8 Best Summer Shoes for Kids: Cool & Comfort for Fun in the Sun
Keep your child's feet happy and healthy all summer long with our curated selection of breathable and comfortable kids' shoes
Published October 10, 2024.
Summer should be a carefree time for kids to explore and play. But the sweltering heat can quickly turn a fun-filled day into a painful ordeal when their little feet are trapped in sweaty, uncomfortable shoes. The constant friction and moisture can lead to blisters, infections, and even long-term foot problems.
To help your little one enjoy summer to the fullest, we've curated a list of kids' shoes that are perfect for active play and keeping feet cool and comfortable all summer long.
» Keep your child's feet happy with breathable summer shoes
Our Pick: Best Summer Shoes for Kids
- Best summer shoes for all-day active comfort: Luigi Brighti
- Best summer shoes for wide feet: Fruity Ada
- Best summer shoes for breathability: Strappy Zoe
- Best summer shoes for developing arches: Camellia Kimmy
- Best water-resistant summer shoes: Dazzle Polka
- Best summer shoes for flat feet: Niña Florets
- Best lightweight summer shoes: Jack the Pirate
- Best summer shoes for versatile terrain: Caprice the Feline
Essential Features for Kids' Summer Footwear
When the temperature rises, children's shoe needs change dramatically. Here's what to look for when shopping for summer shoes:
- Breathability: Children's feet can produce up to three times more sweat than adults' feet during active play! This means shoes need proper ventilation to prevent discomfort and potential foot problems.
- Lightweight Construction: Heavy shoes can quickly tire out little feet, making summer adventures less enjoyable and potentially cutting playtime short due to fatigue.
- Adjustable Closures: Feet can swell naturally due to heat or activity. Adjustable shoes allow for a customised fit throughout the day, ensuring consistent comfort for active kids.
- Water-Resistance: Unexpected water encounters are common in summer, and shoes that can quickly dry prevent the discomfort and blisters that can develop from prolonged moisture exposure.
- Non-Slip Soles: Kids often encounter various surfaces, from slippery pool decks to playground equipment, and proper traction helps prevent accidents and injuries.
- Proper Arch Support: Kids love playing outdoors on sunny days. Arch support helps distribute pressure evenly across the foot during long days on their feet, preventing fatigue and potential foot pain.
» Is your little one always getting their feet wet? Learn to waterproof toddler shoes
8 Best Summer Shoes for Kids
1
Luigi Brighti Sandals
Made from the highest quality leather, tough and comfy Luigi Brighti is designed for everyday wear
Price
$172.00 AUD
Type
Sandals
Material
Leather + Nubuck Leather
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Luigi Brighti sandals are summer must-haves for active kids who never stop moving. The anti-bacterial insoles and clever air valves work overtime to keep little feet fresh and dry, while the shock-absorbing soles make sure your child can jump, run, and play from sunrise to sunset without missing a beat.
Whether it's a family picnic or a playground marathon, these sandals are ready for any adventure the day brings.
2
Fruity Ada Sandals
These high-top sandals' design is a definition of a good mood on a bright sunny day
Price
$192.00 AUD
Type
High-Top Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Three adjustable Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
When it comes to accommodating wider feet in the summer heat, these sandals are the solution. The three adjustable Velcro straps ensure a custom fit for every foot shape, while the orthopedic design provides the support growing feet need.
Parents can breathe easy knowing their child's wider feet aren't being squeezed or pinched, even as temperatures rise and feet naturally expand throughout the day.
3
Strappy Zoe Sandals
Polished and sleek with a hint of girly girl in plum, pink, and white, Strappy Zoe is a fashion-conscious little girl’s dream
Price
$178.00 AUD
Type
Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Two buckle straps
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Summer heat doesn't stand a chance against these ultra-breathable sandals. The strategic design allows air to circulate freely around the foot, creating a micro-climate of coolness that prevents sweaty, uncomfortable feet.
The breathable leather upper, combined with smart air valves, ensures that even on the hottest days, your child's feet stay as cool as a cucumber, ready for whatever summer fun awaits.
4
Camellia Kimmy regular cut sandals
Support their steps into summer with perfectly balanced comfort! These cute shoes also match every outfit, guaranteeing plenty of use
Price
$172.00 AUD
Type
Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
As young feet develop, they need the right foundation, especially during active summer months. The Camellia Kimmy Sandals are expertly crafted to provide optimal arch support for growing feet, ensuring proper alignment and comfort as children run, jump, and play under the summer sun.
The thoughtful design helps guide natural arch development while keeping feet cool and comfortable.
5
Dazzle Polka supportive sneakers
The classic combination of a white leather base with bold black polka dots offers a timeless look
Price
$172.00 AUD
Type
Sneakers
Material
Leather
Features
- Shoelaces + Zipper
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
When summer adventures involve both dry land and water play, the Dazzy Polka shoes shine. Their water-resistant design means sudden sprinkler runs or puddle jumps won't put a damper on the day's activities.
Kids can switch easily from playground to splash pad, while parents appreciate the quick-drying properties that keep feet comfortable and prevent that soggy shoe feeling that can turn a great summer day sour.
6
Niña Florets Sandals
A vintage classic with a hint of sass with its flowerets and dotted accents in hot pink
Price
$178.00 AUD
Type
High-top sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Three adjustable Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
The enhanced arch support and stabilizing features of Niña Florets work together to provide the extra support flat feet need during warm-weather activities.
While other sandals might leave flat feet feeling fatigued, these are designed to keep kids comfortable and supported through long summer days of non-stop play.
7
Jack the Pirate Sandals
The lightweight open-toed sandals assure perfect fit and faultless complement to your boy’s white shorts or blue jeans
Price
$158.00 AUD
Type
Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Two buckle straps
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
When the summer heat is on, the last thing kids need is heavy, clunky footwear weighing them down. These impossibly light sandals feel like walking on air, allowing children to dart, dash, and dance through their summer adventures without being held back.
The minimal weight means maximum play time, as kids can stay active longer without their feet feeling tired or bogged down by heavy shoes.
8
Caprice the Feline Sandals
From sidewalk to sandbox, conquer every summer surface in style!
Price
$172.00 AUD
Type
Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Two adjustable Velcro straps
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Whether your child is navigating playground woodchips, beach sand, or rocky paths, these adaptable shoes take it all in stride.
The versatile sole design provides reliable traction on multiple surfaces, giving kids the confidence to explore every corner of their summer world while keeping feet protected and comfortable on any adventure path they choose.
How Summer Activities Impact Shoe Choice
Different summer fun calls for different types of footwear:
- Beach days require shoes that can handle sand and water while protecting little feet from hot sand and hidden sharp objects.
- Summer hiking adventures need footwear that provides good support and protection while still allowing feet to breathe on the trail.
- Summer sports activities require shoes with the right balance of support, flexibility, and ventilation to keep active kids comfortable and performing their best.
» Ensure your kid stays safe on every adventure with supportive hiking boots
What to Avoid When Choosing Summer Shoes
Steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Inflexible soles can restrict natural foot movement and potentially interfere with proper foot development during active summer play.
- Non-breathable materials trap heat and moisture, potentially leading to uncomfortable and unhealthy conditions for growing feet.
- Poor sizing is a significant issue, as ill-fitting shoes can cause immediate discomfort and potentially lead to long-term foot problems.
- Completely open designs might seem summer-friendly but can leave feet vulnerable to injury.
» Want to protect your kid's feet in summer? Check out these closed-toe sandals
Summertime Adventures, Comfortable Feet
Finding the right summer shoes for your kids doesn't have to be a challenge. Focus on breathability, proper fit, and choosing shoes appropriate for your child's favourite activities. With the right footwear, your kids can enjoy their summer adventures with happy, comfortable feet!
The goal is to find shoes that let kids be kids—running, jumping, splashing, and playing to their heart's content while keeping their feet protected and comfortable throughout the sunny season.
» Discover the perfect kids' shoes to keep their feet happy all summer long
