Barefoot Sandals for Children – Summer, Sunshine and Free Toes

As soon as the warm season arrives, children want to be outside: on the lawn, at the beach, in the sandbox and on the way to school. Barefoot sandals for children are made for exactly these months. They protect the toes and the sole of the foot without restricting natural movement.

Why are barefoot sandals a good choice for children?

Children's feet are still developing. They consist largely of cartilage that only hardens over the years, and the foot muscles grow strong primarily through movement. Walking barefoot is the best training for this: the foot feels the ground, the muscles work, and balance improves with every step. Shoes cannot replace walking barefoot but they can come as close as possible. A good barefoot sandal does not support the child's foot in a fixed shape and does not force it into a narrow position.
It protects the foot and preserves as much natural freedom of movement as possible.

What should parents look for in children's barefoot sandals?

• Wide toe box: Toes need room to spread, because only then can the foot roll naturally and stand stable.
• Thin, flexible sole: It lets the foot feel the ground – important for healthy development and balance.
• Flat, zero-drop design: Heel and toes are level, which keeps your child's posture natural.
• Low weight: Light sandals do not tire small feet.
• Adjustable fit: Hook-and-loop straps and individually adjustable straps keep the sandal securely on every foot.
• Open yet protective design: Toes stay free to move while the sole protects against hot pavement, splinters and sharp edges.

How much space do children's toes need inside a sandal?

About a thumb's width – roughly one centimetre of growing room in front of the longest toe. This gives the toes space to splay and keeps you covered for the months ahead.

Why does shoe width matter so much for children?

Children's feet are not alike: some children have narrow feet, while many have wide or very wide feet. A sandal that is too narrow squeezes the toes together and can hinder natural foot development. That is why SOLE RUNNER® offers barefoot sandals in wide cut. 

Can children wear barefoot sandals every day?

Yes. For playing in the garden, visiting the playground, hiking or nursery school, they provide secure hold and protect the foot wherever shoes are necessary. On rocky or hot surfaces they are a sensible addition to walking barefoot – while at other times your children's feet can simply work without any shoe at all.

Why SOLE RUNNER®?

SOLE RUNNER® has been developing barefoot shoes for children and adults for many years. Our SOLE RUNNER® barefoot shoes are produced sustainably and fairly and support a healthy way of walking. Conventional children's shoes with narrow toe areas, stiff soles and unnecessary weight often restrict foot movement far more than necessary. It does not have to be that way: children should be able to move – and shoes should enable that movement.

Give your children the feeling of freedom under their feet this summer. It is a gift for their foot health that will last a lifetime.