We're not really in the business of telling moms what to wear. But there's one aspect of the mom uniform that's always puzzling: playground shoes. It's difficult to find something that's comfy enough for 10 blocks of stroller-pushing and supportive enough for toddler-chasing sprints across the asphalt, yet cute enough for the meeting, lunch, or play date that follows. Here, our top picks.

1. The studded rubber soles of Tod's conservatively cute ballerinas and loafers are ideal for scaling playground equipment; from $295
 
2. If you're comfortable running in flip-flops, try J.Crew's Jelly Capris ($19.99), or the just blingy enough Slim Crystal Mesh Havaianas; $148.  

3. For something a little edgier, we dig these pretty Chanel leather thongs with lambskin camellias; $895 (we know, we know).

4. When sprinklers are on the agenda, we've got to hand it to Crocs for delivering comfort despite wet feet. But the kid version is cartoonish on adults. Instead, check out the Crocband Flat—a sneaker-inspired sporty slip-on that comes in a bunch of popping colors; $39.95.

5. Our favorite all-around pick? Sue London's London Slippers—as stylish and buttery soft as Lanvin's ballet flats, but at a fraction of the price. They come in a bunch of colors, and fold up into their own pouch so you can easily toss them in the diaper bag; $168.