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*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Thank you for your support!
The weather is getting warm and soon it will be time to play outside. My daughter likes to spend time in nature and I want to make sure that her feet are protected.
So I researched and tested various sandals for new walkers and narrowed my list down to just a few that are appropriate for infants and toddlers learning to walk.
The best sandals for new walkers are the Ikiki Sandals because they are very lightweight and are closed-toe to protect my little one’s feet.
They are also APMA-certified, which is a huge benefit because these sandals have been approved by podiatrists to ensure healthy foot development.
In all honesty, there aren’t many sandals that promote quality foot health, which is important to avoid foot problems later in life.
With this in mind, I only selected 5 sandals that are APMA-approved and have the Seal of Approval/Acceptance.
Here are the baby sandals I recommend and that many other parents like too.
Image: Ikiki
Super lightweight sandals that are comfortable on your baby’s feet.
I recently came across Ikiki. When I saw these sandals, I immediately checked to see if they were approved by AMPA.
And yes they were! That checked off one of my requirements when it comes to baby shoes.
These shoes are extremely lightweight. This is a huge plus because your baby won’t carry extra weight when they walk.
I love the closed-toe design. Babies will trip on everything, so this simple but effective design protects their toes.
I also love the closure. The way the velcro is designed makes it easy to fasten and the wide opening will also encourage your baby to put them on independently.
A huge benefit is that these sandals are compatible with most AFOs, SMOs, and other orthotics. So if this is something you need, then you are in good hands.
And don’t forget to use code LATINXMONTESSORI to save 5%.
Colors/designs available | 4 (rainbow, checkered, secret seascape, crab) |
Sizes available | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 |
Image: Reima
Great sandals for hiking and outdoor activities.
We are avid hikers and backpackers. Now that my daughter can hike for longer periods, I needed something that could protect her feet in tough terrain.
The Hiking Sandals by Reima are a must-have if you are outdoorsy like us.
These sandals are closed-toe which, as I mentioned previously, is important to protect our little ones’ feet, especially if they hike on rugged trails.
The sandal upper is made of synthetic material and textile which minimizes the weight. The rubber sole is also flexible to allow your child to walk with ease.
I like the elastic laces and velcro strap because they provide a secure fit while making it easy to put on your child.
While these sandals are not approved by AMPA, the toe box is still wide to nurture healthy foot development.
Colors/designs available | 4 (pale rose, light aqua, soft black, navy) |
Sizes available | 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11 |
Image: Reima
Lightweight sandals that fit chubby feet.
I had to include these Reima Sandals too because they are great for going to the beach, the lake, or the river.
In essence, if you are going to spend lots of time in water, your child will greatly benefit from these water-friendly sandals.
These sandals are also closed-toe which if you haven’t noticed by now, is something I look for because they prevent toe injuries.
I like the t-shaped velcro straps. I feel like they provide extra security and stay on very well.
They also come in various sizes. I do think they run a bit big though. But don’t worry if the sandal fits big, Reima has an amazing exchange policy at no cost to you.
Colors/designs available | 5 (cherry pink, navy, black, grayish green, misty red) |
Sizes available | Toddler: 6, 6.5, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13, 13.5 Kids: 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5 |
Image: Ten Little
Awesome stylish sandals for various ages.
Ten Little is one of my favorite kids’ shoe brands. Their products are well-made and hold their quality.
The Everyday Sandals look a little dressy but can be worn with all kinds of outfits. And as you might have guessed, I love the closed-toe design.
These sandals are also APMA-approved and that brings peace of mind knowing that my daughter’s foot is developing healthy.
One thing that stands out is the textured insoles. Your child will get wet and the insole prevents their feet from moving around.
These are also great if your kid gets wet because the water-resistant and quick-drying material adds hours of outdoor fun.
Colors/designs available | 3 (sandy brown, soft pink, slate blue) |
Sizes available | 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13 |
Image: See Kai Run
Great summer baby sandals with lots of traction.
See Kai Run is one of the most popular brands amongst parents. And that’s because their shoes are affordable and durable. Plus they also have the Seal of Acceptance from APMA.
We’ve had a few of their shoes and I love how lightweight and flexible they are. I wanted to give these sandals a try and I can confidently say that I am satisfied with their performance.
By the way, these are boy sandals but you can get the girl sandals too.
These sandals have great traction which makes them suitable for various types of terrain like trails, sand, gravel, and wet surfaces.
And even though I like them, there are some things to consider.
First, the upper is made of synthetic leather which can make your child’s feet a bit sweaty. The sole is not as flexible compared to the other shoes in this list.
And one thing I don’t like about See Kai Run shoes is that the velcro wears off fast. Other than that, I think these are great alternatives to the other sandals I mentioned.
Colors/designs available | 3 (gray/navy, gray, navy) |
Sizes available | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 |
From experience and opinion, these are the best baby sandals for new walkers.
Even though Ten Little is my favorite brand, the Ikiki Sandals are my top choice because they are very lightweight and comfortable.
I also have a list of shoes for new walkers, so make sure to check it out and pair some of the shoes I recommend with the sandals.
Hello, I am Leslie. I am on a mission to help you support the growth and development of your child. With the right tools and proper guidance, you can navigate parenthood with confidence and assertion! My goal is to equip you with knowledge to help you construct a strong foundation for your child’s life.
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