The 9 Best Water Shoes For Kids

This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in December of 2018. If you're tired of your children slipping out of their flip-flops, tripping over them and losing them at the beach, it's time to upgrade to a pair of water shoes. The best models cover the feet completely, yet are quick to dry. Plus you count on them to stay on, keeping your kids' feet better protected and supported. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in December of 2018. If you're tired of your children slipping out of their flip-flops, tripping over them and losing them at the beach, it's time to upgrade to a pair of water shoes. The best models cover the feet completely, yet are quick to dry. Plus you count on them to stay on, keeping your kids' feet better protected and supported. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Speedo Surf Knit

The Speedo Surf Knit (about $32) feature an S-trac outer sole with channels to disperse liquid away from the shoe, offering superior traction even while under water. The body is made of a breathable fabric for quick drainage and drying.

Comfortable footbeds
Attractive contrasting soles
Choose from six color combinations

2. Crocs Swiftwater

Designed specifically with little ones in mind, the Crocs Swiftwater (appx. $21) will stay snug on your child, thanks to an adjustable hook-and-loop closure. The sling-back style is also easy to get on and off wriggling toddlers, even those with extra-wide feet.

Protective raised toe bumpers
Also work well on land
Available in many sizes

3. Giotto Swim

The Giotto Swim (around $14) are super-lightweight booties with elastic cuffs that expand to slip them on and then help them stay put. They come in a variety of fun colors with sea-themed character details, including dolphins, sharks and jellyfish.

Stretchy material fits like a sock
Slip-resistant bottoms
Not durable enough for rough terrain

4. Keen Seacamp II

The rugged and versatile Keen Seacamp II (around $54) will take your child from playing at the park to wading through a river. They are safe for the washing machine, which is helpful because they tend to get a little smelly with some kids.

Eye-catching color options
Secure bungee lace system
May be too clunky for swimming

5. Watelves Barefoot

The Watelves Barefoot (appx. $11) fit like socks and are so flexible your kids won't mind leaving them on while swimming. While they probably won't last more than one season, they take up minimal space in your suitcase or beach bag, making them perfect for vacations.

Anti-slip rubber soles
Lightly padded insoles
Limited sizes and colors

6. Speedo Surfwalker Pro

The Speedo Surfwalker Pro (appx. $16) have a quickly-adjustable side strap, perfect for impatient toddlers, plus it also allows you to achieve a snug fit to keep out sand and rocks. Two mesh panel inserts promote better airflow and quicker drying.

4 two-toned color choices
Protective thermoplastic soles
Not comfortable for long walks

7. Sunville Athletic

The Sunville Athletic (about $11) are styled like sneakers and keep precious little toes protected at the beach or the pool. They feature an adjustable cord on the back, so you can pull them tight quickly enough when your child is in a big hurry to get into the water.

Budget-friendly price
Removable insoles
Fabric isn't very breathable

8. Cior Fantiny

The Cior Fantiny (around $18) feature drainage holes on the bottom, so that both feet and shoes can dry more quickly. The four-way stretch fabric and simple hook-and-loop closure strap make it easy for young children to put them on all by themselves.

Toddler through big kid sizes
Provide a little arch support
Rocks can get stuck in the holes

9. Aleader Slip-On

The Aleader Slip-On (appx. $26) have faux laces that are actually convenient elastic. The stylish, wide-open mesh uppers provide great drainage, although they are not ideal for the beach, as that same feature will let the sand come right through.

Heel pulls makes them easy to put on
Extra traction in the toe area
No way to actually tighten them

Last updated by Tina Morna Freitas

Tina Morna Freitas is a writer who lives in Chicago with her family and three cats. She has a B.A. in anthropology with a minor in English, and has built a freelance career over the years in writing and digital marketing. Her passions for cooking, decorating and home improvement contribute to her extensive knowledge of all things kitchen and home goods. In addition, her 20 years as a parent inform her expertise in the endless stream of toys and equipment that inevitably takes over the homes of most parents. She also enjoys gardening, making and sipping margaritas, and aspires to be a crazy cat lady once all the children are grown.

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