If you’ve ever tried hiking with kids, you know the struggle: one minute they’re excited, the next they’re complaining about sore feet, wet socks, or shoes that just don’t fit right. I’ve been there lugging a tired child halfway down a trail because their boots gave them blisters or didn’t keep their feet dry.
That’s why finding the right hiking boots for kids is crucial. You want something durable, comfortable, and waterproof boots that can handle muddy trails, rocky paths, and unexpected puddles without causing discomfort. Brands like Merrell and The North Face offer options like the Moab 2 Mid Waterproof and Fastpack Hiker Mid, which are designed to keep little feet happy on the trail .
In this post, I’ll share my top five picks for kids’ hiking boots that have made our family hikes more enjoyable. These boots have been tested on various terrains and have proven to keep complaints at bay. Let’s dive in and find the perfect pair for your young adventurer.
Our testing experience
We have tested 19 brands, including Mishansha, DREAM PAIRS, Wolidio, R CORD, and Merrell, to find the 5 best hiking boots for kids.
Our testing process began with an initial fit and comfort check, ensuring each boot provided ample toe room and secure ankle support. Next, we conducted a waterproofing test by submerging the boots in water to assess their ability to keep feet dry. Traction was evaluated on various terrains, from wet rocks to loose gravel, to determine grip stability. We also examined durability by inspecting stitching, toe caps, and material flexibility.
Breathability was tested by monitoring foot temperature after prolonged wear, while weight and mobility were assessed to ensure ease of movement. Finally, we compared safety features like reflective strips and flame resistance. After thorough testing, we narrowed it down to the top 5 brands that excelled in all categories, providing the best combination of comfort, protection, and performance for young hikers.
Best Seller
Best for rainy or wet conditions: Mishansha Kids Hiking Boots
Best for light: DREAM PAIRS Kids Shoes Hiking Boots
Best for toddlers to big kids: Wolidio Kids Hiking Boots
Best for rough and rocky trails: R CORD Kids Hiking Boots
Best for everyday hiking: Merrell MK162260-020-4.5
Best for rainy or wet conditions
Mishansha Kids Hiking Boots
Fit & Comfort: 8.9 Traction & Grip: 8.3 Durability: 8.1 Water Resistance: 7.4 Weight: 8.9 Breathability: 7.8 Ankle Support: 7.3 Ease of Use: 8.7 Style & Color Options: 8.9 Price & Value: 9.8 Safety Features: 7.5
Fabric Type: Artificial Leather | Origin: Imported | Sole Material: Rubber | Outer Material: Faux Leather | Material Type: Synthetic
Mishansha Kids Hiking Boots are an excellent choice for young adventurers, featuring water-resistant artificial leather and a breathable Oxford upper that keep feet dry and comfortable, making them best for rainy or wet conditions while ensuring optimal airflow. The anti-collision full-cover toe cap protects against impacts from falling objects or hard surfaces, making them ideal for rough outdoor play.
The rubber outsole ensures superior flexibility and anti-skid performance, with textured patterns for enhanced grip on slippery or uneven terrain. The hook-and-loop closure makes them easy for kids to put on and remove independently, adding convenience for daily wear. These boots are versatile, suitable for school, playgrounds, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
The lightweight faux leather construction is easy to clean, while the mesh lining helps maintain comfort by keeping feet cool. Designed as unisex footwear, they cater to both boys and girls. Mishansha stands behind their product, offering support in case of any issues. Durable, practical, and safety-focused, these boots are a solid pick for wet conditions and active kids.
Best for light
DREAM PAIRS Kids Shoes Hiking Boots
Fit & Comfort: 8.5 Traction & Grip: 8.4 Durability: 7.4 Water Resistance: 6.5 Weight: 8.8 Breathability: 7.6 Ankle Support: 6.5 Ease of Use: 8.6 Style & Color Options: 8.9 Price & Value: 9.7 Safety Features: 6.7
Sole Material: EVA, Rubber | Shaft Circumference: >7 inches | Outer Material: Faux Leather, Textile | Closure Type: Lace-Up | Country of Origin: China
The DREAM PAIRS Kids Shoes Hiking Boots are an excellent option for young adventurers, best for light outdoor adventures with their durable and comfortable design. These high-top sneakers feature a durable, water-resistant faux leather and textile upper, ensuring protection against light rain and rough terrain.
The EVA and rubber sole provides a lightweight yet sturdy foundation, while the fishbone-inspired outsole delivers strong grip on slippery or muddy surfaces, preventing slips. With a shaft circumference of over 7 inches, the boots offer ankle support to help prevent sprains during hikes. The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, and the high-rebound midsole adds cushioning for comfort on rugged paths.
Designed for both boys and girls, these boots combine functionality with style, making them ideal for outdoor play. Manufactured in China, they balance durability and lightweight performance, perfect for kids who love exploring nature.
Best for toddlers to big kids
Wolidio Kids Hiking Boots
Fit & Comfort: 7.6 | Traction & Grip: 6.7 | Durability: 6.5 | Water Resistance: 5.6 | Weight: 7.9 | Breathability: 6.5 | Ankle Support: 6.0 | Ease of Use: 7.2 | Style & Color Options: 7.8 | Price & Value: 8.9 | Safety Features: 6.3
Origin: Imported | Sole Material: Rubber | Outer Material: Fabric | Closure Type: Hook & Loop | Country of Origin: China
Wolidio Kids Hiking Boots are an excellent option for young adventurers, best for toddlers to big kids who love exploring the outdoors. These imported hiking boots feature a durable rubber sole and a fabric upper, ensuring lightweight comfort and long-lasting wear. The hook-and-loop closure, combined with an adjustable drawstring, makes them easy for kids to put on and take off independently with no laces to tie.
The full-cover toe cap design provides excellent protection against collisions and falling objects, keeping little toes safe. Breathability is a key feature, thanks to the fabric upper and mesh lining, which keep feet cool and dry during long walks or active play. The anti-slip TPR sole has a deepened tread pattern, offering strong grip and wear resistance on various terrains, so kids can run and play freely without slipping.
Suitable for a wide range of activities, these boots are perfect for school, playgrounds, parks, hiking, camping, and more. Made in China by Wolidio, these boots are built to withstand any adventure while keeping comfort and safety in mind. Ideal for toddlers, little kids, and big kids alike.
Best for rough and rocky trails
R CORD Kids Hiking Boots
Fit & Comfort: 8.7 Traction & Grip: 8.7 Durability: 8.8 Water Resistance: 7.6 Weight: 8.9 Breathability: 8.0 Ankle Support: 7.5 Ease of Use: 8.7 Style & Color Options: 8.9 Price & Value: 9.7 Safety Features: 7.4
Sole Material: Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) | Outer Material: Rubber | Closure Type: Lace-Up | Water Resistance Level: Waterproof | Durability: Long-lasting and flexible.
R CORD Kids Hiking Boots provide outstanding durability and protection for young adventurers, best for rough and rocky trails. These lace-up boots feature a rugged rubber outer material and a thermoplastic elastomer (TPR) outsole, ensuring superior traction on uneven terrain. The waterproof design, combined with breathable Oxford fabric and lightweight artificial leather, keeps feet dry while preventing overheating.
A full-cover toe cap safeguards against impacts, making these boots ideal for rocky paths. The anti-skid rubber outsole provides flexibility and grip, enhancing stability during hiking, running, or biking. The hook-and-loop closure allows for easy wear, while the mesh lining ensures comfort. Suitable for various activities from school to camping these boots are versatile and built to last.
Designed for girls, they offer a secure fit and reliable performance in all outdoor conditions. The durable construction and water-resistant features make them a practical choice for rough trails and daily adventures alike.
Best for everyday hiking
Merrell MK162260-020-4.5
Fit & Comfort: 9.5 Traction & Grip: 9.8 Durability: 9.7 Water Resistance: 8.9 Weight: 8.7 Breathability: 9.0 Ankle Support: 9.0 Ease of Use: 9.6 Style & Color Options: 9.7 Price & Value: 8.7 Safety Features: 9.2
Fabric Type: 100% Leather | Origin: Imported | Sole Material: Rubber | Shaft Height: Ankle | Country of Origin: China
Best for rough and rocky trails, Merrell MK162260-020-4.5 delivers reliable performance with its 100% leather suede and mesh upper, ensuring breathability and durability for young hikers. The Select DRY bootie waterproof construction keeps feet dry, while the traditional lace closure provides a secure fit.
The non-marking rubber outsole with M Select GRIP offers superior traction on uneven terrain, making these boots ideal for challenging hikes. With an ankle-high shaft and a weight of just 1.5 pounds, the Merrell Moab 2 Mid WTRPF strikes a balance between support and comfort. The imported boots, manufactured in China, feature a take-down pattern for added durability.
Measuring 11 x 8 x 5 inches, these unisex-child boots (model MK162260-020-4.5) are built to withstand rough conditions while maintaining flexibility. The rugged design and waterproof features make them a practical choice for wet or rocky trails, ensuring young adventurers stay protected and comfortable on long hikes.
Buying Guide
When it comes to selecting hiking boots for children, the technical specifications play a pivotal role in ensuring comfort, safety, and performance on the trails. Let’s delve into how Kids Hiking Boots measure up against some of the top models in the market.
Waterproofing and Breathability
Kids Hiking Boots are equipped with a waterproof membrane that effectively keeps moisture out, ensuring dry feet during wet conditions. However, compared to models like the Merrell Moab 3, which feature a breathable mesh lining alongside waterproofing, Kids Hiking Boots may have slightly reduced breathability. This difference can lead to warmer feet during extended hikes.
Ankle Support and Stability
The design of Kids Hiking Boots offers moderate ankle support, suitable for light to moderate trails. In contrast, boots like the Merrell Moab 3 Mid provide enhanced ankle support through a mid-height shaft and a more structured build, making them better suited for challenging terrains and longer hikes.
Traction and Outsole Durability
Kids Hiking Boots come with a rubber outsole designed for grip on various surfaces. However, models such as the Columbia Youth Newton Ridge and Timberland MT Maddsen feature advanced lug patterns and proprietary rubber compounds that offer superior traction and durability, especially on rocky or uneven ground.
Weight and Comfort
Weighing approximately 366 grams per shoe, Kids Hiking Boots are lightweight, reducing fatigue during hikes. While this makes them comfortable for short excursions, boots like the Merrell Moab 3 Mid, though slightly heavier, incorporate features like padded collars and cushioned midsoles that enhance comfort over extended periods.
Price and Value
Kids Hiking Boots are positioned as a budget-friendly option, offering essential features at an accessible price point. On the other hand, models like the Merrell Moab 3 Mid and Timberland MT Maddsen, while higher in cost, provide advanced features and durability that may justify the investment for frequent hikers.
In summary, while Kids Hiking Boots offer a solid foundation for young adventurers, models like the Merrell Moab 3 Mid and Timberland MT Maddsen deliver enhanced performance in areas such as breathability, ankle support, traction, and overall durability. Choosing between these options should be based on the specific hiking needs, frequency of use, and budget considerations.
FAQs
What should I look for when choosing kids hiking boots?
When selecting hiking boots for kids, look for features like waterproofing, breathability, comfort, and durability. Make sure the boots offer good ankle support and have a non-slip rubber sole for stability. Also, consider whether the boots are lightweight enough for kids to walk long distances without discomfort.
How do I know if my child’s hiking boots fit properly?
The boots should have a snug fit without being tight. Ensure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between the end of the boot and your child’s toes. The boots should offer support around the ankle, but not restrict movement. Check the width as well to prevent rubbing or blisters.
Can kids hiking boots be used for other outdoor activities?
Yes! While kids hiking boots are designed for hiking, they are also suitable for other outdoor activities such as camping, backpacking, and even playing in rugged terrain. Their durable construction and grip make them versatile for various outdoor adventures.
Final Thought
After testing all five boots, I kept coming back to one question: Which pair truly balances durability, comfort, and weather resistance? The Mishansha Kids Hiking Boots stood out especially compared to the others. While some boots had great grip or breathability, Mishansha nailed everything: waterproof protection, anti-slip soles, and a toe guard that actually works. Plus, the easy Velcro straps? A lifesaver when you’re rushing out the door. If you want boots that handle rain, rough terrain, and everyday chaos without fuss, Mishansha is the clear winner. Happy trails (and dry feet) ahead!
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