The Best Sandals for Kids – The Most Popular and Durable Kids Summer Shoe!
The best sandals for kids should balance between being lightweight for freedom of movement and sturdy enough to withstand the wear and tear of active play. We should also consider key features such as padded heel counters (to prevent blisters), ease of use, and traction. It’s also important that you know your child’s foot shape (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide, high instep), as the sandals I will show you can fit different foot shapes.
Key Features of Comfortable Sandals for Kids
1. Rounded Toe-Boxes: A round toe box allows ample room for your child’s toes to move and spread naturally. This design prevents the development of foot issues like bunions or ingrown toenails.
2. Padded Heel Counters: The heel counter is the back part of the shoe, and it’s important for sandals to be well-padded around that area to prevent foot issues such as blisters.
3. Multiple Points of Adjustability: Parents and children alike appreciate sandals that are easy to put on and take off. Multiple Velcro straps not only save time but also encourage children to put on their shoes independently.
4. Good Traction: Summer adventures often mean running around on various surfaces. Sandals with good traction help prevent slips and falls, providing a secure grip on both wet and dry surfaces. Look for soles made from durable rubber with a patterned grip to ensure safety during play.
5. Lightweight and Flexible: Choosing lightweight and flexible sandals is vital for a child’s comfort and mobility. A lightweight design reduces the energy expenditure required for walking or running, making it easier for children to play for longer periods without getting tired.
Are Flip Flops or Crocs Suitable for Active Kids?
While flip flops and Crocs are popular for their convenience, they might not be the best choice for active play. Flip flops offer little support and can increase the risk of trips and falls. Crocs, while more supportive, can also lack the necessary traction for running and climbing. For active kids, opt for sandals with secure straps and sturdy soles.
Determining Your Child’s Foot Shape and Size
Children’s feet can be narrow, medium, wide, extra wide, or have a high instep. Each shape requires specific considerations to ensure proper fit and support. Understanding your child’s foot shape not only aids in selecting the right sandals but also helps in avoiding common foot issues such as blisters or calluses caused by ill-fitting footwear. You can retrieve your child’s exact shoe size and foot shape with a virtual shoe fitting service that I offer for free.
Now that we understand the importance of foot shape and sandal features, let’s explore some of the best sandals for kids in 2025. 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.
Best Sandals for Kids to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Check the description under each sandal to see if it fits your child’s foot shape (narrow, medium, or wide). Many of the sandals come in multiple color options, so if your child likes a particular style, be sure to click through to see if the color they want is available.
1. Psyclone by Teva
These Teva sandals for kids are equipped with adjustable straps that make it easy to achieve a snug fit, accommodating several different foot shapes, including high insteps.
Key Features
- Order the sandal style 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 See Kai Run sandals are crafted with a focus on healthy foot development. They are flexible, breathable, and are crafted with soft, durable materials that support natural foot development.
Key Features
- Order the sandal style 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 for kids with wide feet 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 shoe style 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
The open design and cushioned insole provide maximum comfort, allowing for all-day wear without discomfort. Parents praise these sandals for their affordability and durability, making them a practical choice for growing kids.
Key Features
- Order the sandal style 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 kids’ Newport H2 closed toe water sandals provide a supportive outsole and a protective toe cap.
- 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
6. Hurricane by Teva
These sandals offer robust support and are ideal for kids who love to explore the great outdoors. The adjustable straps ensure a snug fit, accommodating wider feet comfortably.
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
Their designs are both trendy and functional, ensuring your child won’t have to compromise on style for comfort. The brand focuses on creating sandals that 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 Stride Rite sandals are available in both wide and extra wide widths, making them ideal for children with wider feet.
- Order the sandal style Archie by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (fits high insteps)
- Fisherman sandals with hook and loop closure
- 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
Contact Me for Personalized Shoe Recommendations
Every child’s feet are unique, and finding the right sandals can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you need specific sandal recommendations tailored to your child’s unique foot shape and condition, feel free to contact me via email for expert advice and support in choosing the best sandals for your child’s summer adventures.
I am committed to offering expert advice and recommendations based on years of experience in the footwear industry.
