The Best Toddler Rain Boots for Spring and Beyond
In a nutshell:
Based on feedback from The Bump community and a survey of almost 350 parents, we chose the Western Chief Kids Rain Boots as the best toddler rain boots overall. This pair stood out because of its durable rubber design, easy-on handles and wide range of color and print options.
Getting fresh air is important—even on rainy days. A raincoat, rain suit and umbrella will help keep little ones warm and dry no matter what the weather throws at you. Likewise, toddler rain boots are another must-have item in your kiddo’s wardrobe. The best options are durable, easy to get on and take off and great at keeping water out.
Here, we’ve gathered some of the best toddler rain boots that’ll easily keep pace with your little puddle-jumper. From classic rubber designs to triple-threat pairs that can withstand the rain, wind and snow, these are the best of the best, according to parents from The Bump community.
To streamline your search for the best rain boots for toddlers, we conducted extensive market research. This way, you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through online retailers and forums. When creating this article:
- We surveyed almost 350 members of The Bump community and asked about the toddler shoes they used with their families. We then asked parents to rate specific brands and styles based on their firsthand experience.
- We checked what was being said about toddler rain boots for boys and girls in The Bump forums to learn what parents liked (and disliked) about certain brands and styles.
- To understand how these toddler and baby rain boots have worked for families nationwide, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring forums and message boards and reading user reviews.
- We looked at the most popular toddler rain boot brands and styles on the market and considered several factors—like size range, sole type, material and price point—when choosing which options to feature in our article.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.
Overall best toddler rain boots
- Parents say they’re high-quality and durable
- EVA insole for added comfort
- Lots of fun color and print options
- Some parents say they’re heavier than expected
Founded in 1891, Western Chief has been creating sturdy rain boots since the Alaska Gold Rush. Today, the brand’s footwear maintains its reputation for high-quality, durable designs, and its toddler rain boots are no exception—our research showed parent after parent offering rave reviews for the quality and durability of Western Chiefs. The Kids Rain Boots are made from 100 percent rubber, so you can count on them to be flexible and entirely waterproof as your little one explores. Meanwhile, the removable EVA insole and soft polyester-cotton blend lining will keep your child’s feet dry and comfy, no matter the weather.
These toddler rain boots have a 6.5-inch shaft for extra coverage during puddle jumps. Plus, the mini-lug outsole offers added traction in slippery conditions. You and your kiddo will also appreciate the loop handles that are easy to pull on and encourage tots to get ready independently. Even better, the Western Chief Kids Rain Boots come in a wide variety of fun colors and prints, so you’re bound to find the perfect fit for even the most discerning of toddlers.
Size range: 5 (toddler) to 4 (youth) | Material (outer): 100% rubber | Material (lining): Polyester, cotton
Our community says:
We've had good luck with Western Chief boots. – NCMichelle, The Bump forum member
I got [my child] Western Chief rain boots […] and they work great for his puddle stomping needs. – cmcmillian, The Bump forum member
Western Chief is the BEST! – flyingsaucer, The Bump forum member
Best toddler rain boots for new walkers
- Only APMA-approved style on our list
- Sturdy yet flexible, according to parents
- Lightweight
- Sizing up is recommended
- No pull-on handles
If you’re looking for a pair of infant rain boots to support new walkers, you can’t go wrong with this style from Ten Little. They’re the only option on our list with a seal of acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), so you can ensure they’ve been vetted by foot specialists and proven to promote healthy development. Thoughtful design details include the wide, foot-shaped toe box that for a more natural fit, and the flat, flexible soles.
If that’s not all, these toddler rain boots are lightweight, so they won’t weigh your little one down during playtime. They also feature enhanced traction soles to offer added stability to new walkers. And even though they don’t have pull-on handles, parents say they’re simple for kids to get on and off on their own and that they don’t fall off easily. Needless to say, it’s easy to see why parents say they’ve gotten their kids multiple pairs of these boots over the years.
Size range: 6 to 13 | Material: Rubber
Best all-season toddler rain boots
- Ideal for year-round weather
- Parents say they’re stylish and high-quality
- Removable insole
- Sizing up is recommended
- High price point
You may already be familiar with Hunter Rain Boots, a British heritage brand that’s been around since 1856, and many parents say that the label’s kids’ footwear is just as impressive. The Hunter Kids' First Classic Rain Boot resembles the brand’s timeless design for adults and recreates it for teeny tiny feet. And even though they were created with drizzly days in mind, parents say they’re ideal for year-round use. From slushy spring afternoons to sunny fall mornings spent apple picking, these boots will keep your little one’s feet comfy in almost any weather. Some parents even mention that they’re breathable enough for summer—and that they look adorable with shorts!
Just like the adult style, each pair of these classic rain boots is handcrafted from natural vulcanized rubber that’s specially designed to repel water from its surface. To keep your kiddo from slipping as they splash, these boots feature a deeply textured zigzag tread for traction. Meanwhile, the interior is complete with a polyester lining for a touch of softness. The bottom line: These high-quality toddler rain boots will carry your kiddo from season to season in comfort and style.
Size range: 5M (walker) to 3M (big kid) | Material: Rubber (upper and sole)/polyester (lining)
Our community says:
[My son] has Hunter boots and I love them. – chardonnay24, The Bump forum member
Best tall toddler rain boots
- Tall shaft for extra coverage
- Made with DURAFRESH, odor-fighting technology
- EVA footbed for added comfort
- Some parents say they’re heavier than expected
A go-to retailer for kids’ boots, Bogs is known for its ultra-durable styles and the Kids Essential Rain Tall is no exception. The pair features a seamless rubber construction complete with a TPR outsole, so you can rely on them to withstand daily wear and tear—no matter how active your kiddo is. Better yet, the 10.5-inch knee-high design is the tallest option on our list, providing the most coverage in wet weather. Parents love how dry these boots keep their kiddos; some also mention that they appreciate being able to securely tuck their child’s pants into the boots.
Inside these toddler rain boots is an ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) footbed that offers cushioned support for puddle-jumping, exploring the playground, playing at daycare and other day-to-day activities. Each pair is also made with the brand’s DURAFRESH, odor-fighting technology to ensure they stay fresh even after long days of wear. Last but not least, these toddler-friendly boots have built-in handles to make getting out the door a bit easier for everyone.
Size range: 10 (toddler) to 6 (big kid) | Material: Rubber/TPR (outsole)
Our community says:
We love Bogs—our absolute favorite rainboots! They are easy to get on and off and cute. Also, these boots have the pull-on handles which is a must for little ones! – Rebecca T., mom of one
Best toddler rain boots with rugged outsoles
- Grippy soles for a variety of terrains
- Suitable for up to 5º F weather
- Parents love how durable they are
- Limited color options
- High price point
Families who regularly go on outdoor excursions or live in rural areas will want a pair of toddler rain boots that can handle almost any terrain. Thankfully, the Stonz Kids’ West Waterproof Boots can be counted on to get the job done. Each pair features a rugged, non-slip outsole that wraps around and reinforces the toe box and heel for enhanced traction. This way, your little one can climb, jump, run and explore to their heart’s content as their shoes offer the stability they need.
If that’s not all, these impressive boots have a 100 percent waterproof rubber exterior and a soft inner neoprene that work together to keep moisture at bay. Thanks to the layer of insulation, this kids’ footwear can be worn in weather conditions as cold as 5º F, making them a great option for winter as well. Other details you’ll love include the extra-wide opening and the vegan, chemical-free materials.
Size range: 4 (toddler) to 2 (youth) | Material: Rubber
Best budget-friendly toddler rain boots
- Affordable price point
- 100% EVA construction for added comfort
- Tall shaft height
- Limited color options
- No pull-on handles
Parents searching for budget-friendly toddler rain boots will be fans of this simple, effective pair from Target’s in-house Cat & Jack label. The kids’ footwear is made from 100 percent EVA, resulting in a super lightweight construction that’s cushioned and comfy. The Eli Rain Boots also have a 10-inch shaft—the second tallest on our list—so you can tuck in your child’s pants for more protection from wet weather.
While these don’t feature built-in handles like other styles on the market, these boots have a pull-tab loop on the back for straightforward dressing. Plus, the extra-wide opening makes it even easier for toddlers to put these on and take them off all by themselves. Best of all, these toddler rain boots are the most affordable choice on our list, making them a great option for little ones who will only get a few wears out of them or families looking to save.
Size range: 5 to 12 | Material: 100% EVA
Our community says:
Cat & Jack boots are easy to get on/off. [They] stay on and are comfortable and durable. – Tara*, mom of a one-year-old and The Bump survey respondent
We love Cat & Jack! – Ashley G., mom of one
*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.
Need a bit of guidance? Here are a few tips on what to look for (and how to care for) toddler rain boots:
- Size. Tempted to go up a size so your kiddo can grow into their rain boots? It’s best not to. Toddler rain boots should have a snug fit to avoid slippage and blisters. Buy the correct size for your child, and when in doubt, consult the manufacturer’s sizing guide for accurate measurements.
- Materials. The best toddler rain boots are made from durable, waterproof materials like rubber, neoprene or EVA. If you live in an area with a colder climate, it’s also a good idea to opt for rain boots that double as snow shoes or feature an insulated inner layer.
- Comfort. We all know kids won’t wear shoes that aren’t comfortable. To avoid a tantrum every time you leave the house, invest in high-quality boots made from flexible materials that won’t weigh little feet down. Pro tip: To avoid sweaty feet and blisters, socks should always be worn with boots.
- Practicality. Practicality is key when it comes to toddler rain boots. Shoes with treaded soles offer extra traction on slippery surfaces, and styles with a wide opening and a pull tab or handles are easier to get on and off wiggly feet.
- Care: Although rain boots are designed to be durable, they still require a bit of maintenance. To get your money’s worth, rinse off excess mud and grime and fully dry out rain boots after each use. It’s also best to keep the shoes out of direct sunlight, as excessive heat can cause rubber boots to warp or crack.
About the writer:
Emma O’Regan-Reidy is an editor for The Bump. She specializes in writing e-commerce content and has spent years researching the best baby and toddler footwear brands. Based on her extensive market knowledge, she aims to create engaging, helpful articles to help both new and seasoned parents pick out the best shoes for their little ones.
Plus, more from The Bump:
The Bump March 2024 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of almost 350 parents from The Bump community and asked what brand and style of toddler rain boots they’ve used with their children.
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