The 26 best girls' footwear brands
Nike, VANS and adidas lead our ranking of 26 girls' footwear brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Girls' Footwear brands, ranked
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1
Nike
Athletic shoes across running, basketball and training, with the swoosh branding on most of the girls' range.
Website: nike.com |Brands like Nike
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
VANS
Skate-style lace-ups and slip-ons with the waffle sole, a staple for school and casual wear.
Website: vans.com |Brands like VANS
Popularity 6.4/10
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3
adidas
Three-stripe trainers for running and football, with lightweight cushioning suited to active kids.
Top products: EQ21 Run
Website: adidas.com |Brands like adidas
Popularity 5.9/10
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4
Mini Melissa
Lightweight jelly-style plastic sandals and flats in bright colours, from the children's line of the Brazilian Melissa brand.
Website: shopmelissa.com |Brands like Mini Melissa
Popularity 4.8/10
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5
KEEN
Sturdy sandals and water-ready closed toes built for hiking and boating, with toe protection on many styles.
Website: keenfootwear.com |Brands like KEEN
Popularity 3.5/10
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6
Jordan
Basketball-inspired high tops and mids from the Nike-owned line, often in leather with bold colourways.
Top products: Air Jordan 1 Mid
Website: jordan.com |Brands like Jordan
Popularity 3.2/10
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7
Steve Madden
Fashion sneakers and dressy flats with trend-led styling, usually priced above the sporty kids' brands.
Top products: Cormac Sneaker
Website: stevemadden.com |Brands like Steve Madden
Popularity 3.0/10
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8
Stride Rite
Fitting-focused school shoes and first walkers, with width options and lightweight soles for everyday wear.
Website: striderite.com |Brands like Stride Rite
Popularity 3.0/10
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9
Reebok
Running and court sneakers with lightweight cushioning and a classic low profile.
Website: reebok.com |Brands like Reebok
Popularity 2.9/10
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10
Merrell
Grippy hiking boots and water shoes built for trails, with sturdy lugged soles for outdoor kids.
Website: merrell.com |Brands like Merrell
Popularity 2.8/10
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11
FILA
Retro runners with a bold logo and strap-fastened sneakers, a budget-friendly alternative to the bigger sportswear names.
Top products: Speedglide 3ยท Tactician Strap
Website: fila.com |Brands like FILA
Popularity 2.6/10
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12
Dr. Martens
Leather boots with yellow stitching and the air-cushioned sole, popular with teens wanting a durable boot.
Website: drmartens.com |Brands like Dr. Martens
Popularity 2.2/10
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13
Keds
Canvas lace-ups and slip-ons with a flat, flexible rubber sole, mostly worn for school and weekends.
Website: keds.com |Brands like Keds
Popularity 2.1/10
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14
Blowfish Malibu
Platform sandals and fashion sneakers with braided straps and side zips, styled for dressier outfits.
Website: blowfishshoes.com |Brands like Blowfish Malibu
Popularity 2.0/10
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15
Capezio
Dance shoes including ballet slippers and jazz shoes, a specialist range for leather and canvas pointe-ready designs.
Website: capezio.com |Brands like Capezio
Popularity 1.7/10
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16
Dolce&Gabbana
Luxury designer fashion with a kids' line of sneakers and sandals at premium prices.
Website: dolcegabbana.com |Brands like Dolce&Gabbana
Popularity 1.6/10
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17
AIRWALK
Skate-inspired sneakers with cushioned soles and a retro look popular with older girls.
Website: airwalk.com |Brands like AIRWALK
Popularity 1.6/10
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18
Josmo
Are you looking for shoes that offer both comfort and style? Josmo Shoes fulfills both demands in the best way possible. Josmo Shoes is a reputed wholesaler that offers top-notch children's and men's footwear to re-sellers, distributors, and retailers. They...
Website: josmo.com |Brands like Josmo
Popularity 1.4/10
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19
Rugged Shark
Rugged Shark Shoes Men Comfort Footwear Waterproof Boots Boat Shoes
Website: ruggedshark.com |Brands like Rugged Shark
Popularity 1.4/10
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20
Columbia
Outdoor apparel brand Columbia started in Portland, Oregon. It makes fleece, jackets for women and men, and short sleeve button up shirts. Its fleece pieces are a practical layer for cool weather, and its jackets cover everyday outdoor wear. Styles...
Popularity 1.4/10
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21
Avia
Avia is the most recent advancement in running and walking shoes. With so many styles, colors, and designs to select from, you'll be able to find a pair for everyone in your family, whether they're into jogging or want a...
Website: avia.com |Brands like Avia
Popularity 1.3/10
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22
Bloch
A pair of shoes can make or break your move. So, to make the right choice, one must go for the right brand. Bloch is a well-established Australian brand that leads the way as the ultimate dancewear destination, equipped with...
Website: us.blochworld.com |Brands like Bloch
Popularity 1.3/10
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23
FootMates
For over 50 years, FootMates has dedicated itself to creating high-quality footwear for children. Their products serve infants to big kids, and the brand has a wide range of designs for both boys and girls. Children growing out of their...
Website: footmates.com |Brands like FootMates
Popularity 1.3/10
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24
Timberland
Fashion is a field that has the capability to make changes to the world we live in. It is a symbol of the society we are currently present and helps us to make a difference. Timberland has taken the responsibility...
Website: timberland.com |Brands like Timberland
Popularity 1.3/10
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25
Gucci
Set up in 1921 by Guccio Gucci, Gucci rapidly became an iconic Italian brand worldwide. However, the family started experiencing multiple disputes, which the brand got caught up in, leading to the Gucci family being overthrown from the industry. Later,...
Website: gucci.com |Brands like Gucci
Popularity 1.2/10
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26
Nine West
Women's and girls' flats and heels with fashion-forward styling, a dressier option than the sporty brands.
Top products: Julissa
Website: ninewest.com |Brands like Nine West
Popularity 1.2/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nike | nike.com | – | – | – | – |
| VANS | vans.com | /VANS | vans | @VANS_66 | VansShoes66 |
| adidas | adidas.com | – | – | – | – |
| Mini Melissa | shopmelissa.com | – | – | – | – |
| KEEN | keenfootwear.com | /keen | keen | @keen | KEENoutdoor |
| Jordan | jordan.com | – | – | – | – |
| Steve Madden | stevemadden.com | /SteveMaddenShoes | stevemadden | @SteveMadden | – |
| Stride Rite | striderite.com | – | – | – | – |
| Reebok | reebok.com | /ReebokUS | reebok | @reebok | – |
| Merrell | merrell.com | /merrell | – | @merrelloutside | MerrellOutside |
Girls' Footwear Buying Guide
Buying footwear for girls can be tricky as they have different needs and preferences compared to boys. Also, with so many different types of shoes available in the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. However, if you know what to look for, you can easily find the perfect pair of shoes for your girls.
Determine the Purpose
The first step to buying girls' shoes is to determine the purpose of the shoe. Shoes are not just for fashion, they are meant to protect the feet and provide support. Shoes worn for different activities have different features, so knowing the purpose is important.
- Everyday Shoes: For everyday use, you want shoes that are comfortable and can be worn for extended periods of time. They should be able to withstand everyday use, running and sudden movements, and protect the feet from debris and other hazards. Sneakers or running shoes are usually a good option for everyday use.
- School Shoes: Girls' school shoes should be comfortable and durable enough for long hours of studying and walking around on hard surfaces. They should provide support for the developing feet and be able to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. Classic Mary Janes, loafers or ballet flats make great options for school shoes.
- Sports Shoes: Sports shoes are designed to provide support and protection to the feet during physical activities. They should have sturdy soles, good traction, and a comfortable fit. Basketball shoes, soccer cleats, or running shoes are the most common options for sports shoes.
- Dress Shoes: Dress shoes are meant for formal occasions and should complement the dress or outfit. They should be comfortable and stylish as well. Ballet flats, dress sandals, and kitten heels are some of the common dress shoe options for girls.
- Sandals: Sandals are perfect for warmer weather and outdoor activities. They should be light, airy, and comfortable. Sandals with adjustable straps, closed toes, or arch support are best for outdoor activities such as hiking or camping.
Determine the Size
The next step is to determine the shoe size of your girl. Girls' feet grow at a rapid pace, so it's important to measure their feet before buying shoes. The best time to measure the feet is at the end of the day as feet tend to swell a bit by then. Make sure your girl is standing up when you measure their feet, and both feet should be measured as one may be slightly bigger than the other.
Measuring Foot Length
Place a piece of paper on the floor and have your girl step on it with their heel against a wall. Mark the longest part of the foot with a pen or pencil and measure the distance from the wall to the mark. Do this for both feet and use the longer length as the shoe size. Add a few millimeters to the measurement to accommodate for growth.
Measuring Foot Width
To determine the width of your girl's foot, place a tape measure around the widest part of the foot. This will give you an idea of how wide the shoe should be.
Check the Materials
The materials used in making the shoes can greatly affect their durability and comfort. Here are some of the common materials used in girls' shoes and their pros and cons:
Leather
Leather is a durable and breathable material that is ideal for girls' shoes. Leather shoes are flexible and comfortable and can conform to the shape of the feet over time. They are also easy to clean and maintain. However, leather shoes can be expensive and may take some time to break in.
Canvas
Canvas is a lightweight and breathable material that is perfect for summer shoes. It is also relatively affordable and easy to clean. However, canvas shoes may not be as durable as leather and may not provide enough arch support.
Synthetic Materials
Synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, and mesh are common in sports shoes. They are lightweight, flexible and provide good ventilation. Synthetic shoes are more affordable than leather shoes and are also easier to clean. However, synthetic shoes may not be as durable as leather shoes and may not offer enough support.
Consider the Comfort
Comfort is one of the most important factors to consider when buying girls' shoes. Shoes that are too tight, too loose, too narrow or too wide can be uncomfortable and may cause blisters, calluses or other foot problems. Here are some tips to help you choose comfortable shoes:
Flexibility
A flexible sole is important for proper foot movement and balance. The shoes should be able to bend at the ball of the foot easily.
Arch Support
Arch support is important for girls who have flat feet or high arches. Shoes that offer good arch support can prevent foot fatigue and reduce the risk of foot injuries. Shoes with removable insoles are a good option for girls who need custom arch support.
Cushioning
Cushioning is important for shock absorption and protection. Shoes with cushioned soles can reduce foot fatigue and provide added comfort. However, excessive cushioning may also interfere with foot movements, so it's important to strike a balance.
Toe Box
The toe box should be roomy enough to allow for toe movement and wiggle room. Shoes that are too narrow or too tight can cause blisters or bunions.
Check the Sole
The sole of the shoes is responsible for providing traction, stability, and support. The sole should be flexible but sturdy enough to provide protection and support. Here are some factors to consider:
Traction
The sole should have good traction to prevent slips and falls. Shoes with non-slip soles are ideal for wet or slippery surfaces.
Durability
The sole should be durable and able to withstand wear and tear. Rubber soles are usually more durable than other types of soles.
Support
The sole should provide support to the foot during movement. A thick sole with good arch support can reduce foot fatigue and prevent injuries.
Consider the Style
Girls love fashion and style, so it's important to choose shoes that match their personal taste and preferences. Here are some popular styles of girls' shoes:
Sneakers
Sneakers are a popular choice for girls as they are comfortable, stylish, and versatile. They are available in different colors and designs, making them easy to match with different outfits.
Mary Janes
Mary Janes are classic shoes that have been popular for decades. They have a strap and are usually made of leather or synthetic material. They are ideal for school as they are comfortable and stylish.
Sandals
Sandals are perfect for warmer weather and can be worn with dresses, skirts, or shorts. They are lightweight, comfortable and come in various styles.
Boots
Boots are perfect for winter or fall and can be worn with jeans, leggings or skirts. They offer warmth and protection and come in different styles and colors.
Conclusion
Buying girls' shoes requires careful consideration of the purpose of the shoes, size, materials, comfort, sole, and style. By following the tips in this guide, you can easily find the perfect pair of shoes for your girl that are comfortable, durable, and stylish.
