What are the best shoes for summer for boys?

Get your son ready for sunny adventures with our handpicked selection of boys’ summer shoes from Start-Rite. Our summer footwear is designed to keep kids cool, active and comfortable ensuring feet stay happy and healthy during sandcastle building, park hangs and unexpected puddle jumps. Breathable fabrics, flexible soles and easy fastenings make all the difference for fun-filled summer days.

Must-have summer shoes for boys

Boys trainers

Trainers offer sporty style, comfort and practicality perfect for active days at school or at play.

Why they work: Our trainers combine durable materials with cushioned soles and breathable linings, ideal for growing feet on the move. Designed with active play in mind, they’re easy to get on and off, and tough enough for everyday adventures.

Best for: School runs, weekend playdates and busy days when comfort, support and style all matter.

Top picks:

• Meteor White/Navy Leather Trainers - A versatile white trainer with navy trim, this shoe offers lightweight flexibility and supportive features. It includes rip-tape fastening for easy adjustment, padded ankles for comfort, breathable mesh linings for freshness, and removable in-socks to help keep sporty feet fresh. Great for natural movement and healthy foot development.
• Tickle White Leather/Suede Rip-Tape Pre-School Shoes – Designed for all-day fun, these shoes feature playful bug detailing and a durable, lightweight sole. Double rip-tape fastenings are easy for little fingers to manage, and the shoe is built with padded ankles, breathable linings and sturdy bumpers on heel and toe for added protection.

Click here to see the full Start-Rite trainers collection.

Boys canvas shoes

Canvas shoes are summer staples; light, ventilated and machine washable.

Why they work: Canvas is breathable and lightweight, with easy-clean surfaces perfect for sandy or muddy summer days.

Best for: Casual everyday wear, park trips and any place where feet need to stay cool but contained.

Top picks:

• Anchor Red T-Bar Buckle Kids Canvas Shoes - Stylish and secure with a buckle fastening. The T-bar design keeps the shoe snug without sacrificing breathability.
• Anchor Navy Blue T-Bar Buckle Canvas Shoes - Identical benefits in a timeless navy, great for pairing with school uniforms or laid-back outfits.
• Kicks Denim Blue Check Closed Rip-Tape Canvas Shoes - A trendy check pattern and rip-tape closure make these super-functional. Easy to get on/off and even easier to clean.
• Raptor Navy Blue Dino-Print Rip-Tape Canvas Shoes - A fun dinosaur print that makes them a hit with younger explorers. Rip-tape and breathable canvas make them a summer go-to.
• Sandy Beach Navy Closed Rip-Tape Canvas Shoes - Solid navy with easy fastenings. Great for all-around wear, from seaside strolls to family outings.

Click here to see the full Start-Rite canvas collection.

Boys sandals

Sandals that combine toe protection, airflow and easy wear-ability are summer champions.

Why they work: Open-toe designs keep feet cool and comfortable, while rip-tape fastenings make sandals easy to slip on during splash breaks. The lightweight, airy build is perfect for warm-weather adventures.

Best for: Beach adventures, garden play, summer sports or any active day out in the sun.

Top picks:

• Trekker Navy Rip-Tape Sporty Kids Sandals - Lightweight design with rip-tape straps for quick finishing, and plenty of airflow for hot playground runs. A sporty navy finish means fewer show-ups, too!
• Trekker Multi-Colour Rip-Tape Sporty Kids Sandals - Same great construction, but with a fun, bright multi-colour design, ideal for summer outfits and easy to spot in a crowd.

Click here to see the full Start-Rite sandals collection.

Boys first walking shoes and summer-ready boots

Even in summer, early explorers benefit from structured, supportive shoes with lightweight designs to keep things comfy.

Why they work: They give structure to developing feet but include ventilation features and flexible soles to avoid overheating in mild summer weather.

Best for: Early walkers, outings on cooler or breezy summer days.

Top picks:

• Wriggles Red Digger Print T-Bar Buckle First Walking Shoes - Playful digger print combined with supportive structure: comfy for first steps and breathable thanks to the open T-bar style.
• Totter French Navy Leather Rip-Tape First Ankle Boots - Totter First Ankle Boots feature a soft leather upper, easy rip-tape closure and a removable insole for flexible comfort. With a breathable lining and a supple design, they help prevent overheating, even on cooler summer days.

Click here to see the full Start-Rite boots collection.

Boys waterproof wellies for splashy fun

Rain or shine, a bit of water should never stop play.

Why they work: Waterproof and comfy, these wellies let kids jump in puddles without getting soggy or cold toes.

Best for: Rainy summer days, muddy park adventures, UK staycations and any splash-filled exploration.

Top picks:

• Little Puddle Navy Dino Water-Resistant Wellies - Dino-themed waterproof upper and elasticated tops to keep water out, plus easy heel pull and soft fleece collar for comfy wear.
• Mudbuster Navy Blue Waterproof Wellies - The fleece-lined waterproof upper keeps toes toasty, while the elasticated top locks out rain or mud. A lightweight, flexible sole encourages natural movement, perfect for puddle adventures and chilly outdoor play.

Click here to see the full Start-Rite wellies collection.

Final tips for parents

• Check the fit: Shoes should be snug, not tight. Start-Rite’s size and width options ensure a comfy, healthy fit. Check out Start-Rite’s SizeWise for the perfect fit without having to leave the house.
• Ventilation counts: Mesh, canvas or breathable linings help to reduce sweaty feet.
• Speedy fastenings: Rip-tape and buckles make dressing easier for both parent and child.
• Think multifunction: A good pair of sandals, one canvas and maybe a boot or welly - three styles often cover the full summer spectrum of weather and occasion.