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Best Toddler Shoes to Protect Developing Feet

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As a Physical Therapist, I am pretty particular about what shoes my children wear and what types of shoes I recommend to my clients.  Barefoot is ALWAYS best when a baby is learning to pull to stand, cruise, and walk, and this is also true for toddlers as they learn to do more advanced gross motor skills like run/jump.  But obviously kids can't be barefooted all the time – so here is a compilation of shoes I recommend most.  I try to update this with changes in seasons and as my favorite brands release new products, but in general these are the things I look for: 1) wide toe box (where the toes go!), 2) supportive heel cup, 3) flexible sole (you should be able to bend th...
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Sneakers

Options for fall/winter/spring… and I always suggest having your baby/toddler start in a sneaker when they are first learning to walk over a sandal shoe (even if it is summertime!)

 
Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
I love Stride Rite soft motion for a new walker (or close to walking!) These sneakers mimic being barefoot and allow a lot of flexibility in the feet!
Kids' Soft Motion Shoes
 
Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
This is another very flexible but this brand does run more narrow – if you child has a chunky/wide foot, I would try a different brand like Ten Little!
See Kai Run: Toddler Shoes | Buy Kids Shoes Online
 
Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
These are more expensive so they have never been my first choice for my own kids, but I recommend these shoes a lot for toddlers who need more stability (for example, for a child who is in Physical Therapy or who is a late walker!)  These are also great for toddlers who have to wear an orthotic in their shoe.
PLAE
 
Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
Ten Little is my favorite brand of all time – they meet all the qualities I am looking for in a shoe, and the best part about them is they are so much easier to keep CLEAN!
Ten Little | Toddler and Kids Shoes - Everyday Original Sneakers
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Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
Comparable to Stride Rite's Soft Motion shoes – these are one of my favorites for those babies who are getting ready to take their first steps!
First Walkers
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Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
Ten Little's High Top variation – this is great for a toddler who needs a little more stability in their shoe.
Everyday High Top
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Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
these are great if your little one is wearing orthotics or braces!
Velcro Strap Extenders
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Sandals/Water Shoes

A good pair of toddler sandals that actually stay on your kids' feet can be HARD to find – these are my top picks!  Keep in mind --it is always recommended to start in sneakers when your child is just starting to walk.

 
Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
These were the first sandals my son wore after he started walking – I love that they fully enclose the foot to give him stability!
Everyday Sandals
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Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
For a strappy sandal, these actually give a lot of support!  These are also a great price for a shoe you will only be able to wear for a 2 months or so!
Pink Toddler Casual Sandals | carters.com
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Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
Great as a summer sandal/sneaker mix, especially for a very active kid!  These are great for outdoor adventures that might end up in getting wet (like playing in the creek!)
Pink Toddler Play Sneakers | carters.com
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Caitlin Lipscomb profile picture
Another supportive strappy sandal, and I love the look of these!
Multi Toddler Adventure Sandals | carters.com
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