As a Montessori family, we spend as much time as we can outside even with our babies and toddlers. In the words of Maria Montessori, "There is no description, no image in any book that is capable of replacing the sight of real trees, and all the life to be found around them, in a real forest." And for young children we want to give them the most real experience possible. We need to be outside. Even when it's cold. Even when it's raining. Even when it's hot. We need to make it a daily practice.
Now, this time of year in Minnesota, it's kinda gross. There's snow and mud, wet and boggy grass, and just a lot of water. While I don't love shoes on toddlers, it's just too cold to have Teddy run around barefoot. So, I've been on the hunt for rain boots that would work for his tiny baby feet. We ended up with 2 different pairs that I wanted to review since I've gotten this question a lot lately on Instagram.
This post contains affiliate links at no cost to you.
Kangalsun Boots
I found these boots (same boots, different seller) after the Crocs that I first ordered were too big for Teddy. We got the 6-15 month size and they fit Teddy - at 18-months - really well.
Pros:
- They are really small so he can actually wear them
- They haven't leaked
- The toe box is nice and wide
- Easy to get on
- Pretty flexible sole
Cons:
- Short, don't go splashing in deep puddles
- They feel cheap, I won't be surprised if they rip at the seams. The name tags have already ripped off the sides.
- They seem to be sold by a variety of sellers and I can't quite tell the sizing between them
- Ted has stepped out of them if the shoe gets stuck in mud/snow - easy on, easy off
Crocs
These are my go-to kid boots for every one of my kids. It was of course my first choice for Teddy, but when they are arrived, the smallest size I could find are just a bit too big. But they still work on his feet.
Pros:
- They are excellent boots, high quality, never leak, last forever - we have a lot of experience with these
- Taller boots for deeper puddles
- Handles will eventually help Teddy to learn to put them on himself
- Super lightweight
- Toe box is nice and wide
- Teddy prefers these
Cons:
- They are more expensive, which is a bummer at tiny sizes since they will be outgrown quickly
- Harder to get on, especially with a toddler that isn't used to shoes
- Can't find one smaller than a toddler 6
- Soles are not flexible and toes don't get much feedback
- Easier to trip in them because of the thicker front
So far we've just been using both because Teddy will wear the Kangalsun boots but always brings us the Crocs. He seems to walk in them ok, even with them being a bit big. I really probably just need to put them away until the fall. But, for now, it's been fine letting him choose.
Have you tried either of these? Or have another tiny toddler rain boot you love?
---
