If your child is anything like mine, they make a beeline to any puddle, stream, lake, or water hose they can find! Bebe adores playing in the water (and generally making a mess). After a few soggy sneakers, I realized I needed to get proactive with water-friendly shoes, even for when we are just playing with the water table in the backyard.
We have tried a few different fits and shoe brands. Bebe has a pretty chunky foot, and always has. Our impressions are definitely based on his foot structure, which may be different than your baby’s foot!
We started with the traditional Sunsan Surfer sandal. These are great because they are leather but are meant to get wet! They can be worn with nicer outfits, or days when you really have no intention of being in the water. These typically fit Bebe’s foot best when he is just sizing into them because they have the most room then. After a while, the straps become too tight on his foot. If you have a child with a skinnier foot, these would be terrific the whole way!
Next, we began experimenting with Natives. We first tried the popular Jefferson style. These are too narrow for Bebe, and have never fit him in any size. I was so disappointed! Then, by chance I stumbled upon a mention of the Miles – and how they are better for kids with chunky feet. They look very similar to the Jefferson, and work great for us! I am so happy to have found them.
I also poked around the Natives website looking for sandal options. I miss being able to wear Sunsans for their classic look. These Charley sandals (particularly in red I think) give a more traditional look, but actually fit Bebe’s sweet chunky feet.
What are your favorite water-friendly shoes for kids? Have you also struggled with the chunky foot dilemma?