If there’s one thing we know to be true, it’s that kids will keep outgrowing their shoes, whether you get out to the store or not. If you’re anything like us, it feels like the very first thing that gets too small is a pair of kiddo’s shoes. How does that happen?! There’s actually a pretty good explanation (thanks, science!). From ages 1-3 years, kids need a new pair of shoes two to three times a year on average. For older kids, ages 3-10, twice a year. Babies’ feet can grow up to half a shoe size every two months until they hit the 15-month mark! Not only are their feet growing in size, but they’re also changing shape rapidly. No wonder we’re always on the hunt for new shoes!
In hopes of making shoe shopping easier, we’ve found some of the best shoes for kids, and all of them can be bought online. These kicks are from our favorite brands and retailers, so you’re sure to find the right pair for your growing little ones. And, if you’re looking for weather-appropriate shoes for kids, check out our favorite water shoes for kids and the best boots for kids.
Toddler Sneakers
Ten Little Everyday Original Sneakers
Ten Little’s vegan shoes were designed in collaboration with world-class physicians, in hopes of creating a product that supports natural development and movement (think flat, flexible soles). Each pair also comes with fun stickers, so kids can have shoes that are unique to their style and personality. Little Kids sizes 4-13
Ten Little Everyday Original Sneakers ($44.00)—Buy Now!
Plae Ty Sneaker
Plae shoes are designed with the super active kid in mind. The TY is a knit design with velcro straps that makes for a super-light sneaker, which means your kid can run, jump, and swing without missing a beat. It's offered in two fun color combos: Amped Aqua and Hyper Blue. Each pair is washable with removable insoles, and every pair comes with the option to sign up for a Growth Spurt Guarantee®. Little Kids sizes 5-13.5; Big Kids sizes 1-4.5
Plae Ty Sneaker ($76.00)—Buy Now!
Saucony Unisex Baby Jazz Lite Sneaker
This shoe from Saucony was designed with features that specifically support growing feet. They are made from a machine-washable material, memory foam footbed for added comfort, increased flex grooves for added flexibility and have been awarded the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) Seal of Acceptance. Available in lots of different color options! Toddler Sizes 4-10 (Regular, Wide, and Extra Wide)
Saucony Unisex Baby Jazz Lite Sneaker ($14.95+)—Buy Here!
Converse All Star Construction Truck Easy-On
How fun are these Converse sneakers? For littles who love construction, these easy-on canvas sneakers are as cute as they are comfortable.
Construction Truck Easy-On ($45.00)—Buy Here!
Nike Force 1 LV8
These sneakers are almost sweeter than candy and much better for little kids! The shiny red patent leather gives them an extra oomph. Available in Baby/Toddler, Little Kids, and Big Kids sizes.
Nike Force 1 LV8 ($55.00+)—Buy Here!
KEEN Chandler Unisex Kids Sneaker
We love KEEN for their durable and colorful shoes that will last even the most rough-and-tumble playtimes. Pictured here is their best-selling toddler Chandler Shoe, available in multiple colors. Toddler sizes 4-10, Little Kid sizes 8-13, Big Kid sizes 3-7.
KEEN Chandler Unisex Kids Sneaker ($29.99+)—Buy Now!
ikiki Squeaky Shoes for Toddlers with On/Off Squeaker Switch
Choose from 26 adorable different animal shoes that come with names like Sascha Narwhalski (the narwhal) to Leo Longfire (the dragon). Each pair of shoes comes with ankle support for new walkers, and the squeaker, which is located in the heel, is an orthopedic aid for kids who are prone to toe walking. The best part? You can turn the squeaker off if the sound isn't appealing. Toddler sizes 2-9, Little Kid sizes 10-13
ikiki Squeaky Shoes for Toddlers with On/Off Squeaker Switch ($34.36+)—Buy Now!
Kids’ Sneakers
Kids' Converse Slip-On Sneakers
Who doesn't love a classic? These Converse All Star sneakers are a slip-on style, making them an excellent choice for kiddos who are always on the go.
Kids Converse Slip-On Sneakers ($37.77+)—Buy Now!
New Balance Kids Fresh Foam Sneakers
If your kiddos have feet that are on the wider side, New Balance sneakers are a huge hit. They're incredibly comfortable, come in so many colors and prints, and are rated super high. Our Managing Editor raves about them for her kids, too!
New Balance Kids Fresh Foam Sneakers ($51.37+)—Buy Here!
Mabel Kids Ballet Sneaker
Charlotte Stone's ballet sneaker now comes in kids' sizes. With a fun mismatched leather design, neoprene upper, stretch elastic, and velcro strap, these flats sneakers are stylish and functional (with a pop of color to boot!).
Mabel Kids Ballet Sneaker ($90.00)—Buy Here!
Kizik Anaheim
Function meets style with any Kizik shoe. It's the first sneaker that is basically hands-free! All kids need to do is step on it as their putting their food in, then the heel pops down, you foot goes in and the heels is back in action and ready for the day. We love that Kizik's use no-tie stretch laces, have easy match left and right icons so your kids put the right shoe on the right foot, and are made with breathable materials.
Kizik Anaheim ($59.00+)—Buy Now!
Skech Fast Ice
This sporty sneaker comes in 5 icy hues (aqua, grey, orange, red, and lime) and includes a no-lace design, lots of stretch, and ultra comfort. Little Kids sizes 10.5-3.5; Big Kids 4-6.
Skech Fast Ice ($45.00)—Buy Here!
Blowfish Malibu Kids Marley-k Sneaker
Canvas sneakers are a closet must-have, especially for little ones. They're easy and lightweight, and these slip-ons from Blowfish Malibu Kids come in a bunch of different colors and prints.
Blowfish Malibu Kids Marley-k Sneaker ($18.99+)—Buy Here!
Toms Youth Alpargata Platform Canvas
The newest spring styles from Toms don't disappoint. We especially love this Alp Platform Slip-On that's easy-on, easy-off. The canvas textile holds up to rough playground play, and its cushy insole means your kiddo's feet will stay comfy as she jumps, runs, and climbs.
Toms Youth Alpargata Platform Canvas ($32.49+)—Buy Now!
Mijas XIII
The Mijas XIII kids' sneaker comes in the most adorable prints we've seen in a long time, so every kiddo is sure to find one they love. The inside is smooth, making them itch-free, and include a bungee closure so they can slide them on and go.
Mijas XIII ($130.00)—Buy Here!
Cody Slip-On Mules
The Cody Slip-On Mules are insulated and waterproof, making them perfect for little ones who want to stay active in all weather.
Cody Slip-On Mules ($54.99)—Buy Here!
Skechers Flip Kicks Twi-Lites 2.0
These Flip Kicks high tops from Skechers have unicorn wings! They also have an inside zipper closure and an optional lace-up closure.
Skechers Flip Kicks Twi-Lites 2.0 ($37.69+)—Buy Now!
Merrell Trail Chaser Hiking Sneaker
This all-terrain sneaker from Merrell comes in several different color combos, a flexible outsole with traction, and has an easily managed hook-and-loop closure for young kids.
Merrell Trail Quest Hiking Sneaker ($45.00)—Buy Now!
Under Armour Assert 8 Sneaker
There's nothing like a basic sneaker to get your kid off on the right foot. This one from Under Armor has over 15 different colors, has durable leather overlays that lock in your midfoot to help with stability and an EVA-liner that provides step-in comfort.
Under Armour Assert 8 Sneaker ($39.99+)—Buy Now!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
All images courtesy of retailers.
