Winter can be a tricky time for clothes shopping, especially when shoes are involved. Finding the best winter boots and shoes for your little ones' winter adventures isn't easy, but there's certain types and styles that work a lot better than others when it comes to keeping your children's little feet warm and toasty in the snow. Thanks to the footwear experts at Donagyhs, we've been able to put together a list of the best winter shoes for toddlers! and the little kid in your life.
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Winter boots
Boots are the quintessential wet-weather shoe, so they're not hard to find if you're looking for them. In winter, it's best to go for the toddler boots that have a separate lining on the inside, since these will keep your little ones' feet much warmer and will dry out overnight. If you're worried about snow getting stuck inside their shoes, try to find brands that use adjustable cuffs.
Boots might not be suitable for new walkers as they are quite difficult for small feet to walk in but they are a great option for slightly older kids and toddlers. The best snow boots for cold weather have a fluffy or faux fur lining which will help to keep kids' feet warm, especially in cold climates. If you are serious about taking your toddler out in snow and icy weather choose great snow boots with good grips.
Below are some ideas for the best winter snow boots.
Wellington boots
Wellies are almost always waterproof and will usually go up to your child's knees, so they're ideal for keeping their feet dry and make the best rain boots. Unfortunately, this comes at a cost of warmth, so you should have something toastier on hand for longer walks and colder days or use a removable liner made for wellies - like big thick socks which will help to keep cold feet warm.
Wellingtons are really easy to find in almost any size you need and come in many different colors, so it's useful to have some on hand just in case you need them. You also don't need to worry about them being the perfect fit as they will only be worn for short periods of time, not longer walks. Size up as you can pad them out with wool socks if they are a little loose. Choose a pair with a toggle closure and team with a waterproof puddle suit to keep those tiny toes dry when puddle jumping!
Here are some cute boots for splashing in puddles this winter.
Waterproof leather shoes
As a general rule, anything that's waterproof will be snow proof too. This makes waterproof leather shoes a good choice for children that don't feel comfortable in full boots, or for days where they'll constantly be in and out of the house: leather might not keep in as much heat, though, so bringing some thermal socks or an extra inner layer to keep their toes warm!
If you have shoes with velcro straps or hook and loop closures even better as these can be adjusted according to the thickness of the socks. Make sure that the shoes have good support, the benefits of good arch supports are great where children's developing feet are concerned. You might also want to consider barefoot shoes with a flexible sole which are great for developing feet as they have a wide toe box so their little toes don't get squashed.
Here are some leather shoes with waterproof exteriors for your toddler this winter.
Hiking boots
They're easier to find for older children, but hiking boots can be great for icy paths and steep hills in nearly any situation. They're usually heavier than normal boots, so not every child will find them comfortable or easy to wear, but they're excellent if your child needs extra protection and a way to stay stable on ice. Generally speaking they are not the best toddler winter boots because of their weight but might be worth picking up if you live somewhere where sturdy and reliable shoes are necessary such as in areas of heavy snowfall.
Here are some toddler hiking boots with waterproof uppers and a rubber sole for great traction on ice and snow.
Wool-lined boots
Wool in kids winter boots can be tricky to clean and dry, but it can be an excellent way to trap heat if it's used properly and it has an element of water resistance too. Shoes that use a wool lining on the inside are an excellent choice for times where your child is still cold indoors, and they'll keep your little ones' feet warm no matter how low the heating's turned down! Just make sure you don't use them in places where they could get sopping wet, or they'll become incredibly uncomfortable to wear.
Here are some warm boots that would make a great first pair of shoes for your little one.
Trainers
Most trainers will get wet easily, but they're still excellent for the dryer days in winter. Going for something that is higher quality will usually work better, so make sure you look into the materials before you buy any random pair off the shelf. Trainers need to be breathable and flexible so that they move with your toddler's feet. Definitely not the best for deep snow and heavy rain though!
For a good fit, a good rule of thumb is to have a finger space of growing room in the toes and be able to pass your finger around the inside, between the foot and the shoe and there be no gaping holes or no areas where they are cutting in.
Here are some good trainer options for dry winter days...
Remember that tiny feet are always growing so get their feet measured regularly and buy the correct fitting shoes that are suitable for the weather.
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