Gear Up Your Young Explorer: The Best Hiking Shoes for Kids
As outdoor enthusiasts, we understand the importance of equipping our young adventurers with the right gear from the get-go. When it comes to hiking with kids, having the appropriate footwear is paramount for their comfort, safety, and enjoyment on the trails. Whether they’re trekking through rocky terrain, splashing in puddles, or exploring the wilderness, the right pair of hiking shoes can make all the difference. Here’s our curated list of the best hiking shoes for kids, catering to different ages, preferences, and trail conditions.
Merrell Moab FST Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot for Kids
- M Select DRY waterproof construction keeps feet dry
- M Select GRIP for flexible, non-marking traction
- Synthetic and mesh upper for breathability and a lightweight feel
- Available at Amazon $34.95
Merrell Moab Speed Low A/C Waterproof Shoes Boys
- Seam sealed waterproof construction to keep feet dry
- Alternative closure for easy on/off
- Non-marking outsole with extra grip for superior traction
- FLOATPRO FOAM footbed for enhanced cushion and energy return
- 100% recycled poly sock construction
- Available at Amazon $29.40 – $55.90
Merrell Unisex-Child Moab Speed 2 Low Alternative Closure Waterproof Hiking Shoe
- Alternative closure with hook and loop for easy on/off and adjustability
- Non-marking rubber outsole for superior traction
- Seam sealed waterproof construction to help keep feet dry
- Synthetic and textile upper for breathability
- Available at Amazon $61.95
Keen Targhee Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot Boys
- Waterproof, breathable membrane that will help keep your kid’s feet dry
- Non-marking rubber outsoles leave no trace or imprints when walking in doors
- Mesh lining helps keep feet cool in warm climates
- Available at Amazon $60.99 – $74.95
KEEN Unisex-Child Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots
- Waterproof breathable membrane that will keep your feet kid’s feet dry
- Non marking rubber outsoles leave no trace or imprints when walking indoors
- Mesh lining helps keep feet cool in warmer environments
- Crafted with a removeable footbed for long-lasting comfort; Hook-and-loop strap closure system
- Available at Amazon $60.99 – $74.95
Men’s La Sportiva Bushido II GTX Trail Runner
- A waterproof trail running shoe for Men offering a neutral, stable, and lightweight ride with trail specific grip and features
- The reinforced AirMesh upper material is lined with the Gore-Tex Invisible Fit Membrane to protect from rain and snow without bulk
- Slip-on construction wraps your foot like a sock without compressing or exerting pressure points.
- FriXion XT V-Groove2 incorporates dual-compound rubber to insure confident grip on any type of terrain, dry or wet
- The padded tongue is ergonomic and highly-breathable and will stay in place with gusseted construction
- Available at Amazon $138.71
Women’s La Sportiva Bushido II GTX Trail Runner
- A waterproof trail running shoe for women offering a neutral, stable, and lightweight ride with trail specific grip and features
- The reinforced AirMesh upper material is lined with the Gore-Tex Invisible Fit Membrane to protect from rain and snow without bulk
- Slip-on construction wraps your foot like a sock without compressing or exerting pressure points.
- FriXion XT V-Groove2 incorporates dual-compound rubber to insure confident grip on any type of terrain, dry or wet
- Available at Amazon $138.71
Salomon Unisex-Child Xa Pro 3D CSWP J Trail Running Shoe
- ClimaSalomon Waterproof bootie provides flexible waterproof protection that keeps feet dry until kids decide to dunk their entire foot under water.
- Contagrip HT outsole combines the monster grip of a varied chevron patter with a durable HT compound for durability and traction on all surfaces.
- We built this shoe with a durable mud guard around the base of the upper and a protective toe cap to ensure protection on rough trails.
- Salomon 2-year limited warranty
- Available at Amazon $75.00
KEEN Unisex-Child Newport Neo H2 Closed Toe Water Sandals
- Washable polyester webbing featuring quick dry lining and a fully enclosed design for all day use and protection
- Multi directional lugs with quick water channeling help provide superior grip on slippery and wet terrain; Non marking rubber outsole leaves no imprint when walking indoors
- Compression molded midsole for enhanced long lasting comfort; High abrasion rubber toe cap for added durability and protection
- Easy on for them made with a wide adjustable hook and loop strap (in Toddler and Little Kid’s sizes) to help them gear up and get out the door fast
- Available at Amazon $59.95
BOGS Unisex-Child Kids Classic Waterproof Rain Boot
- 100% Waterproof from top to bottom to keep feet warm and dry
- Constructed with 7mm Neo-Tech waterproof insulation. Durable, hand-lasted rubber over a four-way stretch inner bootie
- DuraFresh natural bio-technology activates to fight odors. BOGS Max-Wick evaporates sweat to keep feet dry
- BLOOM eco-friendly, algae-based EVA footbed that helps clean polluted water habitats
- Available at Amazon $47.13 – $62.77
Merrell Boy’s Moab 3 Low Waterproof Hiking Shoe
- Leather and mesh upper for breathability and durability
- Bootie waterproof construction to keep feet dry
- 1% Leather
- Rubber sole
- Stacked
- Available at Amazon $42.30 – $62
Merrell Moab 3 Unisex Waterproof Hiking Boots
- Leather and mesh upper for breathability and durability
- Traditional lace closure
- Rubber sole
- Stacked
- Available at Amazon $46.78 – $52
Merrell Kid’s Altalight Low Hiking Sneaker
- Ripstop upper for durability and lightweight feel Traditional lace up closure for a snug fit Removable EVA footbed Recycled PET linings
- Anti-stink lining helps reduce odors Extremely lightweight non-marking outsole with QuantumGrip for superior traction
- Available at Amazon $22.94 – $74.99
Adidas Unisex-Child Terrex Trail maker Rain.rdy Hiking Shoes Boot
- Girls’ or boys’ waterproof, abrasion-resistant shoes for light hiking and trail use
- Regular fit
- Waterproof abrasion-resistant textile upper provides protection from the elements
- Lightweight EVA midsole offers cushioning
- Traxion outsole with TPU mudguard provides grip
- Available at Amazon $47.82 – $67.10
Salomon Junior SPEEDCROSS Outdoor Shoes for Kids
- The Sensifit system ensures a precise, comfortable fit and ground feel. Young feet deserve to be hugged!
- It takes Contagrip technology to keep a hold on the wild paths young runners choose to go down. They’re all set for fast fun and no slipping.
- Easy to slip on and off: the quick lace system is child’s play. The molded and injected EVA midsole provides comfort and cushioning for young feet.
- Available at Amazon $46.59 – $74.02
Vasque Unisex-Child Breeze at Ud Hiking Boot
- 1.6mm Waterproof PU Coated Leather
- UltraDry Waterproofing System
- Anatomical Compression Molded EVA
- Compression Molded EVA
- Available at Amazon $73.75 – $80.00
When it comes to choosing the best hiking shoes for kids, prioritizing comfort, durability, and functionality is key. Whether your little ones are hitting the trails for the first time or are seasoned adventurers, investing in quality footwear ensures they can explore the great outdoors with confidence and comfort. So, gear up your young explorer with the right pair of hiking shoes and set off on unforgettable adventures together!
If you want to share any experiences with these boots we’d love to hear from you. Leave your comments below and join the conversation:
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