Best Shoes For Kids 2023

If you’re picking up a new pair of sneakers for the kids during back-to-school shopping, you’ll need them to appeal to your child’s individual style preferences while still selecting shoes ideal for growing feet. The best shoes for kids are both durable enough to stand up to all they dish out on a daily basis but also supportive of their fast-paced play, according to the foot experts we spoke to for this story. Our top pick for the best shoe for kids overall is the Hoka Clifton 9 for its impressive support, durability and fun, kid-friendly colors combos.

The best shoes for kids support their athletic-style of daily play. Womens Sneakrs Shoes

Best Shoes For Kids 2023 - Forbes Vetted

“The most important thing to keep in mind when buying shoes for children is to avoid the current ‘cool’ shoes and focus on buying something that's good for their feet,” says Richard H. Graves, a board-certified podiatrist and founder of Sol Foot & Ankle Centers in Long Beach, California. “The most trendy kids' shoes right now are flat, thin, rubber-soled shoes. These are probably the worst possible shoes for their feet. Children are better off with a decent athletic shoe for playing and wearing to school.”

Kids’ feet are different from those of adults. For starters, they’re constantly growing, says Dr. Claire Capobianco, a foot and ankle surgeon at Orthopaedic Associates of Southern Delaware. As a result, “shoes need to be replaced at least twice a year,” she says.

While athletic shoes are a safe bet, it’s important to consider what your child will be using their shoes for, says Dan Pinto, an orthopedist and sports medicine physical therapist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. If you’re looking for a lifestyle shoe, Pinto says that something like Crocs can be a good option. But if your child will be running around, a sneaker is the best way to go. “As always, the child should like the shoes and be part of picking out their shoes, such as selecting their favorite color,” Pinto says.

If it’s time to upgrade your kids’ kicks, consider these quality picks below. (While you’re at it, check out our lists of the best toddler shoes and best baby shoes.)

Hoka launched a kids’ version of its massively popular Clifton 9 sneakers in April, and we eagerly tried them out. These shoes are packed with features you don’t often see in shoes for kids, including a high-abrasion rubber outsole that has special zones to lower the risk your child will wear them out quickly. The sneaker is lightweight (it’s under 6 ounces) and offers neutral stability to give kids just enough support without making them feel like their movement is restricted.

Hoka offers nine color combinations with bright and neutral shades to please bold and shy children alike. At $110, these admittedly aren’t cheap. But Hoka designed these with athletic kids in mind, and they’ve proved impressively durable in my home. If your playground warrior or sports fan regularly wears through their sneakers, these might be a worthy investment. One drawback is that sizes start at 3.5, so preschoolers and tots still can’t get in on the Hoka fandom.

What the writers say: My son wore his pair for a 5K run and swears they made him faster; One of his buddies also owns a set and says the same thing. They’ve also held up well over the last few months of the spring and summer where we spent plenty of time outdoors.

Target’s Cat & Jack line is known for its affordable pricing, and the brand’s slip-on sneakers fit right in—they’re just $20. The sneakers are pull-ons, so you don’t need to fuss with laces in kids who may still be perfecting their shoe-tying. The pull-on tab on the back is a nice touch for slipping them on and off. They also have a mesh upper that gently hugs your child’s foot while allowing for optimal air flow. A non-marking outsole helps save your floors, even among regular foot-draggers. While these are definitely sneakers, they look a little dressier than your standard pair, making them an option your child can get away with at dinners out and other dressier events.

What the editors say: “It’s a good basic shoe that’s certainly lightweight,” says Rose Gordon Sala, the senior editor of baby and kids gear at Forbes Vetted and whose oldest daughter owned this pair. “It also feels inexpensive, though. We used this as her backup pair of sneakers.”

These Ten Little Everyday Original sneakers are easy for the youngest kids to get on and off. They come in a range of bright primary shades and neutrals—and more importantly they carry the APMA seal of approval. The toe box is rounded, reinforced and roomy enough for those chubby baby feet, and the no-slip tongue truly stays put. They offer a cotton lining, vegan leather upper that’s easy to wipe clean and a natural rubber sole.

What the editors say: “I recently switched my tot to these Everyday Originals, because she was stuck in an uncomfortable, stiff pair that were too hard for her to get on independently,” says Sala. “I love that they’re soft and flexible, and my daughter enjoyed decorating them with the enclosed stickers of rainbows, unicorns and sharks.” The materials all feel high-quality, too, she adds.

With toddlers, “less is more,” says Megan Beam, a physical therapist with the Center for Bone Health. “A lightweight, flexible shoe with a wide toe box is recommended to assist in the strengthening and sensory opportunities similar to barefoot.” These Stride Rite sneakers are approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for your baby’s foot health. They include features like an Ortholite memory foam footbed for comfort, as well as a rounded rubber sole to help toddlers have secure footing. Seven color options allow you to choose the look that’s right for your little one.

What the writers say: I can attest to these toddler shoes’ durability. My now 4-year-old daughter wore these until she outgrew them, and I was able to pass them on to her younger sister for another round. The sneakers have a hook and loop closure for easy fastening for little hands. Stride Rite has always been a go-to for toddler shoes in my household.

While you don’t want to send your child in on gym day in a pair of Crocs, experts say they’re a great option for a lifestyle shoe, which is wonderful news given how trendy this clog has become among kids and teens. Meaning, they’re a good shoe to toss on if your child is hanging at a friend’s house or doesn’t plan to do much running on any given day. “Crocs are actually a pretty good shoe trend for kids right now,” Graves says.

The brand’s classic clog has a roomy fit and vinyl acetate sole for a comfortable feel with every step. An adjustable strap in back allows for more or less support. They also come in a wide variety of solid hues, tie-dye and marble patterns, as well as glitter colorways and even superhero-themed clogs. A nice element for parents: These can be cleaned off with soap and water.

What the editors say: “My elementary school-age kids can’t get enough of these classic Crocs and neither can their friends,” says Sala. “They love swapping out the Jibbitz charms and trading them with friends, too. I was happy to hear a podiatrist confirm they aren’t horrible for their feet. I love that I can simply hose them off when they’re dirty, but I don’t love arguing with them to trade these in for sneakers when we’re headed out for a walk or an active day.”

Some kids blow through sneakers like it’s their job—and that can get expensive, fast. Saucony’s Cohesion shoes have a reinforced toe cap for durability and a rugged rubber sole that would take some serious skill to break. A leather and mesh upper adds extra toughness while allowing for breathability to lower the risk of sweaty feet. There’s also an odor-reducing antimicrobial lining to minimize eau de foot from wafting out. A cushiony EVA midsole makes these sneakers comfortable enough for all-day wear. This pair is extra affordable when on sale. Choose from 11 color combinations. We’re featuring the lace version of this shoe, but the Saucony Cohesion also comes with a hook and loop closure for younger kids or just big kids who prefer to avoid the hassle of laces.

What the reviews say: “Extremely comfortable” and “holds up well” are some of the top terms reviewers use to describe these Saucony shoes. “Held up all spring/summer for a very active child,” wrote one. “The soles on this shoe are rugged and of quality, not formed foam.”

Before my 10-year-old discovered the Hoka Clifton 9s, these were the go-to running shoes in his life. The GT-1000s have a solid rubber outsole and medial wrap-up for durability—that’s key if your child, like mine, regularly drags their feet. EVA cushioning and specialized gel technology offer great shock absorption, whether your child is running miles or leaping around the playground. The upper is made of mesh for a breathable feel. Asics offers an impressive 19 color options to from which to choose, and you can snag these on sale often, especially in certain colors.

What the reviews say: Reviewers generally rave about the comfortable fit and excellent support on these affordable kids’ sneakers. “My son loves his shoes!” wrote one reviewer. “He has stopped complaining of sore feet now that he finally has good arch support. I highly recommend.”

Teens (and many tweens) often wear adult shoe sizes, and at this age, they prefer a shoe that doesn’t look like a kids’ option. The Adidas Cloudfoams run in sizes as small as 4.5 (for girls) and have a lightweight feel that makes them great for everyday wear. (There’s also a kids’ version of the Cloudfoam if you want to snag these for younger kids, too.) A Cloudfoam memory sockliner allows your child to step in and go. The sneakers hug the foot, so there’s no need for laces. While these shoes are usually used daily, they double as running shoes in case an impromptu race or game comes up. Your big kid can pick from eight different muted tones.

What the reviews say: Reviewers praise the comfort most of all with these Cloudfoams, but they also praise the affordability and slip-on style. Some have complained that the fit can be less than perfect for wider feet. “The cloud foam makes these shoes feel weightless,” wrote one. “They are the most comfortable shoe I’ve ever put on.”

Are lights the most practical feature to have in kids shoes? Probably not. But if they can help your child get their sneakers on and out the door in time, they might be worth it. Skechers makes a number of light-up sneakers and shoes for kids. This pair has various colored lights built into the sole to help create a cool effect every time your child takes a step. The satin mesh fabric upper provides even more pizzazz while being breathable enough to prevent sweaty feet. The shoes secure with a glittery hook and loop closure, so there’s no need to fuss with laces. Pick from four equally shiny color options.

What the editors say: If your kids haven’t begged you for light-up shoes yet, consider yourself on notice, says Sala. “Each of my three kids have had their turn begging for a pair of light-up shoes,” she says. “These Skechers’ sneakers come in plenty of vibrant, fun hues that my daughters’ tended to favor. They held up well enough for light-up shoes, but you’ll extend their life by having a second pair on hand for more active or muddy play days.”

Laces can be a tricky skill to master, and even older kids can get annoyed with having to slow down long enough to tie their shoes. The Kizik sneakers bypass all that with a unique step-in style that bounces back once your child puts their foot inside. Kizik, which makes adult footwear, too, has been hailed by pregnant women and accessibility advocates alike, because it offers a slip-on shoe that functions like a true athletic sneaker. The brand’s Rabbit Foam outsoles add extra pep in your kid’s step as they go about their day. Rubber traction pods help your child get good footing, even in slippery situations. Kizik offers a wide range of sizing, for both little and big kids, along with seven colors.

What the writers say: Forbes Vetted writer, product tester and mom to five, Alex Frost, wrote in her review that these sneakers improved her busy mornings trying to get out the door to school: “Since these Kizik sneakers entered our home, my mornings, afternoons and evenings, too, have changed forever.” She continued on: “They’re designed with a flexible back that gives when you push your heel down, and pops back up for a supportive fit when you are all settled in...There are three styles of sneakers for kids that are all equally amazing...They are cheaper than the Jordans my oldest kid thinks he needs, and have held up to the test of time much better as well.”

I poke with five doctors, including those who specialize in foot health, about what to look for in a kids’ shoe, as well as which elements to avoid, while reporting this story. I’m also mom of four who has been shopping for kids shoes for over a decade. I’ve seen firsthand which shoes stand up to regular and sometimes rough use—and which just don’t cut it. My kids have also tested several of the latest models to hit the market as did my editor for this piece, Rose Gordon Sala, a mom to three kids ages 10 and under. We included our feedback on those shoes tested firsthand.

Forbes Vetted also has a rich history in covering footwear for all ages, including the best shoes for women and men, and the parenting team cares deeply about selecting and testing the very best and safest products for children.

This story is frequently reviewed and was most recently updated in August 2023.

To choose the best shoes for kids, I relied on personal experience and testing, as well as input from the experts I interviewed, to select those shoes offer the most desired features. I also spoke to fellow parents for their kids’ favorite shoes. I consider the most popular shoes on the market and narrowed the field based on qualities like durability, materials, style and value. Kids’ shoes that only appeal to adults, of course, wouldn’t do. Reviews from real parents were factored in as well to ensure I had the best view of how these sneakers perform for a range of kids across different environments.

There are a range of shoes available for kids, from sandals to sneakers. But experts say that sneakers are always a good idea, given how active most kids are on a regular basis. “If you are looking for a shoe that will hold up to the normal school day, playing with friends on the way home, and tagging along with parents for afternoon food shopping, you should look towards a more athletic shoe that will have laces, a stiffer heel counter and a flexible but firm midsole,” Pinto says.

But if you want something for times when they won’t be running around, Graves says a more casual shoe like the Crocs Classic Clog is a good choice.

It’s difficult to say that one shoe is the absolute best for all kids, given how much an individual child’s needs can vary. Some kids can’t tie their shoes, making a slip-on like the Kizik Kids Anaheim the best option. Others crave a light-up shoe like this Skechers sneaker. However, we like the Hoka Clifton 9 to meet a range of needs. It’s designed for athletic kids and has thoughtful details like an outsole with special zones and an under-6 ounce weight for a light feel. It also comes in a wide range of cool color combinations kids love showing off to their friends.

Minimalist shoes, aka “barefoot shoes,” have a very thin sole and are designed so that the wearer can feel the ground under their feet. While they’re trendy, they’re not usually the best idea for children. “Kids are so active that minimalist-type shoes simply don’t have enough support or cushioning to prevent injury and will wear down faster than a typical shoe,” Capobianco says.

The only time the minimalist shoes may be helpful is in babies who are learning to walk, since being able to feel the ground under them can help with learning balance, says Gina Song, a pediatrician at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital. “I prefer those ‘minimal’ shoes with good soles like leather over a stiff gym shoe for those learning to walk,” she says.

There are a lot of options for kids’ shoes right now, and the best shoe for your child is ultimately one that offers support and that they’ll wear. But there are a few things to consider to ensure you get a good kids’ shoe. A big factor, Capobianco says, is support. “You should not be able to fold a shoe in half or wring it out like a washcloth,” she says.

Proper fit is also crucial, she says. She recommends that you be able to fit one child’s finger width between the end of your child’s longest toe and the end of the shoe. “If they’re too snug, problems with ingrown toenails quickly become a problem,” Capobianco says. Beyond that, your child may appreciate elements like a slip-on design and lights—but those are kid-specific.

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I’ve been breaking news and writing features on these topics for major publications since 2010. As a freelancer, I worked for The Guardian, Vice, Wired and the BBC, amongst many others.

Tip me on Signal / WhatsApp / whatever you like to use at +447782376697. If you use Threema, you can reach me at my ID: S2XY9B9U.

If you want to tip me with something sensitive? Get in contact on Signal or Threema, and we can use OnionShare. It's a great way to share documents privately. See here: https://onionshare.org/

Got a tip? Get me on Signal on 00447837496820 or use SecureDrop to tip anyone at Forbes. Email at TBrewster@forbes.com or tbthomasbrewster@gmail.com.

I’m a senior fashion editor covering women's and men's fashion, accessories and fitness apparel. My writing has appeared in T: The New York Times Style Magazine, Vogue and The Wall Street Journal. Prior to joining Forbes, I wrote two books, including The New Beauty: A Modern Look at Beauty, Culture, and Fashion, and I currently hold certificates in the history of design from Sotheby’s Institute of Art and fashion styling from the Business of Fashion. I grew up in Rhode Island, studied art history at Brown University and was—and remain—a sneaker obsessive with far too many pairs of white sneakers.