My daughter is starting school this fall. One of the requirements on the list is closed toed shoes. For long time, my daughter took off her shoes at the playground – mainly because she didn’t like the feeling of sand in her shoes. I knew this was going to be a challenge (in addition to potty training), so I spent the summer preparing her. As we get closer to the first day of school, I’m happy to cross sneakers off the list.
We tested out Keen Toddler’s Chandler CNX (in Very Berry/Capri) and Keen Toddler’s Encanto Sneaker (in Purple Heart/Fusion Coral). They both passed the playground test!
Easy to take off and on
I love how the sneakers have the look of laces, but are snug and secure enough on the foot with the velcro strap. At first, I thought the shoes were a little tight, but realized the lacing system keeps tiny feet snug and in place. My 3-year old loves her sneakers, so asking her to put on (and take off) her shoes is not a challenge. She only stalls when she can’t figure out which pair to wear.
Good Grip
My kid is a climber. She loves playing on structures suggested for 5 years old and up, which makes me nervous. Keen shoes have really good grip, which made her feel confident making her way up this “rock climbing” type structure. She even told me to “stand over there” while she climbed, pointing at a spot about five feet away (outside my comfort level). I anxiously obliged and was thankful she successfully made it up.
Flexible soles
When kids start walking, the emphasis is on soft-soled shoes. When kids start running, hard-soled shoes are a necessity. Keen sneakers are padded for security, but flexible for comfort. Flexibility is essential for playground fun, especially on multi-level climbing structures.
Probiotic treatment for odor control
The Encanto sneaker (pictured above) is treated with Cleansport NXT™ for natural odor control. After playing all day, shoes are bound to get smelly. The last thing I want to think about is cleaning a shoe, so that feature is extra helpful.
The Keen brand
I’m so glad Keen makes sneakers for kids because I’m a big fan of the brand. I’ve owned Keen CNX sandals for years and they are still going strong. The Keen brand is about HybridLife, which means being part of a greater community that is full of people who create possibilities, play in the outdoors and care for the world around them. Keen partners with non-profit organizations around the world that work towards building stronger communities and a healthier planet.
Links
Keen Website: http://www.keenfootwear.com/
