Best Kids Hiking Boots for Growing Feet (2026)

The best kids hiking boots for most families are the KEEN Targhee mid and the Merrell Moab Speed or Moab 3 mid waterproof, with the Columbia Peakfreak Rush mid as a grippy alternative and trail-runner style shoes from Salomon for fast, light hiking. For young children on easy trails, a pair of broken-in sneakers can be enough, but boots with a grippy outsole and a roomy toe box matter once the hike has rocks, mud or distance.

Our top picks

Top pickKEEN Unisex-Child Targhee 4 Mid Height Durable

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Also greatKEEN Unisex-Child Targhee 4 Mid Height Durable

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Also greatKEEN Unisex-Child Hightrail Mid Height Durable Lightweight

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Also greatKEEN Unisex-Child Hightrail Mid Height Durable Lightweight

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Quick Comparison of Kids Hiking Boots

Best Overall: KEEN Targhee Mid

Outdoor guides frequently name the Targhee mid as the best balance of durability, comfort and waterproofing for kids. Bungee laces make it quick to put on, and the wide toe box helps growing feet. Kids with narrow feet may find it roomy, so check the fit with the thickness of sock they will wear.

Best Hybrid: Merrell Moab Speed Mid

CleverHiker lists the Moab Speed mid waterproof as its pick for a hybrid hiking boot because it offers good ankle protection and waterproofing in a lighter shoe-like build. It is a good compromise between sneaker comfort and boot support. Merrell’s lasts fit narrower than KEEN’s, so wide feet may prefer other brands.

Best Durable Family Pick: Merrell Moab 3 Mid

Outdoor Adept ranks the Moab 3 mid waterproof near the top. It is cushioned and holds up to repeated use, which matters if boots are handed down between siblings.

Best for Mud and Mixed Terrain: Columbia Peakfreak Rush Mid

Columbia’s Omni-Grip outsole is built for wet, loose ground, and the boot is waterproof. It can feel stiffer out of the box and may need a short break-in period.

Best for Little Kids: KEEN Chandler 2 CNX

This lightweight hiking shoe suits toddlers and small children, who tire quickly in heavy boots. It offers less ankle support, which matters less on gentle trails.

Best Light Trail Option: Salomon XA Pro V8

Salomon kids models borrow from trail running shoes, with light weight and quick drying. They suit active kids on moderate trails but offer less structure than a boot.

How to Size Kids Hiking Boots

Measure at the end of the day

Feet swell during activity. Measure when your child’s feet are at their largest, and leave about a thumb’s width (roughly 0.5 inch or 12 mm) between the longest toe and the boot’s front.

Check heel hold

The heel should not lift more than a few millimeters when walking. Excess movement causes blisters.

Try with hiking socks

Use the same socks they will wear on the trail. Wool or synthetic blends dry faster and reduce blisters.

Plan for growth carefully

Children’s feet can grow a half size every few months. Do not buy more than half a size up, since loose boots cause blisters and tripping.

Cost-Per-Use Math

Choosing by Hiking Style and Age

Features That Matter for Kids

Children walk differently than adults: they scuff toes, drag heels and charge through puddles. A rubber toe cap prevents stubbed-toe injuries, a gusseted tongue keeps trail debris out, and a grippy outsole helps on wet rock. Weight matters more than on adult boots, because a few extra ounces on each foot adds up over a day of small steps. Look for easy closures like bungee laces or a single-pull system if your child dresses themselves. Heavy leather boots can feel like blocks, so many families prefer lightweight synthetic uppers.

Common Mistakes

• Buying far too big. More than half a size of growing room causes blisters.
• Skipping the break-in. New boots should be worn for short outings before any big hike.
• Choosing waterproof for hot trails. Feet will sweat and chafe.
• Ignoring wear. Check soles and stitching, since kids wear boots out faster than adults.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do kids need hiking boots?

Not always. For short easy trails, supportive sneakers work. For rocky or wet terrain, boots with grip and ankle coverage help.

Waterproof or breathable?

Waterproof suits rainy and muddy hikes, but breathable shoes keep feet cooler in summer.

How long do they last?

Often one growing season. Durable boots may pass to a sibling.

How do I break them in?

Have your child wear them around the house and on short walks before a long hike.

Mid or low cut?

Mid cuts give ankle protection on uneven ground. Low cuts are lighter and cooler.