Summer dressing is all about fashion, comfort and practicality. For kids’ footwear, that means lightweight, water-friendly looks that are fun and affordable.
These molded, waterproof designs mimic a wide range of the latest shoe styles from sporty sneaker-inspired styles to active sandals. While these styles may resemble natural rubber, they’re made of a range of popular lightweight manmade materials that include EVA foams and rubber-like PVC.
While EVA is a durable plastic foam material that does not contain rubber, making it super lightweight and comfortable. PVC is a synthetic plastic material that comes in soft, flexible versions used for shoes.
These colorful, fun looks come packed with plenty of safety features for active kids of all ages. When shopping for shoes, look for adjustable straps, drainage holes on the upper that are decorative, but also allow water to drain and air to circulate. Another important feature are outsoles that are slip-resistant for protection on slippery surfaces. These shoes are also a must-have to keep feet safe and clean in locker and shower rooms.
What makes them even more practical is their ounces-only weight as airline weight restrictions get even tighter. And, don’t forget their affordable price tags with many styles under $20.
Here, FN has curated a range of colorful, on-trend looks to create a fun summertime wardrobe for toddlers to youths.
Native Shoes Jefferson Slip-on
Taking its cue from a classic sneaker, this lightweight unisex style is easy to slip on and off with its trendy laceless design. Let a pair of colorful socks peek through the mini portholes for a personalized look.
Crocs Crocband Clog Water Shoe
This fun update to the classic clog features ventilation ports for breathability while helping shed water and debris. To keep kids light on their feet, it’s made of Crocs’ proprietary foam. Next, add a back strap for security when running around the playground.
Speedo Jelly Jump Water Shoe
It’s easy to keep kids surefooted poolside in this colorful slip-on waterproof style designed with ventilation ports at the forefront that allows water to drain. A convenient back tab makes it easy to slip on and off.
RVROVIC Breathable Mesh Sneaker
Comfort and practicality come to merge in this colorful slip-on style designed with a breathable stretch upper that allows water to channel through, while the slip-resistant sole offers support and safety. The stretch ankle design makes it easy for kids to dress alone.
Mini Melissa Furadinha+Fabula Mary Jane
Kids can dive right into summer fun with this whimsical water-friendly style that makes a splash at the pool or beach. It will also appeal to eco-conscious parents, made of recycled PVC.
Igor Star Sandal
Athleisure dressing is all the rage today and this sport-inspired fisherman design meets all criteria. It’s also water-friendly and safe around the pool with its textured outsole. And, a hook-and-loop strap closure allows for easy access.
Adidas Adilette Comfort K Slide
Soccer slides are the must-have summertime look. This two-tone logo version is designed with a comfortable contoured footbed and rubber bottom to keep kids sure-footed around the pool or gym.
Amoji Garden Clogs
Don’t let the name fool you, this lightweight clog style goes from the backyard to the beach. It’s made of a water-friendly foam-like material, complete with drainage ports on the upper for added safety and comfort.
Plae Mimo Sneaker
Water-friendly and quick-drying, this sneaker style is designed with decorative, yet functional hexagon drainage ports on the upper for poolside living. The ultra-lightweight EVA material makes it a great travel shoe when heading off to a resort vacation.
Skechers Guzman Steps Water Shoe
This molded lightweight EVA style is made super easy to get on and off. Kids can simply step on the collapsible back to create a slip-on style for easy access when heading from the beach to the boardwalk.
Sanuk Lil Walker Loafer
Kids will find it even easier to loaf around in the summer with this classic slip-on style made of a one-piece molded EVA upper for lightweight comfort. A convenient back tab makes it easy to slip on and off.
Stride Rite Made 2 Play Phibian Sneaker Sandal
For active kids, this water-friendly sneaker is made of lightweight EVA, complete with a rubber outsole with enhanced traction to prevent slips and falls. It’s ventilated upper makes it quick-drying, while it’s machine washable for easy cleaning.
Pebbles Waterproof Mary Jane
Toddlers will be light on their feet in this novelty Mary Jane style detailed in a water-friendly odor-resistant EVA foam. It’s made extra comfortable with a cushioned footbed and instep strap for extra security.
Unicorn Slide Sandals
These water-friendly molded slides do double duty as a pool and shower shoe. They’re made even more practical, designed with a slip-resistant rubber outsole for durability and protection on slippery surfaces.
Maritony Dinosaur Clogs
Kids can’t seem to get their fill of dinosaurs and this whimsical clog makes these creatures all the more friendly. This molded style is also practical, designed with drainage ports at the toe area and non-slip outsoles for enhanced safety.
Techcity Summer Sandals
Don’t worry about kids slipping out of their sandals with this adjustable double strap style that incorporates an anatomical insole with toe grips for added security. The removable insole makes them easy to clean, while the non-slip bottom provides even more safety.
Teva Hurricane Drift Sport Sandal
Get ready to head outdoors with this molded EVA active sandal that’s lightweight and supportive. To keep it securely on kids’ feet it features an easy to close instep strap that’s full adjustable.
Nortive 8 Outdoor Sport Water Shoe
Heading upstream, don’t forget this EVA sport shoe that stays securely on kids’ feet with adjustable lacing and a knit cuff. For even more comfort, there are drainage ports on the upper and rubber pods on the sole for added traction when navigating streams and lakes.
All products featured have been independently selected and curated by our editorial team. If you buy something through our retail links, we may earn a commission and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
