Sandals for kids: What to look for when buying
Warm days, bare toes and lots of movement: for many kids, sandals are part of summer. But which sandal suits your child, and what should you look for when buying? Here's a simple guide.
Open or closed sandals?
The most important question when buying sandals is whether the sandal should be open or closed. Both have their advantages, depending on your child's age and activity.
- Closed sandals: protect the toes and give extra support. Good for small children and active days with lots of climbing and rough-and-tumble play.
- Open sandals: are lighter and airier. Good for warm summer days and older children who walk confidently.
First sandals for babies and early walkers
When your child is learning to walk, the sandal should protect the foot without restricting its natural movement. With first sandals, pay particular attention to:
- A light and flexible sole
- Plenty of room for the toes
- A closed toe area for more protection
- A firm heel counter for secure support
- An adjustable velcro fastening
What matters is the right size, not a specific age. For the very first steps, you'll also find light prewalkers in our range.
How do you recognise good kids' sandals?
- Fit and toe room: The toes need room without the sandal fitting too loosely.
- Flexible sole: The sole should follow your child's movements and not be unnecessarily stiff.
- Secure fastening: A velcro fastening can be adjusted individually and is easy to use, even for the youngest.
- Firm support at the heel: The sandal shouldn't slip off the foot when running and climbing.
- Good ventilation: So feet stay comfortable even on long summer days.
What are barefoot sandals?
Barefoot sandals have a wide, foot-shaped toe box and a flat, flexible sole that mimics walking barefoot. This lets the toes spread freely – especially handy on warm days when feet swell slightly. Read more about the barefoot fit in our barefoot shoes for kids.
Sandals for the beach, pool and lake
For playing in the water, swim sandals in light, quick-drying materials are a good choice. Leather sandals aren't designed for prolonged use in water. If they get wet, let them dry slowly at room temperature.
How to find the right size
- Measure both of your child's feet while standing, ideally in the afternoon when feet are slightly larger.
- Go by the longer foot.
- Add 1 to 1.5 cm of growing room.
- Compare the result with the inner measurements of the specific model.
- Check the fit regularly, as children's feet grow quickly.
If you're unsure, check our size guide.
Materials: What are Wheat sandals made of?
Depending on the model, we make our sandals from LWG-certified leather. The Leather Working Group certification sets requirements for, among other things, tanneries' environmental management and the responsible handling of water and chemicals. The lining is chrome- and metal-free tanned, so it's gentle on your child's skin.
How to care for kids' sandals
Remove light dirt with a damp cloth and let the sandals air dry at room temperature. Avoid direct heat from radiators or tumble dryers. You can proof leather surfaces regularly. Always follow the care instructions for the specific model.
Find the right sandals for your child
At Wheat, you'll find kids' sandals in sizes 19 to 35, from first steps to school age. Explore our sandals and find the right pair for your child.
Frequently asked questions about kids' sandals
When can children wear sandals?
As soon as your child walks outdoors and it's warm enough. For early walkers, we recommend closed sandals with a flexible sole, firm heel counter and velcro fastening.
Open or closed sandals: Which is better?
It depends on age and activity. Closed sandals protect the toes and suit small children well. Open sandals are airier and ideal for warm days and older children.
How much room should kids' sandals have?
The toes shouldn't stick out over the sole and should be able to move freely. We recommend 1 to 1.5 cm of growing room on top of the measured foot length.
Which sandals suit wide feet?
Sandals with a wide, foot-shaped toe box can be a good choice. The individual fit is always what matters most.
Can leather sandals get wet?
Leather sandals aren't designed for prolonged use in water. If they get wet, let them dry slowly at room temperature. For the beach and pool, swim sandals are a better choice.
How do you clean kids' sandals?
Remove dirt with a slightly damp cloth and let the sandals air dry. Proof leather regularly and avoid the washing machine, tumble dryer and direct heat from radiators.