7 Types of Shoes Every Toddler Should Have: Guide for Parents
Your toddler’s feet are growing fast—are their shoes keeping up? Discover which types matter most for movement, comfort, and health.
Published April 28, 2025.
Choosing the right shoes for your toddler isn't just about style — it’s about comfort, confidence, and healthy development. Little feet are growing fast, and the right footwear helps them balance better, move more freely, and feel good while doing it.
In this guide, we’ll explore how toddler development shapes their shoe needs, what common foot concerns to watch for, and the must-have shoe types every little adventurer should own. Because when the shoes are right, every step is a big one.
» Find the perfect fit for your tot in our toddler shoes collection
Why Proper Shoes Matter During Toddler Development
Muscle Growth
Between the ages of 2 and 6, children grow rapidly in height and weight. This is when their leg and core muscles strengthen to support activities like walking and running.
Proper footwear ensures they stay balanced and supported as they build the strength needed to explore the world around them.
» Here are some tips on helping your toddler run properly
Gait
Toddlers transition from wobbly walkers to confident striders. Their gait becomes more stable, although their walking patterns still differ from those of adults due to their immature bone structure.
Shoes with the right support help guide their movement safely while their bones and muscles catch up.
» Find out more about gait abnormalities in children
Gross Motor Skills
Toddlers learn to run, jump, kick and climb in this stage. Good shoes protect their feet and provide the grip they need to practise these skills confidently. Shoes that fit well and offer flexibility help improve their coordination and movement.
Balance and Coordination
Toddlers are still figuring out how to keep their balance, especially on uneven surfaces. Supportive shoes assist in training the cerebellum (the brain's balance centre), helping kids feel more stable and secure on their feet.
» Parents also asked: Can supportive shoes help my child's balance?
Common Foot-Related Concerns in Toddlers
- Flat Feet: It’s common for toddlers to have flat feet because their bones and joints are still soft. In most cases, the arch develops as they grow. Supportive shoes with a soft arch and a flexible sole can help encourage natural foot development while providing comfort.
- Genu Valgus (Knock-Knees): This condition, where the knees angle inwards, usually appears in toddlerhood and can continue into the early school years. Well-fitting shoes with good ankle and arch support help encourage proper alignment and reduce strain on growing joints. » Learn when to seek medical attention for children with knock-knees
- Toe-Walking: Many toddlers walk on their toes as they learn to balance. While it usually fades by age two, persistent toe-walking might suggest other issues. Shoes with a flat sole and good heel support can gently discourage this habit.
Essential Toddler Shoes Every Child Should Own
Here are the must-have shoe types for toddlers, and why each one earns a spot in your child’s wardrobe.
Boots
Great for colder weather and muddy play, boots keep your toddler’s feet warm and protected. They offer sturdy support, which is ideal for rougher outdoor play.
Features to look for
Firm ankle support: Helps with balance and prevents rolling.
Non-slip sole: Offers traction on wet or uneven ground.
Wide toe box: Allows natural toe spreading.
Sneakers
Everyday go-to shoes for active toddlers. Perfect for park visits, family outings, or simply running around the house.
Features to look for
Lightweight construction: Prevents fatigue and supports free movement.
Cushioned insole: Absorbs impact during play.
Flexible sole: Encourages natural foot flex.
Sandals
Perfect for warm weather. Great for letting little feet breathe while still staying safe and supported.
Features to look for
Adjustable straps: Secure fit and easy on/off.
Closed toe option: Extra protection for new walkers.
Flexible sole: Encourages a natural stride.
Prewalkers
Designed for toddlers just learning to walk. These shoes offer protection while still allowing feet to feel the ground.
Features to look for
Thin, flexible soles: Mimic barefoot walking.
Lightweight build: Helps balance and movement.
Secure closure: Keeps the shoe in place.
Outdoor/Mess-Friendly Shoes
Shoes for messy, adventurous play. Think Crocs, jelly sandals, or washable canvas shoes.
Features to look for
Easy to clean materials: Less worry about dirt.
Quick-dry fabric: Useful for water play.
Supportive shape: Keeps feet stable on uneven surfaces.
Water Shoes
Perfect for the beach, waterparks, or backyard splashing. They protect little feet from hot sand and slippery tiles.
Features to look for
Non-slip grip: Prevents falls on wet surfaces.
Quick-drain fabric: Keeps feet from staying wet.
Snug fit: Stops sand and pebbles from getting in.
Slippers
Ideal for indoor use. They keep feet warm and safe on hard floors, and are usually easy for toddlers to put on by themselves.
Features to look for
Breathable materials: Keeps feet fresh.
Grippy bottoms: Prevents slipping on tile or wood.
Soft, adjustable fit: Supports foot comfort throughout the day.
How Many Shoes Should Toddlers Have?
A well-rounded shoe collection includes 5 to 8 pairs. This allows for rotation, ensuring shoes have time to air out and dry between wears. It also means the right shoe is always available for the right activity.
You’ll want lighter options for summer, sturdy pairs for winter, and a couple for everyday wear. Having specific indoor and outdoor shoes can help maintain hygiene and reduce wear and tear.
» Check out the best toddler shoes for optimal foot development
Made for Mischief and Milestones
The right shoes do more than keep little feet warm — they support balance, build strength, and help your toddler move with confidence. From chasing bubbles to climbing slides, each pair plays a part in healthy foot development.
Stick to a small collection of well-chosen styles. Think sturdy boots, breathable sandals, soft slippers, and supportive play shoes. When shoes fit well and match the moment, every step becomes part of the adventure.
Toddler Shoes Collection
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.
