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Best Shoes with Lights Reviewed & Rated
Their original pair of light up kicks retailed for a pricey seven hundred US dollars, which put these fashion-forward shoes out of reach for some. Thanks to the passage of time, the power of manufacturers, and a surge in popularity, consumers now have access to a plethora of various brands of light up LED sneakers.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Features
This is a no-brainer; if you’re looking to purchase the best shoes with lights, then you need to look into the LED features they offer. There are a lot of different designs and types of light-up shoes – there’s also a lot of personal preference regarding the topic. Thus, you should properly look into these features to make sure they match your style and preferences. Some of these features also determine the quality of the led light up shoes, thus we incorporated it as criteria.
Comfort
The main thing you don’t want your shoe to lack is comfort. Most LED sneakers designs have a casual shoe build; basically a normal sneaker with lights. Thus, it should include at least the basic comfort features found in a regular sneaker.
Seeing as these shoes that light up will mostly be used for walking, it’s expected that they deliver the proper cushioning required for comfortable walking. The main element that makes walking comfortable, is cushioning. The lack of it eventually creates discomfort in areas of high stress such as the heel. There’s no such thing as too much cushioning when it comes to walking shoes (comfort-wise, not taking into consideration the bulk). It all comes down to easy math; more cushioning, more comfort. Less cushioning, more heel stress and potential soreness/pain.
Other things you will want to get out of your footwear include support, breathability, and padding in the right places, as these can greatly improve your wearing experience, and make the footwear a good investment in the long run.
Midsole
The midsole plays a big role in any shoe as well. However, the midsole is a rather different topic when it comes to LED shoes, as this is where the lights are placed. Usually, the lights are placed in a “pocket” within the midsole, covered by a material that allows the light to pass through. This shouldn’t stop the midsole from delivering enough shock absorption and impact diminishing qualities to keep you comfortable.
Style
Shoes with light serve a pretty obvious purpose: fashion. There’s not much to explain there. Sure, some LED shoes feature a performance design – but if someone wasn’t interested in fashion, they would simply get plain performance shoes. Thus, we included the shoe design as criteria for our evaluation. Keep in mind that, while the aesthetics play a part of the design, it’s not what completely composes it.
The design also refers to the way in which the shoe is structured. Think of the design as the blueprint of the shoe. It’s a sum-up of all the features and qualities of the shoe as a whole, including the aesthetics. For instance, the variety of available designs has an impact on the customer’s decision. It’s due to this that certain fashion sneakers feature multiple builds; a low-top, mid-top, and high-top approaches. Likewise, a greater color variety gives the customer much more options from where to choose – and it also gives them the possibility to own different pairs if they wish.
A design that includes a greater variety of LED colors is more attractive to users as well. Don’t get us wrong – a single color flashing design still counts as a LED shoe and still has a chance of positioning on our list. However, having LED sneakers with up to 15 color variations, greater color variety is an advantage at the time of determining the list positioning. But, we also kept in mind that greater color varieties and intensities translate into a higher battery consumption. Thus, these designs should count with extended battery life in comparison to other products.
We also consider the ability to turn the lights on and off to be a very practical feature. Designs featuring this technology had the upper hand in our research and evaluation. Along with this feature, we also took into consideration the durability of the battery for each use. The battery capacity was judged on both its durability and charging time. Additionally, better-charging technology was also considered an advantage during evaluation. USB-C technology, for example, provides a faster and more efficient charge to led light up shoes.
For running shoes and similar performance models, it’s a great advantage that the LED lights are notable enough to see at night. When the sun goes down, it may not be as easy for other night joggers to spot you if there’s not enough illumination on the way. These lights come in very handy in such scenarios, as they function similarly to cycler’s rear light.
Versatility
We previously explained multiple points about casual LED shoes; however, as we also mentioned, LED shoes are not limited to walking designs. Running shoes are also becoming part of the LED trend, and their designs are being adapted to it. Just like a casual shoe can’t sacrifice its basic features for LED lights, a light-up design shouldn’t decrease the quality of a performance shoe either.
Yet, aside from the performance qualities of the shoe itself, the design of LED running shoes is different. We’re no longer talking about the pressure of a gait when walking; things change when we’re talking about impact activities and sports. Regardless of the quality of the shoe and lights, it’s to be expected that LED performance shoes are less durable than casual ones.
But, this doesn’t mean running shoes can’t feature a quality LED approach. As long as the build meets the necessary performance qualities required for a sports shoe, the LED design won’t be an obstacle. Keep in mind that we don’t recommend using LED shoes for any performance sport aside from jogging, running, and other similar ones. This is, of course, unless the manufacturer and product description states otherwise.
Light-up performance shoes are pretty much the same as normal performance shoes, with the exception of the midsole LED insert. So, what features should a performance shoe count with? Let’s take a look.
Top 10 Best Shoes That Light Up
1. Skechers Litebeams
Skechers is a brand trusted by millions across the globe for their quality, comfortable, and dependable LED light up shoes. Their version of a model with lights is no exception. Well fitting, breathable, and quality LEDs are only part of what you get when you pick this pair. You will also get a model with a flexible rubber sole making the Lightbeams comfortable for all-day wear.
The mesh upper in these leaves plenty of room and flexibility for growing feet. Proper foot development requires the toes to be able to move and splay naturally and a mesh upper makes it easier for this to happen. In addition, the mesh is also breathable to ensure feet stay cool and comfortable even on hot days or at crowded events.
These LED shoes do not offer a charging feature but what they do offer is an exceptionally long battery life. Keeping it simple there are no on-off buttons or charging ports. Simply walk in these shoes and they light up. Because of the extended battery life and a minimal amount of energy consumption you won't have to worry about your lights going out any time soon. Carrying a name like Skechers also means carrying a higher price tag. You can be assured you will get a top-quality pair of footwear that will last the extra mile. While most budgets will be able to afford them, they may take a little more wiggle room than other options available.
2. PUMA Speed Lightup
Puma is a heavyweight in the athletic wear industry, and you'll be happy to know that they also make shoes that light up. The Speed Lightup is a casual athletic model with a rubber outsole and velcro closure, as well as fun light-up panels. It comes in five vibrant color options, from black and red to a striking sky blue.
The outsole is the part of the shoe that makes direct contact with the ground, and as such, it can take quite the beating over time. Rubber is the most common outsole material, known for its relatively lightweight design and long-term durability. The outsole is often the first part of a shoe to show signs of wear and tear, after all, so it's important that it stays in good condition.
Most lighted pairs are designed for kids, and as such tend to come with a variety of closure types. Puma used a velcro closure for the Speed Lightup sneakers, as these are easy for both kids and adults to open and close while offering a secure and customizable fit. Prices on these LED shoes vary based on size and color options, but overall the Speed Lightup is priced similarly to other Puma models.
3. Stride Rite Katie
A sneaker for little kids, this model by Stride Rite is an excellent choice of an everyday shoe with some added pizzazz. The Katie is a colorful model (available in two colorways) that features plenty of glitter, a heel section with light-up inserts, and even a large bow on top. As you’d expect from the brand, these LED light up shoes also have a number of comfort features aimed at improving your child’s wearing experience, making it an overall great choice.
This model takes into consideration the fact that putting footwear on little children often proves to be a frustrating tax, which is why it uses two distinct features. The first one is a lacing system that is made with flexible bungee cords that doesn’t require fine motor skills to ensure a secure fit. The other is a hook and loop strap at the top of the foot which further ensures safety, especially when in motion.
The footbed of the Katie LED sneakers is made with memory foam, which is especially suitable for children, seeing that it molds to the foot, providing a soft surface to step on, without being too cushioned. The inner is lined with antimicrobial twill, while the outsole uses slip-resistant rubber and a traction pattern that is suitable for all types of surfaces. The price of this item is slightly high, but still a good value for money, making it a great choice.
4. Skechers S Lights Hypno Flash 2.0
For those tykes who are always on the move, a LED sneaker which allows them to run around and explore, while looking absolutely cool is a must. The Hypno Flash 2.0 LED light up shoes by Skechers are exactly that - athletic style made for all types of activities - from daycare, to school, to playdates and casual outings. It’s available in two color options, both of which show strong contrasts to contribute to the slightly futuristic look and feel.
The Hypno Flash 2.0 is constructed with a combination of breathable mesh, and smooth synthetic overlays placed in key places which increase durability, but also ensure a higher level of support during multidirectional movement. The elastic lacing system is attached to a synthetic cage that wraps the shoe around the entire foot. Plus, the heel features a pull tab for easy on when you’re on the go.
The midsole of the Hypno Flash shoes that light up uses a shock-absorbing material, making this a great option for those children who tend to run and jump a lot, keeping their joints and muscles safe from impact. The collar and tongue are generously padded to avoid rubbing, while the outsole offers excellent traction, without sacrificing flexibility. The price point is slightly lower than average, and the fact that the model is made by Skechers, a reputable brand, makes this a great choice for most shoppers.
5. Stride Rite Leepz
Stride Rite got their start a century ago in 1919 and is dedicated to making products that allow kids to joyfully explore the world. The Leepz sneakers are a perfect example of this. Coming in a wide range of sizes and colors, these shoes that light up look as great as they perform.
Non-marking outsoles are a feature you'll likely come across in school and company dress codes. This type of sole won't leave significant marks on hard floorings such as wood and tile, making them a very attractive option for a lot of people.
Velcro is a wonderful closure type, but can sometimes begin to loosen as you move around. This is where elastic bungee lacing comes in. It will complement velcro closures rather than replace them, allowing for a secure fit no matter how much you move in them. The Stride Rite Leepz LED sneakers are priced similarly to other pairs on this list. What really makes these stand out is the wide range of size and color options, from basic black and grey to beautifully contrasting colors such as green and pink.
6. Skechers Twinkle Toes
From kids to adults, everyone loves a little sparkle. The Skechers Twinkle Toes sneakers feature rhinestone accents on the toe cap, as well as lights in this area that blink with each step. These are offered in a wide range of both size and color options, making it easy to find the perfect ones. This particular model is a high-top style featuring a colorful emoji print.
A style most commonly associated with Converse, high-top shoes come above the ankle. This allows them to provide robust ankle support, though it does make the shoes marginally heavier. The Twinkle Toes sneakers are also available in low-top varieties if that is your preference.
Rubber outsoles such as those found on this model are the most common type, thanks to the durability, water-resistance, and natural traction of the material. The vulcanized rubber used in these has been chemically hardened using volcanic compounds, most commonly sulfur. This makes these LED shoes more durable than standard rubber, all the way down to the atomic level. This model is slightly more expensive than average, though it does fall in line with other Skechers products. Thanks to the extra durability from the vulcanized rubber, these sneakers are a good long-term investment.
7. Carter’s Shark
Summer shoes that light up with a fun design, the Shark by Carter’s is one of the highest-rated pairs of footwear of this type, and looking at it, it’s quite understandable. It features a shark face detail on each foot, including some not-so-scary-but-rather-cute fins. You can purchase these in two color options, one with an orange lining and a scaled upper, and one with a smooth upper and green lining.
These shoes that light up was made to be put on quickly, which is why it features two hook and loop straps, one at the forefoot and one around the ankle. Not only do these ensure that little kids can put the sandal on without help, but they also allow for fit adjustments, even on the go. The heel pull tab makes on and off easier, but also allows you to hang these up if need be.
The footbed of the Shark is padded, with enough cushioning to make it suitable for activewear, and the outsole features a traction pattern suitable for multiple surfaces. One thing to keep in mind with this model is the fact that it can even be worn around water (without full submersion), and the lighting system won’t suffer any damage. This makes it a good investment, considering the average price.
8. Carter's Shelby
Carter's got their start in 1865, with the founder knitting mittens in his kitchen. Since then, Carter's has become one of the top most trusted brands in the US for children's apparel. This is no surprise, given their commitment to making quality products at accessible prices. The Shelby has everything you'd want in a children's shoe, such as a hook-and-loop closure and a mesh upper, as well as a lighted bottom.
Lighted shoes aren't all for show; it's important they perform as well as they look. The Carter's Shelby features mesh panels in the upper to promote breathability and reduce odor, keeping feet comfortable and dry without worrying about the smell.
Sometimes you want laces. Sometimes you don't. The Carter's Shelby features a little bit of both. A hook-and-loop closure makes these easy to put on and take off, while the rubber lacing over the tongue provides a solid and secure fit. These are surprisingly inexpensive in comparison to other shoes that light up on our list. Carter's is well known for their accessible prices, and the Shelby is a worthy investment.
9. Crocs Crocband
People either love or hate Crocs. These brightly colored clogs have become a household name in casual wear for their lightweight design, comfort, and style potential. These particular Crocband shoes feature lighted accents and everyone's favorite bad guy: Darth Vader.
Croslite is a lightweight, resin-based material used in most Crocs styles. This material is well-known to be comfortable, non-marking, and odor-resistant. Croslite has even been found to be beneficial in special-made shoes for diabetics and those with foot injuries! Designs with holes like this Crocband shoe also work to promote exceptional breathability.
Crocs shoes are known for their pivoting heel band. This is a signature style for the brand, and this closure type works well at keeping a secure fit, no matter how you move. On this particular shoe, the red heel band contrasts with the black upper for a striking design. While prices will vary based on sizing options, these Crocbands are priced similarly to other products on this list. What these bring to the table are a lightweight Croslite construction, pivoting heel band, and the iconic design that Crocs is known for.
10. Carter's Tris
The Carter's Tris led light up shoes are similar to their Shelby model, albeit without a heel loop. The lighted bottom on these shoes that light up has a surprisingly good lifespan in comparison to some other similar models. A cushioned insole and textile/mesh upper keep feet dry and well-supported, while the velcro closure with elastic lacing provides a secure fit.
Not everyone likes shoelaces, and that's okay. This is especially true for younger children, who may end up being frustrated by the laces in the event they come undone. This is why Carter's used a velcro closure as well as elastic lacing in the Tris. The velcro closure makes them easy to put on and take off, while the elastic lacing ensures a solid fit no matter how they move.
Nobody likes hot and sweaty shoes. They're uncomfortable, they can cause irritation, and they can smell. This is where a textile and mesh upper comes in. While textile is quite breathable on its own, the addition of mesh supplements this, allowing for the most in airflow and temperature management. No more smelly shoes! These are very close to the same price as the Shelby, the other Carter's shoe on our list. While sizing options for the Tris led light up shoes are somewhat limited, these offer a secure fit, a cushioned feel, and solid airflow.
Sources
- , Explaning Running Shoe Anatomy, Sports Medicine Article
- , What's Inside a Flashing LED Sneaker, Shoe Article
- , History of LED Shoes, Informative Shoe Article
- , LED Shoes Instructions/FAQ, Product Information / FAQ
- , Light-Up Shoes FAQ, LED Shoes Q&A