Best Summer Shoes for Kids in 2026 — Recommended by a Pediatric Shoe Fitting Specialist
Are you looking for the best summer shoes for your child — ones that are comfortable, durable, and built to last the entire season?
As a certified children’s shoe fitter with over 10 years of experience, I know that summer footwear is about much more than style. The right pair should keep your child’s feet cool, dry, and properly supported — whether they are running through a sprinkler, hiking a trail, or spending the day at the beach.
The wrong pair, on the other hand, can lead to blisters, foot pain, and problems that follow your child long after summer is over.
In this guide, I’ll share my top-rated summer shoe recommendations across three trusted brands, along with everything you need to know to choose the right pair for your child’s feet.
What Should I Look for in Summer Shoes for Kids?
Not all summer shoes are created equal. Here are the key features I look for when recommending summer footwear for children:
Breathability — the upper should allow air to circulate and keep feet cool during warm weather activities
Quick-drying materials — especially important for water play, beach outings, and splash pads
A supportive outsole — the sole should be firm enough to protect growing feet but flexible enough to allow natural movement
Adjustable straps — straps with velcro or buckle closures keep the foot securely in place and prevent blisters caused by slipping
A roomy toe box — growing feet need space to spread naturally, especially during active play
Heel protection — a secure heel counter keeps the foot stable and prevents the shoe from slipping off during running and climbing
What Materials Should I Avoid?
When shopping for summer sandals, steer clear of low-quality plastic materials. Plastic does not allow your child’s feet to breathe, which leads 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 summer shoes now will save you time, money, and plenty of complaints later on.
Sandal vs. Water Shoe vs. Sneaker — Which Does My Child Need?
Parents often ask me which type of summer shoe is best for their child. Here is a simple guide:
Sandals are best for everyday summer wear, casual outings, and activities that involve some water exposure. Look for sandals with adjustable straps and a supportive outsole.
Water shoes are best for beach days, pool visits, and water parks where your child’s feet will be fully submerged. They are designed to drain quickly, dry fast, and protect feet from sharp surfaces underwater.
Sneakers are best for summer camp, sports, hiking, and any activity that involves running, jumping, or extended physical activity. They provide the most support and protection of the three.
Many families find that one good pair of sandals and one pair of water shoes covers most summer needs — with sneakers reserved for more active or structured activities.
Best Summer Shoe Brands for Kids in 2026
KEEN, Merrell, and See Kai Run are the most trusted summer shoe brands for kids. These brands consistently deliver the combination of support, durability, breathability, and comfort that growing feet need. However, not every style from these brands offers the same level of support — so I have selected the specific styles I recommend most. Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links, and we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
First Choice: Keen Summer Sandals
1. Keen Newport
The Newport H2 is the most supportive KEEN sandal and my top overall recommendation for active children. The closed-toe design with a toe bumper offers maximum protection, while the secure-fit lace capture system and velcro strap keep the foot firmly in place on any terrain.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Newport H2 by KEEN on or Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Anatomically engineered footbed provides excellent arch support
- Closed-toe design with toe bumper for added protection
- Secure-fit lace capture system for a snug customized fit
- Best for active children, hiking, and uneven terrains
- Order a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
2. Moxie by KEEN
The Moxie features a sleeker more feminine design while maintaining KEEN’s signature durability and protection. It has a lighter more flexible feel compared to the Newport H2, making it an excellent choice for girls with narrower feet who still need reliable arch support.
Key Features
- Order the Moxie sandal by Keen on 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.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Elle Backstrap by Keen on 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.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Seacamp 2 CNX by Keen on 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 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.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Bare Steps H2o by Merrell on 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.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Bare Steps H20 by Merrell on 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.
Key Features
- 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.
Key Features
- 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 on Amazon
- 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
- Adjustable Velcro strap around the heels
- Fitting tip: size a half size up from your child’s current foot length
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.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Aven by See Kai Run on Amazon
- 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.
Key Features
- Order the sandal Gloria V by See Kai Run on Amazon
- 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
How to Get the Right Size Online
Buying shoes online can be tricky, but with the right measurements you can get it right every time. Before ordering, I recommend measuring your child’s foot length, width, and instep height using a virtual shoe fitting service. Knowing whether your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet — and whether they have a high instep — makes all the difference in finding a summer shoe that truly fits and keeps them comfortable all season long.
Do Kids Need Sneakers for Summer Camp?
Sneakers are a must-have for summer camp. Camp days are full of running, jumping, climbing, and sport activities — and sandals simply do not provide the level of support and protection needed for that kind of movement. 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.
Contact Me for Personalized Recommendations
Every child’s foot is unique. If you have questions or need specific recommendations tailored to your child’s foot shape, width, or condition, feel free to contact me via email. With over 10 years of experience fitting children’s shoes, I am happy to help you find the perfect pair for summer — and every season that follows.
