Baby and toddler shoes that provide optimal foot protection include those that fit properly, provide grippier soles to withstand rough and tumble play and are low maintenance and comfortable. "Kids won't wear shoes they don't enjoy wearing," according to Maisonette co-founder Sylvana Ward-Durrett. Therefore, you will want shoes with elastic or Velcro straps so your child can put them on quickly or pull on them themselves (ideally without needing help tying laces!). Machine-washable shoes that feature removable insoles can also be great, allowing parents to adapt the size as their child grows. Crocs One of our toddler testers has worn her See Kai Run Dean Adapt sneakers for over a year without breaking or having their seams come undone (despite lots of play dough caked inside!).As kids become more interested in fashion and becoming increasingly self-aware, they will seek shoes that make them look cool while remaining functional. "Correctly fitted shoes can help children establish proper foot mechanics as they begin moving more and using their feet more," according to Dr. Natasha Bhagat of Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists. She recommends brands such as Pediped and Stride Rite which offer sturdy yet adjustable designs suitable for several years of wear.The Nike Dunk Low is an ideal option for kids who love showing off their fashion sense. Boasting a reinforced rubber toe that helps prevent early wear and tear, its thick outsole and padded ankle provide our 2-year-old tester with maximum comfort throughout her day of testing.