First Walkers

My Account
10 Best Durable and Supportive Kids Sneakers for Active Playtimes – On the Move – First Walkers Blog

10 Best Durable and Supportive Kids Sneakers for Active Playtimes

Discover the top durable and supportive kids' sneakers . Our list features sturdy designs and high-quality materials for your child's on-the-go lifestyle.

a man in a white shirt and blue and pink suspenders
By Babafemi Adebajo
a person holding a glass with a light on it
Edited by Lucia Gcingca

Updated February 29, 2024.

10 best supportive sneakers for kids

Kids are boundless balls of energy, constantly on the move and exploring the world around them. This curiosity often translates to shoes that get scuffed, torn, and worn out quickly, leaving you replacing them frequently and feeling frustrated. There's also the issue of keeping up with growing feet.

As parents, we prioritise keeping our kids active and healthy. Yet, did you know that their shoes play a significant role in their physical development?

The right ones provide essential support, stability, and protection, fostering natural movement and sensory feedback. So, let's explore our list of durable kids' shoes tailored for your active little one.



10 Best Supportive Sneakers for Active Kids

  1. Best overall durable sneakers - Ronn Gratty
  2. Best high-cut durable sneakers - Dopey Smith
  3. Best durable high-top sneakers for girls - Iris Charm
  4. Best durable sneakers for boys - Groovy Stephen
  5. Best kids’ blue durable sneakers - Mason Mid
  6. Best lace-up durable sneakers - Henley Pollux
  7. Best Boys’ Velcro durable sneakers - Max Coolers
  8. Best sparkly durable sneakers for girls - Lily Pearl
  9. Best white durable sneakers - Billy Smooth
  10. Best dressy durable Sneakers - Avary Belle


Guide to Choosing the Best Durable Sneakers for Your Kid

Selecting the right sneakers for your child involves considering various factors to ensure they provide the perfect blend of durability, comfort, and support.

Here's a guide to help you make the best choice for your little one:

  • Foot support and comfort: Look for sneakers with high built-in arch support and a comfortable insole. A well-cushioned interior helps absorb shock during active play, ensuring your child's feet remain comfortable and supported.
  • Extended ankle support: Opt for sneakers with extended ankle support, especially if your child is still learning to walk or is prone to ankle issues. This feature provides extra stability, promoting confident and safe movement.
  • Closure mechanism: Consider sneakers with a secure closure mechanism. A combination of shoelaces and zipper closure ensures a snug fit, preventing slips and ensuring the shoes stay securely on your child's feet during play.
  • Removable insoles: Look for sneakers with removable insoles. This feature allows you to customise the fit, making it easier to accommodate orthopaedic inserts or ensure a perfect fit for your child's unique foot shape.
  • Material and durability: Pay attention to the materials used in the sneakers. Quality leather or durable synthetic materials are excellent choices for withstanding the wear and tear of active play. Check for reinforced areas such as toe caps to enhance durability.
  • Versatility and style: Consider the versatility of the sneakers. Ideally, they should be suitable for various occasions, from playtime on the playground to more formal events. A stylish design ensures your child feels confident and happy in their footwear.
Best overall durable sneakers

1


First Walkers Ronn Gratty Orthopaedic High-Top Sheepskin Sneakers
First Walkers Ronn Gratty Orthopaedic High-Top Sheepskin Sneakers
First Walkers Ronn Gratty Orthopaedic High-Top Sheepskin Sneakers
First Walkers Ronn Gratty Orthopaedic High-Top Sheepskin Sneakers
First Walkers Ronn Gratty Orthopaedic High-Top Sheepskin Sneakers

Ronn Gratty

Impeccably-designed winter high-top sneakers

Material

Nubuck leather + natural wool lining


Type

Sheepskin high-top sneakers


Price

$186

  • Two adjustable Velcro straps
  • Extended ankle support
  • High built-in arch support
  • Removable insole

Ron Gratty's rich grey and an accent of orange will attract the attention of fine young gentlemen who prefer classic colours from an early age.

He can demonstrate his independence with two Velcro straps while putting them on and taking off. Genuine nubuck leather and natural wool lining keep your kid's feet warm through winter.

These stylish and comfortable high-top sneakers, perfect for first steps or orthopedic needs, offer stability with velcro fastening. Available in an easy-to-clean navy colour, these durable shoes are ideal for supporting your little one during active play.

Best high-cut durable sneakers

2


a child's black and white sneaker
a pair of black and white sneakers on a white background
a close up of a shoe on a white background
a pair of black and white shoes on a white background

Dopey Smith Sneakers

Superbly fashionable, durable sneakers

Material

Leather + Nubuck leather


Type

High-top sneakers


Price

$178

  • Three adjustable Velcro straps
  • Extended ankle support
  • Removable insole
  • Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
  • Anti-bacterial insoles
  • Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
  • High built-in arch support

Dopey Smith sneakers are durable and designed to deliver a casual look and suit all purposes. They're comfortable and durable for long walks and runs. Your little one can enjoy all the fun in the world with the lasting support these shoes provide.

These stylish yet functional sneakers provide excellent ankle support and stability with their high-top design. The orthopaedic insole also offers additional support, making it ideal for kids with foot conditions.

Whether you're seeking durable sneakers for kids or orthopaedic shoes with a high-top design, they offer style and support for your little one.

Best durable sneakers for girls

3


First Walkers Iris Charm Sneakers
First Walkers Iris Charm Sneakers
First Walkers Iris Charm Sneakers
BLACK SAVANNAH supportive high-cut sneakers
First Walkers Iris Charm Sneakers

Iris Charm

Perfect high-top sneakers for girls

Material

Leather


Type

High-top sneakers


Price

$172

  • Shoelaces + Zipper
  • Extended ankle support
  • Removable insole
  • Anti-bacterial insoles
  • Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
  • Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
  • High built-in arch support

Introducing the best durable high-top sneaker for girls—Iris Charm is a perfect blend of style and functionality.

Designed with both shoelaces and a zipper for easy wear, these sneakers offer extended ankle support for added comfort and stability. The removable insole also ensures a customisable fit.

These durable high-top sneakers tick all the boxes and go above and beyond to meet the specific needs of active girls. They offer comfort, breathability, and long-lasting wear—perfect for your little your kid's foot development.

Best durable sneakers for boys

4


First Walkers Groovy Stephen Orthopaedic High-Top Sneakers
First Walkers Groovy Stephen Orthopaedic High-Top Sneakers
First Walkers Groovy Stephen Orthopaedic High-Top Sneakers
First Walkers Groovy Stephen Orthopaedic High-Top Sneakers
First Walkers Groovy Stephen Orthopaedic High-Top Sneakers

Groovy Stephen

For your little superhero's comfort

Material

Leather


Type

High-top sneakers


Price

$172

  • Shoelaces + Zipper
  • Extended ankle support
  • Anti-bacterial insoles
  • Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
  • High built-in arch support

With their genuine leather and high-top design, Groovy Stephen sneakers are а perfect choice to give your little superhero the support and comfort he needs to walk and run around the playground.

The bright orange laces add a certain edge to the dark navy base, and these colours look wonderful with a tracksuit, jeans, and a cool tee.

These cool sneakers are good-looking and highly functional, especially for kids with flat feet. Featuring high built-in arch support, they're designed to be comfortable and stable for growing feet.

Whether your boy needs durable sneakers or supportive footwear, these stylish shoes are the perfect choice.

Best kids’ blue durable sneakers

5


First Walkers Mason Mid
First Walkers Mason Mid
First Walkers Mason Mid
First Walkers Mason Mid
First Walkers Mason Mid

Mason Mid

Cool confident strides in sky-blue

Material

Leather + Nubuck leather


Type

High-top sneakers


Price

$172

  • Two adjustable Velcro straps
  • Extended ankle support
  • Removable insole
  • Anti-bacterial insoles
  • Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
  • High built-in arch support

Mason Mid sneakers are a fusion of style and orthopaedic features, meticulously crafted for your little tyke's utmost comfort.

Let your boy walk confidently, knowing that every step is supported by style and functionality. With these durable sneakers, you can rest assured that your child is stepping towards every adventure comfortably and stylishly.

These durable sneakers are made with leather and nubuck leather, featuring two adjustable Velcro straps for a secure fit. They promote proper foot alignment and reduce discomfort. Thus preventing your little one from developing gait abnormalities.

Best lace-up durable sneakers for children

6


First Walkers Henley Pollux
First Walkers Henley Pollux
First Walkers Henley Pollux
First Walkers Henley Pollux
First Walkers Henley Pollux

Henley Pollux

Functional high-top sneakers for support

Material

Nubuck leather


Type

High-top sneakers


Price

$172

  • Shoelaces + Zipper
  • Extended ankle support
  • Removable insole
  • Anti-bacterial insoles
  • Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
  • Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
  • High built-in arch support

Henley Pollux are stylish yet functional high-top sneakers that offer excellent ankle support and stability, making them ideal for kids with foot problems.

Featuring durable construction, they're perfect for active play and long-lasting wear. If you're looking for the best supportive shoes for kids or durable sneakers for everyday use, they can meet all your kid's needs with style and comfort.

These sneakers are made of durable nubuck leather and feature shoelaces and a zipper for easy wear. Thanks to their removable, anti-bacterial insoles and anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protectors, they're practical and durable.

Best boys’ velcro durable sneakers

7


First Walkers Max Coolers
First Walkers Max Coolers
First Walkers Max Coolers
First Walkers Max Coolers
First Walkers Max Coolers

Max Coolers

Style meets function

Material

Leather + Nubuck leather


Type

High-top sneakers


Price

$172

  • Three adjustable Velcro straps
  • Extended ankle support
  • Removable insole
  • Anti-bacterial insoles
  • Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
  • Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
  • High built-in arch support

Max Coolers offers supportive high-cut sneakers designed for both style and comfort.

These high-top sneakers feature three adjustable Velcro straps for easy closure and a secure fit, making them ideal for boys on the go. With a high built-in arch support, they also blend functionality and fashion.

These sneakers provide excellent comfort and stability with their removable insole and high arch support.

Tailored for practicality, the anti-bacterial insoles ensure freshness, while the shock-absorbent outsoles add an extra layer of functionality. Whether you're searching for durable sneakers or supportive footwear with added practical features, these sneakers deliver on both.

Best sparkly durable sneakers for girls

8


First Walkers Lily Pearl
First Walkers Lily Pearl
First Walkers Lily Pearl
First Walkers Lily Pearl
First Walkers Lily Pearl

Lily Pearl

Your little girl's new favorite shoes

Material

Leather


Type

Sneakers


Price

$158

  • Two adjustable Velcro straps
  • Removable insole
  • Anti-bacterial insoles
  • Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
  • High built-in arch support

These orthopedic sneakers feature a stylish design—bright, girly colors with sparkly finishes for a glamorous touch. With thoughtful design elements, these shoes will become your girl's favorite, providing fashion and comfort in every step.

Lilly Pearl sneakers provide high built-in arch support and shock-absorbing thermoplastic outsoles, ensuring durability and stability for kids on the go.

With removable insoles featuring cool prints, they cater to comfort and style preferences. Designed for durability and maximum comfort, these supportive and stylish shoes are perfect for active little girls.

Best white durable sneakers for kids

9


First Walkers Billy Smooth Supportive High-Cut Sneakers
First Walkers Billy Smooth Supportive High-Cut Sneakers
First Walkers Billy Smooth Supportive High-Cut Sneakers
First Walkers Billy Smooth Supportive High-Cut Sneakers
First Walkers Billy Smooth Supportive High-Cut Sneakers

Billy Smooth

Crisp comfort for active kids

Material

Leather


Type

High-top sneakers


Price

$172

  • Shoelaces + Zipper
  • Extended ankle support
  • Removable insole
  • Anti-bacterial insoles
  • Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
  • High built-in arch support

Crafted from quality leather, Billy Smooth durable sneakers boast a practical lace and zipper combination for a secure fit. Specifically designed for active kids, the outsoles provide essential foot support and effectively reduce the impact on every adventure.

These shoes are thoughtfully designed with a high built-in arch and extended ankle support, ensuring comfort and stability for kids during active play.

Best dressy durable sneakers for kids

10


First Walkers Avary Belle
First Walkers Avary Belle
First Walkers Avery Belle Sneakers
First Walkers Avary Belle
First Walkers Avary Belle

Avary Belle

Versatile enough to suit any occasion

Material

Leather


Type

High-top sneakers


Price

$172

  • Shoelaces + Zipper
  • Extended ankle support
  • Removable insole
  • Anti-bacterial insoles
  • Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
  • High built-in arch support

Avary Belle durable brown sneakers are the perfect playtime accessory. Crafted with flexible and soft materials, they prioritise safety and fun for your little one.

Versatile for any occasion, these sneakers seamlessly transition from the playground to more formal events, ensuring your child looks stylish and feels comfortable wherever the adventure takes them.

These sneakers are perfect for active kids, featuring shoelaces and zipper closure, extended ankle support, removable insole, and shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles. They're also suitable if you're searching for durable shoes for your kid or shoes with high built-in arch support.




Your Active Kid Needs Supportive and Durable Sneakers

Don't compromise when it comes to your child's comfort and health. Shoes with proper arch support, shock absorption, and ankle stability can help prevent injuries and promote healthy foot development.

First Walkers orthopaedic shoes collection offers more than just variety, but a guarantee to support your kid's little for the long haul. Choose the right pair of supportive sneakers to keep your kid safe and comfortable while playing.



SUBSCRIBE & GET $10 OFF YOUR PURCHASE

Subscribe to our newsletter and receive $10 off your next order when you spend $100 or more.