3 Reasons Why Kids Shouldn’t Wear Water Shoes When Learning to Swim

 By: Emily Davis, Owner, Private Swimming Coach / Instructor 

Water shoes are a staple for many outdoor adventures. They’re designed to protect little feet from sharp rocks, slippery surfaces, and hot sand, making them fantastic for activities like beach outings, kayaking, hiking near rivers, and even splash pads! However, when it comes to learning to swim, water shoes can actually do more harm than good. 

Why Water Shoes Don’t Belong in the Pool

1. Balance and Stability

Swimming relies on the body’s natural balance in the water, and water shoes can weigh down the swimmer, affecting their natural balance in the water. Water shoes can also make it harder for children to "feel" their footing as they’re walking in water, or learning basic skills like treading water, standing up after floating, or pushing off the pool walls. Without the shoes, kids can focus on stabilizing themselves more effectively. (The same concept also applies to socks in the water.)

2. Proper Kicking Technique

Kicking is a crucial part of swimming and water safety. Water shoes add resistance that disrupts the natural feel of a kick and limits flexibility in the ankles, both of which are vital for efficient movement through the water. You’d also be surprised at how much you need your toes for an efficient kick. Without water shoes, kids can learn the proper rhythm and range of motion needed to kick effectively, allowing them to move more confidently.

3. Encouraging Confidence and Sensory Awareness

When kids can feel the water on their feet, they’re more connected to the environment around them. This sensory awareness helps build confidence in the water as they explore and move naturally. Water shoes can act as a barrier to this feeling, preventing kids from fully experiencing the temperature, texture, and flow of the water. Swimming barefoot allows them to feel the water’s unique sensations, which ultimately helps them become more at ease.

Final Thoughts

Don’t get me wrong, water shoes are a fantastic choice for outdoor adventures, they’re just not great for swimming. In the pool, going barefoot helps children build balance, develop proper kicking techniques, and increase sensory awareness—all essential elements for learning to swim with confidence and skill. 

So, the next time you’re off to the beach, river, or tide pools, don’t forget the water shoes! But when it’s time for swim lessons, let those toes go free. Happy swimming and adventuring!

Looking to help your child feel more confident and safe in the water? Check out my Swimming with Confidence courses! With step-by-step guidance tailored for parents of beginner swimmers, I’ll show you proven methods to help your child develop essential water skills and get you both loving the water together!