The 7 Best Hiking Shoes For Toddlers [2023]
If your family is new to hiking you may wonder do I really need to buy hiking shoes for toddler? Especially if they are just going to outgrow it in a season? If you are sticking to easy well worn paths than honestly you probably don’t need to splurge on hiking gear. We’ve done plenty of hikes in tennis shoes. However, if you are looking to tackle more challenging trails, uneven terrain, or go out in all seasons and weather you are going to want to invest in toddler hiking shoes or boots. My list of the 7 best hiking shoes for toddlers has budget friendly options to make the purchase a little easier!
Looking for a specific type of toddler hiking shoe? Use the table of contents to jump to a specific section!
How We Picked The Best Hiking Shoes For Toddlers
When deciding on the best hiking shoes for toddlers we honestly looked for the same qualities we would when buying shoes for ourselves.
- Durability: While it’s unlikely you will get multiple seasons out of a toddler hiking shoe for one child, the best hiking shoes for toddlers should last multiple seasons so you can pass them down to younger siblings or friends.
- Comfort: Nothing else matters if your toddler isn’t comfortable. The shoe can be the prettiest, ruggedest shoe there is but if your toddler isn’t comfortable then you aren’t going to make it very far. Rest assured all of the shoes will get you down a trail and back without complaints.
- Traction: Toddlers are prone to adventure and accidents. That often will mean climbing on uneven rocks or skipping down a trail. There are enough things to worry about in life, your toddler losing their footing shouldn’t be one of them! Good traction is particularly important if you are hiking on rough terrain or muddy trails.
- Support: As an adult with flat feet, I can’t stress the importance of arch support enough. All of these shoes are incredibly padded while maintaining a firm insole to support the smallest feet. As you are thinking about which shoe to purchase, make sure to consider low versus mid ankle. We find that for most easy to moderate hikes, a low ankle shoe offers ample support. If we are going on a hiking trip and have multiple long hikes scheduled we will flex up to a mid-ankle hiking boot.
Should you Buy New or Used Hiking Shoes for Kids?
Every parent knows, kid’s feet grow fast! Buying new shoes for young children can feel like a waste. A good option for families new to hiking or just looking for a budget friendly option is to buy gently used hiking shoes. We typically buy new hiking shoes for our daughter in a gender neutral color and then pass those down to the baby a few years later. With that said, you may score a great find at your local outdoors store or consignment shop. We’ve had a good bit of luck shopping consignment stores in popular mountain towns (think Park City for used ski gear) while on vacation. Just make sure you look for signs of wear, especially on the sole since it might limit how long you can use the shoes.
What to Consider Before You Buy
Seasons and Weather
The most important thing to think about when deciding the best shoe for your toddler is when you will be hiking and how often. If you are only going out a few times a year then a single pair of hiking boots may be more than sufficient. If you are more of a year around hiker than you may want to invest in a lightweight breathable hiking shoe or waterproof hiking shoe and something bulkier for winter.
Terrain and Destination
Will you be on well groomed trails or rough terrain? For the former, a pair of trail runners could be a good option. They are versatile enough to take your child from the playground to hiking without missing a beat. If you are planning long days and rugged terrain you may want something with good support, extra grip, and a more durable rubber sole.
Will Your Toddler Wear It
One of the things I love about these top picks for hiking shoes for toddlers is that all of them come in different colors. You can’t underestimate how important it is to consider if your child will actually wear the shoe. If they won’t wear a tall boot or a specific color, honor their wishes. There are so many great toddler hiking shoes out there, you are sure to find something that they’ll love and will fit your needs.
Best Hiking Shoes for Toddlers
Overall Best Hiking Shoes for Toddlers: Merrell Unisex-Child Chameleon 7 Access Mid Hiking Boot
Available in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes 5T-7 this is a brand that can grow with your family.
The overall best hiking boots for toddlers are the Merrell Chameleon Mid Hiking Boot. These are some of our favorites because they are incredibly comfortable hiking shoes and the best option for exploring the great outdoors with little kids.
In addition to being waterproof, these toddler hiking boots have a leather and breathable mesh upper designed to keep little feet comfortable and dry. They also have a durable rubber cup sole for great traction and comfort.
Best Toddler Hiking Shoe for New Walkers: Merrell Kid’s Trail Quest Hiking Sneaker
Available in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes 5T-7 this is a brand that can grow with your family.
A new walker can be one of the hardest stages for buying shoes. Hiking boots can feel clunky on such little feet. Even if you anticipate wearing your toddler for the majority of a hike in a hiking carrier, it’s worth investing in a quality shoe that will protect their little feet and ankles while they explore on their own.
The Merrell Kid’s Trail Quest is versatile enough your toddler can wear it out hiking or on the playground. The breathable mesh upper will keep the shoe from feeling too clunky, and keep little feet cool while the leather adds durability. Even better this shoes is machine washable which means easy clean up after you adventures.
Best Toddler Hiking Shoe That’s Like a Sneaker: Keen Child Chandler 2 CNX Casual Sneaker
Available in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes.
Shopping for a child who detests the bulky fit of a traditional hiking boot? Look no further than the Keen Chandler Casual Sneaker. This hiking boot is the ultimate in versatility. With a high traction rubber sole, this toddler hiking shoe is perfect for uneven terrain or slippery trails. That same sole is no scuff making it perfect for speedy toddlers who make it in the house before taking their shoes off (or am I the only one who has this problem?!). That versatility makes it perfect for trails and playgrounds and picky toddler feet. There is also a rubber toe cap which means this toddler hiking shoe is built to last.
Best Budget Friendly: Northside Unisex Rampart Mid Hiking Boot
Available in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes 5T-7 this is a brand that can grow with your family.
These are a sturdy mid ankle hiking boot that will help your toddler tackle even the most difficult trails. While lacking some of the bells and whistles of pricier hiking boots, the Northside Rampart is still a great option for families who want a budget friendly option to get their toddler out on the trail. One of the biggest drawbacks is the laces instead of a velcro closure. Great for adjusting the size of the ankle opening but not the most practical for toddler footwear. Even with that, the Northside Rampart Mid Hiking Boot is an excellent choice for families looking for a hiking shoe with good ankle support and a rugged sole on a budget.
Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes for Toddlers: KEEN Kids’ Targhee Low Waterproof Hiking Shoe
Available in little kid and big kid sizes.
It’s no secret Keens make some of the best shoes for hiking and outdoors adventures and that definitely extends to their children’s hiking shoes as well. The Keen Targhee Boot was one of the first hiking shoes we got for my daughter and she has worn them to wade through streams in Iceland and hike our local trails in muddy conditions.
They are a great option for waterproof shoes that will give your kids flexibility and freedom on family hikes. Made of a proprietary waterproof membrane these are guaranteed to keep your child’s feet dry. And comfortable thanks to the extra cushioning in the sole of the shoe! Making them a great option for longer hikes.
Best For Splashing: Keen Newport H2 Casual Shoe
Available in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes 5T-7.
I have a similar pair of these for myself and I’ll let you in on a secret, I like the kid’s version even more! The flexible ankle support, loop closure, and velcro make these easy to get on and off. Even if you are dealing with wet toddler feet! I personally prefer this model to more basic Keen Newport H because the breathable mesh allows feet to dry while keeping out rocks and small debris. We’ve found it very difficult to hike in other water shoes for that very reason! The Keen Newport H2 is the perfect shoe for warm weather adventures!
Best Snow Boots for Toddlers: Keen Knotch Chukka Mid Height Easy On Snow Boots
Available in toddler, little kid, and big kid sizes 5T-7.
If you’ve ever tried to put on a toddler snow boot then you know – it is not for the faint of heart! By the time I get my kid’s snow gear on, I am usually drenched in sweat and ready to turn right back around and head inside. Which is why I love the Keen Knotch Chukka Mid Height Easy On Snow Boots. These are more of a hiking shoe so you’ll be able to easily slide your child’s foot in. And because they are structured like a hiking boot, even the youngest children will be able to maneuver in them easily.
These are insulated and offer higher traction for slippery conditions. They are perfect for snow filled hikes or tackling city streets in wintery conditions. If you are doing a more active snow-filled activity like sledding, I’d recommend a more traditional snow boot.
Selecting the right shoes for your little hiker can be daunting. I would recommend getting a few pairs and letting them try different styles to see what they are most comfortable in that also fits your families needs.
Looking for hiking shoes for bigger kids? Check out my recommendations here.
Note: this post contains affiliate links and I receive a small commission on any purchases made. I appreciate your support of the blog! These are all shoes our kids have worn over the years or are currently wearing.
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