They might only wear them for a few minutes before kicking them off, but is there anything cuter than seeing a baby wearing a pair of Vans? Or any pair of itty-bitty trainers for that matter? IMHO, no. So to ensure your little one's sneakers aren't letting down the ensemble - or, you know, to ensure they're comfortable, which is far more important obviously - we've done some due diligence on the best kids trainers out there.
A lot of famous trainer brands do both baby and kids collections. Cue 'aww' sounds. New Balance's pint-sized sneakers have got to be some of the coolest (and cutest) in the business. I love their colour selection - check out this forest green and tangerine combo - while the secure hook-and-loop closure means that they'll be ready for a full day of play. Gola has recently collaborated with Cath Kidston, producing some of the sweetest sneakers we've seen with polka dot prints etc. Superga's metallic kicks, meanwhile, are the mini-me equivalent of main character accessories.
If, by the way, your children are growing as fast as your grey hairs, you don't have to buy new at all. Dotte, the marketplace for families where you can donate, recycle, buy and sell kids clothing, has an amazing range of second-hand trainers, with brands including Converse, New Balance, Vans, Osh Kosh and Clarks. Once they've grown out of them you can simply resell (or ensure they keep circulating by giving them to a friend). Clever, no?
SHOP:
Gola x Cath Kidston, Kids Spot Tennis Mark Cox Trainers
Gola x Cath Kidston has got to be one of the cutest sneaker collabs ever.
Vans, Toddler Old Stool Hook And Loop Shoes (1-4 Years)
The cute-factor is off the chart when it comes to baby Vans, with so many colours and styles to choose from.
Victoria, Sandalia Tira Lona Velcro Sneakers
Less trainer and more plimsoll, Victoria has a lovely selection of colours.
New Balance, 515 Hook & Loop
For a true mini-me moment, New Balance has got to be the one.
Superga, 2750 Kids Straps Metallic Canvas
Have a metallic moment with this velcro sneakers from Superga.
M&S, Kids' High-Top Trainers
Would you believe that these too-cool-for-school high-tops are from good old M&S? I know!
Clarks, Scape Track Kid Black Leather
Clarks has a great range of kids trainers, including this stain-proof (well, almost) pair.
Cath Kidston, Laceless Canvas Pull-On
Boden's plimsolls are made for running rings around you and the garden.
Converse, Shoes UK 4
Finally Dotte, the second-hand marketplace for families, which has an amazing selection of pre-loved footwear.