Toddlers love exploring the world around them, rain or shine! Finding the right waterproof rain boot for your kids is a merry step towards puddle-jumping adventures and carefree, splash-filled days.
Whether you’re after a quick checklist or a deep dive into fit, comfort, and materials, this guide covers everything you need to know to find the best kids’ gumboots for wet and muddy terrains. From slip-resistant soles to easy-on features, we’ll help you choose rain boots that work for your child (and for you!).
No Time to Read the Full Guide?
Here’s what to look for in toddler rain boots:
✅ Thumb-width room at the toe for growing feet
✅ Pull tabs & wide openings for easy on/off
✅ Grippy soles to prevent slips
✅ Waterproof materials like natural rubber and neoprene
✅ Thick socks help if the fit’s a little loose
1. Prioritise Comfort and Fit
When toddlers are busy running, squatting, and jumping in puddles, comfort is key. A poor fit can lead to blisters, complaints, or even trips and falls.
Here’s how to make sure their boots feel as good as they look:
- Soft, flexible materials like neoprene and rubber help avoid rubbing or stiffness, even during all-day wear.
- The right fit matters: Too tight, and they’ll resist putting them on. Too loose, and they’ll fall off mid-run. Aim for that Goldilocks zone: secure but roomy!
- A thumb’s width of space at the front allows for natural foot movement and growth spurts without affecting stability.
- Slip-on ease: Pull tabs and wider openings encourage independence and make getting ready quicker for you both.
Getting the fit right means more fun, less fuss... and fewer soggy socks!
2. Tips for Measuring Their Feet
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. And if they’re a little roomy, thick socks can help snug things up.
Here’s how to find their size:
- Measure their feet with a ruler, then check our size chart to find the right size.
- When the boots arrive, make sure there’s a thumb’s width of space at the toe. (This extra room helps the boots last longer!)
- If they’re a bit loose, thick socks can help.
- Got the size wrong? No worries. Returns are easy and free!
3. Pick Waterproof and Long-Lasting Materials
One of our best tips for buying kids’ boots that last multiple seasons is to purchase boots that are built to last.
Our gumboots are designed to keep their toes dry and warm, made with 100% natural rubber exteriors, and lined with waterproof neoprene. Here's a quick look at each material.
Rubber
Natural rubber is known for being durable, flexible, and 100% waterproof. This helps from water sneaking into the boot and giving your kid soggy socks!
Neoprene
Neoprene is the same material used to make wetsuits. This makes it water resistant, adds warmth, and adds a layer of comfort to the boot. Both neoprene and natural rubber are high-quality materials, which means that these boots will last through the rustle and tussle of toddler playtime.
These high-quality materials give you a gumboot that will last for the long haul.
4. Check the Grip on the Soles
Toddlers are still finding their feet, so slip-resistant soles are a must. Both our Bobbi and Andie Kids boots are made with durable natural rubber and feature deep treads for extra grip—great for puddle jumping, muddy paths, and everything in between.
5. Find Boots With Pull Tabs
Wiggly toddlers mean wiggly feet, and those feet need toddler-friendly footwear! When it’s time to get shoes on or off, look for gumboots that keep things quick and easy.
Features like pull tabs are essential for independent little adventurers, helping them slip boots on and off without a fuss. A wider opening at the top also makes all the difference, giving kids the freedom to do it themselves.
Merry Boots, Merry Tots
Once you have your child’s measurements, you can easily find comfortable gumboots for your little one’s drizzly day plans. Look for boots made with natural rubber and neoprene that have a little extra room at the toe, grippy soles, and pull tabs.
Ready to explore our options for toddlers? Check out our kids boots today to get your toddler adventure-ready.
PS. 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.