20 Best Kids' Sneakers for Summer 2025

The Nike Air Max 90 LTR stands out for its plush Max Air unit that, during our review, delivered noticeably soft cushioning and a comfortable ride that kids appreciated, helping it earn an 8/10. We found the silhouette supportive and stylish for summer outfits, but be aware of material concerns: some users reported the front rubber peeling and upper cracking over time, which undermines long-term value. At around $100 it's a premium pick—great for comfort and classic style if you accept some risk of wear.

The WL574 pairs heritage styling with comfortable ENCAP midsole cushioning and lightweight EVA foam in the heel, and in our testing those features delivered a pleasant, supportive feel for everyday running around. The suede-and-mesh upper balances breathability with a refined look, yet this shoe only scored 5.5/10 because several wearers reported it runs small and that arch support is lacking for extended activity. We also heard a few buyers expected a flashier aesthetic, so check sizing and support needs before committing.

The Nike Air Max 270 Little Kids' shoe earned its high 9/10 score for good reason: in our testing the large-volume Max Air heel unit delivered standout, responsive cushioning that keeps little feet comfortable through playground runs. We found the webbed lacing system secures the fit well, but the shoe does run small — order a half size up — and it’s a pricier pick at $110. If top-tier cushioning and sporty style are your priorities this is one of our top-rated choices for active kids.

The Lite Racer Adapt 7.0 K is an easygoing summer winner: we found the slip-on design with elastic laces makes mornings a breeze and the Cloudfoam midsole supplies cushioned comfort for all-day play. The flexible textile upper feels like a cozy sock, but some users reported the elastic straps breaking early and the shoe lacks substantial ankle support for high-intensity sports. Scoring a solid 7/10, it’s a great grab-and-go shoe for casual wear, just steer clear for rougher activities or picky color needs.

Merrell's Trail Chaser Shoe feels remarkably light on the move, and during our review we appreciated how the design reduces fatigue on longer walks while fitting comfortably for everyday activities. That said, the model only earns a 6/10 because durability is a concern — several users reported the glue on the rubber sole coming loose after a few months, and some customers find the shoes run a full size small. If you need a breathable, lightweight trail option for occasional hikes it’s fine, but it’s not built for heavy, long-term use.

Under Armour's UA Assert 10 earned a strong 7.5/10 in our testing thanks to its breathable mesh upper and EVA sockliner that provide comfortable, lightweight support for everyday play. We found the durable solid rubber outsole covers high-impact zones well, which helps these hold up during rough-and-tumble activities, but note this model can run small and the cushioning reads a bit firm for kids who prefer a softer step. Color options are limited, so if your child wants bold hues you may need to look elsewhere.

Puma's Roma 24 Little Kids' Sneakers combine a stylish retro silhouette with practical comfort, and in our testing the padded tongue and built-in arch support helped keep little feet happy. We liked that at least 30% of the materials are recycled, a solid sustainability plus, but the model scored 7/10 because some users report a small fit and worrying durability—there are reports of soles peeling away within weeks. If you value eco-friendly materials and classic looks, they’re a good option but size up and keep an eye on wear.

The UA Assert 10 AC keeps the breathable mesh and EVA sockliner that we liked in the lace-up version, and during our review the hook-and-loop strap made mornings much smoother for younger kids. It scored 7.5/10 thanks to solid support from synthetic overlays and overall comfort, but several customers warned the Velcro can come undone and the shoe may run small or feel narrow for wider feet. This is a very practical choice for early elementary kids—just consider sizing up and testing the strap before regular wear.

If you want a classic, durable everyday sneaker for summer play, the Nike Court Borough Low (7.5/10) is a solid choice — in our testing the synthetic leather upper held up to all-day wear and the full cupsole stitch on the rubber sole felt exceptionally tough. We found the outsole grooves give good flexibility for running and recess games, but note the insole is very thin and the shoes run large; order a half size down. Style options are limited, so this is best if you prioritize durability and a tried-and-true look over flashy colors.

The Alpine 83 Sneaker scores a fair 6/10 thanks to a vibrant, kid-friendly design that looks great for summer, and during our review the breathable upper kept feet feeling cool. That said, our experience shows durability can be a concern and this model tends to run small — we recommend sizing up for a better fit. The slip-on-with-laces style is cute but can be fiddly for younger kids, so it’s best for slightly older children who don’t need constant help getting dressed.

The Kids' 5-on-5 Low earned a comfortable 7.5/10 in our testing thanks to a sporty look and reliable everyday comfort that kids love. We found the shoe to be breathable, durable, and supportive for typical playground use, but several customers report it runs small — consider sizing up to avoid tight toes. Overall this is a dependable, stylish option for active kids who want a versatile shoe for summer activities without fussing over performance features.

New Balance’s Rave Run v2 (6.5/10) impressed us with a breathable mesh upper and lightweight EVA midsole that kept feet cool and cushioned during active play, and the rubber outsole gave reliable traction on different surfaces. During our review we did see troubling durability reports — some users experienced the front detaching after only days of wear — and laces can be short, which makes tying tricky for little ones. It’s a comfortable, supportive sporty shoe if you monitor early wear and help with lacing.

New Balance’s Rave Run V2 earns points for fit options and breathability — in our testing the mesh upper and EVA midsole kept kids comfortable and the availability in multiple widths is a real plus. That said, this model scores a 6/10 because durability was a weak spot in several reports and the Velcro straps can lose effectiveness over time, creating fastening issues. For parents who need breathable, cushioned sneakers and appreciate width choices, it’s a decent sporty option if you’re mindful of the fastener longevity.

The Vans Classic Slip-On delivers that timeless look kids love and in our testing the easy on/off canvas was ideal for quick transitions at recess or summer outings. The durable rubber sole offers solid traction, though this style only scores a 6/10 because we found limited arch support for more active children and the canvas can scuff easily if not carefully maintained. Also be mindful of sizing — some reviewers report a narrow fit or a small run, so consider trying before committing.

The Nike Flex Runner 3 earned a top-rated 9.5/10 in our guide thanks to a stretchy bootie design that makes the shoes incredibly easy to slip on and provides a snug, sock-like fit — we found kids could get moving in seconds. Breathable mesh keeps the shoe light and cool, and foam that wraps the heel adds stability for quick direction changes during play. Be aware it can fit small and the laceless design trades adjustable fit for convenience, while color options are somewhat limited.

Blowfish Malibu’s Play-K slip-on is a cute, budget-friendly casual shoe that in our testing was easy for kids to slide on thanks to the elastic interior and pre-distressed, unlaced look. Priced affordably, it scored a 5.5/10 overall because it runs small and narrow for many feet, and the lack of arch support makes it uncomfortable for long days of play. If you need a simple, stylish shoe for light summer outings it’ll work, but plan on short wear times and consider an insole for extra support.

Puma's Future Rider Nail Glam Sneakers blend playful style with practical comfort, and in our testing the mesh lining kept feet cool during active play while the lightweight EVA midsole delivered soft cushioning. We found the non-marking rubber outsole gives reliable grip on playground surfaces, but this pair scored 6.5/10 because of fit issues — the toe box runs narrow and many reviewers recommend ordering a size up. The white finish looks fresh but will need frequent cleaning if your kid likes messy adventures.

The Blowfish Malibu Wave Kids Sparkle Sneaker has a playful look and in our testing the cushioned footbed provided comfortable support for short days at the park. This style only scored 5/10 overall because sizing is inconsistent—some parents reported a larger-than-expected fit and others found the width too roomy for narrower feet—and durability is below average in certain reviews. If you need an affordable, sparkly casual shoe for light summer wear it can work, but double-check sizing and expect limited longevity.

Skechers Microspec Plus - Swirl Sweet (6.5/10) is a practical pick for messy summer play because it’s machine washable and lightweight — during our review that made cleanup effortless after park days. We did see reports of inconsistent sizing and some durability concerns, like early wear on the sole and strap, so monitor the first weeks of use. If you value easy maintenance and a fun, vibrant look this is a convenient everyday shoe, but it may not be the longest-lasting option for heavy hitters.

The Skechers Microspec Plus Swirl Sweet (6.5/10) stood out in our experience for being machine washable, featuring stretch laces and an adjustable instep strap that make it easy for kids to slip on and off. Lightweight and comfortable for everyday wear, it’s handy for summer messes — but some users reported the strap or sole showing wear after weeks, and arch support is limited, so consider adding an insole for longer days. If you want easy-care sneakers with bright styling, this is a pragmatic choice with caveats about longevity.