The Best Summer Shoes for Kids – Get Them Ready for Summer Camp!
Looking for the best summer shoes for kids that are comfortable, durable, and built to last the entire season? The right pair of summer shoes should not only keep your child’s feet cool and dry but also provide proper support, cushioning, and protection to prevent blisters and discomfort. I’ll share top-rated summer shoe brands along with specific sandal recommendations that are breathable, quick-drying, and perfect for active kids. Whether your child is running, climbing, or playing all day, these shoes will keep their feet comfortable and supported all summer long.
Avoid These Types of Sandal Materials
When shopping for sandals, steer clear of low-quality materials like plastic. Plastic doesn’t allow your child’s feet to breathe, which can lead to excessive sweating, discomfort, and painful blisters. Some sandals also have stiff, inflexible soles that can interfere with natural foot development. While sandals may seem like a simple purchase, choosing the wrong pair can lead to foot issues—and costly replacements. Investing in well-made, properly fitted sandals now can save you time, money, and plenty of complaints later on.
What Are the Best Summer Shoe Brands for Kids?
KEEN, See Kai Run, and Merrell, are the most popular and trusted summer shoe brands for kids in 2025. These brands are known for combining style, functionality, and comfort—key elements for the perfect summer footwear. However, not all shoes from these specific shoe brands are made the same way.
My Specific Summer Shoe Recommendations in 2025
Discover my favorite shoe styles of the year, carefully selected from the top brands I trust for comfort, support, and durability. Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
First Choice: Keen Summer Sandals
KEEN Newport H2. These summer sandals for kids are the most supportive ones and the toe bumper offers extra protection. The Velcro strap and secure fit lace capture system ensures a snug fit, providing the stability needed for uneven terrains.
Key Features
- 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
Keen Moxie. These KEEN summer sandals feature a sleeker, more feminine design while still providing the signature KEEN durability and protection. It has a lighter, more flexible feel compared to the Newport H2, and is ideal for girls with narrower feet.
Key Features
- Order the Moxie sandal by Keen on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Metatomical EVA footbed provides excellent arch support and cradles the natural contours of the foot
- Adjustable hook-and-loop strap with bungee closure for a secure fit
- Machine washable
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
Keen Elle. These open toe KEEN summer sandals provide two adjustable straps to accommodate various foot shapes and secure your child’s feet inside the sandals.
- Order the sandal Elle Backstrap by Keen on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Built with lateral support to help stabilize the ankle and heel
- Machine washable
- Eco Anti-Odor for natural odor control
- I suggest that you get this sandal a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
Seacamp by KEEN. The Seacamp kids KEEN sandals are a durable, water-friendly sandal that features a quick-drying, breathable upper and a secure fit with adjustable straps.
- Order the sandal Seacamp 2 CNX by Keen on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits narrow and medium feet
- Metatomical EVA footbed provides excellent arch support and cradles the natural contours of the foot
- Adjustable hook-and-loop strap with bungee closure for a secure fit
- Machine washable
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Second Choice: Merrell Summer Sandals
Merrell Barestep. These wide Merrell water shoes for kids can be worn in the ocean or the swimming pool. They will protect your child’s feet against unseen, sharp underwater objects.
- Order the shoe Bare Steps H2o by Merrell on Zappos or Amazon
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet
- Extra wide toe box gives wiggle room to growing toes
- Convenient alternative closure for a snug fit and easy on/off
- M Select GRIP for flexible, non-marking traction
- I suggest that you get this water shoe a half size bigger than your child’s current foot size
Bare Steps H20 by Merrell. These Merrell summer sandals for kids provide a comfortable fit with quick-drying materials and durable protection—perfect for active kids who love water play and need extra room to move freely.
- Order the sandal Bare Steps H20 by Merrell on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths
- 100% Leather
- 2 adjustable velcro straps for easy on and off
- Outsole with rounded edges to follow the natural shape of a child’s foot
- Flexible grooves on the outsole for a barefoot feel
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Hydro 2 by Merrell. These kids’ Merrell sandals are durable, quick-drying, and designed with adjustable straps and a roomy toe box, making them an excellent choice for kids with wide feet.
- Order the sandal Hydro 2 by Merrell on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Convenient alternative closure for a snug fit and easy on/off
- Excellent grip
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Kahuna by Merrell. The Kahuna by Merrell features adjustable straps and a spacious toe box, making it ideal for kids with wide feet who need extra room without sacrificing support.
- Order the sandal Kahuna by Merrell on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Water friendly upper for quick dry
- 2 adjustable velcro straps for easy on and off
- Soft EVA molded footbed for all day cushioning and comfort
- I suggest that you get this sandal a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Third Choice: See Kai Run Summer Sandals
1. Cyrus IV by See Kai Run. These round 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
2. Aven by See Kai Run This summer sneaker by See Kai Run is an excellent choice for kids with sweaty feet, thanks to its breathable design and water-friendly features.
- Order the shoe Aven by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Partially enclosed design
- Lightweight, water-friendly open mesh upper with rubberized overlays
- Cushy EVA footbed for all-day comfort
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Gloria V by See Kai Run. These See Kai Run summer shoes are designed with breathable materials, cushioned footbeds, and adjustable straps for a secure fit.
- Order the sandal Gloria V by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Closed toe-design
- Lightweight, water-friendly open mesh upper with rubberized overlays
- 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
My Specific Shoe Recommendations
If you’re looking for personalized shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s unique foot shape, feel free to reach out. I have extensive experience in recommending the best options for various foot conditions. Understanding that every child is different, I can provide guidance on the best brands, styles, and sizes that will suit your child’s specific needs. Whether it’s dealing with wide feet, high arches, or any other unique requirements, I’m here to help you find the perfect fit.
How to Get the Correct Shoe Size Online
Buying shoes online can be tricky, but with my virtual guide, you can ensure you get the right size every time. I can help you accurately identify whether your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet—and also determine if they have a high instep. Knowing these details is key to finding shoes that truly fit and keep your child comfortable.
Do Kids Also Need a Pair of Sneakers for Summer Camp?
Sneakers are a must-have for summer camp—they offer the comfort, support, and protection kids need for all kinds of activities, from soccer and volleyball to tennis and hiking. Since camp days are full of movement, it’s essential to choose sneakers with good shock absorption, a supportive footbed, and durable, flexible soles. The right pair not only keeps feet safe but also helps strengthen growing muscles with every step.
