Shopping for baby slip on shoes, sneakers, T-straps, or any other style requires you to focus on the material used. After all, the type of material determines how comfortable, functional, and aesthetic a particular pair will be. When it comes to footwear for small children, the material can also decide whether your little one’s feet will develop properly and move naturally. So, to choose the best material shoes for your munchkin, you need a clear idea about the pros and cons of each material. This write-up covers the same for 6 different materials.  

1. Leather

Leather has been used to craft shoes for ages. It is a popular choice for both casual and formal styles, but the quality of leather decides if you are going to get your money’s worth. So, let’s dive into the pros and cons.

Pros: If you are searching for the best material shoes for your child, high-quality leather scores impressively on durability, fit, comfort, and breathability. It will give those tiny tootsies extra protection against bumps and spills too. Premium leather shoes last for years and often develop a natural shine that looks classy. Moreover, this is a material that is eco-friendly and easy to clean.

Cons: While premium leather allows adequate air circulation, low-quality versions can make your baby’s feet sweaty, hot, and smelly. Leather also tends to dry up and crack if you don’t treat it periodically with polish, wax, and conditioner. The material is also not ideal for sporty activities as it scuffs easily.

2. Canvas

As a material, canvas is obtained from hemp cloth, which is a smart pick if you are serious about sustainability. Canvas is widely used in baby slip on shoes, though sneakers are increasingly incorporating it too. Find out what’s great and not-so-great about this material.

Pros: Canvas makes for the best material shoes if you need something that is lightweight and retains shape effectively. It is comparatively less stretchy than other materials and shoes made of canvas don’t usually require inserts. Canvas shoes also come in a variety of colors and designs, so it’s easy to choose something fun for your kid.

Cons: Durability of canvas shoes generally depends on the fabric’s weave. So, you might come across pairs that are not too hardy. Also, because the material is thin, canvas shoes don’t offer enough ankle support. Hence, shoes made of this material are not the best for sporty activities.

3. Knit

If you are looking for extremely breathable and lightweight options, then the best material shoes are the ones made from knit fabric. So, it’s no wonder that knit is used in many active pairs for children. Let’s delve into its advantages and disadvantages here.

Pros: Knit is a fabric that dries up fast, feels super comfortable on the skin, and provides ample flexibility. Moreover, since the material is used commonly for baby slip on shoes, your little one can slide into or out of them easily. They will be less likely to suffer from blisters, chafing, and redness with knit shoes as well. The material is also hassle-free to clean as you can toss the shoes into a washer and run a cold, gentle cycle.

Cons: Though the knit fabric has multiple benefits, it tends to absorb water quickly and get wet. So, knit shoes might not be apt during monsoons or if you live somewhere where it rains a lot. Shoes made of this material might also need additional supports and inserts to handle sporty activities.  

4. Rubber

There is no doubt that the best material shoes are made from rubber when it comes to the rainy season. While both synthetic and natural rubber can be heavy-duty, the latter is biodegradable and safe for the planet. Here is a quick look at the pros and cons of the material.

Pros: Rubber is excellent at repelling water and also resists punctures and abrasions effectively. Soles made of this material prevent accidental slips too and ensure sufficient friction on wet surfaces. Hence, shoes made of rubber provide a lot of safety to your little one’s feet when they splash in puddles or play outdoors in the rain.   

Cons: Despite its many advantages during monsoons, rubber baby slip on shoes or boots are not breathable. So, after a while, they trap heat and can make your munchkin’s feet sweaty. Pairs crafted with synthetic rubber are also not sustainable.  

5. Suede

Suede is leather’s close cousin. While leather is obtained from the outer side of an animal’s hide, suede comes from its underside. Naturally, compared to leather, suede is soft and thin. Let’s check its perks and pitfalls now.  

Pros: Suede makes for the best material shoes that appear smooth and unique and feel gentle on the skin. Suede shoes have a matte finish characterized by delicate waterproof bristles that are easy to clean. Such shoes are also lighter than their leather counterparts but are quite durable and comfy. Suede lasts long too and the material can be molded to create various styles.

Cons: Shoes made of suede tend to attract dirt and dust easily and this can impact their smooth appearance. Also, you cannot let your child wear such shoes in the rain. While suede can withstand minimal moisture, an excess can ruin the material irreparably.   

6. Foam

Since foam adapts to your little one’s natural gait, it can make for the best material shoes if you are looking for arch support and extra comfort. Like all other materials, foam has its pros and cons.  

Pros: Shoes made of memory foam can provide your child ample support and prevent injuries during athletic activities or games. Such shoes can also keep feet pain at bay as they absorb shocks well, minimize pressure, and ensure decent cushioning.

Cons: Shoes crafted with foam tend to retain sweat and heat though, which can make things uncomfortable for kids after a while. The material can consequently lead to smelly feet and foam can also harden over time. Moreover, it is not as durable as the other materials.

Choosing the Best Material Shoes Doesn’t Need to be a Challenge

Looking for a classy pair of shoes for your child that will last long and protect those cute tootsies adequately? Then go for something in top-quality leather or suede. If it rains a lot in your area or you need a pair for the monsoons, rubber baby slip on shoes or boots are the best. Knit and canvas pairs, on the other hand, are perfect if you are hunting for something super light, breathable, and comfy.  

So, if you are ready to start shopping, check out what Jack & Lily has to offer. Need more guidance or suggestions for specific needs? Feel free to contact the professionals here.