The 10 Best Kids' Hiking Shoes to Explore the Great Outdoors

Best Overall

The North Face Kids' Fastpack Hiker Mid Waterproof Boots

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Why We Recommend It

Thiswaterproofoption prioritizesgrip and durability,which is exactly what you're looking for in a kid’s hiking shoe, Dr. Sayed says. This is also one of The North Face’s most popular youth hiking boots. Thehigh ankle coveragehelps avoid injuries, while the cushioned, slightly rockered midsoles help fight fatigue.

These flexible boots arelightweightand feature a patented DryVentbreathable waterproof membrane．Plus, the pull tab at the back makes it easy for kiddos to slip them on themselves. They’re available in several colors, including black, gray, purple, taupe green, utility brown, burgundy, and medium blue. Bonus: Footwear from The North Face is covered by a one-year warranty in case of defects in materials or workmanship.

The Takeaway

If you're looking for a high-quality, long-lasting hiking boot for your kid, look no further. These shoes earned the top spot thanks to theirdurability,traction, wide range ofcolor options, flexible support, waterproofing, andone-year warranty．While they are pricey compared to other options on this list, we believe they are worth the investment.

Key Specs:

• Size Range:1-7 big kid
• Materials:Single-density EVA midsole, rubber outsole, upper 70% recycled polyester mesh

Price at time of publication: $89

Best for Wide Feet

Merrell Kids Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Boot

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Why We Recommend It

These waterproof boots come intwo width options—wide and medium—so kids are sure to find their perfect fit. Made withleather uppersandmesh panels for breathability, these boots have a classic lace-up closure. Thepull-tab heelhelps little ones pull the shoes on and off, while the padded heel keeps them comfy. The reinforced toe cap helps protect little toes and makes the boots more durable. There's even ananti-stink lining!

We love the entire size line of Moabs. Our whole family sports Merrell Moab hiking boots on family hikes. They offer the perfect balance of everything you'd want in a hiking boot: They're lightweight, haveexcellent tractionand waterproofing, and provide all-day comfort and support. The only downside we found was the rather muted color options for kids: black, gray, blue, and black with hints of raspberry.

The Takeaway

Wide-footed kids deserve comfortable hiking boots, too. Thislightweight, durablepick boasts grippy soles, padded heels, reinforced toe cap, waterproofing, andanti-stink lining．They're a great choice at any width.

Key Specs:

• Size Range:10.5-13.5C; 1-7Y
• Materials:Synthetic lining and footbed, leather upper, non-marking rubber outsole

Price at time of publication: $70

Best for Toddlers

L.L.Bean Toddlers’ Waterproof Trail Model Hikers

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Why We Recommend It

These toddler-sized hiking shoes are designed just like the brand’s adult version. They’re supercomfortableandsupportivefor little feet, with a height that offers extra protection and freedom of movement. Substantialheel and toe bumpersprotect against bumpy terrain, and the wide opening and hook-and-loopVelcro strapsmake it easy for littles to get on and off. Plus, the uppers arewaterproof and have excellent tractionon all surface types. They are available in green, red, and blue.

The Takeaway

These toddler hikers aren't justadorable, they're superpractical．We love the protection of heel and toe reinforcement and the safety of the grippy soles. Kids will love how easy they are to put on and how thewaterproofingmeans they can jump in puddles to their heart's content.

Key Specs:

• Size Range:5-9T
• Materials:Mesh nylon fabric and water-resistant suede upper, EVA midsole, rubber outsole

Price at time of publication: $59

Best Waterproof

Keen Kids’ Targhee Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots

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Why We Recommend It

Thesebreathable,waterproofhiking boots seal out the elements so kids’ feet stay dry when splashing through mud puddles, crossing streams, and camping in the elements.Bungee cord lacesadjust the shoes with a single pull for a customized fit. TheVelcro closuresat the ankles on the little-kid version help keep them secure. (Thebig kids’ sizesjust have the bungee cord.) Laces stay conveniently tucked out of the way, keeping kids safer from trips and snags.

Non-markingrubber outsolesprovide excellentgrip, and padded tongues and collarskeep feet comfy．The company has even created a specialheel stabilization systemto help keep ankles straight and secure no matter the terrain,

The Takeaway

If you're looking to avoid untied laces, the bungee cord closure makes these boots a great option. Add in ankle stabilization, breathable waterproofing, and superiorpadding, and you have a great hiking shoe.

Key Specs:

• Size Range:8-13C; 1-7Y
• Materials:Leather/textile upper, EVA midsole, rubber sole

Price at time of publication: $75

Best Trail Runners

Merrell Kids' Trail Chaser Hiking Shoes

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Why We Recommend It

These trail shoes are made for all kinds of family adventures, from traversing tricky trail conditions to puddle jumping. Suede and mesh uppers keep thembreathableanddurable, whileantimicrobialand removable EVA footbeds mitigate odor. Theslip-resistant outsoleprovides serious traction for safe and fun outdoor exploration.

We have personal experience using these:Our kids absolutely loved them．In fact, they liked them so much, that they wore the shoes as everyday shoes as well as hiking shoes. Thatversatility意图lly helped us justify spending money on them.

The Takeaway

Thecomfort,support, and grippy soles on these shoes make them ideal for days spent on the trail or the playground. We also love thebreathable fabricandodor-fighting lining．An awesome pick for all outdoorsy kids.

Key Specs:

• Size Range:10.5-13.5C; 1-7Y
• Materials:Suede and mesh uppers, EVA footbed

Price at time of publication: Starting at $50

Best Water Shoes

Merrell Kids Hydro 2 Sandal

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Why We Recommend It

梅里尔的封闭式的Hydro sandalmay technically be a water shoe, but it’sbuilt for performance在任何户外冒险,both wet and dry terrain．The outsole is flexible, and the rubber solehas tons of traction．The Velcro closure makes for a secure fit and helps kiddos get them on and off easily, while thevented constructionmitigates odor and allows little feet to breathe. Theclosed-toe designensures toes are protected.

Whether at sleepaway camp or a day at the lake, these will be your kid's go-to summer footwear. Colors include gray and raspberry, blue and orange, and dark gray and lime green.

The Takeaway

There's a reason these kicks consistently sell like hotcakes—they're beloved by kids and parentsalike as the ultimate sport sandals. Plus, they often go onseasonal sales, so if you happen to catch your kid's size and chosen color in stock, be sure to snap them up.

Key Specs:

• Size Range:9-13C; 1-7Y
• Materials:Leather and textile upper, EVA footbed, synthetic sole

Price at time of publication: Big kid sizes $55; little kid sizes $45

Best High Tops

L.L. Bean Kids' Trail Model Hikers

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Why We Recommend It

High-top boots are a great option if you're looking foradditionalankle protection．These rugged boots are a time-tested customer favorite. Kids will appreciate the comfortablecushioned EVA midsole, while parents will love the high-quality,durable constructionthat ensures these boots are long-lasting. Find a perfect balance ofbreathabilityandwaterproofingin the polyester mesh upper. The boot'sheel and toe bumpersadd protection and durability, while the rubber outsole'slug patternwill give your kidgreat tractionno matter the surface. Color options include dark red, black, olive green, stone, and twilight blue.

The company has avery generous return policy;you can return your item within one year of purchase for a refund if you are not fully satisfied. After a year, they will consider returns for items that are defective due to issues with materials or craftsmanship.

The Takeaway

There's a reason L.L. Bean is synonymous withqualityanddurability．公司致力于打造long-lastingproducts has ensured these hiking boots—both kids and adult sizes—are bestsellers year after year. We love this pick not only for itsankle-supporting high tops, but for its comfort, traction, and greatcolor options．

Key Specs:

• Size Range:10-13C; 1-7Y
• Materials:Suede and mesh upper, rubber outsole

Price at time of publication: $70

Best Sneakers

Keen Knotch Peak Sneakers

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Why We Recommend It

Not every hike needs a full-blown boot, and not every kid likes the feel of heavy, stiff hikers. For lower-intensity hikes on paved paths, a solid pair ofsneakers with good tractionwill do the trick. Thesedurableshoes have alow-profile rubber outsoleto keep kids protected on the trail and anergonomic notched toeto help them keep their balance. Kids will love thelightweightdesign.

The shoe also has acontoured archfor added foot support and a hook-and-loop strap for a secure, adjustable fit. The sole's multi-directional lug pattern means excellent traction on any surface. Bonus: You cantoss these shoes in the washing machineon a cold, gentle cycle to clean.

The Takeaway

If you're looking for aversatileshoe that easily goes from paved trail to jungle gym and beyond, these sneakers are a must-have. This pick will be a fave of both kids and parents thanks to its lightweight yet durable design andmachine washability．

Key Specs:

• Size Range:4-13C; 1-7Y
• Materials:Mesh and synthetic upper, rubber outsole

Price at time of publication: Starting at $55

Best Budget

Mishansha Kids Trekking & Hiking Shoes

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Why We Recommend It

If your child seems to be outgrowing their shoes constantly, you may feel like you want to wait a little while before investing in a pricey, long-lasting hiking shoe or boot. But what do you do if your kid suddenly needs some specialized hikers? We think theseMishana shoesare a great option if your kid needsless expensive hiking footwearthat fits them for now but doesn't need to last forever. Theaffordableprice point also makes them a great pick for families who don’t plan on hiking very often.

These trekking shoes arecomfy,lightweight, andwater-resistantfor use across various outdoor terrains. Thenon-slip soleoffers solid traction, and the bungee lacing system helps them slip off and on easily. There arelow-top and high-top optionsavailable, with bungee and/or Velcro lacing. They also come in dozens of colors—with sizes for toddlers and big kids.

The Takeaway

If you can't stomach the thought of shelling out $50 or more for a pair of hiking shoes your kid will outgrow in a few months or only use a handful of times, but you still want them to have some purpose-built hiking footwear, go with this option. They are lightweight,comfortable slip-onsthat make for happy feet and an even happier wallet.

Key Specs:

• Size Range:7.5-13C; 1-6Y
• Materials:Faux leather, mesh upper, rubber sole

Price at time of publication: $37