Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2025

Hiking with kids is about prioritizing fun and staying comfortable. Though kids don’t necessarily care what shoes they’re hiking in, footwear is important. Hiking shoes and boots are more stable, grippy, and reliable than everyday footwear. They can help keep your child safe no matter what tree they climb or rock they’re scrambling across.

Whether you have a curious, fast toddler or an adventurous pre-teen, a quality pair of hiking shoes will help your kids not only reach their destination but arrive smiling. That’s important to ensure their ongoing comfort and to sidestep any meltdowns. Keep reading to see our top picks for kids’ hiking shoes and our favorite tips for hiking with children.

And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:

Quick Picks for Kids’ Hiking Shoes

Check out this list of the very best hiking shoes for kids, or continue scrolling to see our full lineup of favorites with additional reviews.

Best Shoes For Convenience & Low-Fuss Hiking: Shoes Your Child Already Wears ($–)

Best Hiking Shoe for Kids Overall: Terrex AX4R Mid Hiking Shoe ($70)

Best Waterproof Hiking Shoe for Kids & Teens: The North Face Fastpack Hiker Mid Waterproof ($89)

Best Hiking Sandal for All Ages: KEEN Newport H2 Sandal ($65)

Best Slip-On Water Shoes for Summer Hiking: Native Shoes Jefferson ($40)

Best Biking Shoe: Five Ten Freerider Mountain Bike Shoe ($75)

Best Budget-Friendly Kids’ Hiking Shoes: Mishansha Kids Trekking & Hiking Shoes ($36)

Best Lightweight Trail Runner for Kids & Teens: Salomon Speedcross Junior ($75)

Best Budget Trail Runner: Saucony Cohesion 14 ($50)

Best Hiking Shoes for Toddlers & Little Kids: KEEN Chandler 2 CNX ($65)

Best Hybrid Hiking Boot for Kids: Merrell Moab Speed Mid Waterproof ($70)

Best Full-Grain Leather Hiking Boot for Kids: Timberland Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof ($85)

Best Waterproof Kids’ Boots for Cold Weather Hiking: BOGS Insulated Neo Classic Rain Boot ($90)

How We Test & Methodology

We assess kids’ hiking shoes in five different dimensions: comfort, traction, user-friendliness, durability, and water-resistance/dry time. We kitted out some kiddos and asked them what they thought, and used our experience and expertise to round out the list.

COMFORT

As any parent knows, comfort is crucial for kids’ footwear, so we paid special attention to this metric. To assess comfort, we examine the space in the toe box. Ideally, there’s enough so that toes can spread naturally. We also look at cushioning in the insole and around the ankle, as well as arch support. Flexibility at the mid-foot is also important so that children can keep their natural gait while still being protected on rocky and root-filled trails.

TRACTION

Staying upright can also make or break an adventure. We scrutinize the outsole, noting the pattern and depth of the lugs, and noting how effectively they bite on different natural surfaces like dirt, loose soil, mud, wet rocks, roots, and sand. We also examine the pattern of the lugs, noting the degree to which each model flakes or accumulates mud and debris. We also look at the material of the outsole, its stickiness, and its flexibility.

USER-FRIENDLINESS

If a child is old enough to get their footwear on by themselves, then the shoes they are getting on shouldn’t fight back. We note any features that make it easier and faster for kids and adults alike to get them on and keep them on, including gusseted tongues, Velcro, straps, and toggles.

DURABILITY

We know parents want footwear that lasts. For durability, we evaluate the resilience against abrasion and wear of the outsole. For the upper, we pay special attention to seams, noting any fraying, and scrutinize the material for signs of blowouts and tears in high-wear areas, as well as laces, Velcro, and straps.

WATER RESISTANCE & DRY TIME

Dry feet are happy feet. For water resistance and dry time, we had little ones splash in puddles to see how effective waterproof models are at keeping water out. We also assessed how long it took for more porous options to dry out once they were wet. Similarly, breathability – how well shoes release moisture from the inside – is another dimension that falls into this category.

Why Trust CleverHiker

We’ve hiked thousands of miles testing gear, but when it comes to kids’ hiking shoes, our tiny testers are the real critics. If something’s off, whether it’s a bad fit, annoying laces, or slippery soles, they’re not shy about letting us know. And as parents ourselves, we get it. We want shoes that keep kids comfortable, safe, and excited to hit the trail again tomorrow.

This guide is led by Ben Dawson, an outdoor writer, gear nerd, and dad who hikes daily in Colorado and has written several guidebooks—including one all about hiking Glacier National Park with kids. He’s tested over 100 pairs of hiking shoes and boots and brings years of hands-on experience reviewing family-focused gear.

Our testing took place on real adventures—muddy hikes in Vermont, rocky trails in Colorado, and even a few bike park laps, so these picks are based on how the shoes actually perform outside, not just how they look on a shelf. We evaluated them for comfort, traction, ease of use, durability, and breathability—because no one wants hot, stinky feet on mile two. Bottom line: if it’s on this list, we trust it enough to put on our own kids.

Analysis & Results

VALUE

When it comes to value, we look at both price and performance. Our favorite pick for parents on a budget is the Mishansha Kids Trekking & Hiking Shoes. They offer solid traction and toe protection at less than half the cost of most competitors. While they won’t hold up for years, they’re perfect for fast-growing feet or a single season of use.

The Saucony Cohesion 14 is another standout, offering lightweight comfort and a durable tread pattern for a fair price. It’s especially appealing because it comes in wide sizes and regularly goes on sale.

At the other end of the spectrum, shoes like The North Face Fastpack Hiker Mid Waterproof and the BOGS Neo Classic Rain Boot push close to prices (we feel) are for fully grown feet. While the high cost might be a barrier for some, these shoes offer outstanding performance in niche conditions — wet, cold, or rugged terrain. We think they’re worth it if you hike often in inclement weather.

The Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid Hiking Shoes hit a sweet spot. They offer grown-up levels of performance, traction, comfort, and support, without feeling like overkill. For families who hike often, they’re one of the best long-term investments.

COMFORT

Comfort is critical for kids, and our top-scoring shoes keep small feet happy mile after mile. The KEEN Chandler 2 CNX and Saucony Cohesion 14 stand out for their lightweight, flexible builds and well-cushioned midsoles. Both scored 9s for comfort and are our go-to options for a soft, forgiving shoe.

The Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid and Merrell Moab Speed Mid both offer more structure and ankle support, which can be especially helpful for bigger kids or when hiking on rocky, uneven terrain. Despite being mid-height boots, they are surprisingly comfy, especially the Terrex, which require almost no break-in time and perform well on long hikes.

The BOGS Neo Classic, while warm and protective, sacrifices some comfort due to its stiff rubber sole and heavy weight. Similarly, the Timberland Mt. Maddsen’s full-grain leather construction and stiff midsole can be too rigid for younger kids or short day hikes, but they do shine for wintery and muddy conditions.

We found that comfort often comes down to fit and familiarity. If a shoe felt good right away and didn’t cause blisters, it got high marks — especially important for the younger testers, who didn’t hesitate to let us know when something hurt.

TRACTION

Traction is one of the most important safety factors for hiking shoes, and we tested all models across dirt, rock, mud, and wet roots. The Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid and The North Face Fastpack Hiker Mid are clear standouts here, with deep, aggressive lug patterns and sticky rubber soles that stay secure on everything from steep, dusty switchbacks to soggy boardwalks.

The Salomon Speedcross Junior earned high marks too, particularly for its sharp, closely spaced lugs that offer race-day grip in a lightweight package. However, its more minimalist construction means it’s better suited for older kids who can benefit from its trail-runner feel.

The BOGS Neo Classic and Timberland Mt. Maddsen also impressed us with their traction, though their heavy soles and stiff construction make them less nimble overall. On the lighter end, the KEEN Newport H2 and Native Shoes Jefferson offer just enough grip for creek crossings and campsite romps, but their soles don’t compare to traditional trail shoes when things get steep or slick.

In terms of shedding mud, the Fastpack Hiker Mid and Terrex AX4R are top performers, thanks to their open lug patterns. Shoes that retain gunk — like the BOGS or some of the lower-end models — lost points for reduced grip and added weight on wet hikes.

DURABILITY

Durability is where premium models really stand out, particularly the Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid and Merrell Moab Speed Mid Waterproof, which both feature sturdy construction and reinforced toe caps that handle rocks, roots, and playground chaos without missing a beat. During testing, both shoes resisted scuffing and sole separation, even after creek splashes and rough terrain. 

The Five Ten Freerider Mountain Bike Shoe is also impressively durable, with a suede-and-synthetic upper that holds up to pedal abuse and trail wear. However, it does show dirt more readily than synthetic-only designs.

Budget models like the Mishansha Kids Trekking Shoes simply can’t compete on longevity. They’re fine for a season or two, but show signs of wear faster, especially around seams and the outsole. For families with active kids who need shoes that can take a beating and still look good, the Terrex AX4R Mid and Moab Speed Mid are excellent investments.

LACING

Ease of use is a big factor for kids’ shoes, and models like the KEEN Chandler 2 CNX and Mishansha Trekking Shoes with Velcro or bungee closures excel here. Even toddlers can get them on and off independently, saving parents time and frustration. 

The Five Ten Freerider also scores well with its Velcro system, which stays secure during active biking and play without loosening.

In contrast, traditional lace-up models like the Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid and Merrell Moab Speed Mid provide a more precise fit but can be challenging for younger kids who haven’t mastered tying their shoes. Older children who want a “grown-up” feel will appreciate this extra adjustability, but for quick exits out the door, Velcro models win for simplicity

BREATHABILITY

Breathability varies widely across the lineup. Lightweight trail runners like the Saucony Cohesion 14 and Salomon Speedcross Junior shine here, keeping feet cool and comfortable even on warm summer hikes. The mesh-heavy construction of the KEEN Chandler 2 CNX also makes it a great pick for hot weather. 

On the other hand, more rugged boots like the Adidas Terrex AX4R Mid and Merrell Moab Speed Mid Waterproof naturally retain more heat due to their durable, protective uppers. The Five Ten Freerider is the least breathable in our testing, with padded collars and suede materials that trap warmth, especially on warm days. For cooler climates or shoulder-season hiking, these tradeoffs are acceptable, but if your kid runs warm or hikes in hot conditions, a breathable trail runner is the smarter choice.

How to Choose Hiking Shoes For Kids

WHY PROPER HIKING SHOES MATTER

Hiking shoes can make or break your family hiking adventure. A quality pair of footwear protects little ones from tripping, falling, or twisting an ankle as they navigate uneven surfaces, sharp rocks, and protruding roots. A smart shoe fit, sturdy soles, and ankle support create a safer outdoor experience for everyone – and that means your kids will have a better time outside.

Plus, high-quality hiking shoes can help your children down the road. For years, studies have shown that hiking can help manage stress by lowering blood pressure, keeping your body moving, and strengthening the whole immune system. Kids who grow up playing in nature are also less likely to be depressed or anxious as they get older. Comfortable and functional shoes will only make those positive associations with the outdoors even stronger.

COMFORT

For children, comfort is critical. Nothing destroys a kid’s enthusiasm for hiking faster than hurting feet. Hotspots, inflexible shoes, and arch pain are a surefire way to end an adventure in tears. Be sure that little toes have plenty of room to spread out, the lacing system is easy to use and adjustable, and growing feet have space to expand. Look for kids’ hiking shoes with lots of cushion and support so they can focus on romping, jumping, and playing.

FAMILIARITY

The best hiking shoes for children are the ones they already use and like. Especially for toddlers and little kids, any shoe that gets them into nature safely and comfortably is a good choice. Since children grow so quickly, getting fresh hiking shoes may not be worth it. So, consider hiking with shoes they already have at home. What works for your kids in the backyard or the playground will likely also work on the trail. Their daily play shoes are probably already broken in, familiar, and comfortable, and in many cases, kids aren’t hiking far enough or getting messy enough to justify fresh kicks.

If you do opt for new shoes, keep in mind there’s usually a break-in period. Allow your kids to play in their new shoes until they get accustomed to how the shoes fit and feel to make the most of your time on the trail.

DURABILITY

Most children outgrow their shoes before their shoes outgrow them. It’s not uncommon to replace kids’ footwear every 6 to 12 months from when they’re a toddler until they enter high school. That’s why, in general, long-term durability in shoes is less important for most children. We’d instead recommend prioritizing other factors like comfort, traction, and support. 

However, durability matters a lot for some kids. If your child is really active outdoors, especially rough on their shoes, or is an older kid who’s hiking regularly, durable shoes matter. Active kids need footwear that’s durable enough for rough terrain and can handle frequent and agile movement. Look for footwear with flexible rubber soles, a short break-in period, and uppers made of strong materials to withstand wear and tear from dirt and rocks, running, and jumping.

SIZING & FIT

Your child’s foot shape and size will change as they grow. Finding a hiking shoe with a good fit means a snug fit at the heel, support through the arch and midsole, and lots of room for toes to stretch in the toe box. If your kid is prone to falling or slipping, shoes or hiking boots with a high cuff can offer extra support and protection from scraped or rolled ankles.

Consider the width of the shoe as well. If footwear is too narrow, it can cause discomfort from constriction and increase the chance of developing hotspots. If it’s too wide, that extra space can cause blisters or contusions from repeated bumping and rubbing.

Having said that, we have kids too. And they’re always growing. We recommend purchasing shoes a size (or two!) larger for them to grow into. Deciding on the right size for your kids’ hiking shoes is a balance between long-term cost and short-term shoe performance. Shoes that fit your child’s feet right now will likely be too tight in the future, so you’ll have to replace them in 6 months. Sizing up gives room for small feet to grow and saves money since you’re not replacing them as often, but the loose fit could cause pain and rubbing. Choosing shoes a bit bigger than your kid’s feet will accommodate their growth – and your budget.

LACING

Does your kid prefer traditional laces, easy pull-tab systems, velcro, or no closure at all? Deciding on the best lacing system depends on their skill level and age. We recommend slip-on shoes and Velcro for ages up to 12 since they are easy and fast to use and stay put through almost any terrain. Choose a hiking shoe that’s easy and fast for your child to tighten and loosen, so they can spend less time putting their shoes on and more time present in nature.

TRACTION

Good traction starts with the sole of a shoe. Wet rocks, mud, and loose terrain are real dangers on the trail for hikers of all sizes, so look for shoes with a sticky, durable rubber blend and a lug pattern to help prevent slips and falls. You never know what your kid might climb next, so a flexible but durable sole is important to handle slick, sandy, and loose landscapes.

WATERPROOFING

If you’re hiking in areas with a lot of wet weather, you might want a waterproof shoe or boot that can help keep your child dry. In general, we recommend a lightweight synthetic option with a waterproof lining. But for the wettest, messiest days, a tall and comfortable rain boot with good traction goes a long way to keep your kiddo’s feet dry and comfortable.

If you hike in drier areas or hotter times of the year, avoid waterproof shoes. Often, waterproof liners retain heat and can cause hot spots and discomfort. We recommend lighter, more breathable options like trail runners or sandals for warm days on dry hikes.