Step into the realm of outdoor exploration with the best hiking boots for kids. As budding adventurers embark on thrilling escapades across challenging trails and uncharted landscapes.
It becomes crucial to equip them with reliable and resilient companions that deliver the utmost comfort, unwavering support, and optimal protection.
Whether they are conquering majestic mountains, venturing through dense forests, or splashing through sparkling streams, the appropriate pair of hiking boots can make a difference.
Top Picks for the Best Hiking Boots for Kids
1. THE NORTH FACE Jr Hedgehog Hiker II WP Hiking Shoe
Specs
- Comfortable and supportive design
- Breathable and waterproof construction
- Excellent traction and stability
- Protective reinforced toe cap
- Supportive heel counter
- User-friendly lace-up closure system
- Versatile and stylish design
- Specifically designed for young hikers
The North Face Junior Hedgehog Hiker is a high-quality hiking shoe designed specifically for young adventurers. It features a comfortable and supportive design to ensure a pleasant hiking experience. The shoe is constructed with durable materials that offer excellent durability and protection against rugged terrains.
Breathable and Waterproof Construction
With its breathable and waterproof construction, the Junior Hedgehog Hiker keeps your child’s feet dry and comfortable during outdoor activities. The shoe incorporates a waterproof membrane that prevents moisture from entering while allowing sweat and heat to escape, keeping the feet dry and odor-free.
Traction and Stability
Equipped with a robust and grippy outsole, the Junior Hedgehog Hiker provides excellent traction and stability on various surfaces. This feature ensures that your child can confidently navigate different terrains, including wet and slippery surfaces, without the risk of slipping or falling.
Protective Features
The North Face has integrated protective features into the Junior Hedgehog Hiker to safeguard your child’s feet. The shoe includes a reinforced toe cap that shields the toes from impact, reducing the risk of injury from accidental bumps or knocks. Additionally, a supportive heel counter enhances stability and minimizes the chance of ankle rolls.
Easy-to-Use Closure System
Designed with convenience in mind, the Junior Hedgehog Hiker features a user-friendly closure system. The shoe utilizes a traditional lace-up design, allowing for a secure and adjustable fit. This feature ensures the shoe remains comfortably in place during active movements, preventing discomfort or blisters.
Versatile and Stylish
Not only does the Junior Hedgehog Hiker excel in performance, but it also boasts a versatile and stylish design. The shoe is available in different color options, allowing your child to choose their preferred style. Whether on the hiking trail or in everyday activities, this shoe combines functionality and fashion.
Perfect Fit for Young Hikers
The North Face Junior Hedgehog Hiker is specifically designed to cater to the needs of young hikers. It offers comfortable fit and protective features that prioritize the well-being of your child’s feet during outdoor adventures. With its reliable performance and stylish design, this hiking shoe is an ideal choice for young explorers.
- Comfortable and supportive design for long hikes
- Durable construction that withstands rugged terrains
- Protective features such as reinforced toe cap and heel counter
- An easy-to-use closure system for a secure fit
- Versatile design suitable for outdoor activities and everyday wear
- It might take a short period to break in the shoes for optimal comfort
- The boots may have a higher price point compared to other options in the market
- Style preferences may vary, and some users may not find the design appealing
2. Merrell Kid’s Moab 2 Mid
Specs
- Waterproof and breathable
- Durable construction with suede leather and mesh upper
- Comfortable fit and support with mid-height shaft
- Cushioned collar and tongue for extra comfort
- Removable EVA footbed for arch support and shock absorption
- Vibram outsole for excellent traction on various surfaces
- Versatile design suitable for outdoor activities and everyday use
The Merrell Moab Mid Waterproof Boot is a reliable and durable outdoor footwear option designed to provide comfort, protection, and performance in various terrains and weather conditions. Whether hiking, trekking, or exploring the great outdoors, these boots are built to support your adventures.
Waterproof and Breathable
The Moab Mid Waterproof Boot’s membrane keeps your feet dry even in wet conditions. This means you can confidently navigate through puddles, streams, and rain without worrying about water seeping into the boots. The boot’s breathable construction also escapes moisture and sweat, ensuring your feet stay comfortable and dry throughout your activities.
Durable Construction
These boots are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. The upper part of the boot is crafted from a combination ofsuede leather and mesh, providing a balance of durability, flexibility, and breathability. The reinforced toe cap and heel counter offer added protection and stability, guarding against impact and enhancing the boot’s longevity.
Comfortable Fit and Support
The Moab Mid Waterproof Boot is designed with comfort in mind. It features a mid-height shaft that provides ankle support and stability, reducing the risk of twists and sprains on uneven terrain. The boot’s cushioned collar and tongue add extra comfort, while the removable EVA footbed provides arch support and absorbs shock for a comfortable stride.
Excellent Traction
With the Vibram outsole, these boots offer exceptional traction on various surfaces. Whether walking on slippery rocks, muddy trails, or rugged terrain, the lugs on the outsole provide a reliable grip and prevent slips and falls. This feature ensures your safety and stability, allowing you to explore your surroundings confidently.
Versatility
The Merrell Moab Mid Waterproof Boot is versatile and suitable for outdoor activities. Whether embarking on a day hike, backpacking trip, or camping adventure, these boots will keep your feet comfortable and protected. Their versatile design makes them suitable for everyday use, providing reliable performance and style.
- Excellent waterproofing keeps feet dry in wet conditions Comfortable fit and supportive design for long hikes or walks Good ankle support reduces the risk of twists or sprains Vibram outsole provides reliable traction on various surfaces Breathable materials help prevent excessive sweating and odor Versatile style suitable for both outdoor activities and casual wear
- Some users find the boot’s sizing slightly off, recommending sizing up or down accordingly. A break-in period may be required for optimal comfort, with some initial stiffness reported. Limited color options available, restricting personal preference In rare cases, a small number of users experienced issues with durability or sole separation Arch support may not be sufficient for individuals with specific foot conditions or high arches
3. KEEN Unisex-Child Targhee Mid-Height
Specs
- Waterproof design
- Sturdy construction with leather and mesh upper
- Secure lace-up system for a personalized fit
- Cushioned footbed for comfort and shock absorption
- Non-marking rubber outsole for reliable traction
- Durable rubber toe cap for toe protection
- Breathable mesh and leather materials for temperature regulation
- Versatile for outdoor adventures and everyday use
The KEEN Unisex Child Targhee Height Waterproof Hiking Boot is a high-quality footwear option for children who love outdoor adventures and hiking. These boots are created to provide excellent comfort, protection, and durability, allowing young explorers to enjoy their outdoor experiences to the fullest.
Waterproof Design
These hiking boots feature a waterproof design, ensuring your child’s feet stay dry and comfortable even in wet or rainy conditions. The waterproof membrane acts as a barrier, preventing water from seeping into the boots while still allowing moisture and sweat to escape, keeping the feet dry and comfortable throughout the hike.
Sturdy Construction
These boots are built to withstand the rigors of hiking and outdoor activities. The upper portion of the boot is crafted using a combination of high-quality leather and breathable mesh material. This provides durability and allows for proper airflow, keeping the feet fresh and preventing discomfort caused by excessive perspiration.
Secure Fit
The Targhee Height Hiking Boot ensures a secure and adjustable fit. It features a traditional lace-up system that allows for personalized tightness and support. The laces can be easily adjusted to achieve a snug fit, providing stability and preventing the feet from sliding around during hikes.
Cushioned Comfort
Designed with comfort, these hiking boots have a cushioned footbed that offers excellent support and shock absorption. This helps reduce fatigue and discomfort, allowing children to hike for extended periods without straining their feet.
Non-marking Rubber Outsole
The non-marking rubber outsole provides reliable traction on various terrains, including wet or slippery surfaces.
Toe Protection
These boots are equipped with a durable rubber toe cap to protect your child’s toes from potential hazards on the trail. This feature safeguards the toes from accidental impacts, such as stubbing against rocks or roots, ensuring added safety during hikes.
Breathabiliy
The combination of mesh and leather materials promotes breathability within the boots. This helps to regulate temperature and prevent excessive sweating, keeping the feet cool and dry during extended periods of physical activity.
- Provides good traction on various terrains
- Comfortable cushioning for long hikes
- Toe protection prevents injuries from accidental impacts
- Versatile for both outdoor adventures and everyday use
- Breathable materials keep feet cool during physical activities
- Some users may find the boots to be on the heavier side
- Sizing may run slightly large or small for some individuals
- An initial break-in period may be required for optimal comfort
- The price point might be higher compared to other children’s hiking boots
4. Merrell Kid’s Trail Chaser
Specs
- Durable synthetic and mesh upper for breathability
- Traditional lace-up closure for a customizable fit
- Padded collar and tongue for added comfort
- Removable EVA footbed for extra support and cushioning
- Reinforced toe cap for enhanced protection
- Vibrant colors and stylish design for versatile wear
The Merrell Kids Trail Chaser Sneaker is a high-quality shoe explicitly designed for children who love outdoor adventures. With its durable construction and functional features, these sneakers provide comfort, protection, and style for your little one’s feet.
Sturdy and Reliable Design
The Trail Chaser Sneaker is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities. Its durable synthetic mesh upper provides excellent breathability, keeping your child’s feet cool and dry during long hikes or active play. The sturdy construction ensures that these sneakers can handle various terrains, including trails, playgrounds, and more.
Comfortable Fit
Merrell understands the importance of comfort, especially for growing feet. These sneakers incorporate a traditional lace-up closure system, allowing your child to adjust the fit to their preference.
Superior Traction
Safety is a top priority, and the Trail Chaser Sneaker delivers excellent traction. The outsole is designed with rugged rubber, featuring multi-directional lugs that provide reliable grip on different surfaces. This ensures your child can confidently explore various terrains without the fear of slipping or sliding.
Supportive and Protective
The shoe’s desig includes a removable EVA footbed, which offers extra support for little feet. This cushioned footbed provides a comfortable platform for walking, running, and jumping while absorbing impact. Additionally, the reinforced toe cap offers protection against accidental bumps and stubs, keeping your child’s toes safe during their adventures.
- Sturdy and durable construction that withstands rough outdoor use
- Excellent traction on various terrains, providing stability and preventing slips
- The removable EVA footbed offers additional support and comfort
- Stylish design with vibrant colors that kids love
- A reinforced toe cap provides extra protection against accidental bumps and stubs.
- Some users mentioned that the sizing might run slightly large or small, requiring careful attention when selecting the appropriate size.
- A few reviewers initially found the shoes to be stiff, requiring a short break-in period.
- While the shoes offer good traction, a small number of users felt that the grip could be improved on wet surfaces
5. Merrell Unisex-Child Hydro Cove Sport
Specs
- Comfortable and supportive EVA footbed
- Quick-drying and water-friendly materials
- Adjustable hook-and-loop closure for a customized fit
- Closed-toe design for toe protection
- Non-marking outsole for excellent traction
- Stylish design available in vibrant colors
The Merrell Kids’ Hydro Sport Sandal is a versatile, durable footwear option for children. These sandals offer a range of features that make them suitable for outdoor activities, water sports, and everyday wear.
Comfortable and Supportive
The Hydro Sport Sandal prioritizes the comfort and support of young feet. It features a cushioned EVA footbed that provides excellent underfoot support, allowing children to stay comfortable during long hours of wear. The footbed also helps absorb impact, reducing the strain on their feet.
Quick-Drying and Water-Friendly
Perfect for water activities, these sandals are constructed with quick-drying materials. The upper part comprises synthetic and mesh materials that efficiently drain water, ensuring your child’s feet remain dry and comfortable even after water play or splashing in puddles.
Adjustable Fit
The Hydro Sport Sandal comes with a convenient hook-and-loop closure system. This adjustable strap allows for a customized fit, ensuring the sandals stay securely on your child’s feet. The hook-and-loop closure also makes it easy for children to put on and take off the sandals independently.
Toe Protection
The sandals feature a closed-toe design that provides added protection for little toes. This design minimizes the risk of accidental stubbing or injury during outdoor adventures and rough play. The sturdy toe cap shields the front of the foot, adding an extra layer of durability and safeguarding against potential hazards.
Non-Marking Outsole
The non-marking outsole is a practical feature for both indoor and outdoor use. It offers excellent traction on various surfaces, reducing the chances of slips and falls. Additionally, the non-marking feature ensures that the sandals won’t leave scuff marks or streaks on floors, making them suitable for use in schools, gyms, and other indoor environments.
Stylish Design
These sandals combine functionality with a visually appealing design. They are available in various vibrant colors, allowing children to express their style while enjoying the outdoors. The Hydro Sport Sandal is suitable for both boys and girls, making it a versatile choice for any child’s wardrobe.
- Comfortable and supportive for all-day wear
- Quick-drying materials keep feet dry and prevent odors
- Secure and adjustable hook-and-loop closure for a snug fit
- Toe protection design guards against injuries
- Excellent traction on various surfaces
- Durable construction withstands active play
- Stylish and vibrant color options
- Some users mentioned that the sizing runs slightly small, so it’s recommended to size up.
- A few users experienced issues with the durability of the hook-and-loop closure over time.
- According to a few reviews, the sandal may not be suitable for children with vast feet.
Buying Guide: Best Hiking Boots for Kids
Regarding hiking boots for kids, choosing footwear that provides comfort, durability, and support is essential. Children’s feet are still developing, and they require proper protection while exploring the outdoors.
Size and Fit
Getting the right size and fit is crucial for children’s hiking boots. Their feet increase, so measuring them accurately before purchasing is essential. Look for brands that provide detailed sizing charts, and consider leaving a little extra room to accommodate growth. Proper fit is necessary to prevent discomfort and blisters during hiking adventures.
Support and Stability
Hiking involves uneven terrain and varying conditions, so your child’s boots should offer adequate support and stability. Look for boots with sturdy ankle support, which helps prevent ankle sprains and offers stability on rugged trails. A firm midsole provides good arch support and helps distribute the impact of each step. Consider boots with a lugged outsole for traction on different surfaces.
Breathability and Waterproofing
Kids can work up a sweat during outdoor activities, so choosing hiking boots that offer breathability is crucial. Look for boots with breathable uppers that allow air circulation, keeping the feet dry and comfortable. Additionally, opt for boots with waterproof or water-resistant features to keep your child’s feet dry in wet conditions or when crossing streams.
Durability
Children can be rough on their footwear, especially during outdoor adventures. Reinforced toe caps and sturdy construction are indicators of durability. Quality materials like leather and synthetic blends are commonly used in durable hiking boots for kids.
Weight
Lightweight boots are preferable for children, as they offer greater comfort and agility during hikes. Heavy boots can tire out kids quickly and restrict their movements. Look for lightweight materials that provide the necessary protection and support without sacrificing durability.
Closure System
Choose a closure system that is easy for kids to manage independently. Traditional laces offer a customizable fit but may require adult assistance. Alternatively, consider boots with hook-and-loop closures (Velcro) or quick-lacing systems that allow children to adjust the fit quickly.
Price and Value
Consider your budget when choosing hiking boots for kids, but also consider the importance of quality and durability. While affordable options are available, investing in a slightly higher-priced pair with better features and materials can save you money in the long run.
Reviews and Recommendations
Before making a final decision, read reviews and seek recommendations from other parents or hiking enthusiasts who have purchased hiking boots for their children. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into different brands’ and models’ comfort, durability, and performance.
Remember, hiking boots are an investment in your child’s outdoor adventures. By considering these factors and considering your child’s preferences, you can choose the best hiking boots that will keep them comfortable, protected, and ready to explore the great outdoors.
FAQs
Q: What are the best hiking boots for kids?
A: The best hiking boots for kids provide comfort, durability, and traction. Look for boots specifically designed for hiking with features such as a sturdy sole, ankle support, and waterproofing.
Q: Are waterproof hiking boots essential for kids?
A: Waterproof hiking boots are essential for kids, especially when hiking in wet or muddy conditions. They help keep the feet dry and prevent discomfort and blisters.
Q: How do I choose the right size of hiking boots for my child?
A: To choose the right size of hiking boots for your child, measure their feet using a foot measuring device or ruler. Ensure enough room for their toes to wiggle, and the boots fit snugly without being too tight.
Q: Should I consider the weight of the hiking boots for my child?
A: It is essential to consider the weight of the hiking boots for your child. Lightweight boots are generally more comfortable and allow for more effortless movement, which is necessary for kids while hiking.
Q: What materials should I look for in hiking boots for kids?
A: Look for hiking boots made of durable materials such as leather or synthetic fabrics like nylon or polyester. These materials are often breathable, water-resistant, and provide good support.
Q: Can I use regular sneakers for hiking instead of hiking boots for my child?
A: While regular sneakers may be suitable for light hiking on well-maintained trails, it is recommended to use hiking boots for more challenging terrains. Hiking boots provide better ankle support and traction, reducing the risk of injuries.
Q: How important is ankle support in kids’ hiking boots?
A: Ankle support is crucial in kids’ hiking boots as it helps prevent ankle injuries while walking on uneven or rocky terrain. Boots with higher ankle collars offer better support and stability.
Q: Are hiking boots with a rubber soles better for kids?
A: Hiking boots with a rubber sole are generally better for kids as they provide good traction on surfaces, including slippery or muddy trails. Rubber soles also tend to be more durable.
Q: Are laces or Velcro closures better for kids’ hiking boots?
A: Laces are generally preferred for kids’ hiking boots as they allow for a more secure and customizable fit. However, Velcro closures can be convenient for younger kids with difficulty tying laces.
Q: How often should I replace my child’s hiking boots?
A: The lifespan of hiking boots depends on various factors, such as the frequency of use, terrain, and the child’s growth rate. Generally, it would help if you considered replacing your child’s hiking boots when they become worn out, lose traction, or no longer provide adequate support.
Q: Can I buy more giant hiking boots to allow for growth?
A: While buying hiking boots a size larger to accommodate growth may be tempting, it is generally not recommended. Ill-fitting boots can cause discomfort and increase the risk of blisters or injuries. It’s better to choose boots that fit correctly and replace them as needed when your child’s feet grow.
Q: How can I maintain and care for my child’s hiking boots?
A: To maintain and care for your child’s hiking boots, clean them regularly after each hike, remove dirt and debris, and let them air dry. Apply a waterproofing treatment as needed to maintain their water resistance.
Final Words
Choosing the best hiking boots for children involves considering several important factors. Proper fitting, support, and stability are crucial for their developing feet, while breathability and waterproofing ensure comfort in various conditions. Durability and a lightweight design are vital for outdoor activities, and an easy-to-use closure system enables children to handle their boots independently.
Striking a balance between price and value is significant, and seeking feedback and recommendations can help guide your decision-making. By prioritizing these factors, you can provide your child with hiking boots that offer comfort, protection, and long-lasting performance, enabling them to enjoy their outdoor adventures fully.