As the school year winds down and the weather warms up, a lot of kids (and parents) start the countdown to exciting new summer activities. No matter the activities kids are sure to experience the thrill and wonder of new adventures and friendships. But while kids are busy dreaming of the fun they’ll have, parents are loading up on bug spray and sunscreen and wondering which shoes or sandals to pack. Luckily, we have plenty of tips on how to choose the right footwear for your kid. One of our favourites? Protect those toes with closed-toe sandals!

Here are six reasons why we think closed-toe sandals and summer activites go together so perfectly:

1. CLOSED-TOE SANDALS GUARD TOES WHILE PLAYING SPORTS AND GAMES.

You know the saying, “It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt”? Well, it’s more true than ever doing summer activities. With days filled with fun group or small family activites like capture the flag, soccer, pickle-ball, and more, kids don’t have time for stubbed or stepped-on toes. Closed-toe sandals help ensure that toes are protected as kids play. From disc golf to hopscotch, our Moxie sandal for big kids, little kids, and toddlers is ready for action with a cushioned insole and comfortable, easy-to-adjust upper.

Kids playing tug of war at summer camp

2. CLOSED-TOE SANDALS ARE GREAT FOR ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE TOE PROTECTION.

Obstacle course or zip-line? No problem! Fun activites like zip-lining adventures are activities that kids can experience the thrill of challenging themselves and build leadership skills. To keep the toes safe, closed-toe shoes are needed. It’s no wonder that Newport sandals are a favourite for zip-liners of all ages.

3. CLOSED-TOE SANDALS CAN PULL DOUBLE DUTY IN THE FOOTWEAR DEPARTMENT.

Whether your kid wants to do a nature hike or play in the sprinkler, a pair of closed-toe sandals can easily do both. The chameleon of footwear, closed-toe sandals can be worn on their own for water play or paired with socks for extra warmth and protection while hiking or warming up by the campfire. Plus, if you send your kiddo off with only one pair of sandals, it’s one less thing for them to lose track of! Our Knotch Creek sandal for big kids, little kids, and toddlers is durable, grippy, and a great sandal/shoe combo. The modest vents are big enough to provide airflow but small enough that they help keep out debris.

A kid doing archery at camp

4. CLOSED-TOE SANDALS PROTECT TOES WHEN ANIMALS ARE AROUND.

Whether it’s horseback riding, tending farm animals, or meeting the donkeys, lots of these interactions are focused on incorporating animals. Since kids are usually paying more attention to the amazing animal in front of them instead of their feet, closed-toe sandals can help protect toes from a chicken peck to the foot or an animal’s misstep. After all, the goal is for kids to like animals, not be worried that one is going to nibble their big toe! KEEN closed-toe sandals are also machine-washable so they’re easy to clean after a week spent playing with animals (or stepping in chicken poo).

Kids walking in a stream at summer camp

5. CLOSED-TOE SANDALS ARE PERFECT FOR WATER ACTIVITIES.

Especially during summer times, many activites located near rivers, lakes, or streams is much prefered. Kids can enjoy some water play during the hot summer months with our Newport sandal. Although it’s unlikely that swimming in the lake would call for closed-toe sandals, taking part in activities like canoeing, kayaking, or rafting might benefit from additional toe protection. Whether your kid is helping push the boat into the water or portaging through shallow water, closed-toe sandals will help safeguard against cuts, scrapes, and stubbed toes. Our Newport sandal for big kids, little kids, and toddlers is lightweight, quick-drying, and super grippy, making it the perfect shoe for water-related fun.

6. CLOSED-TOE SANDALS PROTECT TOES IN NEW ENVIRONMENTS.

Summer is all about trying new things, exploring new places and a very exciting time for kids to enjoy nature and appreciate the little things. From climbing a huge tree to learning how to fly fish to taking a class on outdoor survival skills, new activities in new environments can be exciting but also full of unknowns. Closed-toe sandals help protect toes, so kids can stay focused on learning, having fun, and soaking up the experience. Whether it’s fun in the water or on the trail, our versatile Seacamp II CNX sandal for toddlers, little kids, and big kids is ready for the adventure thanks to its lightweight build and high traction, multidirectional lugged outsole.

Kids walking in a line at summer camp