teva

My local playground is filled with children of all ages wearing Crocs. With several styles to choose from, the shoes have become a favorite of parents and tots alike. But watching no fewer than three kids slide right out of their shoes and end up with scraped knees and elbows last weekend, I went on a quest for a functional and fitted waterproof shoe that could easily move between the local park, the sprinkler and the pool.

A quick search brought up more than a few that would serve any active toddler well, including my favorite of the bunch, the Teva Psyclone ($25), pictured in the middle. Its Neoprene fabric is used to manufacture wetsuits, so it dries fast, features a rubber sole and can easily be put on a wet, squirming foot.

I was in the market for a new trail running shoe and came across these and was surprised by the brand. I thought Teva only made sandals. Who knew?

These are the X-1 Racer Trail-Running Shoes. I LOVE the name - it sounds so technical and hard-core. These are actually made to get wet. The upper part is made of nylon so they dry quickly. It also has a unique drainage system around the entire shoe, so if water gets in, it can escape in all directions. Now that sounds like the Tevas I am used to.

The upper part is also made of mesh for great breathability and lightness. The midsoles are made with cushioned EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate), which is a material that is durable, lightweight, and offers responsive cushioning. This means you can run and jump wherever you want, on hard or soft surfaces, and your feet will be supported.

The soles are made of Race-Lite rubber with a deep waffle-like pattern, so they hug terrain and keep you stable. For $95, this shoe isn't as expensive as some trail-runners can be, and it's great to have a pair for the summer that can go from water to dry land with no problems. If you're a fan of Teva's sandals, I'd give these a try.