Anyone who has watched a child hop across hot sand or tiptoe over a rock pool knows that little feet take a lot on at the beach. Water shoes (also known as reef shoes) were made for exactly that, but many parents tell us they’ve become their children’s everyday favourite too. Here’s why, what to look for, and how to choose the right size.
Pictured above: Water Shoes – Garden of Grace
At the beach and pool
- Hot sand and pavements. On a summer afternoon, sand, boardwalks and car parks can get surprisingly hot underfoot.
- Rock pools and rocky shores. Rocks, shells and uneven ground are much easier to explore with a sole between your child and the ground.
- Slippery pool decks. Wet tiles and ramps are slippery, and a grippy sole gives little feet more confidence.
- Rivers, lakes and creeks. When you can’t see the bottom, it’s nice to know their feet are covered.
Pictured: Water Shoes – Dream Weaver
Not just for the water
Our water shoes are super comfy, so they don’t stay in the beach bag. They’re great for the playground, for walks and for everyday play.
- A barefoot feel. Like the barefoot-style shoes so many parents love right now, they have a thin, flexible sole without the heavy cushioning and padding of most shoes, so children can feel the ground beneath their feet.
- Easy on and off. Children can slip them on and off themselves, which makes getting out the door, and kicking them off at the sandpit, much easier.
- Light and flexible. They move with little feet as they run, climb and play.
- Holiday friendly. Lightweight and quick to pack, one pair covers the beach, the pool and exploring a new place.
Pictured: Water Shoes – Dream Weaver
What to look for
- An anti-slip sole for good grip on wet surfaces.
- A snug fit so the shoes stay on in the water and don’t slip off in the waves.
- A flexible, lightweight design that’s comfortable to wear all day, in and out of the water.
- Easy on and off, so children can manage them themselves.
Our Water Shoes are lightweight and water-resistant, with an anti-slip sole for traction on wet surfaces. They’re made using recycled PET bottles, and they come in prints that match our swimwear, including Woodstock and Garden of Grace.
Pictured: Water Shoes – Edith
How to get the size right
Water shoes are designed to fit snugly so they stay secure in the water, so it’s worth measuring rather than guessing.
- Stand your child on a piece of paper with their heel against a wall.
- Mark the end of their longest toe and measure from the wall to the mark in centimetres.
- Compare the measurement with our Water Shoe Size Guide.
For the best fit, your child’s foot should measure around 1–1.6 cm shorter than the insole length. This leaves room for comfort, movement and a little growth. If your child is between sizes, choose the next size up.
Our water shoes come in EU sizes 22/23 to 38/39, which suits most children from around 18 months to 12 years.
Caring for water shoes
Rinse them in fresh water after the beach or pool to wash away sand, salt and chlorine, then let them dry in the shade. Avoid leaving them in direct sun or in a hot car for long periods.
Ready for summer
Browse our Water Shoes and match them with your child’s favourite print. If you’re unsure about sizing, get in touch and we’ll help you choose.
