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Summer Shoe Guide

May 31, 2011

etnies Autism Speaks Fader Vulc Strap Skate Shoe (Toddler/Little Kid/Big Kid),Black/Blue/Pink,13 M US Little Kid


etnies Autism Speaks Fader Vulc Strap Skate Shoe

 Where do I start with my love for the etnies Autism Speaks line?  Etnies has long been one of my favorite brands because their shoes are built so well, and they’ve teamed up with Autism Speaks to help spread awareness and raise money for autism research.  Many kid’s shoe lines stop making velcro closures for size 2 and up, but etnies has vekcro for every age so that kids with fine motor issues can have more independence in getting their shoes on and off.  (I think parents of neuro-typical kids will appreciate this feature as well).

New Balance 688 Lace-Up Running Shoe (Infant/Toddler),Silver/Blue/Orange-BO,9 M US ToddlerNew Balance 688 Lace-Up Running Shoe

New Balance is one of my favorite brands for my own feet, so it’s no surprise I love their shoes for my kids. They are stable and durable, and can take a beating.  These will be the shoe of choice for all of the sports camps my boys will be in this summer.

New Balance 993 H&L Running Shoe (Infant/Toddler),Pink-PK,9.5 W US ToddlerNew Balance 993 Velcro Running Shoe
Confession: I am a lazy, lazy mom.  I detest tying shoes.  I love that these are bona-fide athletic shoes with velcro straps.  India loves that they are pink.

etnies Senix Mid Skate Shoe (Toddler),Pink/Pink/White,6 M US Toddleretnies Senix Mid Skate Shoe (Toddler),Pink/Pink/White,6 M US Toddler

Do these shoes really need any commentary?  Every time Karis wears these, people comment on them.  SO cute . . . but also really practical and durable.

etnies Fader Vulc Strap Skate Shoe (Toddler/Little Kid/Big Kid),Black/Aloha,1 M US Little Kidetnies Fader Vulc Strap Skate Shoe
I love these shoes on India.  They’re made in the classic etnies styling (read: indestructable) but I love the feminine touches with the splash of color.  These are a little bit girlie and a little bit funky, and they got with anything.

Livie & Luca Celestina Girls Sandal - Gold US 11
Livie & Luca Celestina Girls Sandal
Livie &; Luca has some of the cutest shoes I have ever seen for toddlers.  This pair of shimmery gold sandals are so cute.  They go with anything, from shorts to sundresses, and Karis can put them on and off by herself.  She thinks these shoes are quite fancy, and I agree.

Livie & Luca Nixie Girls Shoes - Aqua US 6
Livie & Luca Nixie Girls Shoes


Do these shoes really need any commentary?  If they made them in my size, I would wear them every day.  For now, I just have to covet my daughter.

Pediped Flex Amazon Sandal (Toddler/Little Kid),Navy/Orange,26 M EU (9-9.5 M US Toddler)

Pediped Flex Amazon Sandal

Pediped is synonymous with quality shoes, and I love their summer sandals because they are breathable but still have a closed-toe.  My kids are in a preschool program this summer – no sandals allowed – but these are the perfect combo. They also have a really comfortable food bed and are easy to get on and off.

Pediped Flex Nile Sandal (Toddler/Little Kid),Fuchsia/Light Pink,26 M EU (9-9.5 M US Toddler)
Pediped Flex Nile Sandal 

I love these summery Mary Janes –  a great shoe/sandal hybrid. 

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Hi, I’m Kristen. I’m a mom of four kids via birth and adoption and a writer living in Southern California. Read More.

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Rage Against the Minivan sometimes earns revenue through sponsored posts, which are clearly labeled, and occasional affiliate links to recommended products. I only feature products that I truly like, and my opinions are always my own.

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