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Fact: gumboots are merry must-haves for kids who love puddle-jumping, without a muddy worry in the world!
Also fact: buying those gumboots for kids can be a tricky business! Parents will know; your kids boots can get easily worn out or outgrown too quickly if you’re not sure what to look for.
You want a pair of kids rubber boots that can last through multiple seasons and become a future hand-me-down. In this post, you’ll find a step-by-step approach to investing in durable, long-lasting gumboots that can keep up with your child’s adventures.
1. Look for Quality Materials
Rubber
Not all gumboots are made equal, and the materials they’re crafted from can make a big difference when it comes to how long they last.
While cheaper boots might be made from plastic or synthetic rubber that can stiffen and crack over time (especially in colder weather), natural rubber is known for being more flexible, durable, and better at withstanding the elements. That’s why we use natural rubber in all our kids boots; it holds up to everyday adventures and still feels good season after season.
Neoprene
Neoprene is another great material to look out for. It’s soft, insulating, and water-resistant; it’s used in wetsuits for a reason! We use neoprene in our kids boots to help keep little feet comfy and warm, even on chilly mornings or rainy afternoons.
2. Choose a (Slightly) Larger Size
When you’re figuring out how to find comfortable rain boots for toddlers and kids, it’s important to pick a gumboot with a little extra room in the toes.
Kids grow fast, so a bit of extra room can help the boots last longer. Just make sure they’re not too loose or hard to walk in!
A good rule of thumb (literally!) is to leave a thumb’s width between their toe and the end of the boot. If they’re a little roomy, thick socks can help snug things up.
And don’t forget, we’ve made returns easy. If the size isn’t right, you can exchange them at no cost to you. Find out more information about our returns here.
3. Pick a Sturdy Sole with Good Grip
Non-slip, grippy soles keep your kids safe during playtime, and the better traction, the longer the boot’s life. Softer soles generally wear down more quickly, whereas sturdy, textured soles last longer.
Look for deep treads in the soles of the shoes, or soles that are reinforced so that they don’t wear out after only a few months. The deep-treaded soles on our kids boots are made with natural rubber, so they are both flexible and tough for easy movement without cracking.
4. Choose a Style That Will Grow With Them
Just like their size, your child’s style is always changing….and that’s part of the fun!
Our Bobbi and Andie kids’ boots come in a range of colours, from classic neutrals to bright pops of colour. There’s something for every personality, and plenty that are perfect for handing down later!
5. Use These Care Tips for Long-Lasting Boots
Want your kid’s gumboots to go the distance? A little care goes a long way.
Just rinse off any mud with warm water and a cloth, then store them somewhere cool and dry (like a cupboard by the door) out of direct sunlight to prevent cracking or discolouration.
If you're tucking them away for a while, pop in some newspaper to help them keep their shape. And if they’re going in a suitcase, avoid folding or squishing them. Your boots like a bit of breathing room!
An extra step we strongly recommend? Using our Care Kit! It’s designed to help keep your gumboots looking fresh and feeling comfy for longer. The rubber treatment spray helps condition and protect against cracking, while the buff and shine adds a subtle glow to finish it off.
Help Them on Their Merry Way
Our top tips for buying kids’ boots that last multiple seasons include buying gumboots made with high-quality materials that are slightly large on your child’s feet, equipped with good sole grip, and that come in styles both you and your kiddo love.
With these tips, you can invest in quality gumboots that keep little feet happy and dry all year long!
