Toddlers are always moving and exploring the new world around them. In fact, if you tried to walk a mile in their shoes, you’d probably be ready for nap time by noon. Since toddlers are extra active, finding the right pair of supportive shoes for them is an absolute must.
That’s why the best shoes for toddlers fit correctly and are highly functional, says Dr. Nick Pagano, a pediatric podiatrist with his own practice, Barking Dogs Foot and Ankle Care, and the father of a 3- and 1-year-old.
In other words, he knows all about toddlers. “They’re always on the go,” he says. As a doctor, the fit and function of his children’s shoes are most important factors to Dr. Pagano. But Courtney Casperson, also a parent of a 3- and 1-year-old, adds another “F” word to the list: Fashion. “Cute is always a factor for me,” says Casperson, the author of the mom and children’s fashion blog Mama’s Heels. Her daughter’s ideal shoe right now: Heavy on glitter and bright colors, preferably in mauve and lavender.
So how can you find the best shoes for toddlers? Look for:
- Size
Dr. Pagano says the first thing a parent should do is have their child professionally fitted a few times a year. “It’s incredible how fast their feet size can grow at these ages,” he says. “You don’t want them to be in too small of a shoe to constrict their growth, and you don’t want them in too big of a shoe because they’re still working on balance.”
- Function
When purchasing shoes, Dr. Pagano says parents should keep in mind the function the shoes will play. Are these everyday shoes? Are they for special occasions? What season will your child wear them? Use that information to choose a shoe that works for your child. That toddler-size cowboy boot that you can’t resist, for instance, might be OK for a special occasion, but not as an everyday playground shoe.
- Support
Dr. Pagano says if you’re shopping for shoes your child will wear frequently, then you want something that is supportive, covers their toes and wraps the back of their ankle for the sake of protection. He also suggests you look for a shoe with a flexible sole. Stiff soles can inhibit development with balance, he says.
Once you (and your child) find a pair of shoes that fits and that you both like, Dr. Pagano says to give your child the time to walk around and even run in them. Don’t be rushed, he says. Give your child a chance to get comfortable — that’s when he’ll stop squishing up his toes and walking gingerly and start acting more naturally in his new shoes. “Keep in mind how they move,” he says. “You want something that will move with them, that isn’t inhibiting their movement.”
He and Casperson mentioned the following favorite shoes for their favorite tots:
- Sneakers
Clark’s shoes, and their sneakers in particular, are a favorite of Dr. Pagano’s because they offer the support your tot’s foot needs. Check out the Super Jog suede toddler sneaker, which boys and girls will love.
- Sandals
Keen Footwear offers sandals in toddler sizes that meet Dr. Pagano’s requirements for a sandal that protects and is supportive. The Whisper sandal keeps tiny toes safe.
- Fashionable
Stride Rite, recognized for its sturdy and quality children’s shoes, has a line of “mini-me” shoes in the style that Casperson loves, especially for her son. “I can’t resist men’s shoes in kid sizes,” she says. Your toddler will love his Sperry Top-Sider Classics, which look just like Dad’s.
- Slip-ons
Toms slip-on shoes are a favorite choice of Casperson’s for her 3-year-old because they are stylish, offer light support and are easy for her daughter to take on and off by herself. Toms toddler shoes also offer a reinforced sole and an adjustable Velcro closure to allow for growing feet. This White Canvas Ice Cream pair is perfect for summer.
- Dressy
See Kai Run was started by a Seattle mom in 2004 after she was unable to find fun, sophisticated styles that promoted healthy little feet. Now See Kai Run is a favorite of moms like Casperson, who especially love the cute sandals and special occasion shoes the company offers. Go for the gold with these cute metallic Avianna dress shoes.
Kara Murphy is a freelance writer in Erie, Pennslyvania. She has two children, ages 5 and 3, who prefer to go barefoot.
