As kids walk, they need shoes that are lightweight and breathable. Shoes should also provide feedback from the ground so kids can better balance as they learn to walk.
These breathable, lightweight kids shoes come in tons of fun colours. They’re machine washable, too, so they’re great for messy kiddos.
Comfort
When your toddler starts walking independently, they need light shoes that support the sensory response of the foot. Soft shoes like these are recommended by pediatricians and podiatrists, mimicking the foot’s natural shape to allow a child to walk confidently without tripping or falling. These shoes are crafted of high-quality leather with a soft foam insert between leather layers, so they feel like your child is wearing nothing at all.
Once your child has a handle on walking, it’s time to upgrade to more durable shoes that can take the knocks of everyday life and playful adventures. These oxfords are a great choice, offering an easy fit with hook and loop adjustable straps that ensure feet stay comfortable and secure. A rounded toe and high-quality PU leather materials make them stylish enough for any outfit, while an EVA foam midsole is soft enough to cushion big leaps and landings.
These sneakers are ideal for active kids who want to run and jump freely in the playground or at recess. APMA-approved for growing feet, they’re comfortable and supportive, with a heel cup that’s firm but flexible to cushion big impacts. The sneakers are also machine washable, so you don’t have to worry about your children drenching their feet in mud or puddles.
Breathability
Children’s feet sweat a lot, and shoes made with breathable fabrics let the excess heat escape. It helps prevent their feet from becoming overheated and also keeps them comfortable as they move around.
Breathability is also important for kids who do sports, especially running, where the impact of each stride can be intense. Sneakers with a good amount of flex allow for greater energy transfer so children can put more power into their strides, which helps protect them from injuries.
The best breathable lightweight kids shoes will have uppers made of cotton, canvas or the newer mesh materials that are both breathable and flexible. Some of the newest brands, like Origo Shoes, use recycled materials and biodegradable rubber soles, so their shoes are less toxic to the environment. Wildling Shoes is another brand that uses sustainable, innovative materials in its line of barefoot shoes. Their shoes come closest to being barefoot with a super-flexible 2.5mm sole that brings the child back to nature and allows them to have a better sensory connection with their environment.
Durability
If you’re looking for a kids shoe that will last, go with styles that are sturdy and have durable soles. Look for ones with grip patterns and premium natural rubber that can provide solid traction even on slippery surfaces. Kids’ feet grow fast, and you want shoes that can stand up to frequent wear and tear.
Some of the best lightweight kids shoes are made with reinforced toe caps and other materials that make them a bit tougher than the average shoe. It helps them protect the little feet that are just starting out and also makes them more flexible to give them room for growth.
You may also want to choose a kid’s shoe that is easy to put on and take off, such as one with double velcro or adjustable elastic laces. These types of closures also help keep the shoes on even as kids walk and run around.
Some of the most well-engineered lightweight kids shoes come from the brand Geox, which is renowned for its high quality footwear for kids. These are designed to withstand a lot of use, and they’re made with leather that’s comfortable and supportive for kids’ feet. They also have a non-marking rubber outsole that’s durable and provides great traction.
Support
For kids on the go, shoes that flex with their feet help them feel the ground, which aids balance. They also need lightweight kids shoes that fit well, and many experts recommend avoiding rigid shoes for toddlers who are still learning to walk because they can restrict foot development. For this age group, soft leather or canvas tie shoes that are flexible and shaped like the foot are best.
Some kids overpronate while running, causing their feet to roll inward more than is ideal. The padded midsole of the New Balance 860 offers just enough cushion to stabilize little feet while they’re on the move. Its breathable mesh upper and foam cushion are great for kids who run short distances or a few miles on trails.