Explore the world of sneakers designed to keep up with children’s sprightly feet.
Reviewed by Justin Cahill, Physical EducatorJustin CahillPhysical EducatorSpecialty: Physical EducationExperience: 27 years
Justin Cahill has been a physical education teacher for over 27 years and currently works at Trinity School, Atlanta. He is also the founder of keepingkidsinmotion.com, a website full of videos, ideas, lessons, and thoughts on how to keep kids active in a device-driven world.
Written by Tikendrajit Pegu, B.Tech, MBA tikendrajit peguB.Tech, MBA
Tikendrajit Pegu is a content contributor at MomJunction. An engineering graduate, he also holds a postgraduate degree in management from EDHEC Business School. He gravitates towards writing articles related to sports and adventure, and also has a good understanding of topics related to finance and economics.
Edited by Wedetso Chirhah, MA English wedetso chirhahMA EnglishSpecialty: Literature, Electronics, Automobile and Homeware ProductsExperience: 13 years
Wedetso Chirhah holds a masters degree in English Literature from Mangalore University and has over 13 years of experience in content. He has written content for more than 15 B2B websites and edited school books before joining MomJunction as an editor.
Fact-checked by Deyasini Biswas, BA English (Hons), Diploma in Advanced Fashion Styling deyasini biswasBA English (Hons), Diploma in Advanced Fashion StylingSpecialty: Fashion, Makeup, StylingExperience: 4 years
Deyasini holds a bachelor's honors degree in English Literature from Jadavpur University and a postgraduate diploma in Advanced Fashion Styling from the London College of Style. She has three years of experience in the fashion industry, working as an editorial and product stylist, following which she has chosen to return to her roots in the language arts as a commerce content writer at MomJunction.
All products recommended on MomJunction are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process.
✔ Research-backed
MomJunction believes in providing reliable, research-backed information to you. As per our strong editorial policy requirements, we base our health articles on references (citations) taken from authority sites, international journals, and research studies. However, if you find any incongruencies, feel free to write to us.
Image: MomJunction Design Team
The best kids’ sports shoes ensure protection and support your little one’s growing feet. These sports shoes vary in shape, size, and color, and you can choose the right one depending on the sport your child plays.
In addition to comfort, these shoes offer high functionality, durability, and quality assurance. They have a firm grip that helps prevent the possibility of injury or leg sprain. Check out our list of the best-selling sports shoes that enable children to play their favorite outdoor sport for hours.
These basketball shoes from Adidas are designed to offer comfort and traction. The knitted mesh is breathable, and the sturdy synthetic sole offers great grip. They are available in seven different colors.
Pros
Lightweight
Good-quality material used
Comfortable shoe
Cons
Kids will have to know how to tie the lace since it has no Velcro option
Our Reviewer's Experience
"I found these shoes pretty stylish and comfortable. They've been amazing for my kid due to their versatility; my son wears them to his basketball and tennis practices without any issues. I also like that there is room for growth. It's been a good buy overall."
These running shoes are specifically designed to fit a child’s feet and offer the utmost comfort to their feet while running or walking. No matter what terrain the kids run on, these sports shoes from New Balance have a cushioning sole, which offers utmost protection to the child’s tender feet. Here’s a review video detailing a tester’s experience that will allow you to make the right choice.
Item Weight: 4 Ounces
Pros
It has c- cap midsole
Sturdy and strong rubber sole
Made of leather
Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
Laces are a little longer and can become a hindrance when not tied properly
Our Reviewer's Experience
"Finding shoes for my little one has always been a task, but these sneakers have been a good find. They're durable enough to withstand rough handling and easy to maintain, which I appreciate. I wish the laces were longer, but that's not much of an inconvenience."
Quick tip
Your feet tend to swell up at the end of the day. So, try on any new shoes in the evening, probably after working out, to find your ideal fit.
The Under Armour Assert 9 running shoe is crafted with a durable rubber outsole to prevent slips and falls. These cushioned running shoes with quality craftsmanship have a lightweight upper mesh for breathability. In addition, the EVA sock liner keeps your child’s feet comfortable throughout the day.
Comfort with style is what these sports shoes promise to deliver. The sturdy design and traction make them durable and ideal for running and walking. The three seamless stripes on the side of the shoes give it a trendy look.
Product Dimensions: 8 x 4 x 7 inches | Weight: 1.2 Pounds
Pros
Breathable knitted cloth
Rubber soles
Comfortable to wear
Lightweight
Cloud foam cushioning for the springy feel
Cons
They have laces, and may not be easy for the younger kids to handle
Our Tester's Experience
"Even though I got the regular size, the shoes fit my son’s feet perfectly. Maintaining the sole’s pristine whiteness is a bit cumbersome. But their lightweight yet bouncy foam build feels very comfortable, and the sock-like upper offers a snug fit. Hence, they get a thumbs-up from me."
Walk or run freely without worrying about skidding with the Avia Avi-Storm sneakers. The sneakers, known for their quality craftsmanship, are designed with a rugged soleplate to provide a good grip while walking. In addition, the thick yet lightweight rubber sole of the sports sneakers withstands daily use and keeps your child comfortable, making it a favorite among many sports enthusiasts. The simple lace-tie model helps you adjust easily for a snug fit.
Pros
Features breathable mesh
Available in versatile colors
Comes with EVA midsole and removable EVA sock
Has a rear pull loop
Cons
May be slightly stiff
May be a bit large for toddlers
My Personal Experience
"After experimenting with different shoes, my daughter has finally settled on these. Their thick rubber outsole offers ample support, and the non-slip sole has kept trips and falls at bay. Plus, their slip-on design is a boon for fostering independence."
The Dadawen breathable sneakers are designed with a hook-and-loop closure for a secure fit. It comes with a mesh upper that keeps the feet dry and comfortable. As per reviews, the flexible outsole offers freedom of movement when running. In addition, the non-slip rubber sole provides adequate traction and prevents you from falling.
Pros
Soft and lightweight
Machine washable
Has a padded collar and tongue
Features a stylish elastic lace design
Easy to put on and take off
Cons
May not be suitable for wide feet
Our Reviewer's Experience
"The highlight of these shoes is the wide opening that allows my son to wear them without help. They are also very flexible and do not cause discomfort even when worn for long hours. However, I suggest sizing down as they tend to run big."
Quick tip
Leaving black tea bags in the shoes for an hour can help reduce the odor from shoes. Their tannins help eliminate the odor-causing bacteria.
This model of Nike’s sports shoes is designed with a tri-star outsole pattern and provides great traction with flexible cushioning. They have a sturdy rubber sole that makes it ideal for high-impact activities. Check out this simple review video to learn more about these running and walking shoes.
Let your children jog, hike, walk, or play sports comfortably with the Soulsfeng Graffiti sneakers. The unique print makes the sneaker easy to pair with outfits of different colors for any occasion. In addition, these sneakers are designed with anti-skid rubber soles that offer a good grip for swift movements, making them the ideal outdoor and indoor court shoes.
Pros
Anti-twist and abrasion-resistant sole
Removable insoles
Stretchable upper to accommodate wide feet
Keeps the feet odor-free
Suitable for indoors and outdoors
Has pull loops to put on easily
Cons
May run small
May be less suitable for arched feet
Our Reviewer's Experience
"My daughter loves the vibrant colors of this sneaker. While the fit is slightly snug, we sized up half a size, and it worked well. They're quite comfortable and have been durable for frequent wear."
Keep your feet dry with the breathable Dream Pairs tennis running shoes. Designed with a mesh upper and mesh lining, it ensures adequate air circulation as you walk or run. These track shoes come with elastic laces and hook-and-loop closures to facilitate convenient wearing and removal. The flexible midsole and rounded toe design keep you comfy when you’re on your feet for several hours.
Pros
Lightweight midsole and cushioned insole
Padded tongue and collar
Comes with slip-resistant midsoles
Suitable for both narrow and wide feet
Available in different colors
Cons
Velcro may not be durable
May not be machine washable
Our Reviewer's Experience
"The best part of these shoes is that they do not require a break-in period. Their soles were thinner than expected yet offer ample support for everyday tasks. They even fit my daughter’s narrow feet well, and the adjustable strap keeps them from coming loose."
If you’re looking for a pair of lightweight sports shoes that add to the look of the outfit, these running shoes by Hawkwell are worth considering. Designed with a fabric knit upper, it delivers style and a snug fit. Tested by multiple reviewers, the shoe has a memory foam insole that feels light and keeps you comfortable when jumping or skipping. In addition, the running shoes come with two-way wearing—lace-up and slip-on designs.
Pros
Has an anti-slip phylon outsole
Suitable for intensive activities
Mesh lining to keep the feet dry
Waterproof upper
Non-marking, durable sole
Cons
Laces may not be durable
Color may fade gradually
Our Reviewer's Experience
"In addition to being easy to put on, these shoe's machine washable build has also made it a breeze to maintain them. Its material quality is also top-notch, but my son took some time to get used to its lacing mechanism. Still, they've been a reliable find for my little man."
The Vizari soccer cleat shoes for kids offer great comfort and an excellent grip on the soccer field. They have been designed to keep the child comfortable throughout the game.
Item Weight: 6 Ounces
Pros
Durable and strong with anti-stretch lining
Collar lining for comfort
Padded heel
Rubber sole
Cons
Parents say that it is best to buy a size bigger than your child’s present shoe size
Our Reviewer's Experience
"These cleats are a nice blend of durability and functionality and have consistently held up over time. The bright color makes it stand out on the field, which my son loves. However, the sizing can be tricky, and we had to size up for a comfortable fit. All in all, it's a worthwhile option."
These football and soccer shoes from DreamPairs are designed to offer a great grip and control on the ground, especially on a soft or damp field. They come with a two-color synthetic texture and offer great comfort and maximum durability.
Pros
Molded rubber outsole reduces the pressure and offers better control
Durable
Breathable textile lining
Lightweight
Cushioned insole
Cons
Some customers felt that the fit is tight for narrow ankles
Our Reviewer's Experience
"Thanks to the superior traction offered by these shoes, my son remains injury-free even when experimenting on the soccer field. Its contrasting colors also look very stylish. The only downside was the sizing– I had to size down to ensure a precise fit."
Quick fact
A key characteristic of a high-quality sports shoe is its ability to provide sufficient heel grip, which is essential for maintaining stability and reducing the risk of injuries (1).
This trusted skateboarding shoe from Nike makes a good choice for children aged between 8 and 12 years. They are available in various colors and keep the child comfortable throughout the day. Their iconic style makes them trendy too.
Product Dimensions: 13 x 8 x 4 inches | Weight: 12 Ounces
Pros
Lightweight.
Durable.
Perforations near the toe area assure breathability
Foam padded collar to lock the foot
Adjustable ankle strap for a secure fit
Cons
Tying the really long laces of these shoes can be a hassle
Our Reviewer's Experience
"I've noticed these shoes stand up to daily wear and play. The comfortable and flexible soles give my kids sufficient padding for running around. Also, the material is easy to clean!"
These football shoes from T&B are made of thermoplastic urethane and are designed to offer great traction on hard ground and turf. They also let your child control the ball better over the turf. Moreover, these shoes are available in multiple color options.
Pros
Lightweight and comfortable
Traditional and standard lace-style closure
Smooth waterproof upper
Sturdy rubber soles
Cons
A quick and cheap option for a child who is just starting with soccer or football, so the quality may not be as expected
Our Reviewer's Experience
"These row-rise cleats have been perfect for school and soccer practice. While the color is a bit too bright for my taste, my son absolutely adores it. He has been using them for a few months, and they still look as good as new."
Leave behind the complicated lace design with the Skechers ultra-flex groovin vibe sneakers. It has a simple slip-on closure, making it easy for the little ones to put on their shoes. This shoe has a flexible outsole for better traction on different terrains and being machine-washable makes it easy to clean. In addition, this slip-on shoe is crafted with Skechers air-cooled memory foam cushion to keep you comfortable during high-impact activities.
Walk or hike on uneven terrain effortlessly with the Salomon Alphacross blast trail running shoes. The shoe is designed with a mud contagrip outsole with lugs to offer excellent grip on different terrains, including muddy or soft surfaces. It comes with an EVA foam midsole to minimize shock or impacts. In addition, the high-performance shoe has upper woven nylon fabric to resist wear and tear.
A simple, casual design makes this tennis sneaker from Adituo the perfect sportswear for kids. Its knitted fabric construction allows the foot to breathe. The workout shoes come with hook-and-loop closure and offer maximum range in movement.
Pros
Toe-cap anti-collision design
Flexible outsole for good movement
Lightweight
Breathable
Cons
Some customers felt that the Velcro detaches after a few uses
Our Reviewer's Experience
"These lightweight shoes are ideal for sports activities and everyday outings as their build is very lightweight. Also, the Velcro strap allows me to customize their fit, keeping the shoes put even when my child runs around."
These roller skating shoes for kids from SDSpeed have been designed to offer a smooth glide. It comes with LED lighting at the base, which gives it a trendy and sporty look.
Pros
High-quality material
Breathable
Wear-resistant rubber sole
Cons
The LED battery cannot be replaced
My Personal Experience
"My child was thrilled that these shoes light up and can be used as skates. They may require an initial break-in period, but they are very sturdy and the best ones I have found in this price range."
Keep your child’s feet dry with the Jazz Hook-and-Loop sneakers by Saucony. The performance shoes feature a suede and mesh upper for breathability and a lightweight design that makes it easy for your child to walk or run on different terrains. Moreover, the tried-and-tested pair includes an anti-stink lining to prevent odors.
Item Weight: 4 Ounces
Pros
APMA-certified
EVA midsole for improved cushioning
Non-marking and durable rubber outsole
Easily adjustable closure
Cons
May attract dirt quickly
Velcro may be stiff
Our Reviewer's Experience
"Having tried numerous pairs of sneakers for my kids over the years, I vouch for this pair's durability. They've survived playground antics and hikes, all while being comfortable enough for everyday wear. My kids also love the vibrant color."
Asics’ gel-contend shoes offer durability and comfort to help your kid move on any terrain. The breathable mesh lining ensures sweat-free feet. Its sturdy rubber sole also offers great traction and the gel cushioning system absorbs shocks in the rear portion of the feet.
Product Dimensions: 11.63 x 7.25 x 4.38 inches | Weight: 1.22 Pounds
Pros
Reinforced stitched toe cap for durability
Minimize the shock impact on foot
Lace-up closure for a snug fit
Breathable mesh lining
Removable sock liner
Cons
Some customers felt that the laces start to fray after a couple of weeks of use
Our Reviewer's Experience
"These shoes have been a reliable choice for my active kids. They're comfortable, provide decent support, and are easy for them to wear with the Velcro straps. I also found the material pretty sturdy and breathable."
These tennis shoes from Feetmat are ideal for running and walking, offering quality assurance. The durable outsole offers great cushioning and enables anti-slip performance. It is ideal for outdoor and indoor sports, and can also be used as casual or sportswear.
Pros
Ultra-lightweight
Cushioned insole
Two type closures: hook-and-loop and lace-up styles
These running shoes from Adidas are available in a wide size range suitable for toddlers to big kids. They offer a comfortable fit and great traction while running. The kids’ shoes come in a number of colors to choose from.
Pros
Synthetic sturdy sole
Regular fit
Lace closure
Durable
Cons
The shoe has an upper cloth material, which can tear easily
Our Reviewer's Experience
"I find these sneakers stylish and practical. They offer lightweight comfort and their easy slip-on design appeals to my son. The unique detached tongue feature provides a better fit, especially for wider feet. Overall, they have been a decent choice."
Nike shoes offer durability and comfort to help your kid move on any terrain. The breathable mesh lining ensures sweat-free feet. The sturdy rubber sole offers great traction, and its phylon midsole provides lightweight cushioning.
Pros
Deep flex grooves for good motion
Lightweight
Breathable mesh
Ideal for everyday wear
Cons
Fabric may not withstand rough use
Our Tester's Experience
"Be it exercising or attending basketball practice, these shoes are my daughter’s favorite. I wish there were more color options, but they are very comfortable and have withstood daily usage without requiring major maintenance."
*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.
These watersports shoes from Vifuur are designed to offer great comfort and to protect the feet from being hurt by sharp objects. It is suitable as a cycling shoe or for other activities like yoga training, kayaking, weight training, swimming, walking, and jogging.
Pros
Sturdy rubber soles
Smooth neck design prevents chafing
Breathable, smooth fabric
Flexible and comfortable
Cons
Some customers felt that the stitching might wear out
Our Reviewer's Experience
"These shoes have been a great choice for the summer as we frequent the beachside and the pool. They are comfortable and fit well. I also like that they dry quickly in the sun. Overall, they are very practical!"
How To Choose The Right Kids Sports Shoes?
Different sports warrant different leg movement and training, and the shoes the child wears must support that. Here is what you should consider before buying sports shoes for your kid.
Price and size: As children grow, their shoe size increases. Investing too much on sports shoes can become an expensive venture. So, make sure to invest moderately without compromising on quality. Also, do not go for a bigger size as it can cause fitting issues, which, in turn, could lead to injuries. You can also test different sizes before purchasing the shoes.
Comfort: Kids can’t keep the shoes on for long if they aren’t comfortable in them. So look for shoes that provide excess cushioning and keep the heel stable and protected.
Durability: Look for shoes that are constructed of quality materials and have undergone durability evaluation.
Flexibility: Sports activities require a lot of movement, and hence, it is necessary to ensure that the shoes offer flexibility.
Lace/Velcro strap: While buying shoes for older kids, you can look for shoes with lace. However, younger children may not be able to tie the lace, so a Velcro strap option is a better idea.
Reviews: Go through the reviews of the product to understand more about its pros and cons.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How are long-distance running shoes different from short-distance running shoes?
The long-distance running shoes are much lighter than the short distance running shoes.
2. How to clean sports shoes?
They can be put in a washing machine for a gentle wash in cold water or cleaned using a damp cloth.
3. At what age do kids need dedicated sports shoes?
Children as young as four years old need dedicated sports shoes if they actively participate in a sport like running. Dedicated sports shoes are constructed to withstand impact and keep your little one comfortable even while they jump, run, or do any physical activity.
4. Is it wrong to get sports shoes a size up so that kids can grow into them?
It might be tempting to buy shoes a size up. But buying shoes with a slightly bigger size than the actual size makes them uncomfortable. Loose-fitting shoes may also make children fall.
5. How do I know when it’s time to discard a pair of kids’ sports shoes?
Usually, children outgrow their shoes fast. However, if you observe any wear and tear near the toes or sides, it’s time to discard the old shoes and replace them with a new pair.
Why Trust MomJunction?
In this post, we have collated a list of good-quality sports shoes for kids to meet the needs of your little sports enthusiast. We have considered the specifications of each product, such as high-quality material, breathable meshed design, and padded and sturdy soles before preparing this list. We strive to select time-tested products that enhance your child’s performance without compromising comfort. You may also read the pros and cons of each product along with the buying guide to find the right sports shoes.
The Bottom Line
Whether your child is a sports enthusiast or you are introducing them to the world of fitness, there is a sports shoe made for your little one. Highly functional and durable, these shoes allow your children to participate in their favorite sports without interruption. When choosing the best sports shoes for your kid, ensure they are made from high-quality material, provide adequate cushioning, and have a velcro closure so they are easy to use. We recommend the Avia Avi-Storm Girls’ Sneakers, which are lightweight with breathable mesh; the Under Armour Grade School Assert 9 Running Shoe, which has adequate cushioning; and the New Balance Running Shoe for all-terrain use.
Infographic: Things To Consider When Buying Sports Shoes For Children
Sports shoes with the right fit facilitate your child’s performance while providing adequate comfort. However, selecting the perfect pair that best suits your child can be tricky. So, check out the following infographic to learn about the key factors to consider when buying sports shoes for your little one.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
Justin Cahill has been a physical education teacher for over 27 years and currently works at Trinity School, Atlanta. He is also the founder of keepingkidsinmotion.com, a website full of videos, ideas, lessons, and thoughts on how to keep kids active in a device-driven world.
Tikendrajit Pegu is a content contributor at MomJunction. An engineering graduate, he also holds a postgraduate degree in management from EDHEC Business School. He gravitates towards writing articles related to sports and adventure, and also has a good understanding of topics related to finance and economics.
Wedetso Chirhah holds a masters degree in English Literature from Mangalore University and has over 13 years of experience in content. He has written content for more than 15 B2B websites and edited school books before joining MomJunction as an editor.
Deyasini BiswasBA English (Hons), Diploma in Advanced Fashion Styling
Deyasini holds a bachelor's honors degree in English Literature from Jadavpur University and a postgraduate diploma in Advanced Fashion Styling from the London College of Style. She has three years of experience in the fashion industry, working as an editorial and product stylist, following which she has chosen to return to her roots in the language arts as a commerce content writer at MomJunction.
Quick tip
Quick fact
