Like many moms, I have a rather confusing relationship with Crocs. They're super easy to clean and to get on and off (they are the only shoe my kids never ask for help with), and they provide a closed-toe shoe solution for school rules, and are great at the beach or for running around outside. But this mama gets sick of seeing the same rubber kicks day in and day out — and honestly, I'm just not a fan of the way they look. Function usually wins over fashion when it comes to my kiddos, so while I might not be tossing the old standbys anytime soon, some of these alternatives accomplish the same goals all while sprucing up your child's Spring shoe collection.
Source: Flickr user willowgardeners [1]
Chuck Taylor All Star 'Rockaway Perforated Slip-On
The Chuck Taylor All Star 'Rockaway Perforated Slip-On [2] ($30) take the Chucks we all love into the water.
Keen Newport H2
Designed with outdoor play in mind, the Newport H2 [3] ($40-$50) provides the comfort and protection young feet need for land and water activities.
Native Shoes Howard
These preppy lil Native Howard Shoes [4] ($26-$37) are not only supercute, they're also washable, odor resistant, shock absorbant, and waterproof.
Teva Children’s Barracuda Sport
Available for boys and girls, the Children’s Barracuda Sport [5] ($35) features waterproof materials and protective full-toe coverage.
i play. Water Sneakers
Slip on a pair of these i play. Water Sneakers [6] ($9-$31), and your tot will be happy all Summer long.
Jambu Kids Boa 3
With tons of breathability, the Jambu Kids Boa 3 [7] ($55) has a durable rubber outsole with deep grooves that makes these water-friendly girlie-shoes more like sneakers.
Luv Footwear Mary Janes
These Poppy Mary Janes [8] ($24) have a rubber sole, a protective toe-cap, and are 100 percent machine washable — oh, and they float!
Gap Perforated Slip-Ons
Get your tot into a pair of these Perforated Slip-Ons [9] ($20), and his feet will stay stylish and cool.
Adidas Kid's Boat Slip-Ons
Part boat shoes, part water shoes, Kid's Boat Slip-Ons [10] ($26-$45) boast mesh uppers that offer superior drainage without weighing your lil one down.
Stepping Stones Water Sneakers
We love the bright color combinations of these Water Play Sneakers [11] ($8-$11).
Adidas Varisol Sandals
Adidas Varisol Sandals [12] ($20) offer your little one water-friendly toe protection and easily go on and off.
Columbia Drainmaker Slip-On Water Shoe
These Drainmaker Slip-On Water Shoe [13] ($30, originally $45) have nonmarking rubber outsoles that provide traction and stability on the playground or at the pool.