What shoes should children pack for summer holidays?
School’s out, suitcases are open and summer plans are starting to feel very real.
Whether you’re heading to the beach, staying close to home, visiting family or planning a few days out, children’s shoes can make a big difference to how comfortable the holidays feel.
Pack too many pairs and the suitcase is full before you’ve even started. Pack the wrong ones and you may end up with sore feet, slippery soles or shoes that only work for half the day.
So, what shoes do children really need for summer holidays?
1. A comfortable pair of sandals
A good pair of sandals is usually the first thing to pack.
For warm days, beach trips, garden play and holiday evenings, sandals give little feet room to breathe while still offering the support and security they need.
Look for soft linings, adjustable straps and soles that feel comfortable enough for more than just a short walk. Children rarely sit still for long, so holiday sandals need to cope with running, climbing, exploring and the occasional ice cream queue.
They should also be easy to get on and off, especially when days involve sand, grass, paddling pools or quick changes before heading out again.
A well-fitting sandal can be one of the hardest-working pairs in their summer wardrobe.
Young Soles styles to consider: Pearl, Sonny, Rhonda, Noah
2. Sneakers for travel days
Not every summer day is a sandal day.
Airports, long car journeys, cooler mornings, city breaks and playground stops often call for something a little more covered. A soft sneaker can help protect toes and keep feet comfortable when the day involves more walking than expected.
They are also useful when the weather is doing that very British thing of looking sunny one minute and cloudy the next.
Choose something lightweight and flexible, so it still feels easy for summer rather than heavy or stiff.
A good travel sneaker should work hard from the journey there to the adventures once you arrive.
Young Soles styles to consider: Keegan, Brooking, Pele
3. Something smarter for evenings and days out
Summer holidays are not all beaches and playgrounds.
Family lunches, dinners out, weddings, parties and days visiting grandparents may need something that feels a little more dressed up, without being stiff or uncomfortable.
A classic leather shoe can be a good option here. It still feels practical for children, but looks smart enough for those “can we please get one nice photo?” moments.
Young Soles styles to consider: Rosie, Penny, Brando
4. A barefoot option for natural movement
For children who like to run, climb and explore, barefoot styles can be a lovely summer option.
Look for flexible soles, a wide toe shape and lightweight materials that allow feet to move more naturally. They are especially useful for active days when children want freedom of movement, but still need a proper shoe.
They can be a good choice for park days, countryside walks, holiday exploring and all the moments when children are constantly on and off their feet.
The best barefoot styles should feel light and easy, while still giving little feet the comfort and protection they need for everyday adventures.
Young Soles styles to consider: Oliver, Holly, Darcey