It goes without saying that little kids love getting their feet wet. If there’s a puddle, or water collected somewhere, your toddler is sure to find it. However, just like adults need protection on their feet from jagged rocks or scorching sand, toddlers need it too. The best water shoes for toddlers come in a wide range of styles and patterns. These versatile, kid-friendly shoes are not only comfortable but protect the little ones’ feet.
One of the best things about some of the best water shoes for toddlers is that the sizes go all the way up to adult sizes. So the whole family could get similar shoes. If you’re looking for the best water shoes for women or the best water shoes for men, don’t be surprised if one of the patterns on the toddler’s list catches your fancy!
How To Choose The Best Water Shoes For Toddlers
Type of Water Shoe
Depending on your child’s needs you can choose from three kinds of water shoes.
- Water Shoes – These shoes look like any other pair of closed sports shoes. However, what sets these apart is the material. They’re usually made from plastic, mesh, or any other quick-drying material. These usually have thick soles to provide extra protection. With these shoes, you can rest assured that sand or small stones will stay out of the shoes.
- Aqua Socks – Although these look identical to shoes, they lack the structure that a sturdy water shoe provides. These are best suited for pools where the danger of sharp objects is minimal.
- Water Sandals – Possibly one of the more versatile and popular options among water shoes for kids are water sandals. These open-air shoes have good soles for walking on hard surfaces. Though not totally enclosed they work well in water and do a great job of keeping the child’s feet cool in summer. Some of the best closed-toe sandals for toddlers also double up as excellent water shoes.
Soles
For kids jumping in and out of the water, you’ll need shoes with a strong grip. Look for rubberized soles with a good tread. That being said, you also need to be sure that the shoes you choose are not too bulky or you’ll find your little toddler struggling with balance. Slip-resistant soles and a quick-drying upper are what you should consider.
Kid-Friendly
Many kids like to be independent when it comes to putting on their own footwear so water shoes that are easy to wear should be a priority. Those that you just slip on or ones that come with Velcro straps work best.
Do Toddlers Need Water Shoes?
If you’re planning a beach vacation or live near an area that is quite wet, then it’s a good idea to get a pair of the best water shoes for your toddler. Your toddlers’ feet will definitely get the extra protection that they need from sharp objects or hot sand. A good pair of water shoes will also keep your child safe at the pool.
Can My Toddler Swim in Water Shoes?
Yes, most water shoes are designed for swimming. However, you’ll need to take into account the type of shoe that you need. Shoes that can be used for swimming usually fit more snugly like socks and are extremely lightweight. It’s always a good idea to check customer reviews before you buy as they will give you a broader view.
HOBIBEAR Water Shoes
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If you prefer closed-toe water sandals, HOBIBEAR Water Shoes stands out as one of the best water shoes for toddlers. For one, you have a wide range of colors and patterns to choose from. Additionally, these lightweight and quick-drying shoes are comfortable and easy to wear. A hook and loop closure makes these sandals toddler friendly.
As for protection, you can rest easy as the anti-slip sole is sturdy and flexible, providing excellent traction. Also, the anti-collision toe design keeps their toes safe. The soft stretch fabric on the uppers has drain holes to keep the shoes dry, making them comfortable and breathable.
Pros:
- Wide range of colors and patterns
- Soft stretch fabric
- Comfortable and breathable
- Anti-collision toe design
- The sturdy sole provides excellent traction
Cons:
- Sizing could be an issue
O’Neill Youth Reactor 2 2mm Reef Booties
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Adventurous toddlers will love the O’Neill Youth Reactor 2 2mm Reef Booties as they keep the feet well protected. Featuring a protective toe cap and side mesh panels help the water to drain out easily after a dip in the water. Putting these shoes on or taking them off is pretty simple. Children who enjoy a bit of independence will enjoy slipping these on.
The grip on the outsole will also prevent children from slipping on rocks or hurting their feet. With the secure fit on these shoes, you won’t have to worry about them slipping off. They score high in the area of comfort too.
Pros:
- Good protection for the feet
- Lightweight and quick-drying
- Stays secure on the feet
- Easy to wear
- Durable textured rubber sole
- Protective toe cap
Cons:
- Sizing can be a bit confusing
Native Unisex Jefferson Junior Water Shoe
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A water shoe that ticks all the right boxes on comfort and cuteness is the Native Unisex Jefferson Junior Water Shoe. They come in a wide range of colors and styles to suit your little one’s needs. Holes on the top of the shoes allow plenty of air-flow to keep unpleasant odors out. Durable rubber rand and toe cap combined with the rubber sole keep your toddler’s feet protected. Since these shoes don’t have straps or laces they’re easy to wear. However, you cannot use these for swimming as they may just slip off.
Pros:
- Quick-drying and breathable
- Durable rubber rand and toe cap
- Keeps unpleasant odors out
- Easy to wear
- Easy to wash
Cons:
- Cannot be used for swimming
i Play by Green Sprouts Water Socks
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Crafted from quick-dry neoprene combined with breathable mesh, the I Play Kids Water Shoes are one of the best water shoes for toddlers who love water. The fabric allows quick circulation of air even when the shoes are wet. You won’t have to worry about allergic reactions as these shoes are azo-free and formaldehyde-free.
Though these have the snug fit of socks, the non-skid sole provides good traction. Another great thing about these shoes is that they prevent sand from getting in. The chlorine and salt resistant fabric keep your child’s feet healthy.
Pros:
- Swim friendly
- Anti-slip soles for traction
- Azo-free and formaldehyde-free
- Breathable, neoprene upper mesh
- Chlorine and salt-resistant fabric
Cons:
- No adjustable closure for a secure fit
Tombik Toddler Boys & Girls Aquatic Water Shoes
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Tombik Toddler Aquatic Water Shoes feature a synthetic sole combined with an open, breathable design. These cute shoes with the hook and loop straps keep the feet secure and super easy to wear too. A Thermoplastic rubber outsole is specially designed for traction and flexibility, keeping your little one steady on slippery surfaces. The high-quality fabric on the upper is ultra-soft and skin-friendly.
Pros:
- Open, breathable design
- Hook and loop straps make them easy to wear
- Good range of color choices
- Non-slip outsole
- Lightweight and flexible
Cons:
- A little tough to clean
Crocs Kids Swiftwater Sandal
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You can never go wrong with a pair of Crocs given their functionality and versatility. They’re one of the most popular waterproof shoes for kids and adults. The Crocs Kids Swiftwater Sandal is all about comfort and functionality. Featuring a minimal design, these water-friendly sandals are ideal for land and water. The Croslite material on these sandals makes them flexible and lightweight. Slipping these shoes on or off is a breeze with the flexible straps.
Pros:
- Flexible and lightweight
- Crafted from comfortable Croslite material
- Easy to slip on or off
- Dries quickly
- A good range of colors to choose from
Cons:
- Early walkers may have trouble keeping these on their feet
CIOR Toddler Breathable Mesh Sneakers
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With its wide range of colors and breathable fabric, the CIOR Toddler Water Shoes are ideal for summer. These hybrid sneaker water shoes are great for the beach or pool. The anti-slip rubber wear-resisting sole has a firm grip to ensure balance. In addition to this, the breathable mesh is cooling and also allows water to drain off quickly. You won’t have to stress about the baby’s toes getting hurt with the toe reinforcement design.
Pros:
- Breathable mesh
- Sturdy anti-slip rubber soles
- Easy to slip on
- Toe-reinforcement design
- EVA insole
Cons:
- The shoes have a strange chemical smell when you take them out from the bag
Teva Tidepool Sport Sandal
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Teva has some of the best sandals for walking and their hybrid kid’s sandal scores big too. The Teva Tidepool Sport Sandal is available in a great range of color combinations. What makes them one of the best water shoes for toddlers is the ease of putting them on. Made from a synthetic waterproof material, these shoes dry very quickly.
The thick rubber sole provides optimum traction, keeping your little toddler secure on slippery surfaces. In addition to this, the closed front also protects their delicate toes.
Pros:
- Thick protective sole
- Quick-drying material
- Easy to slip on or off
Cons:
- Come with a heavier price tag
Aquakiks Water Aqua Shoes
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If you’re looking for a pair of affordable shoes, Aquakiks Aqua Shoes are one of the standout waterproof shoes for toddlers. These cute little water shows are great for walking or splashing around. Your little one is protected from slipping by the sturdy, durable rubber sole, designed to last.
Crafted from a lightweight, breathable fabric these quick-drying shoes provide excellent comfort. They fit snugly too with an adjustable closure, which is an added bonus.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Excellent soles for traction
- Adjustable closure for a snug fit
Cons:
- Toes are not adequately protected
Stride Rite Phibian Shoe
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These versatile pair of shoes are perfect for toddlers who love running between water and the playground. The Stride Rite Phibian Shoe stands out as one of the best water shoes for toddlers due to its versatility. With a proper arch and ankle support, these waterproof shoes are designed to resemble a regular pair of shoes. However, unlike regular closed shoes, these have an anti-microbial lining that prevents the growth of bacteria.
Featuring a closed toe and rubber soles you can be sure that your little kid’s feet and toes are well protected. These shoes also get top marks for durability and fit. Cleaning these shoes is also easy as you can either hose off the dirt or put them into the washing machine. Like most shoes meant for kids, the Stride Rite also comes in a wide range of colors.
Pros:
- Easy to clean
- Antimicrobial lining to prevent unpleasant odors
- Available in a variety of colors
- Versatile for land and water
- Wide variety of colors to choose from
Cons:
- Not suitable for wearing throughout the day
Crocs Kid’s Classic Clog
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Any list for the best water shoes for toddlers will be incomplete without at least one pair of Crocs on the list. The lightweight Crocs Kid’s Classic Clog is the perfect water shoe for any kid. They’re one of the easiest shoes to slip on and off and score big on comfort, especially for toddlers with slightly wider feet. The Croslite foam that these shoes are crafted from adds to comfort.
Ventilation ports on the top and sides keep the feet cool and also help in easy drainage of water or debris. The heel strips pivot for a more secure fit. Cleaning these shoes is also super easy with soap and water.
Pros:
- Ventilation ports for easy drainage
- Breathable
- Light and comfortable
- Heel strips pivot for a secure fit
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Sizing can be a problem
JIASUQI Aqua Socks
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If you’re looking for protection for your infant’s feet the JIASUQI Aqua Socks are a good buy. They’re not like other water shoes as they don’t have a structure as such. Though they feature flexible rubber soles they provide a snug fit like socks. With these shoes too you’re spoiled for choice with a large number of cute options available.
Made from a stretchy ultra-thin material, the shoes have a strong wicking performance. The high-quality material is also breathable and flexible.
Pros:
- Fit like socks
- Flexible rubber soles
- A wide range of options
- Strong wicking performance
Cons:
- Inside padding is not attached so it tends to move araound
KEEN Unisex Kid Newport H2 Sandal
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KEEN is a renowned brand for the best water shoes, not just for toddlers but adults too. You’ll find some of the best water shoes for women or men in their collection. So if you’re a KEEN fan, you know you can’t go wrong with a pair of these for your toddler too. Like the bigger version, the KEEN Unisex Kid Newport H2 Sandal for toddlers is extremely comfortable and durable. They’re not difficult to wear either.
These multipurpose sandals can be worn all day as they provide great support and are quick-drying. Built-in-odor-controlling technology prevents unpleasant smells. In addition to this, the supportive anatomic footbed and touch-fasten instep strap will aid your child’s balance. You can choose from a wide variety of colors and sizes. Starting at size one, these sandals go all the way up to adult sizes. Another great thing about these shoes is that they can be washed in the machine.
Pros:
- Adjustable to your fit
- Odor-controlling technology
- Thick soles
- Supportive anatomical footbed
Cons:
- A little pricey
