As parents, we know that our kids need proper footwear to stay safe while hiking and exploring the great outdoors.
But which shoes are best for them? This article will review the best kids hiking shoes on the market today.
We have you covered, from versatile options to please both boys and girls to durable and comfortable shoes. So we have them all if you’re looking for a new pair of trail running shoes or simple hikers for your young ones.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the Best Chosen Kid Hiking Shoes.
We recommend Merrell unisex child Trail Chaser Sneaker, Gunsmoke/Orange, 6 Big Kid US, as available at a reasonable price.
The kid’s hiking shoes from the brand KEEN are perfect for your little explorer.
They come in various colors and patterns to suit any style, and they have been designed with some great features that will keep them safe as they explore new terrain.
For example, these lightweight shoes have a flexible soles, so the soles can move independently, which is better at absorbing shock than those stiffer rubber ones you might find on cheaper brands.
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The best Kids’ Hiking Shoes
I hope you have found this article helpful and informative.
If you want to buy a pair of great kid’s hiking shoes, we would be happy to help!
We offer the best quality for an affordable price.
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What are the best kids’ hiking shoes?
If you’re looking for hiking shoes that protect your little one’s feet while exploring the great outdoors, we recommend checking out our top picks below.
BootsUSA offers a variety of outdoor-ready shoes for kids, from toddlers to tweens. Their selection includes boots, sandals, and slippers, all designed to keep children’s feet warm and dry as they hike or climb.
One boot that stands out is the Columbia River Hiking Boot. This boot is perfect for both beginner hikers and those who are more experienced.
The leather uppers make it waterproof and resistant to breakdown, while the Vibram rubber outsoles provide stability on slopes and rocks.
The Columbia River Hiking Boot retails for $130, but discounts are frequently available on Amazon.
Another excellent choice for kids’ hiking shoes is the Oboz Wildstone Hiker Sandal. Made with 100% natural materials, these sandals are lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for hot outdoor days.
They also have a built-in cinch strap system that ensures a snug fit, so your child doesn’t trip over rocks or get lost in the wilderness.
The Oboz Wildstone Hiker Sandals retail at $27 on Amazon, but discounts are often available, so check before you buy!
If you’re looking for something more rugged, Keen Footwear has a great option in their Bear Grylls Kids.
Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID A/C WTR Hiking Boot, Berry/Coral, 13 US Unisex Little Kid
Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID WTRPF Hiking Boot, Grey/Blue, 1 US Unisex Little Kid
$50.00 in stock
Merrell Trail Chaser Hiking Sneaker, Gunsmoke/Orange, 13 US Unisex Little Kid
Types of hiking shoes
When planning a hiking trip with your little one, it is essential to find the right shoes.
Hiking shoes come in many different types and designs, so it can be hard to know what to look for. Here are some tips on what to consider when buying hiking shoes for kids:
Types of Hiking Shoes
There are a few different types of hiking shoes available today. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks. These include:
Flat Foot Hiking Shoes
These shoes are designed for people who have flat feet. They typically have a low offset and a stiff sole, which helps distribute your weight evenly across the entire foot.
This makes them ideal for people who want good traction and stability on slippery surfaces. However, they can be challenging to walk in because they tend to be very heavy and rigid.
They also don’t offer much arch support, which may be problematic if your child has pronation syndrome or another condition that affects their foot’s alignment.
Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Comfortable hiking shoes are stylish and provide good support while walking. They typically feature a flexible fit that hugs your foot closely, providing cushioning and stability.
In addition, they often have an elevated heel design that helps redistribute pressure away from the ball of your foot and onto the heel counter area.
This makes them suitable for all walks – including long hikes – and activities like running and jumping. They can also be easily cleaned, which is a significant advantage if your child tends to get muddy or wet while hiking.
Easy Hiking Trails
Many easy hiking trails are great for beginners who want to experience the joys of hiking without difficulties.
They typically have gentle slopes and a well-maintained path, making them perfect for families with young children. In addition, they are often located in scenic areas with beautiful views.
Intermediate Hiking Trails
Intermediate hiking trails are typically a step up from easy trails. They may be more challenging, but they offer many of the same benefits as easy trails. This includes scenic areas with great views and gentle slopes that are safe for families with young children.
Strenuous Hiking Trails
Strenuous hiking trails are the perfect option for those who want to experience the true joy of hiking. They can be very dangerous – especially if you’re not well-equipped – but they provide unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and stunning vistas.
Some of the most strenuous trails can take days or weeks to complete, so selecting the right one for your child is essential.
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Buying a hiking shoe for kids
A good hiking shoe for kids should be comfortable, durable, and have a good grip. Many of the best hiking shoes for kids are also waterproof and breathable. Here are our top picks for the best hiking shoes for kids:
The Columbia Hiking Shoe is an excellent option for kids because it is both comfortable and durable. The shoe is made from a sturdy rubber construction with a water-resistant coating that makes it ideal for rainy or humid environments.
The rubber outsole provides good traction while on the trail, and the upper material is soft and breathable to keep your child warm and comfortable.
Another excellent option for kids is the Nike Air Max 1 Hiking Shoe. This shoe features a synthetic leather upper with an air-mesh lining that provides superior ventilation and comfort.
The Nike Air Max 1 also has an ultra-durable rubber construction that makes it perfect for rugged trails or rocky terrain. The VNTG midsole provides stability while walking, making this shoe ideal for long hikes and shorter walks around town.
Lastly, we recommend the Saucony Juvenile Girls’ KSO hiker boot. This boot is made from durable materials such as TPR (thermoplastic polyurethane) foam and nylon uppers to make it lightweight yet strong enough to withstand rigorous use.
The laces provide an adjustable fit so you can get a snug fit without having to tie it tight, and the flatfoot design helps reduce friction and make it easier to walk in.
Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID A/C WTR Hiking Boot, Berry/Coral, 13 US Unisex Little Kid
Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID WTRPF Hiking Boot, Grey/Blue, 1 US Unisex Little Kid
$50.00 in stock
Merrell Trail Chaser Hiking Sneaker, Gunsmoke/Orange, 13 US Unisex Little Kid
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How to choose the right kids’ hiking shoes
Parents have struggled to find the perfect kids’ hiking shoes for years.
They want something comfortable and safe for their children, but they also don’t want to spend a fortune on something that won’t last.
To help you choose the right kids’ hiking shoes, we’ve put together a guide to different factors you should consider when purchasing footwear for your little ones.
Type of Hiking: Whether your child is exploring nature trails or taking more rigorous hikes, it’s essential to purchase appropriate shoes for the activity.
Walking on soft trails may be best if your child is starting. As they become more experienced, they may want to try strenuous hikes in more brutal shoes.
We recommend buying shoes in multiple sizes so your child can grow into them as they become bigger and stronger.
This way, you can be sure that the shoe will fit them comfortably and provide adequate protection while they explore the great outdoors.
Durability: A good pair of hiking shoes should last several seasons with proper care.
Avoid buying cheap sneakers that will fall apart quickly after just a few outings in the woods; invest in sturdy shoes that will hold up against all kinds of wear and tear.
Check materials used in shoe construction: Some materials used in making children’s hiking shoes—like rubber or mesh—are not as durable as others, so make sure you’re getting a quality product if the price is a significant factor in your decision.
Style: We know that not all kids want to wear the same type of shoes, so choosing something that will look good on your child and coordinating with their other clothing is essential.
Many stylish hiking shoes are available on the market today, so explore all your options before making a purchase.
Water Resistance: A good pair of hiking shoes should resist water penetration. If your child’s shoe becomes wet, the water will stay inside rather than seeping through and ruining their sneakers.
Look for water-resistant materials in the shoe’s construction and a waterproof membrane inside.
If you’re looking for more guidance in selecting children’s hiking shoes, check out our comprehensive guide to finding the proper hikers for your child’s age and size.
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Conclusion
Hiking with your kids can be a great experience, but picking the right shoes for the job is essential.
In this article, we’ve compiled our top picks for kids hiking shoes based on the factors you need to consider when buying footwear for your little ones: weight, durability, traction, and comfort.
With these considerations in mind, you should be able to find the perfect shoe for your needs. Happy trails!
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Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID A/C WTR Hiking Boot, Berry/Coral, 13 US Unisex Little Kid
Features
- waterproof cunstruction to keep feet dry
- leather and mesh upper for light weight and durability
- alternative closure for easy on/off and adjustability
- rubber cup sole and lug pattern outsole with M Select GRIP for superior traction
Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID WTRPF Hiking Boot, Grey/Blue, 1 US Unisex Little Kid
$50.00 in stock
Features
- M Select DRY waterproof construction keeps feet dry
- Durable leather and breathable mesh upper
- Convenient alternative closure for a snug fit and easy on/off
- Durable rubber cup sole with M Select GRIP for flexible, non-marking traction
Merrell Trail Chaser Hiking Sneaker, Gunsmoke/Orange, 13 US Unisex Little Kid
Features
- Non-marking rubber outsole M Select GRIP
- EVA removable footbed
- Hook and look closure provides precise and secure fit
- Suede and mesh upper
Merrell unisex child Trail Chaser Hiking Sneaker, Gunsmoke/Orange, 5 Big Kid US
Features
- Non-marking rubber outsole M Select GRIP
- EVA removable footbed
- Hook and look closure provides precise and secure fit
- Suede and mesh upper
Merrell OAKCREEK MID LACE WTRPF Hiking Boot, Black/Grey, 4 US Unisex Big Kid
Features
- Synthetic upper for durability
- Seam sealed waterproof construction keeps feet dry
- Traditional lace closure for a secure fit
- Rubber rugged outsole with lug pattern and extra grip for superior traction
- 100% Recycled PET linings
Merrell Moab 2 Low LACE Hiking Sneaker, BARK Brown, 6 US Unisex Big Kid
$40.04 in stock
Features
- suede and mesh upper for breathability and durability
- traditional lace closure
- non-marking outsole with M Select GRIP for superior traction
- take down pattern
Merrell OAKCREEK Low LACE WTRPF Hiking Sneaker, PALOMA/Berry, 1.5 US Unisex Big Kid
Features
- Suede and mesh upper for durability Waterproof construction keeps feet dry Traditional lace closure for a secure fit Rugged rubber outsole with lug pattern and extra grip for superior traction Recycled PET linings
Columbia Unisex Child Redmond Waterproof Hiking Shoe, Bluebell/Pink Ice, 2 Big Kid US
Features
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: A durable upper made from suede leather and webbing, waterproof seam-sealed membrane bootie construction, combined with our TECHLITE lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return.
- DURABLE HIKING SHOE: The perfect combination of high function and performance designed into a great everyday hiking shoe. This all-purpose hiker will deliver comfortable and reliable service.
- ALL TERRAIN TRACTION: Our signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole provides high grip across a wide variety of terrain, and versatile three-season use.
- HANDY FEATURES: Reliable steel grommeted top lacing aglets, along with our reinforced, and trail proven, main webbing aglets.
- REINFORCED TOE CONSTRUCTION: Designed for extended hard use, we've reinforced the toe barrier, and extended the outsole toe overwrap to guard this key wear point.
Merrell Trail Chaser Hiking Shoe (Little Kid/Big Kid), Grey/Blue, 3 M US Little Kid
$44.95 in stock
Features
- Non-marking rubber outsole M Select GRIP
- EVA removable footbed
- Hook and look closure provides precise and secure fit
- Suede and mesh upper
Columbia Youth Unisex Redmond Waterproof, Bluebell/Pink Ice, 13
Features
- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY: A durable upper made from suede leather and webbing, waterproof seam-sealed membrane bootie construction, combined with our TECHLITE lightweight midsole, for long-lasting comfort with superior cushioning and high energy return.
- DURABLE HIKING SHOE: The perfect combination of high function and performance designed into a great everyday hiking shoe. This all-purpose hiker will deliver comfortable and reliable service.
- ALL TERRAIN TRACTION: Our signature Omni-GRIP non-marking traction rubber outsole provides high grip across a wide variety of terrain, and versatile three-season use.
- HANDY FEATURES: Reliable steel grommeted top lacing aglets, along with our reinforced, and trail proven, main webbing aglets.
- REINFORCED TOE CONSTRUCTION: Designed for extended hard use, we've reinforced the toe barrier, and extended the outsole toe overwrap to guard this key wear point.
Mishansha Kids Water Resistant Hiking Boots, Boys Girls Anti Collision Anti-Skid Athletic Outdoor Ankle Adventure Trekking Shoes
Features
- ANTI-COLLISION: Full-cover toe cap designed for prevent kid's toes from the injury of falling objects and collision of hard objects.
- BREATHABLE & WATER RESISTANT: Upper made with breathable oxford and lightweight artificial leather which is water resistant and easy to clean, mesh lining makes kid's foot cool and dry.
- EASY ON/OFF: Hook and loop closure type is easy to put on and take off, especially for little kids.
- ANTI-SKID & FLEXIBLE: High quality rubber outsole features suprior flexibility, and textures on the bottom offers good grip, all these designs providing foot support and safety for kid's outdoor activities.
- Mishansha kid's hiking boots are suitable for everyday use, school, playground, park, outdoor sports, walking, running, bicycling, hiking, trekking, camping, orienteering, etc. Tip: If you ever have a problem with Mishansha kid's hiking boots, please know that we are always ready to help.
KEEN Kids Chandler CNX Sneaker Hiking Shoe, Blue, 6 US Unisex Toddler
Features
- SUPPORT: Countered arch for added midfood support for the everyday use
- TRACTION: Non-marking rubber outsoles leaves no trace or imprints when walking indoors; With multi directional lug pattern for increased traction
- FIT & INSOLE: Reverse strobel construction provides streamlined interior for long lasting comfort; With a secure fit lace capture system
- CARE TIPS: KEEN We recommend you clean these products using mild soap and cold water; To remove excess dirt or spot clean, use a stiff brush or soft cloth; Let shoes air dry away from heat
- ODOR-PROTECTION: All KEEN products feature a natural, pesticide-free probiotic-based technology called Eco Anti-Odor technology for breaking down odor in sweat
KEEN Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, Dark Earth/Forest Night, 3 US Unisex Big Kid
Features
- WATERPROOF: KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane that will keep your feet kid’s feet dry and comfortable in wet terrains; The Targhee is made with a durable waterproof leather and textile upper with reflective webbing
- TRACTION & PROTECTION: Non-marking rubber outsoles leave no trace or imprints when walking indoors; Constructed with multi-directional traction grip system
- SUPPORT & COMFORT: Mesh lining helps keep feet cool in warmer environments; A padded collar and tongue help to reduce irritation and discomfort
- STYLE & FIT: Crafted with a direct-attach PU midsole for lightweight-durability; Hook-and-loop strap closure system provides a secure fit while offering a quick and easy way to get them on and off
- CARE TIPS & ODOR PREVENTION: KEEN recommends using a leather cleaner and conditioner, found at most footwear dealers and/or shoe repair shops; Includes Eco Anti-Odor, a natural, probiotic-based technology reducing smell
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