As the school year winds down and the weather warms up, a lot of kids (and parents) start the countdown to summer camp. Whether it’s a day camp at the local park or an overnight camp two hours away, kids are sure to experience the thrill and wonder of new adventures and friendships.
But while kids are busy dreaming of the fun they’ll have, parents are loading up on bug spray and sunscreen and wondering which shoes or sandals to pack. Luckily, we have plenty of tips on how to choose the right footwear for your kid. One of our favorites? Protect those toes with closed-toe sandals! Here are six reasons why we think closed-toe sandals and summer camp go together as perfectly as S’mores and campfire songs:
1. Closed-toe sandals guard toes while playing sports and games.
You know the saying, “It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt”? Well, it’s more true than ever at summer camp. With days full of capture the flag, soccer, pickleball, and more, kids don’t have time for stubbed or stepped-on toes. Closed-toe sandals help ensure that toes are protected as kids play, so they can stay in the game from the first day of camp to the last. From disc golf to hopscotch, our Moxie sandal for big kids, little kids, and toddlers is ready for action with a cushioned insole and comfortable, easy-to-adjust upper. 
2. Closed-toe sandals are great for activities that require toe protection.
Obstacle course or zipline? No problem! Many camps have team-building obstacle courses or outings to ziplining adventures so kids can experience the thrill of challenging themselves and build leadership skills. To keep everyone safe (toes included), lots of facilities require closed-toe shoes to participate in the fun. It’s no wonder that Newport sandals are a favorite for zipliners of all ages.
3. Closed-toe sandals can pull double duty in the footwear department.
Whether your kid wants to do a nature hike or play in the sprinkler, a pair of closed-toe sandals can easily do both. The chameleon of footwear, closed-toe sandals can be worn on their own for water play or paired with socks for extra warmth and protection while hiking or warming up by the campfire. Plus, if you send your kiddo off with only one pair of sandals, it’s one less thing for them to lose track of! Our Knotch Creek sandal for big kids, little kids, and toddlers is durable, grippy, and a great sandal/shoe combo. The modest vents are big enough to provide airflow but small enough that they help keep out debris. 
4. Closed-toe sandals protect toes when animals are around.
Whether it’s horseback riding, tending farm animals, or meeting the donkeys, lots of summer camps incorporate animals into their activities. Since kids are usually paying more attention to the amazing animal in front of them instead of their feet, closed-toe sandals can help protect toes from a chicken peck to the foot or an animal’s misstep. After all, the goal is for kids to like animals, not be worried that one is going to nibble their big toe! KEEN closed-toe sandals are also machine-washable so they’re easy to clean after a week spent playing with animals (or stepping in chicken poo). 
5. Closed-toe sandals are perfect for water activities.
Many summer camps are located near rivers, lakes, or streams, so kids can enjoy some water play during the hot summer months. Although it’s unlikely that swimming in the lake would call for closed-toe sandals, taking part in activities like canoeing, kayaking, or rafting might benefit from additional toe protection. Whether your kid is helping push the boat into the water or portaging through shallow water, closed-toe sandals will help safeguard against cuts, scrapes, and stubbed toes. Our Stingray sandal for big kids, little kids, and toddlers is lightweight, quick-drying, and super grippy, making it the perfect shoe for water-related fun.
6. Closed-toe sandals protect toes in new environments.
Summer camp is all about trying new things and exploring new places. From climbing a huge tree to learning how to fly fish to taking a class on outdoor survival skills, new activities in new environments can be exciting but also full of unknowns. Closed-toe sandals help protect toes, so kids can stay focused on learning, having fun, and soaking up the experience. Whether it’s fun in the water or on the trail, our versatile Seacamp II CNX sandal for toddlers, little kids, and big kids is ready for the adventure thanks to its lightweight build and high traction, multidirectional lugged outsole.
Feel like summer camp is sneaking up too soon and you’re not quite ready? Check out our guide for how to choose a summer camp and read through some tips on how to get prepared. The last thing left to do? Pick out some comfy, supportive, closed-toe sandals to keep your kiddo’s toes happy and protected all summer long. 
