Choosing shoes for a busy toddler can feel like a lot. Their feet change quickly, every brand sizes a little differently, and you want a pair they will actually keep on. The good news: a few simple checks make it much easier. Here is how we think about choosing barefoot toddler shoes, from measuring at home to knowing when it is time for the next size.
What makes a shoe "barefoot style"?
Barefoot-style shoes are built around the shape of a little foot. Most share a few features:
- A wide toe box that is shaped like a foot, with room for toes to spread out.
- A flexible sole that bends easily as your child walks, runs and squats down to look at bugs.
- A zero-drop design, meaning the heel and toes sit at the same level.
- Light, simple construction that feels easy to wear all day.
Our styles are designed around these details. From there, it is all about finding the right fit and a style your little one loves.
Start with a good measurement
Measuring at home only takes a minute, and it is the best way to choose a size with confidence.
- Place a piece of paper on the floor and have your child stand on it, flat-footed. Standing matters, because feet spread a little when they carry weight.
- Measure both feet from the back of the heel to the longest toe. Use the longer foot.
- Add a little room: 0.5 cm for sandals and slip-ons, or 0.9 cm for sneakers and boots.
- Match that total to the length on our sizing chart.
If the shoe you are choosing has our Play Perfect sole, use the Play Perfect chart on that page, since it has its own measurements. Our sizes run from 2C through 3Y.
Not sure where to begin? Our toddler shoe size chart by age gives a rough starting point. Age is only a guide, though, so measure before you order.
Look for a roomy, foot-shaped toe box
When you look at a barefoot shoe from above, the front should look wide and rounded, more like a foot than a point. Once the shoe is on, toes should lie flat and have a little space to wiggle. If the sides press in or toes look squeezed together, try a different style or size.
Some styles are made for slightly different foot shapes. For example, a boot with a narrow-to-medium fit may suit a slimmer foot, while a medium-to-wide fit may suit a fuller one. The product page will tell you which fit each style has.
Check that the sole bends
A flexible sole should bend easily where the toes bend. Hold the shoe and gently press the toe up; it should move without much effort. Some of our styles use different soles at different sizes. On The Low Top, for example, sizes 2-4 have a non-slip leather sole, and larger sizes have the barefoot sole. Check the product page so you know which sole you are choosing.
Pick a fit that is easy to put on
Getting shoes on a wiggly toddler is half the battle. Wide openings, Velcro straps, elastic laces and zippers all help. A good fit should feel secure at the heel without slipping, and snug without pressing anywhere. Avoid buying a much bigger size to grow into. Too much extra room can make a shoe feel loose and harder to walk in.
A few favorites to start with
- The Low Top: an everyday sneaker with a wide opening and double Velcro closure, great for first pairs.
- The Asha: a play-ready sneaker with a rubber-capped toe, Velcro closure and elastic laces.
- The T Bar: a sweet dress shoe with a scalloped edge and classic buckle.
- The Henry: a leather sneaker that is easy to put on for busy mornings.
You can browse every style in our barefoot shoes for kids collection.
When to size up
Little feet grow fast, so check their size every few months. Toddlers often need a new size about every 3-4 months. A few signs it may be time:
- Toes are touching or pressing on the front of the shoe.
- You notice red marks after they take their shoes off.
- Shoes are suddenly harder to get on.
- Your child starts pulling at their shoes or does not want to wear them.
When you see any of these, measure again and compare the new length to the sizing chart.
A simple care tip
To keep little pairs looking their best, brush off dirt once it dries, then wipe the shoes with a soft, damp cloth. Let them air dry at room temperature, away from heaters and direct sun. Stuffing them with a bit of paper while they dry helps them hold their shape.
Ready to find their pair?
Measure, check the chart, and choose a style that fits their feet and their day. If the fit is not quite right, we offer easy 30-day returns on full-price pairs. Start with our sizing chart, then explore our barefoot toddler shoes.
