How to choose the right sneakers for kids: A guide for parents
For many kids, sneakers are the shoe for almost everything: daycare, school, the playground and weekend outings. But which sneaker suits your child? In this guide, you'll learn what to look for in terms of fit, fastening, size and weather.
When is your child ready for sneakers?
Sneakers are the right choice once your child walks confidently and independently. The foot is then stronger and needs an everyday shoe that can handle more than the extra-soft shoes for the very first steps.
There's no fixed age. Look out for these signs instead:
- Your child walks confidently, even on uneven ground
- They run, climb and jump while playing
- Their first shoes are getting too small or wearing out quickly
Wheat kids' sneakers start from size 24. If your child is just taking their first steps, prewalkers are the better choice.
Which sneaker suits which everyday life?
Before choosing a style, it's worth looking at your child's everyday life. Where and when do they wear their shoes most?
Quick overview: Which sneaker for which situation?
| Situation | Suitable sneaker type | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Daycare and everyday | Classic sneaker | Velcro, flexible sole |
| School and free time | Classic sneaker | A fastening your child can manage on their own |
| Rain and in-between seasons | Waterproof TEX sneaker | TEX membrane, non-slip sole |
| Cold days | Winter sneakers | Fleece lining, TEX membrane |
| Wider feet | Barefoot sneaker | Wide, foot-shaped toe box |
Velcro, laces or elastic: What suits your child?
The fastening often determines whether your child can put their shoes on and take them off by themselves. That's especially important at daycare and school, where kids change shoes several times a day.
Velcro
- Quick to open, adjust and close
- Ideal for younger kids who can't tie a bow yet
- Easy to adjust to the shape of the foot
Elastic laces
- Set once and then stays fastened
- Your child simply slips them on
- Practical for kids who want to be ready quickly
Laces
- Gives an especially precise fit
- Suits older kids who can tie their own shoes
Tip: Let your child practise the fastening at home before wearing the new sneakers to daycare.
What should you look for when buying kids' sneakers?
- Flexible sole. Gently bend the sneaker at the front. It should flex where your child's foot bends.
- Non-slip outsole. A good tread gives grip on wet asphalt, grass and slippery floors.
- Room for the toes. The toes should be able to move freely without being squeezed at the sides.
- Secure fit at the heel. If the heel slips out when walking, the shoe is too big or not adjusted correctly.
- Low weight. A lightweight sneaker keeps up with running and playing rather than slowing your child down.
- Material to suit the use. Leather is durable for everyday wear, TEX helps in wet weather, and lined styles keep feet warm on cold days.
Depending on the model, Wheat sneakers come in LWG-certified leather or textile. Learn more about our materials
Barefoot sneaker or classic sneaker?
Many parents wonder whether a barefoot sneaker is the better choice. The answer depends on your child's foot shape and preferences.
| Classic sneaker | Barefoot sneaker | |
|---|---|---|
| Sole | Flexible, a little more stability | Flat, thin and extra flexible |
| Toe area | Regular fit | Wide, foot-shaped toe box |
| Best for | Everyday, school and free time | Wider feet and plenty of freedom of movement |
If your child has wider feet or regular shoes quickly feel tight, a barefoot sneaker is often a good choice.
Explore our barefoot shoes for kids
Sneakers in rain and cold: When is a sneaker enough?
Waterproof sneakers with a TEX membrane protect against wet on rainy and changeable days. They're practical on the way to daycare, on wet grass and in small puddles.
But if your child plans to play in deep puddles for a long time, rubber boots are the better choice. With a sneaker, water can run in from the top if it's deeper than the shoe.
On cold days, winter sneakers with a fleece lining keep feet warm. For snow and frost, winter boots are usually the safer choice.
Explore rubber boots for kids
Explore winter boots for kids
How should a kids' sneaker fit?
Use this short checklist when your child tries on new sneakers:
- Ideally, try on sneakers in the afternoon when feet are slightly larger.
- Have your child try them on with the socks they usually wear.
- Press on the toe of the shoe. There should be a little space in front of the longest toe.
- Let your child walk a few steps. The heel shouldn't slip out.
- Look for red pressure marks when your child takes the shoes off again.
How to measure your child's foot
Measure both feet while standing and go by the longer foot. Add 1 to 1.5 cm of growing room and compare the result with the model's inner length.
Don't buy sneakers two sizes too big. Shoes that are too big give less support and can cause tripping.
How to keep your child's sneakers looking good for longer
- Remove dirt with a soft brush or a damp cloth.
- Let wet sneakers dry at room temperature, not on the radiator.
- Proof leather and suede sneakers regularly.
- Always follow the care instructions for the specific model.
Find the right sneakers for your child
At Wheat, you'll find kids' sneakers in sizes 24 to 35, with velcro, laces or a combination of both. Choose between classic sneakers, barefoot sneakers, waterproof TEX sneakers and winter sneakers.
Frequently asked questions about kids' sneakers
Velcro or laces: Which is better for kids?
For younger kids, velcro is usually more practical, as they can open and close it themselves. Older kids who can tie a bow manage well with laces too.
Should you buy kids' sneakers a size up?
Add 1 to 1.5 cm of growing room to the measured foot length. Sneakers that are much too big give less support and can cause tripping.
How can I tell if the sneakers are too small?
Typical signs are red pressure marks, toes touching the front, or a child who no longer wants to put the shoes on. Measure feet regularly.
How often should I check my child's shoe size?
From 1 to 3 years, measure every 2 to 3 months. From 3 years, every 3 to 4 months is usually enough.
Can sneakers replace rubber boots?
Waterproof TEX sneakers protect in rain and wet grass. For longer play in deep puddles, rubber boots are the better choice, as water can otherwise run into the shoe from above.
Is there a difference between sneakers for girls and boys?
No. The fit and function are the same. Choose the colour and design your child likes best.
How do I clean kids' leather sneakers?
Remove dirt with a damp cloth or a soft brush, let the sneakers dry at room temperature and proof the leather regularly.