8 Best Toddler Walking Shoes for Happy Little Explorers
Learn how to choose the best walking shoes for your toddler and provide them with the comfort and safety they need.
Published October 11, 2024.
Ready, set, walk! Your toddler is on the move, and it's time to gear them up for the adventure. Choosing the right shoes for your little one is crucial for their comfort, safety, and overall foot development and can have long-lasting impacts.
Let's address common questions about toddler footwear and find the perfect pair to support your child's development.
» Keep their feet happy and healthy with our range of toddler shoes
Our Pick: Best Toddler Walking Shoes
- Best overall toddler walking shoes: Captain Caleb
- Best breathable toddler walking shoes: Gwen Shine
- Best durable toddler walking shoes: Nick B. Hardy
- Best insulated toddler walking shoes: Hazel Canary
- Best supportive toddler walking shoes: Dacota Trinket
- Best waterproof toddler walking shoes: Zippy Joe
- Best toddler walking shoes for wide feet: Silvery Ellie
- Best lightweight toddler walking shoes: Smart Sam
Understanding the Unique Needs of Toddler Feet
Toddlers' feet are still developing, with soft and pliable bones. Their arches are forming, and their muscles are gaining strength with every step. This developmental stage needs special consideration when selecting footwear.
- Flexibility: Toddler shoes should bend easily at the ball of the foot, allowing for a natural walking motion that mimics barefoot walking. This flexibility promotes proper muscle development and helps toddlers maintain balance as they navigate their world.
- Protection: While we want to shield those delicate feet from harm, it's also important that toddlers can feel the ground beneath them. This sensory feedback is crucial for developing balance and coordination, so shoes should balance protection and ground feel.
- Support: The right amount of support helps toddlers feel secure as they toddle about, but too much can hinder natural foot development. Look for shoes that offer gentle support without constraining the foot's natural movement.
» Looking for the best arch support for your kids? Check out our top picks
9 Best Toddler Walking Shoes
1
Captain Caleb Sandals
Shout “All Aboard!” with Captain Caleb’s higher cut design and not two, but three, hook-and-loop Velcro straps for seamless fit and extra ankle support
Price
$178.00 AUD
Type
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
With three adjustable Velcro straps, Captain Caleb ensure a snug fit that adapts as your kid grows. The high-top design offers ankle support, giving much-needed stability for inexperienced walkers.
Comfort isn't compromised either—shock-absorbing outsoles cushion each step, while anti-bacterial, anti-sweat insoles keep little feet fresh and dry.
2
Gwen Shine
The shimmering details will make her feel like a princess straight out of a fairy tale
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
Featuring innovative moisture-reducing air valves and anti-bacterial insoles, Gwen Shines keep active feet dry and odor-free throughout the day. The adjustable Velcro fastening ensures a secure fit, preventing slips during playtime.
What's more, the shock-absorbent soles make every step a breeze, supporting healthy foot development as your little one explores their world.
3
Nick B. Hardy Sandals
Classic comfort meets modern correction in these durable and stylish sandals
Price
$172.00 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
Crafted with a classic navy blue, white, and red leather design, Nick B. Hardy are for kids who need corrective support.
From flat feet to in-toeing, out-toeing, and even club feet, these sandals offer the necessary adjustments for proper foot development.
The two buckle straps allow for a customised fit, accommodating various foot widths with ease.
4
Hazel Canary Sneakers
A cheering solution for a rainy day and their choice of sunny yellow is the answer
Price
$198.00 AUD
Type
Autumn/Winter sheepskin high-top sneakers
Material
Leather + Natural wool lining
Features
- Shoelaces + Zipper
- Extended ankle support
- High built-in arch support
- Removable insole
Why it's a top pick
When the temperature drops, grab Hazel Canary. These high-top sneakers boast a cozy, natural wool lining that keeps toes warm and comfortable.
A combination of zipper and shoelaces makes them easy to put on and adjust, providing a secure fit for curious explorers.
5
Dacota Trinket Boots
One of our tallest models with extra high ankle support secured with three Velcro straps
Price
$186.00 AUD
Type
Extra high-top boots
Material
Leather
Features
- Three adjustable Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Removable insole
- 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
Dacota Trinket boots are designed to grow with your child, giving consistent support in those crucial early walking stages.
Three adjustable Velcro straps offer a customised fit, while the extended ankle support provides maximum stability. The heel cup is a standout feature, effectively stabilising little feet in the correct position.
6
Zippy Joe Boots
From digging a hole in the backyard to following paper boats, these shoes can handle it all
Price
$186.00 AUD
Type
Boots
Material
Nubuck leather
Features
- Shoelaces + Zipper
- 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
Zippy Joe boots are ready to tackle the great outdoors, rain or shine. Their water-resistant design makes them ideal for chilly, wet weather adventures.
The high integrated arch support and Thomas heel work together to encourage proper foot posture, while extended ankle support keeps your toddler steady on their feet.
7
Silvery Ellie Sandals
Bright and shiny, Silvery Ellie reflects their owner’s undeniable charm and cheerful personality
Price
$172.00 AUD
Type
Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Adjustable Velcro strap
- 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 adorable Silvery Ellie sandals are perfect for kids with wide feet with a roomy toe box to let growing toes spread naturally and comfortably.
The simple Velcro strap creates a secure fit, while the supportive design, complete with Thomas heel and arch support, promotes proper foot alignment during those crucial early steps.
8
Smart Sam Sandals
Keep it smart and stylishly simple with Smart Sam sandals
Price
$172.00 AUD
Type
Sandas
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
These lightweight yet durable shoes have an anatomical design that supports healthy foot development without sacrificing comfort. The white leather footbeds, accented with blue and light grey, offer a fashionable touch.
But don't let their good looks fool you—Smart Sam sandals are built for comfort and durability, making them perfect for active toddlers who are always on the move.
What to Look For in Toddler Shoes
Shoes with these characteristics will help ensure your child's feet remain healthy and comfortable on their walking adventures.
- Roomy Toe Box: Toddler shoes should have a wide, spacious toe box that allows toes to spread naturally. This feature is crucial for balance and helps strengthen the muscles in the feet. Cramped toes can lead to discomfort and potential foot problems down the line.
- Lightweight Materials: Heavy shoes can tire out little legs quickly and make walking more challenging. Opt for shoes made from lightweight materials like soft leather, breathable mesh, or flexible synthetics. These materials won't weigh down your toddler and will allow for more natural movement.
- Breathability: Toddlers' feet can get sweaty quickly, especially when active. Shoes made from breathable materials like leather or mesh help regulate temperature and prevent moisture buildup. This feature is essential for comfort and helps prevent blisters or fungal infections.
- Secure Closures: Look for shoes with adjustable closures such as Velcro straps, elastic laces, or traditional laces (for older toddlers). These allow you to achieve a snug fit that won't slip off during play. Secure closures also make it easier to put shoes on and take them off, which is a bonus for busy parents.
- Non-Slip Soles: Toddlers explore all terrain, from smooth floors to playground mulch. Shoes with textured, non-slip soles help prevent slips and falls, giving your little one more confidence as they navigate different surfaces.
- Flexible Soles: The soles of toddler walking shoes should be pliable enough to bend with the foot's natural motion. This flexibility promotes proper gait development and helps strengthen foot muscles. Avoid shoes with rigid soles that restrict movement.
» Worried about loose laces? Check out these alternatives
How to Break in New Shoes
Once you've found the perfect pair of walking shoes for your toddler, it's essential to introduce them gradually and keep an eye on how they're working out:
- Replace shoes as needed to accommodate growth. Toddlers outgrow shoes quickly, so regularly check the fit and be prepared to size up when needed. Shoes that are too small can hinder foot development and cause discomfort.
- Start with short wearing periods to allow for adjustment. Let your toddler wear the new shoes for an hour or two at a time, gradually increasing the duration. This will help their feet adjust and help you spot any potential issues early on.
- Watch for signs of discomfort or fit problems. Red marks, blisters, or consistent tripping might mean the shoes don't fit properly. Pay attention to how your kid walks in the new shoes and listen to any complaints they might have.
» Explore shoes for different stages of foot development
Little Explorers, Big Steps
Choosing the best walking shoes for your toddler is an investment in their early development. It supports their natural curiosity, promotes physical activity, and ensures they're comfortable and safe on their adventures. With the right shoes and plenty of love, your little explorer will be off and running in no time!
» Support their every step with our high-quality toddler shoes
Disclaimer: First Walkers' information is intended for educational and informational purposes related to toddler footwear and feet. We encourage you to consider individual circumstances and consult qualified orthopaedists about specific conditions.
