The Best Kids’ Sneakers – Learn About the Best Shoes for Children Ages 3 Through 10
Choosing the right pair of sneakers for your child is crucial, not only for comfort but also for the healthy development of your child’s feet. With countless brands and styles available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The array of choices can leave parents second-guessing their decisions, especially when considering factors such as style, durability, and cost. While there is a myriad of options to choose from when it comes to children’s shoes, there are only a limited number of styles that are good for their unique foot shape.
First Things First: Do You Know Your Child’s Exact Foot Shape?
Children’s feet come in all different shapes and sizes, and the shoes that you provide for your child need to be capable of providing good support to their feet while fitting their foot shape correctly. Your child’s foot shape (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide, high instep) also helps determine what shoe brands you can explore and which ones you should stay away from.
Some children may have flat feet, high arches, or wide feet, which require specific features in their footwear. I created a virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your child’s shoe size from home. Choosing the right size ensures that your child’s feet can grow and develop without restrictions or discomfort.
Key Features of Comfortable Sneakers for Kids
When parents go shoe shopping they usually find themselves staring at a wall of shoes that look very similar and very different at the same time. These are important features that will help keep your child’s feet supported and comfortable.
1. Lightweight and flexible to help promote natural foot movement, which are crucial for muscle development and balance. Ensure the sneakers bend at the ball of the foot, not the arch, for optimal flexibility.
2. Stable base of support with firm heel counters are vital for providing stability and support. It helps in maintaining the foot’s alignment and prevents excessive inward or outward rolling of the foot.
3. Adequate padding around the heels offers cushioning, reducing the risk of blisters and irritation. It enhances comfort, allowing kids to play and explore without discomfort.
4. Oversized openings allow for easy on and off so your children can put these shoes on by themselves and easily take them off. Furthermore, oversized openings reduce the struggle during busy mornings or after a long day, making them a practical choice for both children and parents.
5. Breathability is important as children’s feet can get sweaty, especially during physical activities. Breathable materials, such as mesh uppers, promote airflow and help keep feet dry and comfortable. This reduces the likelihood of odor and fungal infections.
Let’s explore the best kids’ sneakers for ages 3 through 10, focusing on supportive options that accommodate unique foot shapes and promote healthy development.
The Best Kids’ Sneakers that Promote Healthy Foot Development
Here are some of the top-rated kids’ sneakers that incorporate the essential features I showed you before. I independently evaluate all shoe recommendations. If you click on the links I provide, I may receive compensation.
1. Shoe Style 574 by New Balance
New Balance is renowned for its comfortable shoes, and the 574 model is no exception. This shoe offers a wide toe box and a cushioned midsole, providing both comfort and support for active children.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 574 New-b V1 by New Balance on Amazon or the New Balance website.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, and Zappos.
- Received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.
2. Russell and Robyne by See Kai Run
See Kai Run specializes in kids’ shoes that support healthy foot development. The Russell and Robyne styles feature wide toe boxes and flexible rubber outsoles, perfect for active children. The shoes feature a wide opening and adjustable straps, making them easy for kids to put on themselves and their lightweight design promotes natural movement, encouraging healthy foot development.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- Order the shoe style Robyne and Russell by See Kai Run on Zappos or Amazon.
- Fits children with medium or wide feet.
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
- Padded tongue and collar for added comfort.
- Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
3. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance
Designed with Fresh Foam technology, these shoes offer a plush, cushioned feel while providing ample room for children with wider feet (and high insteps).
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Amazon.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on the New Balance website, Zappos, and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
4. Shoe Style Kristin and Stevie II by See Kai Run
The Kristin model is perfect for those looking for a more stylish option without sacrificing fit. With its adjustable closure and ample toe space, it caters well to medium and wide feet while keeping up with fashion trends.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- Order the shoe style Kristin and Stevie II by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos.
- Fits children with medium or wide feet.
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
5. Shoe Style Rave Run v2 by New Balance
With its lightweight design and wide fit, it’s a favorite for kids who enjoy running or playing sports. The shoe’s rubber outsole offers great traction, making it suitable for various surfaces.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Rave Run by New Balance on Zappos or the New Balance website.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos or the New Balance website.
- Breathable mesh upper.
- Padded collar and tongue.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.
6. Shoe Style Cohesion by Saucony
This shoe features a durable outsole and breathable upper. It’s designed to provide excellent support for running and jumping The affordable pricing also makes them accessible to a wide range of families.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Cohesion KDZ on Zappos or Amazon.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
7. Shoe Style Fresh Foam 650 by New Balance
The shoe features a wide toe box and plush cushioning, making it perfect for everyday wear. Parents often highlight the shoe’s ability to maintain its shape and support even after prolonged use, underscoring its durability.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids.
- Order the shoe style 650 by New Balance on the New Balance website or Zappos.
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
8. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas
For kids who are serious about their sports, this high-top sneaker provides the support and traction needed for basketball and other court sports. Its high-top design offers additional ankle support. The shoe’s cushioned interior provides comfort, while its durable outsole ensures grip on indoor and outdoor courts.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Cross Em Up Select by Adidas on Zappos or Amazon.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
9. Ikiki Shoes
Ikiki shoes are designed with a focus on functionality and fun. They feature a wide toe box that supports natural foot movement, and many of their designs include playful characters and bright colors that children love.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers and little kids.
- Order the shoe style by Ikiki on Amazon.
- Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide.
- Wide opening to make it easy to put on and take off shoes.
- Synthetic Vegan Leather.
- Squeaks can be turned on/off with a switch.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size.
10. Shoe Style Wind by Saucony
Known for its lightweight design and excellent traction, the Wind model is great for active kids. Its supportive fit ensures comfort during extended periods of activity. The Wind’s durable construction and grip make it suitable for various terrains, from playgrounds to trails.
Key Features
- Available for little and big kids.
- Order the shoe style Wind by Saucony on Amazon or Zappos.
- Available in medium and wide widths.
- Also available with laces on Zappos and Amazon.
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size.
Personalized Shoe Recommendations from a Shoe Fitter
As a passionate shoe fitter specializing in children’s footwear, I understand that every child’s foot is unique, and finding shoes that accommodate their individual shape is crucial. If you have any questions or need any further assistance, you can also contact me via email and I will get back to you as soon as possible. I am happy to help you find a different pair of shoes for your child so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Should Your Kids’ Shoes Be APMA Approved?
Not necessarily, APMA-approved shoes are designed with features that support healthy foot development, making them a reliable choice for parents seeking the best for their children. This endorsement is valuable because it takes into account various health standards that ensure the well-being of young feet. While not all children’s shoes have this seal, it can be a helpful indicator of quality and support.
Why My List Doesn’t Include Any Slip-On Shoes?
Slip-on shoes don’t provide the same amount of support and stability compared to everyday sneakers. Parents and children like them because they are easy to get on and off, but they should only be worn for a couple of hours a day.
Why Supportive Sneakers Matter
Supportive sneakers are vital as they provide the necessary structure and cushioning to aid in natural foot development. They help in maintaining proper foot alignment, distributing weight evenly, and preventing common foot conditions.
Children with “Complicated” Foot Shapes and Conditions
Flat Feet
For children with flat feet, look for sneakers with enhanced arch support and a firm heel counters. These features help in maintaining proper foot alignment and reducing overpronation. You can access a list of the best supportive sneakers for kids with flat feet in a different resource I created.
Wide Feet
Kids with wide feet need shoes that offer extra space in the toe box. The best kids sneakers for wide feet provide a roomy toe box to help prevent discomfort and allow natural toe splay.
High Arches
For high arches, choose shoes with ample cushioning and flexibility. These features help absorb shock and provide support where it’s needed most.
Please comment below and let us know about your favorite kids’ shoes, or if there is a particular shoe style we should avoid, that way we can all benefit from your experiences.
where can I find the shoe called Geox? My grand son (3yrs old) has weak ankles and falls a lot
Hello Lillie,
There might be several reasons why your child keeps falling. Please make sure that the shoes that he is wearing are not too short or too narrow. If you can’t see the recommendations please refresh the webpage.
My son loves Nike blue shoes (color is important :)). He is 10 size 6.
Do you have any recommendations. He wants lace up. Thanks!!!
Hello Anne,
There is a style called Revolution that is really good in terms of flexibility and support. I have fitted that shoe style before at the shoe store that I work for, just remember that Nike shoes are not the most supportive type of shoes. You can find that shoe here:
Nike Shoes for Boys
I hope this helps!
Is there any reccomendation from Nike Brand shoes or Adidas? I bought my son new balance and because of the brand name, kids nowadays care about that, he won’t wear it.
Hello Dayanis,
Did you buy him New Balance because he has wide or extra wide feet? What shoe width does your son wear? If you get back at me telling me his shoe size and his age I can help you find good Nike or Adidas sneakers.
My 3 year old daughter LOVES Sketchers Litebeams. The only problem is she goes through one pair every 2 months. They are light, flexible and I think offer decent support, but they are SO cheap, she blows through them, mostly ripping up the toe area using them as a break when she rides scooters. She INSISTS on light up shoes. I’ve looked at Stride Rite and they don’t seem to have anything comperable to the Litebeams. Most of our local shoe stores don’t carry kids (at least not the shoe stores where you get knowledgable people to help you). I need a good shoe, light up variety that will last her more than 1-2 months.
Thank you!
Dear Amanda,
Most light up shoes are on the “fun side” and not as functional as parents want them to be. Children should always outgrow their sneaker before they destroy them, so you might want to start transitioning her into a more durable shor brand. If she is going to be riding her scooter and being rough on the shoes, there is a shoe brand called Geox which offers good supportive, well-made shoes. Be aware that they might not look as cool as the Skechers she is used to wearing. Here is an example of how they look like:
Geox Girl Light Up Sneakers: Option 1
Geox Girl Light Up Sneakers: Option 2
Please let me know if you have any other questions!
Are there any Skechers for toddler boys that are supportive?
Hello Sarah,
Some models are more supportive than others, but it depends on your son’s foot shape and whether you are looking for velcro or lace-up closure.
Thank you for the article. Year after year we have problems before school begins finding shoes, not sneakers, that will fit properly. I used to be able to find Mary Janes that would fit my girls. They have a narrow heel and a normal toe area, just like me. It’s so hard they have to wear sneakers until I “happen upon” a pair of shoes. This school year, both girls are in women’s sizes. I can’t find anything! And any shoe that has any kind of comfort, is a hundred dollars! I really don’t know what to do. They will have to wear sneakers everywhere, since school requires them to have their toes and heels covered. Please give more information on the brands of shoes to try that are NOT sneakers. Thank you!
Hello Bee,
I understand your frustration. First of all let me clarify that a girl’s shoe size 7 (which is the largest girl shoe size) equals to a women’s shoe size 8 1/2. Keep in mind that your girls are in women sizes once they reach a women’s shoe size 9 or up… I just want to make sure your girls are in actual women sizes.
The reason why I mention this is that you will save a lot of money purchasing the kids version of the shoes instead of the women’s.
You might want to look at this post for clarification:
Women And Kids Shoe Size Conversion Chart – Save Big Buying Kids Shoes!
If you can get back at me and clarify your girl’s actual shoe size it will be a great start. But here goes some advice:
The BEST shoe brand for a child that has a wide toed-box but a narrow heel is called “NATURINO”. Have you tried this shoe brand for your girls before? The other shoe brand you should give a try is called “NINA”.
I hope this helps! If you can get back at me with more details, I can probably be a little more specific.
I knew it!! I love New Balance. I have a 4 year old son, and I will probably purchase KV888VI by New Balance that you recommended. Are there any other type of shoes that you recommend by New Balance?
Right now, my son has NIKE, and Ninja Turtles Light Up sneakers. I often choose Nike shoes for my son as well. I wonder if there is any issues for those shoes. He really loves the Ninja Turtles shoes specifically for the characters and the lights. Recently, it is hard for me to make him wear the shoes that I like. You know, children start trying to assert their independence, around this age.
Also, I’m interested in Geox. I have never heard about the brand. I wonder why shoe companies stopped making Velcro strap. Is it because of price, inconvenience, or taking time and effort?
Thank you so much for the information. I will come back and find out which shoes I will get for my son.
Hello Ryubi,
I recommend the 990v5 or 680V6 because it comes in all sort of different widths such as medium, wide, and extra wide. Below you can find some of the best sneakers made by New Balance:
Boy New Balance: Option 1
Boy New Balance: Option 2
While we don’t have the Ninja Turtle style at the shoe store I work for, I have seen children wearing them. It is an ok shoe, but much less flexible than other styles. If your child is active, I would advise you to look for a different style.
Geox makes top of the line shoes, great support, very breathable, a shoe that your child can wear every day!
Recently, I began buying my daughter Asics shoes since she was diagnosed with onset Scoliosis. Up until then she preferred a very cheap brand of shoes and I could not get her to use the better brands.
Since getting the better shoes, she complains that they hurt her knees, but her doctor says the Scoliosis is nearly detectable. We are working on the knee pains as a possible symptom of being used to shoes that were not supporting her gait.
I will be looking into the Geox brand to see if we can purchase them locally. I like the look of those shoes and will hopefully keep working to find a good quality pair that my daughter likes too.
You gave a very good review of each shoe and I have more information that I did not consider prior to reading your information. Thank you for bringing all to light for me.
Rita,
Aiscs is top of the line when it comes to support and structure. Make sure she is stretching enough since that will help relieve some of the pain. Geox is also a great brand, just keep trying until you find a pair that works!
Wow! I have been looking for information like this all over the place. We used to have a local shoe store in our area but it closed, so we don’t know where to take our children to have their feet measured. We went to the mall and the salesperson at Stride Rite didn’t know what he was doing.
I ordered from your recommendations the pair of Asics for my son who has the narrowest feet and it fits him perfectly. My daughter has a high instep so we went for the Saucony pair. I bookmarked your page, you have pretty amazing info!
Darren,
I am glad you found the website informative. Any time you have any specific question do not hesitate in contacting me. I know how hard it can be to find shoes without a local shoe store, and someone who can guide you throught the process of finding the right pair of shoes for your kids’.
It was only after my children needed shoes that I realized how important it is to have the best possible fit. When I was a child my shoes were handed down from friends and relations. Is it bad for a child’s feet to wear hand me down shoes? Is foot health of primary importance when buying kids shoes? Also do is it always expensive shoes that are the best or are some of the cheaper brands just as good?
Margaret,
Hand-me-down shoes must be avoided. The only time I feel they are appropriate is when we are passing down a pair of rain boots or a pair of snow boots. I understand that we are all trying to save money, but hand-me-down shoes will end up costing you a lot more money in the long run. You should read one of my posts I wrote about hand-me-down shoes: Second Hand Shoes For Kids – Stop Hurting Your Child’s Feet
To answer your next question, in order to have healthy feet, we must provide our children with the right type of shoes. The shoes that we all wear play a key role in keeping our feet, legs, and back healthy.
When it comes to shoes, you don’t need to invest more money in order to get more support and structure out of the shoe. Here is another post that you will find useful since it describes the best shoes for kids’ and how price is irrelevant: The Best Kids Sneakers – Learn About The Best Shoes For Children Ages 3 Through 10
I’ve never considered buying these type of shoes for my daughters though I always spend good money on their footwear. Both my daughters have large feet and grow at unbelievably fast rates so go through shoes quickly. I’ll have to bookmark your site and come back to check it when buying shoes next time.
Leone,
There is a certain amount of growing room we can leave for kids’ to grow into their shoes, if we decide to leave a little bit of extra space for the shoes to last longer, we can end up compromising our kids’ stability. Come back anytime and please let me know if you have any questions.