Slow down there friend
These Sturdy Kids Shoes Will Last Until They Outgrow Them
It's no secret that kids — no matter how adorable — are tough on shoes. From scuffed toes to strange smells, mangling footwear is an ongoing ritual of childhood. Here are the best shoes for kids who are hard on their footwear.
Durable design features and overall construction quality are high on parents' wish lists when it comes to their kids' shoes. Fortunately, children's shoemakers are well aware of the toll high-energy playtime can take on small footwear, so today’s selections are better than any other time in cobbled history.
Tips for Buying Long-Lasting Kids’ Shoes
Watch for these key features to pick a pair that stands the test of time.
Protect those toes! The toe cap area is almost always the first to show wear, so styles that feature extra layers of material or other reinforcements at the toe are likely to hold up best.
Seek a sturdy sole. If the bottom of the shoe looks flimsy, it probably is. Stiffer materials, traction treads and a nice, thick-banded outsole are all signs of a durable shoe.
Keep it simple. While there’s no need to abandon style completely, it’s best to steer clear of sequins, bows or other fancy dimensional embellishments when choosing a shoe for rough-and-tumble everyday play.
Most Durable Shoes for Girls
Skechers Ultra Flex Girls Athletic Shoe
These stylish sneakers hide all the signs of scuffing on the upper. It's a durable kids' design that includes pull-tabs at the heel and tongue to help them get the shoe on quickly without crushing and crumpling its key components—because play time doesn't last forever.
Crocs are the perfect choice for kids. They are durable, easy to clean, and they slip right on. Choose from several colors and designs. If you want something that lasts, go with the Crocs Classic Girls' Clog.
K-Swiss Tubes Trail Girls’ Running Shoe
These girls' trail shoes are made tough to stand up to anything the ground, or day, may throw her way. Comfort and durability come with a cushioned lining, thick outsole, EVA midsole, and reinforced toe. And the mesh upper makes this style breathable. No-tie adjustable laces mean a secure, customizable fit. More than just tough, the twist on these girls' shoes comes with pretty pops of aqua to complement the gray shades.
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Khombu Cheetah Cheeky Girls’ Outdoor Shoe
Sturdy and splash-friendly, the Khombu Cheeky shoes for girls come in a deep pink palette with a hint of colorful cheetah print for little fashionistas who like a bit of wild style. This pair of tiny water shoes hugs the foot with flexible material and strong bungee laces, distinguishing itself from other basic plastic water shoes, perfect for sizing up a smidge allowing room to grow. Thanks to a wrap-around toe cap, your pair will hold up even in rugged rain or terrain.
Lamo Piper Buffalo Plaid Girls' Casual Shoe
Offering sneaker-like comfort with slip-on ease, the Piper brings versatile, sporty style to any outfit — in a fun plaid that cleverly disguises wear and tear. The thick outsole has extra texture around the toe to reduce scuff marks, while twin gore siding ensures the shoe will hold its shape, no matter how many times it’s been slipped on and off.
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Most Durable Shoes for Boys
Billy Classic Hi-Top Boys’ Sneaker
An alternative to slip-ons, Billy shoes deliver on durability, keeping heels from crushing thanks to its FlipTop technology. The easy-access feature on these kids' hi-tops means the look of lace-ups starts with a wraparound zipper at the side, which continues around the toe. Little fingers still getting their grip can easily slip them on and go by unzipping the upper portion, folding it open, and stepping right in. The cushioned insole adds support, while the lightweight outsole delivers traction and stability.
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Puma Softride Rift Toddler Boys’ Running Shoe
Fire-engine red is the color on-demand for a flash of speedy style. These Puma sneakers for boys have so many style features starting with the durable slip-on design. Lacing comes in a wrap system around the breathable mesh. A higher collar and durable pull-tabs at the heel and tongue give little athletes extra support with every step and jump.
Northside Riverbend Toddler Boys’ Outdoor Shoe
Keep their feet protected when water is at play. The stretch fabric on these boys' outdoor shoes can hold up to anything that splashes their way. A durable rubber outsole gives traction and stability for playgrounds and puddles. Camo print with alert-orange trim complements the sturdiness of the design.
Reebok XT Sprinter Slip Boys’ Running Shoe
It's off to the races, basketball courts, and playgrounds in Reebok's sprinter sneakers. The durable rubber sole, thick midsole and reinforced toe mean these kicks can take on some rough-and-tumble playtime. The padded collar and elastic straps create easy on-and-off accessibility that won't ruin the shoe.
