will not strain a parent who is likely to spend a lot on other necessities for the child.

As disadvantages, it may be surprising that the nonactivity can be a problem for parents with children who enjoy slippery grounds. Also, some clients have complained about experiencing fit problems and hence it is recommended that they take their child’s foot measurements before making the orders. Lastly, the shoes may be uncomfortable to the children with wide feet since they have narrow shapes.

All in all, we are here to give a two thumbs up to the COODO Toddler/Little Kid Boys Girls Shoes Running Sports Sneakers to all the parents who are searching for a comfort, stylish, and needing economical shoes for their toddlers.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying shoes for toddlers, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you are getting the best product for your little one. Here are some key features to look for when choosing toddler shoes:

Fit

The most crucial consideration that one has to make when purchasing toddler shoes is on the fit. If one wears shoes that are too tight or those that are too big for them, he may be in constant pain and also suffer from foot diseases in the future. Choose shoes which will fit your foot but there is a little spare space because feet will grow at some point. Another aspect to consider is the usage of the shoe and this particular aspect can be best described as simply, as toddlers may prove to be rather restless.

Material

There is also need to consider the material used on the shoes. Avoid shoes with restricted ventilation as this will make your child’s feet to sweat by choosing shoes that are made of materials like canvas or leather. Shoes that are textured synthetic should not be worn especially if they are tight since they harbor moisture.

Support

Children are not fully coordinated when it comes to their balancing hence proper shoes should be provided to the children especially toddlers. Check with a sole that is tough and strong enough to ensure that you have grip and support looking for shoes that have a good arch support to aid correct growth of the feet.

Style

While the fit, material, and support are the most important factors to consider when buying toddler shoes, you also want to choose a style that your child will be happy to wear. Look for shoes that are cute and comfortable, and that match your child's personality and style.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best toddler shoes for your little one that will provide comfort, support, and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended shoe brands for toddlers with wide feet?

Just like any other toddler, many of them have wide feet and it is always challenging to look for shoes that will easily accommodate this. It is for this reason that Stride Rite, Pediped and Saucony are some of the approved brands that parents should consider for their toddler with wide feet. It includes shoe brands that provide various models and widths to meet the needs of those with wide feet.

Which toddler shoe models are most suitable for the fall season?

In the autumn it is necessary to select comfortable shoes, which will be warm and will protect the feet from various weather conditions. Of course, any young child is going to want something on their feet during the fall and the most fitting shapes are boots, sneakers, and closed-toe sandals. It is advisable to find shoes that are made of materials that are hard wearing such as leather or suede with firm grip on wet surfaces.

What do podiatrists suggest when choosing shoes for a 2-year-old?

The foot experts recommend that parents should look for shoes that are bendable, light in weight and those that can allow the air to circulate freely around the feet of the 2-year-old child. A good pair of shoes should also have enough room at the toes of the shoes so that the feet can stretch out and breath. It suggested using shoes with soft soles and make sure the shoes are not too small because shoes with hard bottoms or shoes that are tight on the feet will not allow healthy foot growth.

What types of shoes are ideal for a 3-year-old's foot development?

For a 3-year-old's foot development, it's important to choose shoes that provide support and stability. Look for shoes with a sturdy sole and a secure fit, such as sneakers or mary janes. Avoid shoes with high heels or that are too loose, as they can lead to foot problems later on.

Are barefoot shoes a good option for toddlers, and why?

Barefoot shoes are a popular option for toddlers, as they allow for natural foot movement and development. However, it's important to choose barefoot shoes that provide enough protection and support for toddlers who are still learning to walk. Look for shoes with a flexible sole and a wide toe box, and avoid shoes with too much cushioning or support.

How do popular brands like Nike, Adidas, and New Balance compare for toddler footwear?

Popular brands like Nike, Adidas, and New Balance offer a range of toddler footwear options, from sneakers to sandals. While each brand has its own unique features and styles, they all prioritize comfort, support, and durability. When choosing between these brands, consider your child's specific needs and preferences, as well as the shoe's fit and quality.

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