The Best Toddler Tennis Shoes We Love Now

Let's be real, toddlers are a bundle of boundless energy, and they need a pair of shoes that can keep up with their every move.

That's where toddler tennis shoes come in – they're not only a fool-proof sneaker choice, but they have all the right comfort and supportive features needed to help your little one confidently explore the world.

What to look for in the best toddler tennis shoes

When shopping for the best toddler tennis shoes, Susannah Davda, founder of The Shoe Consultant, emphasizes the importance of a professional fitting above all else.  "Sneakers for toddlers should be the right width for their feet, so it is important to have their feet professionally measured and fitted for shoes, she explains to Today's Parent.

"Footwear that is too narrow for a toddler’s foot can restrict growth, and those that are too wide may cause their toes to clench. A professional children’s shoe fitter will also ensure your child has growing room at the tip of their toes."

It's equally important to think about the support the shoes provide. As Davda points out, toddlers need shoes with non-slip soles and hook-and-loop straps to keep feet safe and secure.

"Non-slip soles mimic the naturally grippy soles of their feet, while toe bumpers protect from impact. Shoes with hook and loop straps are also great, as they are adjustable to accommodate differences in foot shapes and are much quicker and easier to fasten on a wriggling or kicking foot than lace-ups."

Best toddler tennis shoes 2024

Best overall

TOEDNNQI Sneakers

Amazon's toddler shoe selection is nothing short of staggering, with a seemingly endless array of options. But amidst this sea of choices, this pairreigns as our top choice.

The flexible sole allows toddlers to move naturally, and the breathable upper keeps their feet cool and comfy. The adjustable lacing system is also a delight because it allows you to nail that just-right fit while leaving room for feet to grow.

While these shoes aren't waterproof, and some Amazon reviews say they are a tad narrow for wide feet, you can't go wrong with a shoe with a load of impressive features (and glowing praise) like this.

Pros

• Lightweight and flexible
• Available in sizes up to 10 toddler
• Flexible sole
• Secure fit
• Adjustable lacing system

Cons

• Not waterproof

Best budget

XIPAI Toddler Walking Athletic Shoes

You don't have to break the bank to get your hands on some top-notch footwear for your toddler. This pair is proof that you can get a reliable and high-quality toddler sneaker without emptying your wallet.

These shoes have so much more to offer than just a bargain. We love that these are available in sizes up to toddler 10, in eight colors, and are available in half sizes, which is perfect for toddlers with wide feet. What's more, they boast a breathable upper and flexible outsole with anti-skid rubber that provides excellent traction and durability.

Pros

• Lightweight, breathable design
• Comfortable
• Stylish, cute and adorable
• Flexible outsole gives the foot maximum range in movement
• Good value
• Available in half sizes

Cons

• Runs small

Best for boys

DIMO Dinosaur Shoes

If your son is always on the move, these shoes are perfect for supporting his growing feet. Available in toddler sizes up to 12, the shoes come in 11 colors and prints with a fun dinosaur twist.

We love that these shoes are designed to handle all types of movement, thanks to a non-slip sole that's both durable and flexible, and a lightweight upper that's breathable to prevent overheating.

Pros

• Non-slip, durable, and flexible sole
• Easy to slip on and take off shoes
• Lightweight and breathable mesh
• Arch support

Cons

• Not as long-lasting as other pairs

Best for girls

Carter's Tryptic Sneaker

ICYMI: Carters doesn't just make fantastic kids' clothes — they also make great shoes for little ones, and this pair offers the perfect balance of style and function.

We love that these shoes are available in toddler sizes up to ten and in three functional colors that are perfect for daily wear.

These shoes have great easy-to-slip on-and-off features, a thick cushioned material for added comfort and a pull-on design— they are nothing short of durable either!

Pros

• Easy to slip on and off
• Thick, cushioned material
• Pull-on design

Cons

• No velcro

Best gender neutral

Simple Joys by Carter's Casual Slip-on Canvas Shoe

These gender-neutral toddler shoes are perfect for everyday wear. Choose from five cool print options that work great for both boys and girls. They're available up to toddler size 10, so you can find the right fit.

One of the best things about these shoes is the slip-on design - they're super easy to get on and off, which is a lifesaver when you're trying to get out the door.

Pros

• Comfort and flexible
• Slip-on design
• Machine washable
• Durable construction

Cons

• Lack of laces and velcro

Best wide

New Balance Unisex-Child Rave Run V2 Bungee

New Balance is always a solid footwear brand for quality shoes you can rely on. This particular pair is perfect for toddlers with wider feet. They come in a full range of regular and half sizes for toddlers. Plus there are eight fun color options that delight any kiddo.

The construction of these shoes is thoughtful, too. Not only does the bungee lace system and a top strap help keep your toddler's feet securely in place, but the cushioned midsole and flexible outsole work together to absorb impact and let feet move naturally.

The addition of a rubber outsole provides excellent traction and grip, plus synthetic and mesh upper materials are built to last.

Pros

• Bungee lace system and a top strap
• Cushioned midsole
• Flexible outsole
• High-quality materials
• Rubber outsole

Cons

• On the pricier side

Best velcro closure

HIITAVE Sports Sneakers

If you're looking for toddler tennis shoes with a handy Velcro closure for extra security, these shoes are worth checking out. They come in six different toddler sizes and ten fun colors, from practical to playful, so you can find the perfect pair to match your little one's style.

In addition to the strong velcro support, this shoe has a lightweight and breathable design with a mesh material that allows for airflow. We love the flexible sole and how these shoes are machine washable for easy cleaning — so you don't have to scrub them by hand!

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Adjustable hook and loop closure
• Velcro
• Breathable mesh material
• Machine washable

Cons:

• Might need to size up slightly

Best Nike

Nike Omni Multi-Court Baby/Toddler Shoes

Nike never fails to deliver amazing pairs of shoes, and these are no exception. Yes, they may only be available in limited toddler sizes, but their stylish appeal is undeniable.

They feature a sleek, streamlined silhouette with a minimalist, clean-cut look. The brand's signature Swoosh logo lends them an instantly timeless appeal.

These shoes offer more than just fashionable flair. The spacious toe box provides ample room for growing feet, while the adjustable closure achieves the perfect, customized fit. Plus, the cushioned midsole helps absorb impact, keeping little feet comfortable and supported throughout the day.

Pros: 

• Roomy toe box
• Adjustable closure system
• Cushioned midsole
• Hook-and-loop closure system

Cons: 

• On the pricier side

Best Adidas

adidas Unisex-Child Superstar Sneaker

adidas shoes have always been impressive, and this pair is a great representation of why. They're available in toddler sizes up to a 10, and the best part is the fun color choices — you can find something to match any kiddo's style, plus the iconic three stripes Adidas is famous for.

The shoe's design is top-notch —  the soles are flat and the toe box is nice and wide, so your kid's feet won't feel cramped. The fit is just right with hook-and-loop closure and sturdy velcro that gives your little one's feet top support.

Pros:

• True to size fit
• Hook and loop closure
• Durable and easy to clean
• Strong velcro

Cons:

• Costlier than other pairs on this list

Experts: 

• Susannah Davda, founder of The Shoe Consultant