How to choose the right rubber boots for kids: A guide for parents
Rubber boots are among the shoes kids love most and parents buy most often. But which rubber boot suits your child, the weather and everyday life at daycare? In this guide, you'll learn what to look for in terms of type, fit, size and care.
Classic, thermal or barefoot: Which rubber boot is right when?
The most important question when buying is when and in what weather your child will wear the rubber boots. All Wheat rubber boots are 100% waterproof. The difference lies in the lining and the sole.
Quick overview: Which rubber boot for which weather?
| Weather | Suitable rubber boot | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Rain in spring and summer | Classic rubber boot | Lightweight, non-slip sole |
| Wet, cool autumn days | Classic rubber boot with wool socks, or a thermal rubber boot | Room for thicker socks |
| Cold autumn days and mild winter days | Thermal rubber boots | Warm inner lining |
| Lots of movement and wider feet | Barefoot rubber boot | Wide toe box, flat sole |
Classic or thermal rubber boots?
Many parents wonder whether a pair of thermal rubber boots is worth it or whether classic rubber boots will do. The answer depends on how cold it is and how long your child is outside.
Classic rubber boots
- Lightweight and flexible
- Ideal for rainy days in spring, summer and mild autumn
- Can be combined with wool socks on cool days
Thermal rubber boots
- Warm inner lining – depending on the model, wool, fleece or a removable inner boot
- Ideal for cold autumn days and mild winter days down to approx. -15°C
- Good for long days outdoors at daycare, when feet get cold quickly
Tip: If your child plays outside a lot, even when it's cold, it's often worth having a pair of each type.
When is a barefoot rubber boot the right choice?
A barefoot rubber boot has a flat, extra-flexible sole and a wide, foot-shaped toe box. It's a good fit for kids who:
- have wider feet
- quickly complain about pressure on their toes in classic boots
- already like wearing barefoot shoes
Classic rubber boots, on the other hand, offer a little more stability and support. That can be helpful for kids who have only just started walking confidently outdoors.
Explore our barefoot shoes for kids
How should a rubber boot fit?
Rubber boots give less than leather or textile shoes, so the right fit is especially important. Use this checklist when trying them on:
- Have your child wear the socks they'll wear in the boots. On cold days, that's often thicker wool socks.
- Press on the toe of the boot. There should be a little space in front of the longest toe.
- Have your child squat down. The shaft shouldn't press into the back of the knee.
- Let your child walk a few steps. The heel shouldn't slip out of the boot much.
- Check whether your child can put the boots on and take them off by themselves.
Tip: If the boot has a removable insole, have your child stand on it. You'll see right away how much room there is in front of the toes.
How to find the right size
Measure both feet while standing and go by the longer foot. Add 1 to 1.5 cm of growing room. Wheat rubber boots come in sizes 22 to 35.
Rubber boots and rainwear: How to keep your child dry
Even the best rubber boot won't help much if water runs in from above. So pay attention to how rubber boots and rain trousers work together:
- Rain trousers over the boot. Always pull rain trousers over the shaft, not inside. That way, water runs off the outside.
- Use foot straps. Rain trousers with foot straps stay over the boot during play.
- Wool socks instead of cotton. Wool stays warm even when slightly damp. Cotton holds moisture and cools the foot.
Learn more about rainwear for kids
Rubber boots or another shoe?
Rubber boots are the best choice for puddles, mud and long rainy days. For other situations, there are better alternatives:
- Dry days and lots of walking: Sneakers are lighter and let the foot breathe better.
- Light rain on the way to daycare: A waterproof TEX sneaker may be enough.
- Snow and frost: Winter boots offer more warmth and support.
Explore winter boots for kids
Explore sneakers for kids
How to care for rubber boots
With the right care, natural rubber boots last a long time and can be passed on to younger siblings.
- Rinse off mud and sand with lukewarm water.
- Let the boots dry at room temperature, not on the radiator or in direct sunlight.
- Take out removable insoles or inner boots to dry.
- Store the boots somewhere cool and dark when they're not worn for a while.
- A white bloom on natural rubber is normal. Simply wipe it off with a damp cloth.
Find the right rubber boots for your child
At Wheat, you'll find natural rubber boots in sizes 22 to 35: classic styles for rainy days, thermal rubber boots for the cold months and barefoot rubber boots for plenty of freedom of movement.
Explore our rubber boots for kids
Frequently asked questions about kids' rubber boots
Do I need both classic and thermal rubber boots?
If your child plays outside a lot all year round, it's often worth having a pair of each type. Classic rubber boots suit rain in spring and summer, thermal rubber boots cold autumn days and mild winter days.
Which socks should my child wear in rubber boots?
Wool socks are the best choice, as they stay warm even when slightly damp. Avoid cotton socks on cold days.
Should rain trousers go inside or over rubber boots?
Always over the rubber boot. That way, water runs off the outside rather than into the boot.
Why does my child get cold feet in rubber boots?
Classic rubber boots aren't insulated. Wool socks help on cool days, and on cold days thermal rubber boots are the better choice. Boots that are too tight can also make feet get cold faster.
What's the best way to dry rubber boots?
Let them dry at room temperature and take out removable insoles. Avoid radiators and direct sunlight.
What's the white bloom on rubber boots?
A white bloom can form on natural rubber over time. This is normal and can be wiped off with a damp cloth.
Can my child wear rubber boots all day?
Rubber boots are made for wet days. For dry days and lots of walking, sneakers or other shoes are more comfortable, as the foot can breathe better in them.