Going to the beach or a swimming pool with a toddler or infant in tow is not an easy undertaking. Depending on their age, they might crawl or run around and some of them might even be swimming.
Regular shoes, while nice and comfortable, are not at their best in and around water. Instead, you’ll want to get your child a pair of proper water shoes.
In the remainder of the article, we’ll review some of, in our opinion, the best water shoes for toddlers and infants and look into how to choose the right pair.
Click Here to See Our Pick for the Best Water Shoes for Toddlers
Click Here to See Our Pick for the Best Water Shoes for Infants
All About Water Shoes 101
Water shoes are shoes specifically designed to be worn on the beach and other aquatic settings. Construction-wise, they’re quite different from conventional shoes and sneakers, featuring highly flexible rubber soles and perforated fabric or synthetic uppers.
Water shoes, also referred to as aqua shoes, are waterproof.
However, that doesn’t mean they’ll keep your feet dry, because they most certainly will not if you try to cross a stream or something. What it means is that they don’t soak up water when submerged.
The main task of a pair of water or aqua shoes is not to keep the feet dry but to keep them quick-drying and safe from sharp rocks and debris.
Our Top Pick of The Best Infant and Toddler Water Shoes
Check our top picks for the best toddler and infant water shoes:
Our Pick for The Best Toddler Water Shoes
Our pick of the best toddler water shoes: Speedo Surfwalker Pro 2.0
These shoes are not only comfortable but also very sturdy and durable.
Your toddler should have no problems taking part in indoors and outdoors activities with these shoes on.
These shoes are also machine-washable and dry-able. Speedo offers the Surfwalker in a wide range of colors.
Our Pick for The Best Infant Water Shoes 2023
Our Pick for the best infants swim shoes are the FEETCITY Baby Boys Girls Water Sport Shoes.
These shoes feel equally at home indoors and outdoors. They’re durable, comfortable, and foldable.
The Pandas also have anti-slip rubber soles and breathable uppers. Finally, they’re super easy to slip on and pull off.
Best Baby & Toddler Water Shoes 2023 Comparison Chart
Below is a comparison chart of, in our opinion, the best baby water and toddler shoes; which are mentioned in this article.
You can then read our detailed reviews of the water shoes as well.
Brand | Price | Sizes | Features | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 2c-10c | Suede Sole, Synthetic, Lightweight Cushioned, Adjustable Fit | ||
 | 3-13 | Rubber Sole, Non-Slip, Anti-Odor | ||
 | 4-11 | Textile, Synthetic Sole, Durable Stretch | ||
 | 7.5 toddler - 7 child | Polyester Diving Material, Rubber Sole, | ||
 | 4-13 | EVA Upper, Synthetic Sole, Rubber Pods, Vegan-Friendly | ||
 | 5-13 | Soft Non-Toxic Material, Synthetic Sole, Padded Liner | ||
 | 4-10 | Synthetic, Rubber Sole, Breathable, Affordable | ||
 | 3-10.5 | Polyester Diving Material Upper, TPR Plastic Sole | ||
 | 3-13 | Polyester, Rubber Sole, High-Stretch, Quick-Dry | ||
 | 5-10 | Nylon, Removable Insole, Flexible, Breathable, Adjustable |
Best Water Shoes for Infants 2023 Comparison Chart
Below is a comparison chart of all the best water shoes for infants.
You can then read my infant water shoes reviews below featuring the best for girl and boy infants.
Brand | Price | Sizes | Features | Star Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 0-24 Months | Polyester, Spandex, Rubber Sole, Stretchy, Flexible, Cheap | ||
 | 0-24 Months | Polyester, Spandex, Rubber Sole, Flexible | ||
 | 0-30 Months | Stretchy Upper, Rubber Sole, Smooth Neck | ||
 | 0-30 Months | Stretchy Upper Fabric, Rubber Outsole | ||
 | 2-6 | High-Quality, Anti-Slip Soles, Lightweight, Flexible |
How to Choose the Best Water Shoes for Toddlers and Infants
Water shoes are one of the most useful toddler travel accessories for those heading on a summer holiday. When choosing the right baby beach shoes for your toddlers and infants, there are several key considerations to make.
First, you should inspect the quality of the materials and build. Then, check for waterproofing and sole thickness. Finally, the best infant and toddler beach shoes have to be comfy and easy to wear.
Water Shoes vs. Regular Shoes
Water shoes are, by no means, as sturdy and resilient as the conventional shoes and sneakers. But, if their main purpose is to protect the wearer’s feet, why shouldn’t you equip your infant or toddler with a pair of regular shoes?
That’s because regular shoes soak up water. Once soaked, regular shoes can become significantly heavier and can weigh your kid down.
On the other hand, water shoes and socks are made of materials that don’t soak up water; therefore, they don’t get heavier when wet. They’re also filled with drain holes. It is also worth noting that water shoes are also a lot lighter than your average conventional shoes when dry.
Water Shoes vs. Water Socks vs. Water Sandals
There are three main types of water shoes – water shoes, water sandals, and water socks. Each of the three has its own advantages and disadvantages and you should choose according to your child’s needs. Here’s a word or two about each.
Water Shoes
This is the most basic type of water-friendly footwear. Shoes of this type commonly have rubber soles and fabric or mesh uppers. They dry significantly quicker than standard shoes and some models are machine washable. Water shoes usually have better grip than socks.
Water Sandal
They are construction-wise close to shoes but have more openings. Like the previous type, they’re mostly made of a combination of rubber soles and polyester/fabric/mesh uppers. Sandals are a good option for averagely active toddlers.
Water Socks
This is the lightest type of water-oriented footwear. They’re the most flexible of the three, sporting thin soles and lightweight uppers usually made of mesh. Aqua socks are a god solution for fussy infants and toddlers, and those with sensitive feet. They are also the least resilient of the three.
How to Look For
Materials
The most commonly used materials include synthetic mesh and textile for the uppers and rubber for the soles. The mesh/rubber combo is the most common. Meshed materials are lightweight and highly breathable. They are also very comfortable and allow the shoes to drain and dry quickly.
Textile is less common, though you may find it on some expensive models. It is not as light as polyester mesh, though it should be the go-to option for kids with sensitive skin.
Rubber and hard synthetic materials are used for the soles. They should be flexible enough to be comfortable, yet sturdy enough to offer protection. Also, the design of the soles would determine the grip.
Waterproofing
Water shoes, sandals, and socks should also be waterproof, so they shouldn’t retain water when they get wet. To achieve maximum waterproofing, water shoe manufacturers rely on more than just waterproof materials.
In order to let the shoes dry quickly, the soles will often be perforated. Some finer models also have sole inserts that let water out and prevent filth and debris from coming in.
Sole Thickness
The thickness of the soles is a very important aspect of water footwear. It should depend on the type of activity and environment you have in mind. If you plan on taking your child to a rocky beach, thicker soles might be in order. On the other hand, if you’re going to a swimming pool, you can get away with thinner soles.
Likewise, if you want to replace your kid’s sports sneakers with aqua shoes, you should get thicker or thinner soles based on the intensity of the activity.
Of course, thicker soles would result in heavier aqua shoes. Heavier shoes may offer better protection but sometimes at the cost of comfort.
Usability
The best toddler and baby water shoes have to be easy to use. This is especially important if your children are fussy and impatient. Other than being easy to slip on and off, the best water shoes also have to be comfortable enough for your child to feel good in them.
Finally, they should fit snuggly but not overly tight. That way, they’ll stay on in water without hurting your loved one’s feet.
Are They Necessary?
While they’re not mandated, it is highly recommendable to have your child put on water shoes when you’re heading to somewhere wet. They’re lightweight, more comfortable than regular shoes, and quicker drying.
Also, there are many aqua shoes, sandals, and socks that are designed with other activities in mind. Many of them can be used for sports, indoor play, walking, running, yoga, and any other activity where the feet might sweat or get wet.
Top 10 Water Shoes for Toddlers Reviews
In the section below, you will find our baby water shoe reviews of 2023.
The list covers all the positive aspects and downsides of each pair of shoes. Here’s our selection of the best water shoes for toddlers.
1. Nike Kids' Sunray Protect Review
The Nike Kids’ Sunray Protect water shoes feature a smart combination of synthetic materials and suede. The sole of these Nike toddler water shoes is made of suede, while the rest is made of synthetic materials. These shoes are lightweight, comfortable, and open-heeled.
The Sunray Protect shoes are available in a number of colors for boys and girls. Also, a wide range of sizes is available. Aside from the toddler range, Nike also makes these water shoes in sizes for infants and young kids up to 8.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these shoes or click the button below.
2. Bigib Non-Slip Barefoot Aqua Socks Review
These cute toddler water socks are made of a combination of fabric and have rubberized soles. They’re also slip-resistant and supportive. One of the best things about them is the anti-odor properties
The Bigib aqua socks have a smooth and comfortable design that prevents scratching. They’re also very easy to slip on and off. However, they’re slow to dry (might take up to two days).
Bigib makes these socks in a number of colorful unisex designs. Each color option has a different cute animal. Crabs, sharks, unicorns, whales, and many others are on the list. Also, these socks are available in a wide range of sizes.
Tip: These are the best toddler water socks for 2023 and the best infant aqua socks for 2023.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these water socks or click the button below.
3. Speedo Surfwalker Pro 2.0 Review
The Speedo Surfwalker Pro 2.0 shoes are made for active toddlers. They’re sturdy and can take quite a bit of punishment.
With synthetic soles and textile uppers, the Surfwalker Pro 2.0 shoes are easy to put on and take off, thanks to the four-way stretch top. To speed up the drying process, a large portion of the top is meshed. On the bottom, the S-trac outsoles offer flow dispersion.
If you opt for these Speedo toddler water shoes, be careful with the sizing. In this case, you might want to order slightly bigger. Luckily, there are numerous cute two-tone colorways to choose from.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these shoes or click the button below.
4. UBFEN Water Shoes for Kids Review
If your toddler’s very active and goes through shoes fast, then you might consider getting a pair of sturdy water shoes. And for that, there’s the UBFEN Water Shoes for Kids.
These colorful water shoes have diving material with good breath ability and reinforced uppers. The velcro straps provide optimum support and good adjustability. The rubber soles are equipped with rubber toe bumpers in front.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these shoes or click the button below.
5. Stride Rite Made 2 Play Phibian Sneaker Sandals Review
The Phibian toddlers beach shoes are a lot closer to conventional sneakers than standard water shoes. They’re designed to mimic low-cut sneakers but with water-resistant materials.
The EVA upper is perforated and has mesh tongue and neck. It also sports a vegan-friendly hook/loop closure and an antimicrobial lining to suppress odors. The rubber sole features strategically placed anti-slip pods.
Probably the best thing about these toddler aqua shoes is that you can wash them in the washing machine. They dry quickly and don’t pick up any water at all. On the flipside, these shoes might take some time to break in.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these shoes or click the button below.
6. Nerteo Boys and Girls Water Shoes Review
If you’re looking for simple water shoes, you might want to check out the Nerteo Boys and Girls Water Shoes. These are made in several adorable and colorful designs, featuring unicorns, dinosaurs, whales, and other cute animals.
The soft fabric uppers ensure maximum comfort. The flip side is that the Nerteo Water Shoes are not as sturdy as some other models. However, they do come with the standard hook & loop adjustment system and removable and padded sock liners. You can wash them in the machine, as well.
The rubber soles have very soft insoles. They’re fast drying and offer good support. It is worth noting that the shoes are completely made of non-toxic materials.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these shoes or click the button below.
7. Dadawen Water Shoes Review
The budget-friendly Dadawen Water Shoes are available in numerous cute and colorful designs.
Both the uppers and soles of these shoes are made of synthetic materials. The upper is a soft plastic mesh with soft fabric borders around the top line. On the plus side, the Dadawen shoes are unbeatable in terms of breathability. However, they’re not very sturdy.
The rubber soles offer a decent grip. These shoes are machine washable and dry relatively quickly.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these shoes or click the button below.
8. CROVA Kids Aqua Socks Review
The CROVA Kids Aqua Socks are very popular among parents who need aqua socks for both indoor and outdoor situations. These versatile socks perform well in either scenario though they’re probably better suited for indoor activities and sports.
The socks are made of a combination of polyester and rubber, making them extremely flexible. You can roll them up and they’ll keep their form. They’re also pretty stretchy and comfy.
CROVA offers a huge color palette for these socks, with plenty of options for both girls and boys.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these shoes or click the button below.
9. Sunville Toddler’s Athletic Water Shoes Review
If your toddler is into sports and active, then a pair of athletic water shoes/socks might work great for the summer months. And you may not have to look any further than the Sunville Toddler’s Athletic Water Shoes.
The nylon upper is a combination of breathable mesh and solid material. On the bottom, the rubber sole is grippy and flexible.
Instead of Velcro or hook and loop systems, these shoes feature the simple drawstring adjustment system. The only major downside is that they’re a bit wider than usual.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these shoes or click the button below.
10. L-RUN Kids Aqua Socks Review
The L-RUN Kids Aqua Socks are very popular among parents who need aqua socks for both indoor and outdoor situations. These versatile socks perform well in either scenario though they’re probably better suited for indoor activities and sports.
The socks are made of a combination of polyester and rubber, making them extremely flexible. You can roll them up and they’ll keep their form. They’re also pretty stretchy and comfy.
L-RUN offers a huge color palette for these socks, with plenty of options for both girls and boys.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these shoes or click the button below.
Top 5 Water Shoes for Infants Reviews
Next up, we have the list of our favorite infant water shoes.
1. JIASUQI Boys and Girls Barefoot Aqua Socks Review
Infants, especially those younger than 12 months, don’t actually run around the beach. Therefore, aqua socks work better than water shoes. If you’re looking for affordable socks for the summer months, you may have found them in the JIASUQI Boys and Girls Barefoot Aqua Socks.
These aqua socks are intended to be worn barefoot. They’re easy to slip on and off and very flexible. The smooth top line is one of the highlights of these lightweight socks.
The uppers are 92% polyester and 8% spandex. The rubber soles offer good grip.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these water socks or click the button below.
2. L-RUN Baby Aqua Socks Review
The L-RUN Baby Water Shoes are made for both outdoor and indoor use. However, they’re not as strong as beach water shoes.
These aqua socks are available in a huge selection of colors — you’ll find plenty for boys and girls. With rubber soles and polyester uppers, these shoes are lightweight, breathable and fit snuggly against the foot. The soles are flexible and nice and grippy.
These L-RUNs are primarily made for indoor activities, though your little one can also wear them for walks, beach trips, sports, and playing outdoors.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these water socks or click the button below.
3. Apolter Water Shoes Review
Apolter makes these shoes in both infant and toddler sizes. They’re available in a selection of cute animal and pattern prints fit for both girls and boys.
The Apolter aqua socks have stretch fabric uppers and rubber soles. The uppers are thin and breathable and close fitting. Also, they’re very flexible. The soles are slip-resistant and lightweight.
They’re very easy to slip on and off, making them a good choice for impatient infants. While they shouldn’t be washed in a machine, they’re fit for indoor and outdoor play, swimming, and beach activities.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these water shoes or click the button below.
4. Lefflow Water Shoes Review
The Lefflow Water Shoes are made to be worn barefoot, not unlike any other aqua socks. They are available in a wide range of infant sizes. The color palette includes a number of cute prints and colors.
The soles are made of soft and flexible rubber. They’re combined with thin and breathable fabric uppers, making these socks a great option for the warm months.
Recommended activities, aside from indoor play, include running, swimming, walking, and more. However, the sizing may not be too standard.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these water socks or click the button below.
5. FEETCITY Baby Boys Girls Water Sport Shoes
Review
The Panda Software Baby Aqua Socks are among the best infant swim shoes. Make sure to check them out if you’re in the market for a pair of reliable and comfortable aqua socks for your baby boy or girl.
They’re lightweight and breathable while remaining sturdy enough for a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities. You can take them to the swimming pool, beach, and park without fear of disintegrating.
The fabric uppers are breathable and flexible. The top line is soft and allows the socks to be easily slipped on and off. The rubber outsoles are flexible and anti-slip.
PROS
CONS
>>> Click here to check the current price on these water socks or click the button below.
Verdict on the Best Infant & Toddler Swim Shoes
Hopefully after reading our review of the best water shoes for toddlers and infants that you have a product in mind.
If not, we would recommend the Speedo Surfwalker Pro 2.0 Swim Water Shoes for toddlers. They are comfortable and supportive and features a quick adjusting strap closure to make it easier to pop on a toddler's feet.
For infants, we would suggest the FEETCITY Infant Water shoes. They are comfortable, breathable and quick-drying. They are also easy to pop on a baby's feet. Suitable for unisex infants from 0-30 months.
If you are heading on a beach trip, you might also enjoy checking out our toddler beach hacks to see what you can take along to make life a bit easier!
Further Reading:
- After some more fabulous gear for travel? Click to see our favorite travel items.
- After more reading for traveling with a baby or toddler? Click here to see our full toddler travel guide.