Best Selling Shoes for Kids in 2023 – The Best Fitting, Supportive, and Affordable Styles

November 25, 2022 The Best Children's Shoes Juan Pablo Valenzuela 0 - Comments

If you are looking for a list of the best selling shoes for kids in 2023, you came to the right place. I am a shoe fitter with 10 plus years of experience fitting children’s shoes, and over the years I became familiar with the best shoe brands and styles. The list of shoes that I have put together describes the best sellers year after year, and the best shoe styles among the most popular shoe brands.

By the way, I am passionate about fitting children’s shoes as I truly believe that the correct type of shoes can be life-changing. Children’s feet are constantly developing, and what happens to their feet during their childhood will affect their physique as they grow older.

Before we move forward, I want to clarify what criteria I use to select the best selling shoes for kids.

1️⃣ Comfort

For toddlers who are learning how to walk or already walking, we want shoes that provide functional soft outsoles that are lightweight and flexible at the same time. For older children, we want more supportive and comfortable footbeds that equally distribute load and absorb shock, while still being lightweight and flexible.

2️⃣ Fit

One of the most important rules about shoe fitting is a proper fit. I always underscore to families that none of the bells and whistles will matter if the shoes don’t fit properly.

All of the shoes that I recommend are capable of accommodating different foot shapes as they are available in different widths such as medium (M), wide (W), and extra wide (XW).

3️⃣ Easy On and Off

The shoes that I recommend come with oversized openings for easy on and off and some styles have alternative closures (velcro, bungee laces) in case your child is not quite ready for tying his or her shoes just yet.

What Are the Most Popular Shoe Brands for Children?

Several families have this question in common: What is the best shoe brand for kids? I don’t believe that there is a universal shoe brand that works best for children, as there are specific styles among each shoe brand that work a lot better than others. The list I have put together of the best selling shoes for kids shows the best styles among the most popular shoe brands.

For example, one of my favorite shoe brands for children is New Balance, as I love how well their shoes fit (they are capable of accommodating different foot shapes), as well as the comfort and structure the shoes provide. However, this doesn’t mean that I recommend all shoes made by New Balance, as there are certain styles that work a lot better than others.

All of the shoes that I will show you are shoes that I have fitted before, so I know how well they fit and the materials the shoes are made of.

My Promise to Parents – I Take Children’s Foot Health Very Seriously

I believe that it takes great responsibility and conscientious effort on my part to fit children’s shoes, since the future health and development of the child’s foot is my personal responsibility and parents are placing their complete trust in me.

Every single child I helped at the shoe store presented a new challenge and a new learning experience as every foot is different. Nowadays, I help families find the correct pair of shoes for their children online. Keep in mind that the best shoes for your child are those that fit your child’s foot shape perfectly, so I have created several free resources to help parents determine this from home. I will expand on this shortly.

Forget About All of the Bells and Whistles – Shoe Fit Should Be Your Top Priority

Remember that one of the most important rules about shoe fitting is a proper fit. I always underscore to families that none of the bells and whistles will matter if the shoe doesn’t fit your child’s foot shape correctly. Did you know that the proper fit of the shoes is just as important (if not more important) than the support or the material that the shoes are made of?

All of the shoes that I recommend are available in different widths such as narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide widths, so it’s important that you know your child’s foot shape to select the correct shoe style.

What Is Your Child’s Foot Shape? – Find Out in 2 Simple Steps!

Do you know whether your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet? Do you know if your child has a high instep? These are all factors that help determine what shoes your child should wear.

I created a great resource (free of charge) that helps families retrieve their child’s exact foot length and shape from home. This resource also helps identify foot conditions such as flat feet.

Keep in mind that I always suggest families visit their local children’s shoe store to have their children’s feet properly sized and their shoes properly fitted. Unfortunately, most children’s local shoe stores are now out of business. Most families don’t know where to take their children to be properly sized and fitted for shoes, and most of the time they end up buying their kids’ shoes online. There is nothing wrong with buying your kids’ shoes online, but you need to be 100% sure of your child’s foot shape and foot length, or you will end up wasting a lot of time and money having to return the shoes back and forth.

Do More Expensive Shoes Translate Into Better Shoes?

More expensive shoes don’t necessarily translate into better shoes, as I have fitted affordable shoes that are made from high-quality materials and that can also accommodate different foot shapes. However, it is important to note that usually the cheaper the shoe is, the less quality, thought, and care shoe companies put into that shoe.

Best Selling Shoes for Kids in 2023

All of the shoes I recommend below have been fitted by me at the shoe store that I work for. Each shoe has been carefully selected in terms of fit, support, comfort, and durability.

Some shoes on the list might be available in wide (W) or extra wide (XW) widths, but there are other shoes that even though they are not available in wide widths they fit naturally wide. Take a look at the description of each shoe to find out if it can fit your child’s foot shape, the features it provides, the type of closure, and the size that you should order to provide your child with the correct amount of growing room.

Toddler Shoe Sizes (0 to 10)

Shoe style RaveRun by New Balance
Available in medium, wide and extra wide widths
Oversized opening for easy on and off
Lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole provides lightweight cushioning
Hook and loop closure
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style RaveRun by New Balance
Available in medium, wide and extra wide widths
Oversized opening for easy on and off
Lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole provides lightweight cushioning
Hook and loop closure
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style Original Jazz Lite 2.0 by Saucony
Available in medium and wide widths
Velcro closure
Leather and mesh upper for durability and breathability
APMA Certified
Traction pods on the outsole for serious grip
EVA midsole for lightweight feel
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style Ride 10 Jr by Saucony
Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
Velcro closure
Leather and mesh upper
Non-marking traction pods to help improve stability
APMA approved
Toe cap for extra durability
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style 2510 by Tsukihoshi
Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Removable insoles
Lightweight and flexible
Extra wide toe box allows natural splaying of toes for better balance, comfort, and foot health
Long heel counter provides stability
Machine washable
Order this shoe the same size as your toddler’s current foot size (shoe fits long)

Shoe style 2510 by Tsukihoshi
Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Heel stabilizer provides lateral stability
Removable insoles
The insoles are Infused with natural Green Tea extract (no chemicals)
Machine washable
Order this shoe the same size as your toddler’s current foot size (shoe fits long)

New Balance shoe style Fresh Foam 650
Fits children with medium, wide, or extra wide feet
Velcro closure
Leather and mesh upper
Mesh collar and tongue are padded with foam for a great fit and added comfort
Extra deep
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style 574 by New Balance
Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Oversized opening for easy on and off
Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style Fresh Foam by New Balance
Available in medium, wide and extra wide widths
Oversized opening for easy on and off
Lightweight injection-molded EVA foam midsole provides lightweight cushioning
Hook and loop closure
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style Sr Thompson by Stride Rite
Available in medium and wide widths (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Ortholite memory foam footbeds
Opens super wide which makes in and out easy
Recycled material linings to help reduce odor
Order this shoe half a size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style SRT Winslow by Stride Rite
Available in medium and wide widths (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Toe cap reinforcement and bumptoe protection against stumbles
Opens super wide which makes in and out easy
Step-stabilizing design with comfy Ortholite memory foam footbeds
Order this shoe half a size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style Fresh 574 by New Balance
Available in medium, wide and extra wide widths
Oversized opening for easy on and off
No-sew overlays
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

See Kai Run shoe style Robyne
Fits children with medium, wide, or extra wide feet
Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole
Double velcro straps for easy on and off adjustability
Padded tongue and collar for added comfort
Order this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

See Kai Run shoe style Robyne
Fits children with medium, wide, or extra wide feet
Canvas upper
Toe cap is durable for early steps
Double velcro straps
Oversized opening for easy on and off
APMA approved
Order this shoe half a size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance
Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Generous toe box and instep to accommodate and support a first-walker’s needs
Mesh and suede upper for durability and comfort
Extra deep
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance
Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Generous toe box and instep to accommodate and support a first-walker’s needs
Mesh and suede upper for durability and comfort
Extra deep
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

Little and Big Kid Sizes (10.5 to 7)

Shoe style RaveRun by New Balance
Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
Velcro closure
Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
Stitched-on toe cap for extra durability
Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style Nitrel v5 by New Balance
Available in medium and wide widths
Velcro closure
Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
Stitched-on toe cap for extra durability
Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style Russell by See Kai Run
Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
Double velcro straps
Removable, contoured, leather-lined footbed for breathability and comfort
Lightweight and flexible
Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style Robyn by See Kai Run
Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
Double velcro straps
Removable, contoured, leather-lined footbed for breathability and comfort
Lightweight and flexible
Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style Velocity by Tsukihoshi
Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Heel stabilizer provides stability
Removable insoles
The insoles are Infused with natural Green Tea extract (no chemicals)
Machine washable
Order this shoe the same size as your child’s current foot size (shoe fits long)

Shoe style 3584 Rainbow by Tsukihoshi
Fits medium and wide feet (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Removable insoles
The insoles are Infused with natural Green Tea extract (no chemicals)
Machine washable
Order this shoe the same size as your child’s current foot size (shoe fits long)

Shoe style Fresh Foam 650 Bungee by New Balance
Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Mesh collar and tongue are padded with foam for a comfortable fit
Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance
Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Synthetic and engineered mesh upper
Durable rubber outsole designed to withstand wear-and-tear
Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style Arishi v4 by New Balance
Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
Velcro closure
Mesh collar and tongue are padded with foam for a comfortable fit
Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

The New Balance shoe style RaveRun is available for little and big kids
Fits children with medium, wide, or extra wide feet
Available in laces
No-sew overlays for a sleek fit and feel
Mesh collar and tongue are padded with foam for a great fit and added comfort
Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size

The New Balance shoe style RaveRun is available for little and big kids
Fits children with medium, wide, or extra wide feet
Available in laces
Leather and mesh upper
No-sew overlays for a sleek fit and feel
Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style Axon by Saucony
Available in medium and wide widths
EVA midsole provides increased shock attenuation, responsive cushioning and lasting durability
Cushioned footbed
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style Axon by Saucony
Available in medium and wide widths
EVA midsole provides increased shock attenuation, responsive cushioning and lasting durability
Padded tongue and collar
Cushioned footbed
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

New Balance shoe style Fresh Foam 880v12
Fits children with medium, wide, or extra wide feet
Lace-up closure
Dual-layer midsole construction featuring top-bed foam cushioning and underfoot Fresh Foam X
Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style 480 V1 by New Balance
Available in medium and wide widths
Lace-up closure
Lightweight EVA midsole
Leather and mesh upper for durability & breathability
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style 327 by New Balance
Available in medium and wide widths
Lace-up closure
FuelCell foam delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

New Balance shoe style FuelCell Propel v5
Fits children with medium, wide, or extra wide feet
Dual-layer midsole construction featuring top-bed foam cushioning and underfoot Fresh Foam X
Order this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

Shoe style 574 by New Balance
Available in medium and wide widths
Lace-up closure
ENCAP midsole cushioning provides good arch and heel support
Leather and suede upper
Order this shoe half a size larger than your child’s current foot size

New Balance shoe style Fresh Foam Arishi v4
Fits children with medium, wide, or extra wide feet
Lace-up closure
Mesh upper is lightweight and breathable
Lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and padded heel increases comfort
Firm heel counter
Supportive heel for active kids
Order this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

Disclosure: Some links in this post may be affiliate links and we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) when you click our links and make purchases. This allows us to create free content and resources for many families around the world.

Can Children Wear Shoes Without Socks? – It’s Not a Good Idea!

Some shoes are meant to be worn without socks. However, I strongly suggest that children wear socks with their shoes at all times. Socks act as a barrier between your child’s skin and the shoes, protecting your child from foot issues.

Some shoe styles that are meant to be worn without socks are slip-on shoes, as they can be worn comfortably without socks.

1️⃣ New Balance

2️⃣ Saucony

3️⃣ See Kai Run

4️⃣ Tsukihoshi

5️⃣ Stride Rite

6️⃣ Keen

7️⃣ Asics

Remember that the list of shoes I showed you showcase the best fitting models among each shoe brand.

How Often Should You Replace Your Kids’ Shoes?

Please note that the guidelines below are estimates as each child grows at a different rate.

➡️ Toddlers between the ages 1 to 3 should have their shoes replaced every 3 ½ to 4 months. Your toddler’s feet will grow ½ size to a whole size every 4 months.

➡️ Children between the ages of 4 to 6 should have their shoes replaced every 4 ½ to 5 months. Your child’s feet will grow ½ size to a whole size every 4 to 5 months.

➡️ Children between the ages of 7 to 10 should have their shoes replaced every 5 months. Your child’s feet will grow ½ size to a whole size every 5 to 6 months.

➡️ Children between the ages of 11 to 17 should have their shoes replaced every 5 ½ to 6 months. Your child’s feet will grow ½ size to a whole size every 6 months.

Does Your Child Have a Foot Condition? – Flat Feet, Overpronation, or Weak Ankles?

When you have bad eyes you wear glasses, does it cure your eyes? No, but it makes you see better and you can function normally. Supportive shoes are like glasses for your child’s feet. If your child has a foot condition such as flat feet, overpronation, weak ankles, low muscle tone, toe walking, etc. you should reach out directly and I will guide you in the right direction.

Need Help Finding a Specific Pair of Shoes for Your Child?

Let me know in the comment section below if you need help finding a pair of specific shoes for your child’s feet or you can also contact me via email:

[email protected]

Helpful Resources that I Have Created Throughout the Years

In the meantime, you should check out these awesome resources that describe the best dress shoes, sandals, winter boots, and sport shoes for children.

Keep in mind that the service you receive online will be very different from the one you will receive at your specialized local shoe store. For example, at the shoe store that I work for, I take the time to watch the child walk with the shoes, and actively listen to any feedback the child might have about how the shoes feel. With that said, if you don’t have a local shoe store this resource is the next best thing and I am here to respond to any questions you might have!