Fashion Awards 2026 / Junior Design Awards / 22 September 2026

Best Children’s Active Footwear Collection | Junior Design Awards 2026

The Junior Design Awards celebrate the very best in design, innovation and style. Discover the winners of best children's active footwear collection and find out what impressed our expert judging panel.

Junior Magazine Fashion Awards 2026 Best Children’s Active Footwear Collection | Junior Design Awards 2026

Winner:GOLD - Best Children’s Active Footwear Collection

Who:Bobux

What:S26 Collection including 'Alpha by Bobux’

Why:

This collection from Bobux was truly made with the most active kids in mind. For those who love running, jumping, climbing and adventuring, these shoes will support little feet that never stop moving. Judges were impressed with the emphasis on comfort and practicality and the brand’s commitment to a more sustainable approach to footwear with their BLOOM™ foam technology was much applauded.

"The emphasis on natural foot development and movement feels considered and brings something different to the category."

Lauren Webber, Co-founder of The Mum Club

"Bobux shoes are fantastic quality, lovely finishing and very durable for every day use! The leather is soft, flexible and lightweight for busy little feet."

Yin Lim, Stylist and Creative Director @yin.and.eetwins

"This is a strong range that successfully balances functionality, quality and child-centred design."

Nicola Perring, Maternity, Baby and Kids’ Industry Consultant @lookin_thenest
Junior Magazine Fashion Awards 2026 Best Children’s Active Footwear Collection | Junior Design Awards 2026

Winner:SILVER - Best Children’s Active Footwear Collection

Who:Dubs

What:Dubs Flex - trainers that let kids be kids

Why:

Dubs Flex trainers were designed by a dad who wholeheartedly believes in the importance of active play, and our panel couldn’t agree more. The passion behind the design of these shoes is evident, every aspect is geared towards kids being kids – they are super light and flexible, easy to put on and machine washable, all scoring highly with the judges.

"Fantastic shoes, no fuss with little kids as they can slip on easily without help. Kids with sensory issues also loved the shoes."

Yin Lim, Stylist and Creative Director @yin.and.eetwins

"Dubs has created a thoughtful and practical footwear range that puts children's needs at the centre of its design. The products are easy for children to put on and take off independently, while still providing the support and durability expected from everyday footwear. Features such as machine washability, comfortable construction and the online foot-measuring tool demonstrate a strong understanding of the challenges parents face when buying children's shoes."

Nicola Perring, Maternity, Baby and Kids’ Industry Consultant @lookin_thenest

"The focus on durability and encouraging children to play freely is a refreshing concept with a clear purpose."

Lauren Webber, Co-founder of The Mum Club
Junior Magazine Fashion Awards 2026 Best Children’s Active Footwear Collection | Junior Design Awards 2026

Winner:BRONZE - Best Children’s Active Footwear Collection

Who:Wet Wednesdays

What:Bubble Boots

Why:

These durable boots from Wet Wednesdays are made for adventurous kids. Judges loved the fact that they’re made in one piece, so they won’t leak like traditional rubber boots. Also praised was the cosy removable liner, which adds extra warmth for the winter and allows the boots to fit across two sizes. Judges also felt that the boots were lightweight and easy for children to put on themselves, encouraging confidence in getting dressed and getting outside.

Wet Wednesdays has developed a practical product that is clearly designed to keep children comfortable outdoors. The removable liner, allowing the boots to accommodate growing feet across two sizes, is a thoughtful feature that extends the useful life of the product and offers good value for families. The durability of the EVA construction also means the boots are likely to withstand heavy use."

Nicola Perring, Maternity, Baby and Kids’ Industry Consultant @lookin_thenest

"The dual-size concept is a clever innovation that adds real value for parents."

Lauren Webber, Co-founder of The Mum Club
Junior Magazine Fashion Awards 2026 Best Children’s Active Footwear Collection | Junior Design Awards 2026