Keeping Little Feet Cool and Comfy This Summer

Summer's finally here, yay 🌞 And sunshine means sandal season, paddling pool fun and the return of bare feet on grass. But warmer weather also raises questions for parents... what should our children be wearing on their feet as the temperature rises?

At CeCe & Me, we’re a team of expert children’s shoe fitters working across the UK, supporting families to make informed, confident decisions about their little ones’ footwear. And we’re asked what's best for the British summer a lot!

So here are our top tips to help keep those growing feet healthy and happy all summer long.

Barefoot is brilliant—when it’s safe to do so

Where it’s safe, walking barefoot is fantastic for young feet. It helps develop balance, coordination and strength by engaging the muscles of the foot and leg, encouraging natural movement and posture.

But when protection is needed, whether it’s hot pavements, playgrounds or long days out, well-fitted shoes or sandals that hold the foot securely at the heel are an essential. This support allows the foot to relax and move more naturally with every step.

The rise of barefoot summer shoes

The growing popularity of barefoot-style shoes means there are now more summer-friendly options than ever that promote healthy foot development and provide protection.

Barefoot shoes are designed to allow natural movement, with flexible soles, wide toe boxes and zero-drop design (no raised heel). Despite being lightweight, many barefoot brands are also incredibly durable, making them a great choice for active kids.

If you’re curious about barefoot shoes but not sure where to start, we’re always happy to help guide you.

Choosing the right summer shoe or sandal

Whatever style you choose, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Fit is everything: the shoe should hold securely at the heel to stop the foot slipping or clawing to stay in place. This gives your child the freedom to move naturally and confidently.

  
  

• The sole matters: a good sole provides enough protection and impact absorption, particularly at the heel, which takes the brunt of each step.

  
  

• Natural materials are best: children’s feet can sweat twice as much as adults’, breathable materials like leather or cotton help wick moisture away and keep feet cooler and drier. Synthetic and plastic shoes trap moisture, leading to sweaty, uncomfortable feet (and more chance of rubbing or blisters).

  
  

Closed vs. open toe sandals: what’s best?

It’s a question we’re often asked and the answer depends on your child’s age and activity level.

For toddlers and active children, we tend to recommend closed-toe sandals, as they offer better protection from scrapes, stubs and tripping. They also tend to have a more secure fit. Open-toe styles can work well for older children, but it’s especially important they’re not too big, no more than 0.5cm of growing room at the front.

What to wear when it’s warm but not quite sandal weather

Thanks to the unpredictability of the British summer, there’ll be days where sandals just don’t cut it.

A lightweight trainer or a Mary Jane-style shoe can be a great alternative. Many of these can be worn without socks on hot days (as long as they’re soft and breathable) and offer more coverage when needed. We’re also big fans of the socks and sandals look for little ones too 😍

A quick note on what to avoid

While we don’t like to be too prescriptive, there are some styles we recommend steering clear of for everyday wear:

• Flip flops: offer no support or structure, meaning the toes must grip constantly to keep them on. This can affect muscle development and cause long-term issues, like toe deformities.

  
  

• Crocs: While handy for the beach or water play, they’re not designed for all-day wear. They’re loose-fitting, with a rigid sole and offer minimal support, so it’s best to save them for short bursts or playtime near water.

  
  

Looking for a water-friendly option that supports movement?

We love Slipfree shoes for beach days, paddling pools, hot sand or slippy floors. Made from swimsuit material with a thin, grippy sole, they protect little feet while still allowing full freedom of movement. They’re a brilliant addition to any summer wardrobe.

In summary...

There’s no shortage of summer shoe styles to choose from, with the right fit and features, you’ll find one that ticks all the boxes for your child’s comfort, protection and growing needs.

And if you’re not sure what’s right for your little one’s feet, we’re here to help. Just book a fitting or drop us a message, we’re a

network of trained shoe fitters, here to make choosing shoes for your little one easy, informed and enjoyable.

Find your nearest CeCe & Me shoe fitter here