End the summer in style or stock up for next year with a great sale on infant sandals at Lands’ End. Currently, these cute little shoes are marked down to $12.99 (from $19.50). They are available in both this cute butterfly and a more masculine alligator design. They are available in sizes from 0-6 months up to 18-24 months, and are made from genuine leather with flexible suede soles. You can check them out at LandsEnd.com.

It’s a bone of contention in our house that I won’t let my girls wear flip flops. While I can appreciate some aspects of that summer favorite, I just don’t feel like my girls’ feet are safe in them. I like these sandals from bathing suit favorite Kate Mack because they incorporate the practical elements of flip flops–easy to get on and off, water proof, etc., with safety features such as an ankle strap. They are pretty darn cute, too. Whether they are paired with a coordinating Kate Mack bathing suit or with shorts and a tee shirt, these are sure to be a hit with moms and kids alike. You can purchase a pair for $26 at bestdressedkids.com.

When it comes to water shoes, our family is divided. Half us us wear KEENS, the other half Tevas. Tevas became popular late in my high school days, but somehow I have never owned a pair (well, except for a pair of their hybrid sneakers). In general, I’m just not much of a sandal person, so I don’t tend to buy them for my kids. My partner, on the other hand, lives in them in the summer, and his kids have grown to love them too.

I have to say that they are growing on me because they are so practical (fast-drying, easy to clean). The appearance has grown on me a bit too, with the appearance of fun patterns like this bright red and yellow Daisy print. This particular pair comes in kids sizes and retails for $32.50. You can purchase them at tinysoles.com.

What spring outfit would be complete without sandals? These stylish sandals from Robeez are sure to not only look great with your little boy’s spring gear, but also be very comfortable and good for his growing feet. Personally, I’ve always liked brown sandals because I think they’re much easier to match to a variety of outfits, which not only saves money but time getting ready in the morning. I especially like the splash of color these have which make them stand out from the typical brown sandal. The shoes have non-slip, water-resistant soles that work great for the outdoors and the elastic back and adjustable fasteners make it easier to keep them on those active feet. Approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, these sandals also boast cushioned insoles that provide the support and comfort you want for your kids’ feet. You can buy them for $39.95 on robeez.com.

With spring right around the corner (I hope), Pediped is getting ready to unveil its Spring and Summer 09 footwear collection. Here is a sneak peek at one of the styles from the girls’ line.

The Giselle sandal features a pattern of hip, multi-colored dots on a background of either white or brown. I think the white ones would be perfect for many Easter dresses, although the brown ones would go over better in my house where shoes have to stand up to a bit of dirt.  Both colors are very sweet, and will be easy to coordinate with the clothes that are already in your child’s closet, or that you will be buying for the spring and summer seasons. Most importantly, while a lot of sandals look cute, these actually provide the support your child’s feet need in order to develop properly.

These fun sandals will be available in February and will retail for $38.  You can purchase them at Pediped.com.

Pediped.com has such an incredible collection of children’s quality shoes that you probably won’t be able to decide on just one pair. These Metallic Zoe Pink Mary Jane Sandals are typical of the soft, pliable Pediped construction that is recommended and accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association. Children need protection and mobility in their footwear that also allows their feet to form properly.

View these and other styles at Pediped.com, where these Mary Jane Sandals are available for just $32.00 in sizes XS, S, M, and L.

I really appreciate practical and comfortable shoes for young children. These White as Snow Sandals by Bella Baby look comfortable and supportive for young walkers. Don’t worry that they’re white, as they’re totally machine washable.

These soft top play shoes with firm waffle soles should be your go-to sandals for the rest of the warm weather. They go on easily with a velcro adjustable closure. Available in sizes 6 weeks to 12 months. Buy a few pairs in various sizes at FrogsFrillsandDaffodils.com for $11.95, because these are a staple you’ll want for your child as she grows older.

I love to see little feet in sandals in warm weather.  They always look so sweet and summery.  My girls don’t get to wear them much because of all the mulch at school and daycare, but I always love to look at them just the same.

These original Salt-Water Sandals by Hoy Shoe are especially nice.  They have been a summer staple for many families for quite some time, and even celebrity parents like Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes are fans.  Available in infant and toddler sizes, these shoes are made of high-quality leather and are constructed to last.

You can buy a pair for $35 to $47 at Zappos.com.  Sizes for older girls and women are also available, as are a wide range of colors and styles.

My longtime commitment to vegetarianism leads me to buy non-leather shoes for myself, but my one cheat has always been shoes for my kids.  I have just encountered so much difficulty trying to find quality non-leather footwear that will support their growing feet.  That’s why I was so excited to stumble upon this line of toddler shoes from Soft Star.

I love these sandals, which clearly have a foot-friendly design.  The soft soles are perfect for foot development, and they look airy and comfortable.  I love the contrast between the blue and pink.  The shoes are hand-made from simulated leather.  You can purchase a pair for $46 at wilddill.com.

Called a “mommy gift”, these monogrammed sandals aren’t a bad idea for the shoe lover on your list. Though I would pass up some of the available options, these wooden numbers with polka dots aren’t half bad. Though I wouldn’t mind them in some other color, they’re still fairly versatile, good for matching with jeans, skirts, or casual pants. They’d be easy to slip into for parties on the patio (going in and out with drinks and to the washroom is much easier in slip-ons), for pregnant mommies who no longer have an easy time bending over to do up shoes, and for new mommies with no time for fussy shoes. As I mentioned, I’d prefer another color and that wouldn’t be a problem with the tons of options available to the choosy mom, including painted soles in animal print, dots, and zebra. With sizes going from 4 to 11.5 and a price tag of $120, yours can be customized at roseberrycreekdesigns.com.