Summer might look a whole lot different this year, with children possibly not going to their usual summer camp. But, kids are busy little bees still, after all. From running around the playground around the kids’ pool or sprinting through your own backyard’s sprinklers, they still have a lot going on. That’s why they need good quality footwear that can match their pace during the dog days of summer. The best summer sandals for kids, whether boys or girls, obviously come in a plethora of colors – blue, red, yellow, you name it. But that’s not all. The best of the lot is also super easy to slip on as well as robust enough for your kid to run everywhere without going kersplat. Additionally, truly comfortable shoes mean that children won’t even notice that they’re wearing them, even after wearing them for hours.
So, you won’t be hearing complaints about feet hurting, or blisters, or broken sandals, for that matter. Rather, you’ll hear the most exciting stories of how they chased squirrels, played with dogs, ate sand, and what-not. Plus, sandals do really need to last long enough so that they don’t fall apart before your child outgrows them. The best sandals are safe, comfortable, and feature airflow-encouraging designs made from breathable fabrics. To that end, here are 13 of the best parent-approved summer sandals for kids, both boys, and girls, in almost every color under the sun.
How To Choose The Best Summer Sandals for Kids?
Choosing kids shoes is a real challenge, whether it’s summer sandals, the Best Kids’ Climbing Shoes, or the Best Kids’ Snowshoes. When it comes to summer sandals, it’s important to keep in mind certain factors, because kids’ feet are sensitive and their growth spurt is phenomenal. So, what should you look for in kids’ sandals? Read on.
Growth room and fit
The topmost factor for a good sandal is optimal support and comfort, which basically means that the sandals should fit your kid’s feet well. To that end, it’s best that you leave a growth room of 0.5-1 cm when it comes to children’s sandals. You should know that the growth room is smaller than that recommended for closed shoes. That’s because you need to make sure that your kid’s feet don’t stick out or slide about in the sandals, which is entirely possible. Additionally, sandals naturally provide less support than fully-closed shoes.
Secure heel and adjustable strap
All good summer sandals have a Velcro strap either around the ankle or the entire heel, as well as atop the feet. Since it’s Velcro, the sandals can be adapted and customized to fit the individual kid’s feet. Additionally, this ensures that the sandals are fitted securely and comfortably, and gives optimal stability and support. Also, Velcro also makes it easy for your kid to easily slip their sandals on and off without you having to step in. For younger children, we recommend that you go for sandals with fixed heel support. They’ll go a long way in helping give extra support to their small unstable feet so they can stand up steady.
Protecting toes
If adults’ toes are sensitive, then imagine them on kids! Younger children will require protection for their little toes when their flailing, running and playing about with abandon. So, if your kid is very young, then go for a closed sandal. While the front won’t exactly provide support, but it will certainly protect their small toes from sand and stones. At the same time, it will also allow the toes to move around as much as they need to and breathe too.
Should I buy sandals half a size or one size larger for my children?
Actually, you shouldn’t be doing that. In fact, it’s one of the commonest issues that podiatrists see amongst parents. This is particularly worrisome for toddlers and infants who’re just learning to walk and are often unsteady on their feet. You might think they’ll last longer and that your kids will grow into them. However, they leave your kid vulnerable to falls and trips since they’re prone to running around without care all the time. If you do want them to stay comfortable, instead leave some room for growth, a maximum of 1-2 cm.
Keen ‘Newport H2’ Water Friendly Sandal
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One of the best summer sandals for kids is the Keen ‘Newport H2’ Water Friendly Sandal, which is also amongst the Best Water Shoes for Kids. There’s a lot to like about this sandal, starting with the fact that they’re incredibly durable and comfortable. So, you can rest assured that they’ll be able to withstand just about anything your kid will be up to. Add to that the non-marking rubber outsole and the EVA footbed with arch support, and your kid will have both balance and comfort. Moreover, the adjustable hook-and-loop straps and the elastic cord laces give your children the independence of putting on their own sandals.
Rounding up the features is the quick-drying webbing that’s great for children to be in and out of the water. The best part? They come in a great variety of colors, including deep blue summer sandals with yellow accents.
Pros:
- Eco anti-odor for freshness.
- Synthetic sole.
- Quick-drying webbing.
Cons:
- Expensive.
Crocs Kids’ Classic Clog
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One of the best summer sandals for boys also happens to be the Best Closed Toe Toddlers’ Sandals is the Crocs Kids’ Classic Clog. Crocs the brand doesn’t need an introduction; it’s hailed as one of the market’s best shoe brands, and this sandal is no exception, as it’s both sturdy and functional. Little boys can wear these bright yellow summer sandals with ease and are perfect for all sorts of activities, whether it’s a day at the beach or a picnic in the park. Despite appearing bulky, these synthetic sandals are very lightweight and have a ton of breathing space for the toes. What’s more, they’re easy to wear since all your child needs to do is slide your feet through the straps and even hold them firmly. Finally, these sandals are very easy to clean and even machine-washable.
Pros
- Roomy and spacious
- Easy to wear and take off.
- Comfortable and lightweight.
Cons
- Pricey.
Femizee Closed Toe Casual Outdoor Sandals
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Your kids’ feet will be absolutely comfortable in the Femizee Closed Toe Casual Outdoor Sandals, amongst the best summer sandals for kids. These pleasing pairs of brown, black, white, and yellow summer sandals for toddlers are made from soft quality and well-cushioned leather, keeping them comfortable for as long as they wear them. Moreover, the sandals keep the feet firmly in one place thanks to the straps and the hook-and-loop closure, both of which ensure a comfortable and secure fit. In addition, the sole is both flexible and has a firm grip so that your toddler can move their feet freely. The water-friendly upper ensures that even if your kids play in and out of the water, the sandal doesn’t break down and channels water out, keeping the feet odor-free.
Pros
- Flexible with a firm grip.
- Comfortable fit.
- Durable.
Cons
- Expensive.
Carter’s Toddler & Little Boys Dilan Light-Up Sandal
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Thrilling adventures await your kids with the Carter’s Toddler & Little Boys Dilan Light-up Sandal, one of the best summer sandals for boys. There’s a lot to love about this fierce, shark print sandal, such as the adjustable Velcro straps. This ensures that your kids’ feet stay firmly in place as they run all around town. However, what your kiddo will love the most is the fact that the thick rubber sole and faux leather upper light up with each step! So, your boy can show off his sandal to his friends while having a gala time. Wrapping up the features is the lightly cushioned footbed and the synthetic upper with a cool design of the shark’s face, complete with teeth printed on the footbed!
Pros:
- Great fit and design.
- Sturdy and machine washable.
- Lights up.
Cons:
- Sizing issues.
Nickelodeon Boys’ Paw Patrol Sandals
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Is your kid a fan of Marshall and Chase? If you’re headed out on a family adventure, then get them a pair of the Nickelodeon Boys’ Paw Patrol Sandals. These “pawsome” lightweight and rugged sandals feature a soft shock-resistant sole that’s strong enough to withstand the most rugged of activities. What’s more, it also comes with adjustable, velcro straps that ensure a secure and customized fit and that your kids’ feet don’t move while they run about everywhere. Available in toddler sizes 7 to 11, these sandals are very easy for your tot to put on and take off too. Designed for all-day everyday comfort, these sport sandals are ideal for all kinds of summer activities, including even a spot of light hiking.
Pros:
- Comfortable and versatile.
- Good quality.
- Available in two designs and multiple sizes.
Cons:
- Some parents said that sizing was slightly tricky.
Saguaro Boys’ Breathable Athletic Sandals
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The Saguaro Boys’ Breathable Athletic Sandals is one of the most well-designed summer sandals for boys, and it’s easy to see why. Your kids will get a kick out of wearing this sleek pair of summer sandals, which comes in a bevy of colors including red, blue, yellow, green, pink, and what-not. Moreover, what makes these sandals so great is that it even fits kids with wide feet, despite their cool closed-toe design. No matter how hard your child plays, these closed-toe sandals are sure to keep their feet, especially their toes safe for all sorts of adventures. The vented upper and breathable mesh keeps their feet dry and cool, while the rubber sole ensures a firm grip even on the smoothest of surfaces. The best part? The sole is shock-absorbing.
Pros:
- Available in a gamut of colors.
- Closed-toe design protects your kids’ feet.
- Breathable mesh and vented upper keep feet dry and cool.
Cons:
- Some parents complained about durability.
Nike Kids Sunray Protect 2 Water Sandals
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Yet another of the best summer sandals for kids is the Nike Kids Sunray Protect 2 Water Sandals. These sleek and super cool slip-on sandals are designed in a soft synthetic upper. Going further, they feature an adjustable hook-and-loop closure that makes it easy for your kids to put these on and take them off without your help. Plus, it also keeps their tiny feet firmly in place as they scamper about everywhere. However, what sets this waterproof and lightweight sandal apart is that it can withstand considerable wear even if your kids keep playing in and out of the water. Available in a rainbow of colors, these sandals make for the perfect pair to adorn your children’s feet with this summer.
Pros:
- Easily washable.
- Perfect for wide feet too.
- Comes with an adjustable hook-and-loop closure.
Cons:
- Slightly on the pricier side.
HOBIBEAR Girls Water Shoes Quick-Dry
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If you prefer closed-toe summer sandals for kids, then go for the amazing HOBIBEAR Water Shoes. What makes these summer sandals so versatile for children is the wide range of patterns and colors to choose from, including pink, blue, and the fascinating green-yellow below. Add to that the comfort and the fact that they suit various sizes of feet, and you have an evergreen summer shoe for kids. What’s more, they’re also very easy for your child to put on and take off on their own without your help and lightweight as well. Thanks to hook-and-loop closure, the sandals won’t shift around on your feet either. Plus, if you’re worried about protecting your little one’s feet, then you can rest easy since the anti-slip sole is both flexible and sturdy and offers great traction.
Pros:
- The sturdy sole provides great traction.
- Anti-collision toe design.
- Soft stretch fabric upper.
- Wide range of colors and patterns.
Cons:
- Sizing could be an issue.
Keen Kids’ Seacamp II Sandals
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Keen makes some excellent sandals, including the Best Beach Sandals for Women. The Kids Seacamp II Sandals from Keen are no exception and are amongst the most iconic and popular summer sandals for boys. These trendy summer sandals come in a wide range of sizes and colors, including dark blue with popping yellow accents. Besides looking fashionable, the make of the sandal is both comfortable and sturdy. Moreover, the footbed is cushiony and will feel soft to your kids’ feet while the front part has a washable polyester webbing. There’s even a water-absorbent mesh lining for the sandals to quickly dry and a frontal rubber toe bumper to protect the toes. Finally, the hook-and loop-straps with elastic bungee lacing keep your kids’ feet firm and secure within the sandal.
Pros
- Easy to wash.
- Flexible and lightweight.
- Comfortable and roomy.
- Comes in many colors and sizes.
Cons
- Pricey.
Native Unisex Jefferson Junior Water Shoe
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The Native Unisex Jefferson Junior Water Shoe is a great pair of summer sandals for boys and girls. Also amongst the Best Water Shoes For Toddlers, these summer sandals are available in a plethora of colors – green, red, pink, yellow, you name it. Extremely easy to both put on and take off, your little ones will be slipping in and out of these sandals with the least help possible since it doesn’t have velcro or lacing closure. Besides being easy to clean and machine-washable, these sandals are odor-resistant as well due to holes atop the design that allows plenty of airflows. Additionally, the durable toe cap and rubber sole keep your kid’s feet well-protected from obstacles and uneven terrain.
Pros:
- Easy to slip into.
- Breathable and lightweight.
- Odor-resistant.
Cons:
- Some parents said that it’s slippery in the water.
Otter MOMO Sandals
3
One of the bestselling summer sandals for kids, especially girls is the Otter MOMO Sandals. With over 2,000 excellent reviews on Amazon, parents are absolutely bowled over by these sandals which are both functional and cute. To start with, the sandals come with Velcro straps. It not only makes them easier for the kids themselves to wear and remove these but also straps their feet securely in even if they move around a lot. What’s more, the velcro is long enough, thus making it even more comfortable and easy for them to adjust. Moreover, the sandals’ bottom part has ample cushioning that keeps your kids comfy all day long and doesn’t end up straining their legs. The best part? These summer sandals come in a plethora of stylish colors – think silver, white, blue, yellow, pink, and more.
Pros:
- Available in many colors and sizes.
- Velcro strap for adjustment and closure.
- Cushioned footbed.
Cons:
- The sizing is slightly off.
Crocs Kids’ Crocband Ii Toddler Sandals
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The Crocs Kids’ Crocband Ii Toddler Sandals is amongst the best summer sandals for boys if your child literally lives in their Crocs throughout the year. These slip-on sandals are not only stylish but also water-resistant and even perfect for sandy and rocky beaches. They feature a heel strap that keeps them safe and secure on your child’s feet while being easily washable at the same time too. What’s more, they’re lightweight, like all Crocs, and come in so many amazing and fun colors including the bright green below. They’re also perfect for the summer season, especially given their breathable build that not only ensures airflow but also channels water out quickly. The best but is that your kids can put these on and take them off themselves.
Pros:
- Come in many sizes and colors.
- Well-designed for airflow.
- Water-resistant.
Cons:
- Some of the colors are expensive.
Techcity Kids Unicorn Slide Sandals
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The top spot on the list of summer sandals for kids is occupied by the ever-popular Techcity Kids Unicorn Slide Sandals. What makes this sandal great is that it ticks all boxes for the criteria for a good sandal. Firstly, they’re comfortable enough for your kid to waddle around in them all day. Plus, they look very cute, what with the rainbows and unicorns design. What’s more, you even have two design choices, one is the slip-on slide design and the other is clogs with backs. Little dudes and dudettes both will love the rainbow of colors that these sandals come in, which are perfect for even growing feet. All in all, these durable and versatile slide-on sandals are great for all kinds of dry and wet summer fun for your children.
Pros:
- Versatile and come in many colors.
- Durable and comfortable.
- Come in two designs.
Cons:
- Virtually none.
