The Best Baby and Toddler Water Shoes, Tested and Reviewed
In a nutshell:
Based on expert input, survey feedback from almost 350 parents from The Bump community and first-hand product testing, the Native Jefferson Child shoes earned our top spot as the overall best toddler water shoe. This pair has a simple slip-on design that protects the whole foot, they’re easy to clean and they offer a sneaker-like look that’s great for a wide range of occasions.
In my house, water shoes are key to spontaneous summer fun. As soon as the weather turns sunny, my kids start asking about water play and pool time—and I can’t blame them! Between baseball games, splash pad visits and lots of outdoor play at home, my very active children need shoes that can keep up with them all summer long. Wherever our day takes us, I like knowing that my kids’ feet will be supported and protected no matter the terrain.
According to Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, a podiatrist based in Dunn, North Carolina, toddler water shoes “should be flexible to allow for easy movement but sturdy enough to last and protect the feet.” I definitely agree, and in my experience, versatility for various terrains and situations, comfort and durability are the most important features to look for. So I tested 10 different water shoes to determine which ones will really hold up to extensive outdoor water play. Using this real-life testing, my colleagues at The Bump and I identified our six favorite options, whether you’re looking for a slim, fitted swimming shoe strictly for pool days or something more substantial for family hikes or biking.
The Bump editors conducted extensive market research and identified the 15 leading toddler water shoes on the market. Taking a hard look at parents’ needs and the features and functionality that each pair offered, we then created a shortlist of 10 toddler water shoes to test. From there:
- I tried eight pairs with my 3-year-old and two pairs with my one-year-old (who’s a new walker) during outdoor play. My children wore each water shoe for several hours at splash pads, on playgrounds, running daily errands and riding bikes. Then, I rated each shoe’s performance across the following categories: ease of use, comfort, fit, grip and traction, quality and durability, style and design, protection and value for money.
- We researched what was being said about baby and toddler water shoes in The Bump forums—as well as parenting forums and message boards across the internet, and customer reviews—to learn what parents liked (and disliked) about certain brands and styles and understand how this footwear has worked for kiddos nationwide.
- We surveyed almost 350 members of The Bump community and asked about the toddler shoes they’ve used. We then asked parents to rate specific brands and styles based on their experience.
- We interviewed a podiatrist for expert insights on what to look for when selecting water shoes for toddlers and how to take care of them to avoid bacteria growth and odors.
- We looked at the most popular toddler water shoes on the market and considered several factors—like material, size range, care instructions and approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)—when choosing which options to feature in our article.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read more about how The Bump develops our product reviews.
Overall best toddler water shoes
- Slip-on style for quickly getting out the door
- Versatile look can be worn for different occasions
- Easy to clean
- Runs narrow
- High price point for a seasonal shoe
- Not much traction or support
As a busy mom of four, versatile shoes are key for getting my little ones out the door quickly. I prefer kids’ footwear that can be worn in a variety of settings, hold up to daily wear and look stylish—just like the Native Jefferson shoe. The fully enclosed sneaker-style construction makes it a solid, reliable pick for active outdoor play where water may (or may not) be involved. These are breathable, easy-to-clean shoes that my 3-year-old can put on herself. Despite protecting my kiddo’s feet for countless outdoor activities, they also held up surprisingly well, which helps justify the price. I’ve passed down a few pairs of these through the years and have never noticed a hole, tear or fading.
In terms of comfort, my kids have never complained about wearing Native water shoes all day. They’re made from a combination of EVA and rubber, with holes on the upper to provide breathability and airflow. I think wearing any kind of water shoes all day will eventually feel kind of sweaty and sticky, but these dry fast, which helps alleviate that problem. I also love how lightweight they are. They float on water and are easy for kids to run around in. They’re more like sneakers than sandals, so that helps with support and durability for play.
Now for the downside: Sizing. Native shoes run narrow, which makes choosing the right size tricky. I’ve owned several of the Jefferson Child shoes over the years and always have to size up to accommodate my children’s wide feet. While this slightly solves the width problem, it also adds length, which may result in tripping or heel slipping. Regardless, I still recommend going up a size in Native shoes.
With the Native Jessiferson Child shoes, I think the positive features vastly outweigh the one negative. They’re so versatile in their looks and function that no other shoe really comes close. Because they’re shaped like sneakers, my kids have been able to wear them pretty much everywhere, from hiking and biking to city excursions and camps. Best of all, they’ve held up incredibly well over the years, and are a must-have when we go to the beach, pool or splash pad.
Material: Rubber/EVA | Size range: 2 to 10 (toddler); 11 to 6 (big kids) | Care instructions: Hand wash with dish soap
Our product tester says:
“I think they're a great summer shoe for all kinds of uses: day camps, water parks, beach trips, playgrounds, pool days and splash pads. It can be hard to justify spending this much on a ‘seasonal’ shoe, but with their sneaker-style construction, I think they last longer than other water shoes and have a wider range of uses.”

Our community says:
They are amazing shoes. I LOVE them. – BarefootContessa,The Bump forum member
Best toddler water shoes for wide feet
- Spacious toe box for wide feet
- Breathable and fast-drying
- Easy to clean (and even hose down when needed)
- APMA-approved
- Textured insole gets dirty fast
- Minimal heel protection
My kids definitely fall on the wide end of the foot width spectrum. Because of this, it can be so hard to find stylish shoes that won’t squish their little toes. Crocs are one of only a few brands that I trust to have a spacious toe box for my toddlers’ wide feet—and they’re practical too. In contrast to some other water shoes, the clog design offers a more secure fit and traction for play. During testing, my daughter freely ran through splash pads to the playground and across pavement and grass without slipping or tripping.
One of the best parts about Crocs is that they’re super easy to clean since they’re composed entirely of EVA foam. I hosed them down after playing in our yard, and they look good as new. They dried really fast, especially compared to other shoes that had fabric components. The holes help with drainage, breathability and airflow. One thing I don’t like is how dirt gets trapped in the textured insole, but it can easily be hosed off after wearing if you want to avoid “Croc feet.”
I think Crocs offer great value for money, even though they come at a higher price point. They’re durable and easy to use with lots of fun styles and colors. I like how they’re simple for my toddlers to slip on and off themselves—plus, all of my kids love them. In particular, my 3-year-old who tested these reached for them again and again. As an active family of six, we’re always on the go, and I like having a shoe like the Toddler Classic Clog that my kids won’t complain about wearing and that works in a variety of settings. We’ve owned several pairs of Crocs, and while they’re certainly not pristine, they’re still intact. I’ve been really happy with the durability of Crocs over the years and during my course of testing, and would highly recommend them to other parents.
Material: Croclite (EVA) | Size range: 4 to 10 (toddler); 11 to 6 (big kids) | Care instructions: Hand wash with dish soap or machine wash
Our product tester says:
“Kids love them, which helps cut down on the shoe battles. Sure, they're not perfect, and a bit pricey, but my family and most other families I know who wear them, get a ton of use out of them. I love the color choices and generous width. They also seem to be pretty comfortable for my kids.”

Our community says:
I like how quick they were to dry and how they stayed on [my child's] feet and prevented him from hurting. His toes were protected, and they were dry by the time we got back to the car. – Teresita, The Bump survey respondent and mom of two
We love classic Crocs! Great color selection and durability. No fuss, and perfect for outdoor play when you want to protect little toes in the warmer months. – Jenna B., mom of two
Some people hate them, but every kid that I've ever known loves walking in their Crocs. They keep their feet cool, they're comfortable and they stay on really well.”– thequeenbee, The Bump forum member
Best budget-friendly toddler water shoes
- Affordable price point
- Sturdy sole for active toddlers
- Adjustable strap for secure fit
- Material isn’t stretchy
- Snug fit if you stay true to size
- Shows wear quickly
It can be hard to justify spending a lot on a seasonal shoe for toddlers, which is why I think the Cat & Jack Austen Water Shoes from Target are a great budget buy. They have a solid foam sole—very similar to a sneaker—which I really liked. Thanks to this practical design, my daughter was able to run back and forth from the playground to the splash pad, and I didn’t worry about her stubbing a toe or sliding on rocks. She could also wear them in a store or to a day camp and be comfortable and supported. Plus, these water shoes didn't feel slippery at all when they were wet. The stretchy Velcro strap, cushy footbed and lightweight sole definitely make these well-suited for active toddlers.
The upper is made of mesh and neoprene, which don’t have much give. However, there’s an elastic hook-and-loop closure band across the top of the foot for extra security and adjustability. The netting over the toes also allows for airflow, which is a much-appreciated feature on hot days. I went with my daughter’s true size for these—her foot measurements even matched exactly with her shoe size on the size chart—but they fit snugly on her. I wish I had sized up. These also had a musty smell after just a couple of uses, which I think can be attributed to the neoprene retaining moisture. Luckily, this faded once the shoes dried completely.
All in all, I think the Austen water shoe is a solid, affordable pick if you’re looking for something with support and traction that won’t break the bank. These could be a good option for camps or those nonstop summer days where you need a shoe that will take your busy toddler from one activity to the next. After testing, I even recommended these to one of my friends who’s also a toddler parent, and she seems happy with them so far.
Material (lining, upper): 100% polyester | Material (outsole): 58% polyester/42% plastic | Size range: 5T to 12T | Care instructions: Hand wash
Our product tester says:
“For the price, I think these are pretty much exactly what you'd expect. They'll get the job done if you don't want to spend a lot on a ‘specialty shoe’ for your rapidly growing child.”

Best toddler water shoes for new walkers
- Wider toe box to support new walkers
- Supportive, texturized rubber outsole
- Adjustable hook-and-loop closure
- APMA-approved
- Takes a few days to dry
- Scuffed quickly
- Limited sizes
My youngest wants to be a part of anything her older siblings are doing, so it’s important that I have sturdy shoes that let her keep up (at her own pace). Robeez Water Shoes allowed her to do just that. We tested two pairs, but the Coral Island colorway was our favorite. The tones are really vibrant and fun, and they’re adorable for summertime. Apart from looks, these fit my one-year-old really nicely, and I appreciated the high-quality feel designed with new walkers in mind. According to our expert Daughtry, “young toddler water shoes are more flexible and with wider toe box area for ease of wear and adjustment for different sizes/foot shapes,” and that was certainly true of these. My little one had plenty of room to wiggle her toes and a nice supportive base for toddling around. She felt so grown up getting to wear water shoes like her older siblings.
“Toe protection, such as a toe cap, is also important in those learning to walk and [experiencing] frequent impacts and tripping,” Daughtry told us. With that in mind, I was happy that Robeez has a texturized rubber outsole from the toecap to the heel for extra traction and protection. Likewise, the podiatrist encourages parents of young toddlers to prioritize adjustable fastenings (“to ensure a secure fit that easily adjusts as the foot grows”) and lightweight, flexible material ("to allow for natural foot movement and walking development”). These water shoes tick both of those boxes. The hook-and-loop closure made it easy to tighten the shoe before playtime, and the neoprene-style material is soft and nicely constructed. Better yet, my one-year-old seemed perfectly stable and able to walk normally in these shoes. We never had an issue with the closure coming undone or the shoes slipping off, which, if you have a new walker, you know is a huge feat!
A few minor notes to keep in mind: My toddler’s toe tended to get caught in the side openings when putting them on, which took some extra finagling, but ultimately wasn’t a deal-breaker. Additionally, the neoprene material needed a few days to dry completely in my house; I recommend leaving them in the sun for faster drying. That said, if you’re searching for a reliable shoe that will keep your new walker stable on water-filled excursions this summer, the Robeez Water Shoes are an ideal choice.
Material: Neoprene (upper)/PVC (sole) | Size range: 5T to 10T | Care instructions: Spot clean with a mild detergent and damp cloth
Our product tester says:
“I really like this style for early walkers as I think it's more protective and stable for their little feet. It makes them feel comfortable and supported, and they don't flop around or slip off as easily.”

Best toddler water shoes for various terrains
- Great for all outdoor activities
- Sturdy and durable with excellent traction
- Cut-outs for added breathability
- No-tie bungee lacing
- Machine-washable
- Tight fit for wide feet
- Relatively bulky
- High price point
If you want a do-it-all, go-anywhere summer shoe, then it doesn’t get better than Keen. This was by far the sturdiest, most substantial shoe we tried. It’s the most expensive of our picks, but the quality is notably better than many competitors. In fact, no other shoe came close to having a sole as thick, supportive and protective as the Keen Newports. With a rubber toe cap and plenty of grooves for traction, my toddler was able to climb over rocks, tackle playground climbing walls and ladders and run across pavement with no problem after water play.
The insole is surprisingly squishy and soft, and the shoe flexes more than I expected, even though the outsole is hard. I was a fan of the cut-outs for extra breathability, especially if my toddler will be wearing them all day at a summer camp or on an outdoor trip. Plus, the neoprene upper is surrounded by sturdier canvas material to protect the fabric and my toddler’s feet. I really like the outdoorsy, tactical look of these shoes too. It’s certainly a distinct aesthetic that won’t suit everyone’s taste, but it looks pretty precious on little toddler feet.
I noticed marks on my daughter’s feet after wearing the shoes for a few hours. Even adjusting to the farthest extent of the cord didn’t give her enough space. For a more comfortable fit, two sizes up would have worked better for us. The hook-and-loop closure also sat pretty high on top of her foot, which caused some rubbing. Despite our issues with fit, I think with the proper size, these all-terrain shoes are an excellent choice for active toddlers. And even though the price is steep, they’re a worthwhile buy. The quality is excellent, they’re machine-washable and I’ll definitely be passing these down to my one-year-old.
Material: Polyester (upper)/KEEN FUSION rubber (outsole) | Size range: 4 to 7 (toddler) | Care instructions: Machine wash
Our product tester says:
“These could be an all summer shoe, whereas some of the others are really only suitable for exclusive water use. […] You can tell that the shoe is sturdy and well-made.”

Our community says:
Love Keen Newport H2 for summer outdoor play. – orangecurls, The Bump forum member
We bought these for [our son]. He is constantly running and falling so I liked that his foot was protected – Novem6, The Bump forum member
Best toddler swim shoes
- Ideal for foot protection while swimming
- Slim, sock-like fit that’s super flexible
- Great price
- Take a while to dry
- Tricky to get on
- Very thin sole
If you’re looking for a shoe that your toddler can actually swim in, I love this sock-like pair from Amazon. The Bigib Toddler Kids Swim Water Shoe had the stretchiest, softest feel of all the water shoes we tried. The snug fit allowed my daughter to run and play in the water completely uninhibited, and because the slim rubber outsole is so flexible, these shoes are the closest thing to being barefoot in the water. The best part about swim shoes is that you don’t have to worry about a young toddler scraping their feet across the bottom of the pool or burning their feet on a hot pool deck.
The sock-like style of these shoes is intended primarily for swimming, so they don’t offer the most substantial outsole or traction on land. That said, the rubber was thick enough to protect my daughter’s feet while climbing on the playground and running across the pavement. She loved putting these on, probably because they felt the most like going barefoot, just with a little bit of extra protection. These also took a few days to dry, which could be an inconvenience if you bring these on vacation and need to use them again right away. I’d recommend leaving them outside in the sun to speed up the process.
All in all, I think the Bigib Toddler Kids Swim Water Shoe would be perfect for a day when your child will be in and out of the water and walking across several different surfaces. You can count on them to keep their feet protected without having to bother taking shoes off and putting them back on multiple times. And for the reasonable price point, these met my expectations. If I needed something quick and didn't care about style or durability, I'd grab these for a last-minute water adventure.
Material: Rubber | Size range: 3 (infant); 4 to 10 (toddler); 1 to 3 (big kid) | Care instructions: Hand wash
Our product tester says:
“My daughter ran all around our driveway and yard in these and never asked to take them off. She ran around a splash pad and playground, too, and did not seem bothered at all. These seem fine for a day in the water, but not versatile enough to wear from pool to restaurant or anything like that.”

Toddler Water Shoes Comparison Chart
Overall best toddler water shoes | Best toddler water shoes for wide feet | Best budget-friendly toddler water shoes | Best toddler water shoes for new walkers | Best toddler water shoes for various terrains | Best toddler swim shoes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Overall Best ![]() Native Jefferson Child | ![]() Crocs Toddler Classic Clog | ![]() Cat & Jack (Target) Austen Water Shoes | ![]() Robeez Water Shoes | ![]() Keen Toddlers’ Newport H2 | ![]() Bigib Toddler Kids Swim Water Shoe | |
Price | $$ | $$ | $ | $$ | $$$ | $ |
Size range | 2 to 10 (toddler); 11 to 6 (big kids) | 4 to 10 (toddler); 11 to 6 (big kids) | 5T to 12T | 5T to 10T | 4 to 7 (toddler) | 3 (infant); 4 to 10 (toddler); 1 to 3 (big kid) |
Closure type | Slip-on | Pivoting heel strap | Adjustable hook-and-loop closure | Adjustable hook-and-loop closure | No-tie bungee lacing | Slip-on |
Machine-washable | ||||||
APMA-approved | ||||||
Buy NowRead Full Review | Buy NowRead Full Review | Buy NowRead Full Review | Buy NowRead Full Review | Buy NowRead Full Review | Buy NowRead Full Review |
Like any other type of footwear, there are several different styles of toddler water shoes to consider before you buy them. Here are the three main types you’ll come across when browsing:
- Toddler water shoes. These more or less look like regular shoes, but they’re made from durable materials that can get wet but don’t stay wet once your child is back on dry land. They’re also super-sturdy, thanks to special soles and toe protectors, so your child won’t fall on slippery surfaces, scald their feet on hot sand and concrete or stub their toes in rocky or shell-filled water. These kicks are ideal for outdoor excursions and a whole range of terrains. If you plan on your child wearing water shoes for several days in a row, consider how long the shoes may take to dry before the next use. During testing, I found that EVA and rubber styles dried faster than neoprene-style shoes.
- Toddler water sandals. This style is still safe in the splash zone, but since your little one’s toes are typically exposed, they’re not as protective as full-blown water shoes. Toddler water sandals are great for dancing under the sprinkler. They’re also ideal for situations where your child’s feet may or may not get wet, but you want to play it safe. I like water sandals for their versatility and more stylish look. However, they don’t offer the best protection or traction if your kiddo is bouncing from the pool to the playground. I love using water sandals at home when my kids play in the water outside or to wear to the pool, but usually opt for water shoes if we visit a public splash pad.
- Toddler swim shoes. Want water shoes your child can actually swim in? This special, sock-like footwear is your best bet, as it won’t weigh them down when they’re practicing their doggy paddle. And when they’re out of the water, these swim shoes will protect their feet from the hot pavement. In my experience testing swim shoes, these types of shoes don’t have a lot of support or toe protection. The swim shoes I tested wouldn’t be versatile enough to wear on family outings or while playing outside. Instead, they’d be best-suited to water use only.
Kids’ shoe sizes differ from brand to brand. I found this to be true from personal experience and testing. Generally, when my child is between sizes, I order the next size up. For my younger toddler, I tend to stick to her true size since a snug fit is better for new walkers.
To help you on your search, take a look at our children’s shoe size chart below. Once you’ve found a water shoe you like, read the manufacturer’s size chart to determine which option is best for your little one. Kids’ water shoes should be snug enough to prevent slips and falls, but not so tight as to leave red marks on the skin.
When you’re ready to hit the pool, splash pad, lake or beach with your toddler, finding the right water shoe feels a bit daunting. Start by nailing down when and where your child will be wearing the shoes to narrow your choices. “As with adult shoes, shoe choice for toddlers should consider the terrain or environment those little feet will be encountering, along with the added instability of wet surfaces,” says Daughtry. Here are the main factors to consider before picking out a pair:
- Style. As mentioned above, there are three types of water shoes, each with its own unique purpose. Do you plan on taking your child on a few errands after a playtime at the splash pad, or do you just need a lightweight shoe for afternoon swim sessions? For some families, a straightforward swim shoe, like the Bigib, will suffice, while others may need a shoe with more versatility, like the Native or the Keen. To me, your family’s use case is the biggest consideration to keep in mind when selecting a water shoe.
- Material. “Look for water-friendly, breathable and quick-drying material with good traction or grip on the soles due to the wet environment,” recommends Daughtry. Some children prefer a structured foam or rubber shoe, while others may like the softness and give of a neoprene water shoe. Also, keep in mind that certain materials will scuff and show dirt quicker than others. White rubber or foam will show wear more quickly, while neoprene may last several uses before any dirt marks are visible. In my experience, EVA foam shoes dry much faster and are more breathable than neoprene-style water shoes.
- Closure type. If you want your child to be able to put on their shoes unassisted, then a slip-on or hook-and-loop closure will be your best option. Sock-style swim shoes are a bit trickier for toddlers because of the snug fit. “Adjustable straps, elastic bands and parachute strings will offer the ability to secure the foot but also be easy to put on and remove,” Daughtry advises.
- Protection and traction. Whether you have a newly walking little one or an always-on-the-go preschooler, busy toddlers need sturdy, durable shoes that keep up with all of their adventures. “Enhanced traction or grip to the soles is a very important feature to consider on a water shoe for this more active (and fast!) group of kids,” Daughtry says. It’s important for new walkers to feel supported as they gain confidence in their footing. Water shoes that offer a stable base with plenty of traction are ideal for this early stage of walking, but also for active toddlers who may be running across multiple terrains after getting wet.
- Care and maintenance. For on-the-go families, low-maintenance shoes are the most convenient. Many shoes on our list are spot wipe or hand wash only, so consider your lifestyle and if you’ll be able to properly clean water shoes after use to prevent bacteria and unwanted smells. Shoes made from rubber or EVA foam can be easily sprayed down with a hose, while neoprene-style shoes require a bit of extra attention with soap and scrubbing. Daughtry suggests letting shoes dry in a well-ventilated area, preferably in the sunshine, and rinsing after each use to keep bacteria and odor at bay.
About the writer:
Molly Miller is a contributing writer for The Bump. She has more than eight years of experience as a lifestyle writer and editor covering home trends, product reviews and gift guides. Molly was previously a commerce editor for Better Homes & Gardens and HGTV. You can find more of her work on CNN Underscored, Cubby and House Beautiful.
Plus, more from The Bump:
Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, is a podiatrist based in Dunn, North Carolina. She is board-certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery (ABFAS) in foot surgery and is on the medical staff at WakeMed Cary, Sampson Regional Medical Center and Harnett Health System. She has a bachelor’s degree in biological science from Meredith College and received her doctorate from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine.
The Bump March 2024 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of almost 350 parents from The Bump community, and asked what brand and style of toddler shoes they’ve used with their children.
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