Shoes from the kid brand Ten Little have been on our radar for a while. The company's Little First Walkers earned a spot in our 2023 Parenting Awards, and it recently launched a new style: the Splash Sandal. The colorful footwear is a great fit for spring and summer, as the water-resistant texture is designed for the playground or the pool.
Made from lightweight EVA materials, similar to what Native and Crocs use, these sandals combine elements of both of their competitors for a sturdy new summer shoe for your toddlers. These have the covered toe box like the kind that makes Crocs so good for protecting little feet on playgrounds. But instead of the loose-fitting "sport mode" strap of Crocs, these have a velcro option, more like the Native sandals.
Available in four colors, Aqua Mint, Daisy Yellow, Pink Lemonade and Nautical Navy, they have sizes that go from 3M to 2Y. Ten Little also has rainbow or star charms you can buy (think, Jibbitz) to add a little more flare and personality to each pair.
These have a non-skid bottom that is made to give some traction on slippery surfaces like pools or floors. They also have texture on the inside of the footbed to keep feet from sliding around, from water or sweat. The material also claims to be easy to clean, so if your little one runs through some mud puddles, they can be washed off.
While we haven't had the chance to test out the Splash Sandals yet (it's been a little too chilly for open footwear) Ten Little footwear in general has made an impression on Good Housekeeping staffers and testers. The Everyday Original was dubbed the best walking shoe for little kids and the best baby walking shoes for wide feet.
The Good Housekeeping Institute Executive Director Lexie Sachs tested the Everyday Original shoes on her own child when they were younger, calling them a perfect mix of fashion and function. "They fit well and were supportive, but they could be worn with any outfit,” she says. “They also held up well; I never noticed any damage before my daughter outgrew each size. And they were easy to get on and stayed put."
As for the Ten Little First Walkers that earned a GH Parenting Award in 2023, one of our reviewers said: "We can fit our baby's foot in them easily without crowding his toes. He can walk in them because they fit well and aren't too heavy." They also applauded the simplicity of these structured beginner shoes.
If you're heading on spring break — or looking for shoes for running around the pool — Ten Little's newest offering might be a fit for the youngest members of your household.
Shop GH-Tested Little Ten Shoes
Angel Madison is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines, writing for brands like Country Living, Good Housekeeping, Cosmopolitan, House Beautiful, Oprah Daily, Men’s Health, and Women's Health. She’s been testing products for several years and is an expert at scouting deals and finding the perfect gifts. Angel covers many topics, but she specializes in plus-size fashion, Lego, trending products, toys, parenting, fitness, home, and tech. She has previously worked in parenting and entertainment and has vast knowledge in the teen, pop culture, and kid spaces.
