8 Best Toddler Shoes for Optimal Foot Development
Unlock confident walking: Find the perfect toddler shoes to support their developmental journey
Published March 12, 2025.
Choosing the right shoes for your toddler is more than just finding something cute or convenient—it's a decision that impacts their developing feet and can influence their walking patterns for years.
As parents, understanding what features support healthy foot development can help you make informed choices during this critical growth period.
» Discover toddler shoes designed for healthy foot development
8 Best Toddler Shoes for Optimal Foot Development
- Best boy's shoes for foot development: Joe Bolt
- Best summer shoes for foot development: Maritime Leo
- Best girl's shoes for foot development: Annie Angelo
- Best winter shoes for foot development: Tommy Gramb
- Best durable shoes for foot development: Scott the Alpha
- Best waterproof shoes for foot development: Johnny Rocket
- Best indoor shoes for foot development: Indigo Jay
- Best shoes for foot development for adventures: Jamie Jumps
Joe Bolt Sneakers
Guaranteed to become an easy favourite, everyday option.
Two adjustable Velcro straps
Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
High built-in arch support
Maritime Leo Sandals
Adorable naval-themed sandals for your adorable little guy.
Air valves for moisture reduction
Anti-bacterial insoles
High built-in arch support
Annie Angelo Sneakers
Let's get flying... these little golden wings allow little ladies to make everyone happy.
Two adjustable Velcro straps
Anti-bacterial insoles
Removable insole
Show more
Different Needs for Different Stages
The footwear needs of early walkers are slightly different from those of older, more active toddlers. For early walkers (9–18 months), lightweight, flexible shoes that mimic barefoot walking are recommended. During this time, coordination and balance development are essential.
An older, more active toddler (18–36 months) needs a slightly firmer sole for increased protection and ankle stability to support their active lives. The increase in overall body weight as they grow requires the integration of arch support to aid in weight distribution throughout the foot.
» How fast do kids' feet actually grow? Find out here
Features That Support Healthy Foot Development
Lightweight, Flexible Shoes
The natural foot movement and sensory feedback required for proprioceptive development are primarily attributed to the thickness of the shoe's sole. A thin and flexible insole is ideal for encouraging intrinsic muscle development and overall coordination.
A lightweight shoe prevents unnecessary strain on the developing musculoskeletal system so toddlers can play without overcoming the weight of a heavy shoe.
Wide Toe Box
A wide toe box allows for the natural splay of the toddler's toes and forefoot, promoting balance, stability, and the development of the foot's intrinsic muscles. Conversely, shoes with a confining toe box can result in improper toe alignment and impaired muscle development.
Additionally, increased comfort and prevention of pressure areas in the forefoot ensure that the shoe can be worn throughout the day.
Secure Shoe Adjusters/Straps
A toddler's shoe must fit correctly to ensure stability and reduce the risk of falling. Adjustable straps aid the parent in fitting the shoe appropriately to the toddler's foot to provide comfort and prevent excessive foot sliding within the shoe.
Too loose shoes may cause the toddler to adopt unfavourable compensatory walking, negatively affecting their foot health and overall posture.
Non-Slip Outsole
In the early stages of walking, balance and coordination have not yet fully developed, which increases the risk of falls. A non-slip outsole improves traction to reduce this risk and allow the toddler to gain confidence in their
» Tired of replacing worn-out shoes? Explore our collection of durable shoes
Breathable Materials
Foot hygiene and skin irritation are primarily linked to the breathability of the shoe's material. Breathable materials and ventilation holes help dramatically regulate the temperature of the feet, preventing excessive sweating that may lead to odour or skin irritation. Breathable shoes also increase comfort, allowing them to be worn in warmer climates.
» Explore our ultimate guide to finding the perfect kids' shoes online
Our Pick: Best Toddler Shoes for Optimal Foot Development
1
Joe Bolt Sneakers
Guaranteed to become an easy favourite, everyday option.
Material
Leather + Nubuck Leather
Type
Sneakers
Size
2–8 (AU)
Features
- Two adjustable Velcro straps
- Removable insole
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
The wide toe box allows toes to spread naturally, which significantly improves balance and body awareness—essential for active boys.
With flexible yet durable soles that provide grip for all environments, these shoes absorb shock during high-impact activities while supporting natural movement.
The breathable materials keep feet comfortable, and the two Velcro straps ensure a custom fit that grows with your child.
What really sets these apart is the thoughtful heel counter that promotes proper foot alignment, helping establish healthy walking patterns from the start.
2
Maritime Leo Sandals
Adorable naval-themed sandals for your adorable little guy.
Material
Nubuck Leather + Leather
Type
High-Top Sandals
Size
2–11.5 (AU)
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
When summer heat strikes, Maritime Leo sandals deliver the perfect balance of breathability and support. These closed-toe sandals feature strategic ventilation holes that keep little feet cool and dry even during active play in hot weather.
The lightweight design combines with a cushioned insole to provide gentle arch support without restricting natural movement–crucial for developing foot muscles.
What's particularly impressive is how these sandals encourage proper biomechanics through the integrated arch support and Thomas heel, which promotes good posture and gait while preventing overheating.
3
Annie Angelo Sneakers
Let's get flying... these little golden wings allow little ladies to make everyone happy.
Material
Leather
Type
Sneakers
Size
2–9.5 (AU)
Features
- Two adjustable Velcro straps
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Removable insole
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
Annie Angelo supportive sneakers brilliantly combine style with substance, proving that fashionable footwear can still prioritize healthy development.
These stylish sneakers feature built-in arch support that maintains natural foot alignment while preventing fatigue during extended play.
The shock-absorbing thermoplastic outsole protects growing feet from stress during high-energy activities, while the soft leather material ensures proper breathability for temperature control and hygiene.
4
Tommy Gramb High-Top Sneakers
Keep the feet of your little adventurer warm and dry even when the weather is challenging!
Material
Leather + Natural wool lining
Type
High-Top Sneakers
Size
9–11.5 (AU)
Features
- Shoelaces + Zipper
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
Tommy Gramb high-top sheepskin sneakers tackle the winter challenge by keeping tiny feet warm without sacrificing developmental support.
The natural wool lining provides exceptional insulation against cold temperatures while the high-top design delivers crucial ankle stability on slippery surfaces.
Their flexible sole allows for natural foot movement, helping develop intrinsic muscle strength and coordination even when bundled up against winter weather.
The combination of laces and zipper closure creates a versatile fit that accommodates different foot shapes while maintaining proper alignment.
5
Scott the Alpha Sneakers
Practical sneakers for active boys who need support and protection during playtime.
Material
Leather
Type
Sneakers
Size
2–8 (AU)
Features
- Two adjustable Velcro straps
- Removable insole
- Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
These lightweight, flexible shoes feature a sport outsole that delivers both impressive shock absorption and reliable grip, preventing both strain and falls during high-energy activities.
Their thoughtful design promotes natural gait patterns through the sole shape and built-in arch support without adding unnecessary weight that would tax developing leg muscles.
The protective toe cap prevents scuffs and scratches, ensuring these shoes maintain their functionality even through rough-and-tumble play.
What makes these particularly effective is how they support natural foot movement while providing just enough stability, allowing active toddlers to develop strength in their intrinsic foot muscles while still enjoying unrestricted play.
6
Johnny Rocket High-Top Boots
Johnny Rocket pairs well with any outfit because of its attractive rich olive colour.
Material
Leather + Nubuck Leather
Type
Boots
Size
2–10 (AU)
Features
- Two 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
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Crafted from waterproof and Nubuck leather, these boots keep feet dry while the high-top design provides essential ankle stability on slick surfaces.
The built-in arch support maintains natural foot positioning, promoting proper strength development even in challenging weather conditions.
The adjustable Velcro straps accommodate different foot widths while maintaining proper alignment, making these boots especially valuable for children with flat feet or pronation issues who still want to enjoy outdoor play regardless of weather.
7
Indigo Jay Sandals
Vivid is a right word to describe these first supportive sandals for your little kid.
Material
Nubuck Leather
Type
Sandals
Size
2–10 (AU)
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
Indigo Jay supportive sandals offer the perfect indoor footwear solution with their lightweight construction that promotes healthy development.
These open-toe sandals provide excellent breathability to keep feet cool and dry during indoor play, while their flexible soles encourage natural movement that strengthens developing foot muscles.
The contoured arch support ensures proper foot-ankle alignment without being overly restrictive, allowing for natural development of the foot's intrinsic muscles.
8
Jamie Jumps Orthotics Friendly High-Top Sneakers
It is so much easier to put shoes on with two-sided zippers. Unzip them both, and voila—the little foot is in!
Material
Nubuck Leather
Type
High-Top Sneakers
Size
7 (AU)
Features
- Two Zippers + Shoelaces
- Extended ankle support
- Dense heel counter
- Fit with the orthoses (AFOs/SMOs)
- Removable insole
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
Jamie Jumps orthotics-friendly high-top sneakers are engineered specifically for little explorers tackling uneven terrain without compromising foot development.
These robust shoes provide exceptional stability through their dual zipper and shoelace design, ensuring feet stay properly positioned even when navigating challenging surfaces.
The combination of built-in arch support and high-top design limits excessive ankle movement without restricting development, making these ideal for building confidence and coordination during outdoor adventures on all types of terrain.
Signs Your Toddler's Shoes Aren't Working
Red Marks, Blisters, or Signs of Skin Irritation
It is essential to assess the fit of your toddler's shoes to ensure that areas of high pressure leading to red marks, blisters or skin irritation are avoided. This is common as a toddler's feet grow rapidly and may be too large for the shoes.
A well-fitted shoe should have adequate room, especially in the forefoot and toe region, but still be snug enough to provide support and prevent foot movement within the shoe.
» Worried about stinky feet? Here's what you can do
Uneven Wear on One Side of the Sole
Uneven wear on the side of the shoe sole is easily detectable with a visual assessment. Wear on the inner aspect of the shoe may indicate that the shoe does not adequately support the foot to prevent misalignment or that your toddler may be excessively overpronating (or rolling inwards).
Similarly, children with high arches are prone to supination (an outward roll of the foot) and require arch support and a heel counter to prevent this. This is noted by abnormal wear on the outer aspect of the shoe's sole.
Resistance to Wearing Shoes
- Frequent Removal - If your toddler constantly tries to remove their shoes, this could indicate discomfort due to improper fit, inflexibility, or materials that cause irritation or overheating.
- Changes in Walking Pattern - Watch for changes in your child's gait when wearing shoes versus being barefoot. If they walk more confidently barefoot but seem unstable or awkward in shoes, the footwear may be hindering rather than helping their development.
- Toe Scrunching - Observe if your child's toes appear to be cramped or if they scrunch their toes while walking. This suggests the toe box is too narrow or short for proper toe splay.
» Does your child have flat feet? Check out if they need arch support
Step Forward with Confidence
Your toddler's first steps deserve the best foundation, and First Walkers delivers precisely that. With their perfect combination of wide toe boxes, lightweight flexibility, and secure adjustable straps, First Walkers shoes don't just protect little feet—they nurture them.
First Walkers stands apart by understanding that proper foot development today creates confident, active children tomorrow. Give your little one the gift of healthy, natural foot development with shoes designed to grow with them, not against them.
» Explore First Walker's flexible and supportive shoes for every stage
