Chic Playground Shoes for Moms

Summer’s almost here! And you know what that means: playtime! Whether your kiddos still need help down the “big girl slide” or can now run faster than you, here are a few cute shoe picks that will indulge your inner wild child … without sacrificing an ounce of style. Game on!

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Bensimon shoes are the epitome of cool, French-girl nonchalance. Don’t over-think these unassuming little shoes—just wear them with everything. You’ll be the coolest soccer-playing mama at the park.

To buy: Bensimon, $55

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Don’t be fooled by this sandal’s glam look. The soft leather upper and flexible comfort sole makes the Bouillon a comfort shoe in disguise. Pair these with skinny capris for ice cream at the park, then wear them after hours to offset a leggy mini-dress.

To buy: Ecco, $140

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Butter-soft leather, fringe, and a comfy, padded footbed? Yes, please! Pair these boho beauties with a flowy top and a slouchy, oversized bag. Make yourself a daisy-chain headband to complete the hippie-princess vibe. (Your daughter will want one, too!)

To buy: Minnetonka Maui sandals, $55

A serious shoe gets a light, playful update with soft leather, fun summer stripes and trendy neon laces. Not only is the Cole Haan Kody Oxford comfortable, it also adds instant style to even the simplest ensembles. Wear these oxfords with an oversized men’s watch and shorts for a nod to the menswear trend. Or try them with a little summer dress and fabulous bright sunglasses for a geek-chic look.

To buy: Zappos, $158

This sandal’s delicate appearance belies a cushioned EVA footbed, which works as a durable shock absorber, and Patagonia Air Technology. Make no mistake, the Bandha Criss-Cross was made to play. Yet a sandal this feminine will look just as amazing with flirty little dresses as it will with cut-off shorts. Trendy or tomboy? Totally up to you.

To buy: Patagonia, $110

These bright ballet flats boast a comfy neoprene upper and shiny, glossy, pretty cap toes that will have mamas leaping over the teeter-totter (grand jeté, if you prefer), and twirling around the slide. Pair the Stella McCartney for Adidas Jeera Ballerina shoe with an equally bright bag and accessories for an easy take on the color-blocking trend.

To buy: Adidas, $110

Crisp, preppy stripes and laid-back surf style come together in a shoe that is summer playground perfection. The Keds Surfer Stripe will look sleek with long, slim shorts or project a relaxed vibe with a summer dress.

To buy: Keds, $50

For mamas who insist on heels, this is your perfect summer shoe. With a groovy '70s sensibility and comfort you can—seriously—run around in, Dankso’s Tru will look awesome with this season’s flares, high-low skirts, sun dresses and maxis.

To buy: Dankso, $130

The Cushe Clover manages to walk the line between sport and fashion with its printed footbed, canvas ankle-wrap detail and trendy color. For mamas who typically wear sport sandals, this is a surprisingly chic choice. This sandal will look great with any casual outfit … but would be unexpected and fun with a lightweight denim dress. Even strapless, perhaps?

To buy: Cushe, $80

The preppy loafer has gotten a flirty makeover, thanks to a whole new range of colors and materials. In addition to the bright canvas pictured, Sperry Topsiders now come in everything from patent leather to metallic. A shoe that is truly comfortable sans socks, it will pair just as easily with little dresses and skirts as it will with traditional playground attire. And the rubber outsole is great for moms trekking up the slide to rescue a little one who's in over his head (literally).

To buy: Sperry, $75