What to Look for in Kids’ Shoes: Cute and Development-Friendly

Let’s be honest, shopping for kids’ shoes can feel like guessing your toddler’s mood on a Monday morning. Confusing, unpredictable, chaotic.  

Sure, the shoes need to be cute (obviously), but when you’re buying for growing, wiggling, splash-zone jumping little humans, there’s more to it than sparkles and dinosaurs. Good kids’ footwear is built to support movement, growth, and full-throttle playground energy. 

So… what actually matters when you’re picking a pair? Let’s break it down. 

1. Flexible, but Supportive Soles 

If the shoes are stiff like grandpa’s knees? Immediate no. 

Kids need shoes that move with their feet, not against them. Especially when they’re learning to walk, jump, climb, and sprint like they just chugged their third juice box. ?

Look for: 

• Soft soles that bend at the ball of the foot 
• Traction patterns to combat slippery floors and playground chaos 
• Just enough support to keep tiny ankles stable without restricting their movement 

2. Room to Grow (But Not Trip Over) 

Their feet are growing faster than you can say “Where did your socks go?” 

You want shoes with a little bit of wiggle room, but not so much that they’re flying off mid-sprint. 

Look for:  

• About a finger’s width of space at the toe 
• Adjustable closures (hook and loop or elastic) for a snug, custom fit 
• Wide toe boxes so little toes can spread and flex 

3. Easy On, Easy Off 

If you’ve ever wrestled a toddler into a shoe while holding a snack cup and trying to leave the house on time, you know what we mean. 

Look for: 

• Pull tab loops 
• Hook and loop or elastic laces (no judgment) 
• Soft linings that don’t bunch up or cause drama 

Bonus points if your kiddo can get them on by themselves and channel their inner big-kid energy. 

4. Breathable & Durable Materials 

Feet are sweaty. It’s not personal, it’s just biology. And sweaty feet = smelly feet if the materials don’t breathe. 

Look for: 

• Lightweight, breathable materials (like mesh, leather, or canvas) that keep feet comfortable 
• Machine washable or wipe-clean materials 
• Durable soles that don’t wear down after two trips to daycare 

5. Orthotic & Wide-Foot Friendly Options 

Every foot is different. Some kids need extra room, others need shoes that work with orthotics or braces – and that shouldn’t mean sacrificing style. 

Look for: 

• Wide width 
• Removable insoles for orthotics 
• Openings that make AFOs/SMOs easier to accommodate 

At the end of the day, the best shoe for your kid is one that keeps up with their adventures. (And doesn’t start a morning meltdown when it’s time to put them on.) Cute is great, but comfort, support and function are what keep those tiny feet happy. 

And then you find a pair that checks every box? Stock up in the next size, too. You’ll thank yourself in three months when their toes magically grow overnight. 

Need help finding the right fit?  

We got you! Check out our Sizing Guide here.