4 Best Shoe Brands for Kids: From Pre-Walkers to Teens
Discover the top four shoe brands for kids of all ages.
Updated July 31, 2024.
From wobbly first steps to confident teenage strides, your child's feet need the right support. But with so many options out there, how do you choose? We've laced up the competition to bring you the top four shoe brands that grow with your kids. Ready to put your best foot forward?
» Step into comfort and support—discover our range of supportive footwear designed for growing feet today
Top Kids' Shoe Brands for Quality and Comfort
- Best overall shoe brand for kids: First Walkers
- Best perfectly fitted shoe brand for little ones: Clarks
- Best ergonomic shoe brand for children of all ages: Start-Rite
- Best development-focused footwear for pre-walkers to pre-teens: Bobux
» Browse our best shoes with built-in arch support
What to Consider When Choosing Shoes for Your Growing Child
When choosing shoes for kids, from babies to pre-teens, prioritize comfort, support, and room for growth. Look for brands known for proper fitting and breathable, durable materials. While quality shoes might cost more, they're an investment in your child's foot health and comfort.
For babies, opt for soft, flexible shoes that allow natural foot movement. And as your child starts walking and running, choose shoes with bendable soles, good arch and heel support, and secure fastenings. Always ensure there's enough toe room and replace shoes regularly, as little feet grow quickly.
» Try our best shoes for baby foot development
Remember, the right shoes support your child's adventures, from first steps to playground races.
» Gain insights into choosing the best footwear for their children's different developmental stages
4 Best Shoe Brands for Kids
1
First Walkers
Give your baby a head start! Get First Walkers and watch those first steps with pride.
Material
Leather, nubuck leather
Type
Sandals, boots, sneakers, high-top shoes
Price
From $138
Why choose First Walkers?
First Walkers offers trendy shoes that are adorable in every Instagram pic while supporting your toddler's wobbly steps. With high arch and ankle support, these shoes give your little explorers the stability they need.
The shock-absorbing soles also cushion every tumble, while antibacterial insoles keep things fresh. These shoes are perfect for fashion-forward parents who want their child's first steps to be stylish and safe.
» Learn how orthopaedic shoes for toddlers can ensure the perfect fit and ultimately support healthy foot growth
Pros and cons
Cute designs that go with everything
Supports developing arches
Cushioned soles for safer exploration
Stays fresh with germ-fighting insoles
Tough enough for daily adventures
Bit pricier, but worth it for growing feet
Might need to size up as kids grow fast
2
Clarks
Material
Textile, rubber, leather, suede, synthetic
Type
Sandals, canvas, trainers, school shoes, boots, wellies, slippers
Price
From £24.00
Why choose Clarks?
Clarks understands the struggle of finding shoes that fit. They've got sizes for every growth spurt, styles that kids love, and the quality to survive playground adventures. From first steps to playground races, their shoes adapt to every stage.
» Find out how to measure your kid's feet and choose the right shoe size
Pros and cons
Easy to find the right size for your kiddo
Cool designs that kids actually want to wear
In-store fitting to get it right every time
Costs a bit more, but lasts longer
Some styles might not be TikTok trendy
Popular styles can sell out fast
3
Start-Rite
Material
Leather, nubuck leather, suede, synthetic, textile, rubber, thermoplastic, polyurethane
Type
Canvas, sandals, boots, wellies, slippers
Price
From £25.00
Why choose Start-Rite?
StartRite is all about happy, healthy feet. Their shoes come in tons of sizes to fit every foot shape, from chubby baby toes to growing kid feet. They also design age-specific features, like flexible soles for toddlers and stable support for older kids.
» Discover when your children need their first shoes
Pros and cons
Lots of size options to get the perfect fit
Flexible soles that move with active kids
Special tech to keep feet cool and comfy
Pricier, but an investment in foot health
Might look less "cool" to trend-focused kids
Getting the right fit means careful measuring
4
Bobux
Material
Leather, fabric, knit, suede, nubuck leather
Type
Sneakers, trainers, boots, slip-ons, Mary Janes, sandals
Price
From $60
Why choose Bobux?
Bobux proves you can have planet-friendly shoes without sacrificing style. Their shoes support healthy foot growth using materials that are gentle on the Earth. It's a win-win. Plus, Bobux designs for each growth stage, with ultra-soft soles for babies and flexible fits for new walkers.
» Read our guide to essential kids' shoes
Pros and cons
Earth-friendly materials that look great
Shoes that change with your child's needs
Fun designs that also help feet grow right
Eco-materials mean a higher price tag
Might have fewer options in some sizes
Not always easy to find in every store
Choose the Right Shoes for Your Child's Unique Needs
While we've explored some great options, remember that every child's feet are unique. What works for one may not be perfect for another.
That said, if you're looking for top-notch support and quality to keep those little feet healthy, FirstWalkers stands out as an excellent choice. They offer an extra bit of support that can make a big difference during those early walking stages. Clarks comes in as a close runner-up, with a reputation for comfort that many parents swear by.
Ultimately, the best shoe for your child is one that fits well, feels comfortable, and supports their specific needs. Don't be afraid to try different brands and styles until you find the perfect match for your little one's feet. After all, happy feet make for happy kids—and that means happier parents too.
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