Are There Barefoot Rain Boots for Kids?

Absolutely! When children stomp through puddles or tiptoe across slick sidewalks, they’re not only testing their boots—they’re testing their bodies. Every splash, slip, and squish sends information from their feet to their brains, helping them fine-tune balance, coordination, and confidence. That’s why barefoot technology (think zero-drop heels, wide toe boxes, and flexible soles) isn’t just a footwear trend. It’s developmentally appropriate for growing kids who are learning to walk, run, and recover from the occasional wobble.

Here at Reima we believe kids deserve all the benefits of barefoot shoes, no matter the weather, and maybe even especially then. Why? Because science shows us that when kids have room for toe splay, it promotes proper balance. And when their shoes have thin flexible soles for better ground feel, their bodies learn how to navigate an uneven world. What better environment to enhance these benefits than a wet and wild one?

Aren’t Barefoot Shoes Only for Summer?

Barefoot designs often get lumped in with warm-weather gear—think sandals, sneakers, and breathable mesh. It makes sense: summer shoes are already lightweight and flexible, so the transition to barefoot feels natural. But why let summer have all the fun?

At Reima, we’ve been integrating barefoot technology into our full collection, including boots built for unpredictable weather. Check out our mid-season Viikari or Sankari shoes for a sturdier barefoot option, and if the forecast looks dreary, our Hyppii or Loikii boots provide all-weather protection without compromising barefoot benefits.

Barefoot Rain Boots

It’s important here to note that Reima footwear comes in two levels of weather protection. Most of our footwear, barefoot included, features ReimaTec, a water-resistant membrane that defends against light rain or the occasional splash. But what if your kids want to stomp in puddles like they mean it? Or look for newts in the creek? That’s when you need ReimaTec Waterproof protection. This double layer bootie construction is truly waterproof, and all without losing the key features of our barefoot shoe design. 

We wanted to make a barefoot rain boot toddlers could truly enjoy wet weather in—so we made the Ankka.

Meet the Ankka: Our First Barefoot Toddler Rain Boots

This fall, we’re proud to introduce the Ankka, Reima’s first fully waterproof barefoot rain boot for toddlers. Designed with ReimaTec Waterproof construction, it’s cotton-lined for comfort and features a high collar to keep the rain out. Unlike traditional rain boots, which can feel stiff and hard to move in, the Ankka is a barefoot rain rubber boot kids can wear for better ground feel, balance, and comfort—even in wet conditions.

Want to learn more about the benefits of barefoot shoes for kids? Explore our full guide here.