Best trainers for toddlers 2018

It happens so suddenly – one day your baby is crawling about in socks with grips on the bottom and the prospect of real footwear seems lightyears away. And then overnight they’re off, walking like they own the place – which let’s face it, they kind of do – and you’re on the hunt for the perfect shoes.

Trainers are the obvious choice for toddlers: designed with comfort and durability in mind. But buying trainers for little ones can be tough. Are they supportive? Do they feel comfy? Are they helping walking, or hindering it? Am I being careful not to choose style over substance?

From iconic classics by sportswear giants like Nike or understated plimsolls from the great British high street toddlers can expect to amass quite the trainer collection, not least because their feet grow at the rate of knots. My own daughter jumped an entire shoe size in six weeks.

It’s important to prioritise secure, practical shoes that support the feet and ankles while helping children gain confidence in walking and running – but thankfully good-looks and comfort are not mutually exclusive.

Here, we round up the 10 best trainers for toddlers.

Vans Toddler Checkerboard slip-on shoes

The Vans classic checkerboard plimsolls so beloved of skaters and Ska fans come in diminutive sizes, too. The slip-on design – with elasticated sides - makes them easy for children and parents alike: the canvas isn’t too coarse for small feet and the fit is true to size. The trademark waffle rubber soles – designed to make skateboarders have as much grip as possible – make them extra durable; a good thing for little people who are always on the move. If you want a brighter vibe for your little one, these iconic sneakers come in both red and blue, too. Vault by Vans has also partnered with Nickelodeon's favourite sea dweller SpongeBob SquarePants to create a limited edition collection for both kids and adults in one adorably kitsch collection.

£27, Vans, Buy it now ​

Superga Kids 2750 Cotmetj

Nothing says fun like a metallic pair of Superga plimsolls. These silver shoes delighted our little tester who believed they were actual magic on her feet. And she had a point. They manage to be both pretty and practical: brilliant with dresses and jeans. With a cotton lining and generous rubber sole, these sneakers are also comfortable to boot. If I had to be critical, I’d say the laces were too long – but this is hardly a deal-breaker.

£45, Superga, Buy it now

Nike Air Force 1

These sunny Air Force 1s are a joy to behold – not least because of the little details like the tongue which bears the slogan “"The Force is the Future" which is particularly apt for kids’ footwear. Although at first sight these look rather heavy and chunky, they are actually softer than their adult counterparts so little ones will have no trouble getting about with these soft-form midsoles under their feet.

£37.95, Nike, Buy it now

Adidas Gazelles x Mini Rodini

These cactus print Adidas Gazelles by Mini Rodini are acutely fashion-conscious. You’ll lose count of the number of times people tell you how cool they are. But they are also delightfully playful, encapsulating the spirit of the Swedish designer. Mini Rodini is also committed to making clothes that are sustainable and kind to the environment. These sneakers are no exception, made as they are from recycled polyester.

£42.95, Mini Rodini, Buy it now

Converse All Star Chuck Taylor

Everyone needs a pair of classic Chuck Taylor All Stars in their wardrobe, and toddlers are no exception. These juicy babies have all the accents of the adult shoe, which found fame as a high-performance basketball boot in the 1920s, including logos and labels. We found the canvas to be super-flexible and soft, even before being worn in. If pink doesn’t tickle your fancy there is a wealth of colourways to pick from. The best thing about these? When they get a little bit battered and dirty, they’re even better.

From £29, Converse, Buy it now

Reebok Classics

The retro design of the Reebok Classic gets a shimmery makeover in the form of these metallic gold beauties for toddlers. Made with real leather, these are built to last, which is music to any parent’s ears, especially during toddlerhood when walking is such an epic adventure. The insides are deliciously spongey, incorporating an ortholite sockliner for to control odour because even tiny feet get stinky when active! Available in half sizes, which really makes all the difference for growing feet.

£32.95, Reebok, Buy it now

New Balance 220

New Balance’s classic running shoe, the 220, gets a reboot especially for children. The hook and loop feature, incorporating the trademark ‘N’ make these easy to put on and take off: our tester toddler mastered it in a matter of minutes. Made with suede, there is the promise of luxury and quality but also durability. There are also lots of exciting colourways to choose from. We found these to be ridiculously light – all the better for toddlers to get about quickly in.

£35, New Balance, Buy it now

Next high-tops

These high-top trainers are simply adorable. I worried they were slightly stiff initially, but this didn’t seem to bother our young tester who refused to remove them, roaring “shoes on, shoes on” with increasing force. They are cute, durable and won’t break the bank. The only trouble is working out which colourway to choose, once you realise there are plenty more. Oh, and they don’t do adults sizes, so prepare for your kid to be cooler than you.

From £20, Next, Buy it now

Tu Plimsolls

These simple plimsolls are excellent staples for any toddler’s wardrobe. A steal at £10, these can be teamed with absolutely anything. The sole is slim, but still provides plenty of grip. The Velcro straps make life very easy, too. I found them to be true to size and our tester found them comfortable. I’d say these are a holiday staple and potentially exactly the right type of shoe for relaxed page boy.

£10, Tu, Buy it now

Boden high-tops

It’s hard to resist these gorgeous spotty high-tops, complete with applique flowers and contrast laces. The side zips mean these can be worn or not worn quickly and without much hassle. Despite their ditzy, floral appearance, these are hardwearing and sturdy. Even better in the flesh, these make you yearn for summer. These are, however, only for older toddlers, with sizes starting at 7.

£35, Boden, Buy it now

Verdict:

For originality it’s surely the Mini Rodini Gazelles but our favourites overall are the Vans: classic, iconic, SO easy to put on and take off, versatile and comfortable. A winning formula every parent will appreciate.