The Best Summer Shoes for Kids with Wide Feet – Keen, Stride Rite, Merrell, or See Kai Run?
Struggling to find the perfect summer shoes for your child with wide feet? With so many options from trusted brands like Keen, Stride Rite, Merrell, and See Kai Run, it can be tough to know which sandals offer the best fit and support. These brands are known for their quality, comfort, and style—but not all sandals are created equal. Some standout options offer significantly better fit and support than others. In this guide, I’ll share the best summer shoes for kids with wide feet—featuring top picks known for comfort, durability, and style.
Popular Shoe Brands for Kids with Wide Feet
You’ve probably heard of popular kids’ shoe brands like Keen, Stride Rite, Merrell, and See Kai Run. While they offer some of the best summer sandals for kids, only a few styles truly accommodate wide feet. The good news? I’ve done the research and know exactly which sandals provide the best fit for children with wide feet—and I’m here to help you find them.
Key Features of Wide Sandals for Kids
1. Extra Depth: Extra depth is key for fitting wide feet comfortably. Deep sandals let the foot sit lower inside, reducing pressure on the instep and preventing rubbing. Since sandals aren’t labeled as “extra deep,” the only way to know which ones work is through firsthand fitting experience—and I’ve done that for you.
Sandals with adequate depth can prevent a host of foot problems, including ingrown toenails and calluses.
2. Rounder Toe–Boxes: A round toe-box offers ample space for the toes to move freely, reducing the risk of discomfort or blisters. This is a crucial feature for kids with wide feet, as it prevents the toes from being cramped together.
A spacious toe-box is key to preventing common toe deformities such as hammertoes or bunions. When toes are cramped, they can become misaligned, leading to long-term issues.
3. Oversized Openings: Oversized openings make it easier to put on and take off the shoes, which is especially helpful for younger children who may struggle with tighter openings. This feature also ensures that the shoe fits comfortably around the top of the foot.
How to Measure Your Child’s Foot Size and Shape Online
Most kids’ sandals come in whole sizes only, so it’s important to size up for the right fit. If your child measures a size 10 or 10½, go with a size 11 to allow for growing room and comfort. Since half sizes aren’t available in sandals, always round up!
One of the most common challenges parents face is determining the correct shoe size for their child when shopping online. My virtual shoe fitting service can help you accurately measure your child’s foot and find the perfect size without the hassle of returns or exchanges. This service ensures that you get the right fit the first time, saving you time and effort.
If your child has wide feet, don’t wait too long to shop for sandals. Only a handful of styles are designed to fit wide feet comfortably—and they tend to sell out quickly once the season kicks off. Shopping early gives you the best chance to grab the perfect pair! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them.
Best Summer Shoes for Kids with Wide Feet to Prevent Blisters
Based on my experience and feedback from families, here are the top brands and models that stand out for children with wide feet.
1. Psyclone by Teva
These sandals for kids with wide feet are equipped with adjustable straps to help control how much pressure you put on your child’s toes.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Psyclone XLT1 by Teva on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Eva foam footbed cushions and softly supports
- Rubber outsole for great traction
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
2. Cyrus IV by See Kai Run
These wide toe box sandals by See Kai Run sandals are crafted with a focus on healthy foot development. They are flexible, breathable, and provide ample room for wide feet.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Cyrus IV by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Water-friendly and machine washable
- Generous toe box and EVA molded footbed promotes healthy foot development
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
3. Seaturtle by Kamik
These open-toe sandals are among the best summer shoes for kids with wide feet as they combine style with functionality. They offer great traction and are designed to withstand various terrains, making them ideal for both urban and rural settings.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Wander by Kamik on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Triple velcro straps for easy on and off
- Quick drying moisture wicking lining
- Vegan-friendly
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Adventurous Light-Weight by Dream Pairs
Dream Pairs offers lightweight sandals for children with wide feet. Their designs focus on comfort and durability, ensuring your child’s feet are well-supported during outdoor adventures.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Adventurous Light-Weight by Dream Pairs on Amazon
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
- Triple hook-and-loop closure system for easy on and off
- Excellent grip
- Lightweight MD footbed is cushioned for all-day comfort
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than the end of the AFO/SMO footplate
5. Newport by Keen
These Keen sandals for kids with wide feet are perfect for both everyday wear and outdoor activities. Keen sandals are known for their rugged design, durability, and toe protection.
- Order the sandal Newport H2 by Keen on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support
- Machine washable
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
6. Hurricane by Teva
These sandals offer robust support and are ideal for kids who love to explore the great outdoors. The triple adjustable straps are ideal for kids with wide feet and high insteps.
Key Features
- Order the sandal style Newport H2 by Keen on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- This internal support mechanism is anatomically engineered to provide excellent arch support
- Machine washable
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
7. Lucky Brand
These wide sandals for high instep provide ample space for the toes and a secure fit that supports active play.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Lucky Brand on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Supportive footbed
- Adjustable buckles at the front and velcro strap at the back for easy on and off
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
8. Archie by Stride Rite
These wide width sandals by Stride Rite are available in both wide and extra wide widths.
- Order the sandal Archie by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Easy on-and-off with an oversized opening and hook and loop closure
- Slip-resistant traction with sensory pod technology to help feel the ground underneath
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
Every sandal I recommend is lightweight, flexible, and built to last. They’re breathable to keep little feet cool, water-friendly for summer adventures, and quick-drying. Best of all? Your kids can easily slip them on and off all by themselves.
Contact Me for Specific Sandal Recommendations
Every child’s foot is unique, and personalized recommendations can make all the difference. If you have specific questions or need tailored recommendations based on your child’s unique foot shape, feel free to contact me via email. I’m more than happy to assist you in finding the perfect summer shoes for your child.
Sandals for Wide Feet – Parents Reviews
Parents who have tried these recommended brands often praise the comfort and durability of the sandals. Many have shared positive feedback about how well the sandals hold up to active play and how easy they are for kids to put on and take off themselves.
What Are the Best Sneakers for Kids with Wide Feet?
In addition to summer sandals, finding the right sneakers for wide feet is essential. Many parents face the challenge of locating sneakers that accommodate their child’s foot width without compromising on style or support. I have compiled a comprehensive guide on the best sneakers for kids with wide feet.
Finding the right summer shoes for kids with wide feet can be frustrating—especially when most sandals aren’t designed to fit wider foot shapes. Unlike many flip flops and casual sandals, these options offer proper support, motion control, and cushioning to help prevent foot, ankle, and knee injuries. Plus, I helped you avoid the common mistake of choosing the wrong size, which can also lead to discomfort and falls.
We are still trying to get my nephews to get some outside time safely and comfortably. Especially while the weather is warming up. This article was super helpful. My nephews will love their new shoes for yard play
Hi Eunice –
I am glad that you found the article informative. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.