If you're shopping for children's sandals, you've probably noticed the range of styles available—from basic flip-flops to more structured options. Espadrille wedge sandals sit somewhere in the middle, offering more support than casual sandals while maintaining an open-toe design that works well in warm weather. The Soda brand offers espadrille flatform wedge sandals in an open toe style with an ankle strap, designed for kids who need something between a casual and dressier option.

Before you buy, it's worth understanding what makes these sandals different, who they suit best, and how to ensure you get the right size for your child.

What Are Soda Espadrille Flatform Wedge Sandals?

Espadrille wedge sandals are a specific shoe style that combines several design elements. The espadrille part refers to the rope or jute binding, traditionally used on the sole and sometimes visible on the upper. The flatform wedge means the heel is elevated but comes as one continuous platform rather than a thin heel, which actually provides better stability than a traditional narrow heel. The open-toe design keeps feet cool, while the ankle strap—described in the Soda product listing—makes them easy to slip on and off.

For kids, this combination creates a sandal that's suitable for casual outings, light travel, or warmer weather when you want something more substantial than a basic sandal but not as formal as a full shoe.

Is This the Right Style for Your Child?

Espadrille wedge sandals work best for children who can comfortably wear strappy footwear without complaint. If your child has never worn anything with an ankle strap or finds constrictive footwear irritating, you might want to start with something simpler.

These sandals also require a bit more care than slip-on options, so they suit kids old enough to be reasonably gentle with their shoes. They're particularly good for children who need something durable for regular wear rather than occasional special occasions.

Consider the climate and season too. The open-toe design makes these sandals best suited for warm weather, and the espadrille construction means they're not waterproof—so they're not ideal for beach use or rainy climates where your child's feet will be wet.

Getting the Size Right

Sizing is the most critical part of buying any children's shoes. Kids' feet grow quickly, sometimes changing size several times in a year, so it's important to measure rather than guess.

Have your child stand on a flat surface, ideally on a piece of paper, and trace around their foot. Measure from the heel to the longest toe. Compare this measurement to the Soda sizing chart for children's sandals. Remember that different brands size differently, so don't assume your child's size in one brand matches another.

Leave a small amount of room—roughly the width of your thumb at the toe end—for growth and movement. Too much space and the ankle strap won't hold the foot securely, but no room at all means uncomfortable pressure and blistering. When your child tries them on, check that the ankle strap fastens securely without digging in, and that the open toe area doesn't put pressure on the sides of the foot.

Care and Maintenance

Espadrille sandals benefit from regular care to last through a full season. The jute or rope elements can accumulate dirt and dust, so brush them gently with a soft brush after each wear. Wipe the sole with a damp cloth to remove debris.

Avoid soaking the sandals or using a washing machine, as water can damage the espadrille construction and weaken the glue holding components together. If they get muddy, let them dry completely first, then brush off the dried mud.

Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade the colour and weaken materials over time. The ankle strap should be checked occasionally for signs of wear or loosening.

Soda Kids Espadrille Flatform Wedge Sandals: A Practical Choice

The Soda brand's espadrille flatform wedge open toe sandals with ankle strap offer a middle-ground option for parents looking for something more structured than basic sandals. The key to a successful purchase is measuring your child's feet accurately and understanding that these sandals require gentle care. With proper sizing and maintenance, they can be a comfortable, stylish choice for warm-weather wear.

The product in this guide: Soda Little Kids/Children/Girls Topic-IIS Espadrille Flatform Wedge Open Toe Sandals