As summer approaches and the weather warms up, your little one’s wardrobe will no doubt reflect the changing season. Nothing pairs better with shorts and swimsuits than a pair of flip flops and there are plenty of options available, no matter if your tot is just learning to walk or looking for something water-resistant to wear while braving the waves at the beach. Here are the 7 best toddler flip flops.
7 Best Toddler Flip Flops for Girls & Boys (2024 Reviews)
Best Toddler Flip Flops
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1. Roxy Tw Tahiti Flip-Flop
(Best for younger toddlers — $)
Why it’s great: These adorable Roxy flip-flops are available in nine colors and designs that feature patterns with seashells, hearts, stripes and flowers. A thick, flexible sole provides ample arch support while an elastic back strap ensures a snug, secure fit. The two-tone upper strap is soft, bright and stylish and is accented with the Roxy molded heart logo. Parents praise these shoes for being lightweight and comfortable as well as for their sweet and stylish design.
Keep in mind: Some customers report these flip flops run a little small, so double check the size chart before ordering.
Good for: Toddlers learning how to walk as these shoes are comfortable, supportive and have a back strap for extra stability.
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2. Crocs Unisex-Child Crocband Flip Flops
(Most comfortable — $$)
Why it’s great: These Crocs flip flops are sure to be a summer staple thanks to their comfortable fit and durable design. Easy to wear and easy to clean, these flip flops are fast-drying and feature a relaxed fit with a contoured footbed that molds to your little one’s feet. Made from lightweight Croslite foam, these flip flops are water-friendly and provide a cushiony fit for all-day support. An added heel strap improves their fit and stability while the sporty stripe adds a touch of fashionable flair.
Keep in mind: This brand suggests sizing up from your toddler’s usual size due to the relaxed fit design.
Good for: Toddlers who need a shoe to wear everywhere as these flip flops are designed to be functional and comfortable in a variety of different environments.
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3. Reef AHI Flip Flops for Girls
(Highest quality — $$$)
Why it’s great: These Reef flip flops come in a variety of styles and patterns, including with whimsical prints that feature rainbows, tropical flowers and ice cream cones. Made from 100% rubber, these flip flops boast a flexible high-density EVA outsole, which provides impressive anatomical arch support. The soft and comfortable synthetic strap is water-resistant, and parents are able to choose between styles with or without a backstrap to accommodate their toddler’s age and preferences.
Keep in mind: Some customers report that while the sole is extra durable, it’s not as lightweight as other flip flops.
Good for: Active toddlers as these flip flops are designed for action and adventure.
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4. Reef AHI Flip Flops for Boys
(Best for older toddlers — $$$)
Why it’s great: These Reef flip flops are some of the most popular sandals on the market, no doubt due to their high-quality design and wide selection of colors and patterns. Similar to the girls’ version, this flip flop features a thick and durable EVA outsole with anatomical arch support as well as a comfortable and water-resistant synthetic strap. Parents praise this flip flop for being comfortable, durable and popular with their kids.
Keep in mind: Some customers report that these flip flops run a little bit small.
Good for: Older toddlers as this flip flop doesn’t come with a back heel strap.
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5. Ceruwum Toddler Girls Flip Flop
(Cutest design — $)
Why it’s great: These sweet sandals are available in a variety of toddler and big kid sizes and feature fun prints and patterns with graphics of mermaids, unicorns and rainbows. Comfortable and lightweight, these flip flops are also slip-resistant and feature an elastic back strap for a safe and secure fit. Easy to take on and off, these flip flops are both fashionable and functional, not to mention affordable!
Keep in mind: The product description for these flip flops advises ordering one size up from your toddler’s usual size.
Good for: Gifting as these flip flops are extra cute and will get a lot of use during summer.
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6. tombik Toddler Flip Flops
(Best value — $)
Why it’s great: These tombik flip flops are one of the more affordable flip flop options on the market and include a lot of amazing features, making them popular with toddlers and parents alike. Available in 12 designs, including with prints that feature dinosaurs, sharks, unicorns and hearts, these flip flops are lightweight and durable. Designed to be water-resistant, these flip flops also have a thick, EVA outsole that provides excellent traction to keep your little one from slipping and sliding.
Keep in mind: Not all styles include a back strap, so double check the product details before purchasing.
Good for: Taking on vacation as these flip flops are durable and water-resistant.
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7. Quiksilver Carver Suede Toddler Flip Flop
(Best fit — $$$)
Why it’s great: Made from 100% leather, these flip flops feature a rubber outsole designed to be extra slip resistant. Comfortable and stylish, these flip flops are available in tan or black and provide excellent arch support as well as a comfortable heel contour and toe bar. Parents praise these flip flops for being exceptionally well made as well as for their true-to-size styling and quality fit.
Keep in mind: These flip flops are made from leather and can’t be worn in the water.
Good for: Parents looking for a high-quality and durable pair of flip flops for their toddler.
Roxy Tw Tahiti Flip-Flop
The Roxy Tw Tahiti Flip-Flop is our overall top recommendation. It's the highest quality product we have found with the most affordable price making it the best value on our list..
FAQs about toddler flip flops
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1. At what age can my child wear flip flops?
Technically, your tot can wear flip flops as soon as they start to walk. However, because toddlers are a little unstable when they’re taking their first steps, it’s probably best to wait until they have a little more experience waddling around before putting on their first pair of flip flops. For that reason, flip flops that are slip-resistant and have straps that provide extra stability are a great choice for younger toddlers.
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2. What should I consider when purchasing toddler flip flops?
Because your little one’s feet are still developing, you’ll want to find a sturdy and supportive flip flop with a thick, flexible sole that supports growing arches. You’ll also want to choose a flip flop that fits well and is slip-resistant to avoid any unnecessary tumbles. Cost and durability are also important factors and of course, your toddler will love having a pair decorated with bright colors and fun patterns.
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3. How do I know which size will fit my toddler?
To determine what size flip flop will best fit your little one, you’ll want to measure the length of their foot and compare it to a toddler shoe size chart. However, sizing can vary between brands and products, so check the size chart included with a specific product’s details and description before purchasing.
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4. Are flip flops safe for toddlers to wear?
Yes, flip-flops are safe for toddlers to wear, so long as you follow a few guidelines. Make sure to choose a pair that fits correctly and has proper arch support as this will not only be more comfortable for your toddler but will prevent problems for their developing feet. It’s also a good idea to look for a pair of flip flops that offers a good grip to ensure your toddler doesn’t slip and fall while wearing their flip flops.
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5. Can my toddler wear flip flops in the water?
While some flip flops are designed to be water-resistant, this doesn’t apply to all brands and products. Be sure to read the instructions and guidelines that come with the flip flops you purchase to find out whether they can be worn in the water. You’ll also want to exercise caution when your toddler wears flip flops in the water as they may not be as slip-resistant when wet, which can increase the chance of your toddler taking a dangerous spill.
Conclusion
Flip flops are an easy, breezy way to greet summer feet first and your little one will love bouncing through the season with a pair of fashion-forward footwear. If you’re purchasing flip flops for a younger toddler, it’s worth investing in a pair with a back strap and good grip as this will stabilize your little one’s steps and keep them from slipping and falling. Older toddlers can do without the back strap but you’ll still want a flip flop with top-of-the-line arch support that promotes proper foot development. While some flip flops are designed to be water-resistant, others are better for dry land adventures, so be sure to check specific product descriptions for guidelines on best use. With such a wide variety of brands, styles, colors, and patterns to choose from, there’s no doubt your little one will be able to find the pair that’s right for them.