Speedcross J Trail Running Shoe

The Speedcross J is the ultimate athletic shoe for kids that are always on the go. The shoes have incredible grip even on rough and rugged terrain.

Utilizing Contagrip technology, the well-designed tread will keep even the most courageous kid well grounded. Plus, the no slip soles are geared up for super-fast fun and action packed activities.

Plus, the easy to slip on model has a quick-lace design making shoe fastening a breeze when rushed for time. Action kids will love the one-pull tightening.

The Speedcross J also has a Sensifit system that delivers a comfortable and exact fit. The structure is designed to gently embrace the feet from the midsole to the lacing, offering a safe, comfy, and practically customized fit. In fact, your kids will claim that their feet are being cradled with every step.

Pros

  • A precise fit
  • Aggressive tread
  • The perfect hiking shoe

Cons

  • Narrow width
  • Minimal arch support
  • Laces wears out quickly

Chaco Kids Outcross 2

What kid doesn’t like to jump and splash in puddles? The Chaco Kids Outcross 2 is designed with kids in mind.

It is the ideal kid’s water shoe for all types of water play and outdoor activities. With the hydrophobic woven upper and synthetic toe cap it holds up to about any water activity your kids enjoy.

Plus the toe cap protects small toes from rocks and other hard surfaces.

When it comes to support, the LUVSEAT PU footbed and foam midsole can’t be matched. Kids will never know that these shoes are “good for their feet”.

Plus the EcoTread rubber outsole with 2mm lugs provides traction and firm footing when they need it. It is the perfect shoe for kids who love to go from river to trail and back.

Pros

  • A light, comfortable hiking water shoe
  • Non-marking Eco Tread 25% recycled rubber
  • Long-lasting LUVSEAT PU footbed and foam midsole

Cons

  • A little snug
  • Runs small in size

Kids Breeze III UltraDry Hiking Boot

The Kids Breeze III UltraDry Hiking Boot is a comfortable smaller version of the most popular adult boot. It is skillfully constructed of mesh and waterproof suede leather so that feet can breathe easily and stay dry.

Intended for the day hiker and explorer, heel bumpers and rubber toes add extra protection and durability for active lifestyles.

This shoe was planned for kids on the go; the speed lace arrangement offers a fast fit adjustment. As well, the innovative design has a lock ankle hook for a positive secure fit.

And for added measure, there are reflective accents for better visibility in low light conditions. And when it comes to the sole, the Vasque Breeze III is specially designed for ultra-trail traction and toughness.

The sole actually is molded with a trail traction compound to ensure superior footing. And for all day hiking comfort, the hiking boot provides an anatomical compressed molded EVA footbed.

Pros

  • Breathable membrane lining
  • Constructed of waterproof suede leather
  • Excellent traction for all types of terrain

Cons

  • Higher priced
  • Not available in wide widths

Columbia Youth Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot

Whether your kid is a novice or young expert, the Columbia Youth Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot is the perfect boots for hiking. It supports all types of outdoor activities including long day hikes, puddle jumping, treks by the river and more.

Constructed with waterproof coated leather, these mid-cut styled boots offer long lasting dryness so that all ages can enjoy splashing in puddles, running through streams and jumping into a pile of wet leaves.

As well, these hikers are renowned for supporting non-stop active feet. And for a secure grip on rugged terrain, the non-marking Omni-GRIP outsoles live up to their name.

This hiking boot is part of the Youth Dirt Time collection. It also has a waterproof seam-sealed membrane bootie structure with a speed lace system.

Compared to cumbersome hikers, this boot is unmatched with its TECHLITE lightweight midsole for long-lasting comfort.

Pros

  • Fast lace-up design for busy kids
  • Durability coupled with lightweight comfort
  • Waterproof seams and PU coated leather upper

Cons

  • Runs small
  • Higher priced

Columbia Kids’ Conspiracy Shoe

The Columbia Kids’ Conspiracy Shoe offers a connection to the outdoors with ample protection for trail blazers without feeling weighed down. These shoes allow feet to breathe on long hikes while keeping your feet dry and protected. The upper is a combination of synthetic leather and textile for outdoor protection.

The lightweight midsoles are composed of Techlite for lasting comfort and excellent cushioning so that extra energy is directed to hiking the trail. And for outsole, these hikers have an Omini-Grip non-marking traction rubber for all your trekking needs.

Kids also love the asymmetrical lacing system where they can slip into their shoes and run without forethought.

The comfort and durability is also ideal for kids who love to hike. The Conspiracy III is worth considering with its all-weather capabilities and decent amount of suppleness for hiking.

Pros

  • Reasonably priced
  • Good agility for hiking
  • Lightweight with ample protection

Cons

  • Slight slippage inside the shoe on steep descents
  • A low hiker; not recommended for extreme wet conditions

How to Find The Best Hiking Shoes for Your Kid

When searching for the ideal hiking shoe for kids, there are many features to consider. Young walkers and hikers need to have a shoe that is in tune with their body such as flexible with a lot of ground feel so that they feel confident.

The flexible material should also support natural body movements. The best “ground feel” shoe is the Speedcross J Trail Running Shoe and the Columbia Kids’ Conspiracy Shoe.

Hiking boots should never feel cumbersome. They should have a lightweight design that offers protection from rocks and other objects.

Some of the best protective lightweight hiking shoes is the Columbia Youth Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot. For protection, the Vasque Breeze III UltraDry Hiking Boots – Kids’ is a good choice.

A little ones feet may be small but it still needs room to breathe. Without proper ventilation, the feet become sweaty and invite fungus growth.

Also, make sure the shoes fit properly and there is plenty of foot room. One of the best options for hiking boots that breathe is the Vasque Breeze III UltraDry Hiking Boots for Kids’.

The combination of mesh and waterproof suede leather is the perfect material for preventing foot problems.

Grip and traction is also important. A good grip prevents a child from falling and also promotes confidence in hiking outdoors.

Some of the best soles with outstanding traction are Chaco Kids Outcross 2 with the EcoTread rubber outsole and the Vasque Breeze III UltraDry Hiking Boots for Kids’ with trail traction compound for good footing.

For kids who love water, the Vasque Breeze III UltraDry Hiking Boots – Kids’ is an excellent shoe. The waterproof suede leather is long lasting and will provide hours of fun time trekking in the wet outdoors.

Another good choice is the Columbia Youth Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot (Little Kid/Big Kid) with its Waterproof seams and PU coated leather upper.

For quality, the Salomon Kid’s Speedcross J Trail Running Shoe and the Columbia Kids’ Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boots are superb. For the best price, Columbia Kids’ Conspiracy Shoe has a great offer as well as Chaco Kids Outcross 2 when on sale.

Just remember, when selecting the ideal hiking shoe for your little one look for features that include a flexible insole for balance, lightweight construction for easy treks and roomy fitting shoes that won’t hurt the feet.