What are the best hiking shoes for kids?

Getting a child outside hiking can be one of the most rewarding and beneficial things you can do as a family. By doing so, your kids are sure to enjoy many outdoor adventures. Before you hit the trail, though, you must consider which hiking boots and shoes are best for your child.

Columbia has been manufacturing versatile, durable and reliable outdoor gear for over 80 years. Our unwavering commitment to quality extends to our younger customers, too. You can be confident that our footwear offers children the same levels of protection and durability.

How do you decide what are the best hiking shoes for kids? Before you buy any hiking footwear for your child, discover which ones are most suited to their needs. Consider the types of hikes, the weather conditions and the preferred material.

Type of hike

Whether your child embarks on short hikes or week-long treks, you can be confident they'll do so in comfort. Many of our styles feature Techlite™ midsoles. These lightweight midsoles are comfortable and are perfect for limiting fatigue. They offer superior cushioning and high-energy return.

You may anticipate walks on flat terrain or climbing over rocks. Columbia also offers great rubber grips on each sole, ensuring superb traction for all-terrain. Our Omni-Grip™ technology uses specially designed lug patterns and compounds for excellent stability and grip.

Consider which type of hike to ensure you can select the most suitable midsoles for your child’s outdoor adventures.

Weather conditions

Weather conditions are unpredictable. Fortunately, Columbia manufactures our hiking boots and shoes for kids with wet ground in mind. Keeping feet dry is essential. Most of our models feature second-to-none, waterproof protection.

For particularly adverse conditions, many of our models feature OutDry™. OutDry™ offers complete protection with its singular-piece construction, leaving no space for water to get in.

For a forecast of lighter precipitation, Omni-Tech™ features waterproof, multi-layered protection. This protection is versatile and breathable. Its breathable quality allows heat and moisture to escape, keeping each toe cool, dry and comfortable.

Are you worried about your child’s feet getting cold? Columbia also offers some superb options for cold-weather adventures. Some of our children’s hiking footwear provides 200g of insulation. It can withstand temperatures as low as -35°C.

Columbia even has a few sandal options for warmer weather. These sandals are perfect for use in water and on land during spring break and summer holidays. Like their hiking counterparts, they are breathable, comfortable and feature excellent grip.

Type of shoe

It might seem that deciding between low and mid-height hiking shoes and boots comes down to a style preference. However, choosing between the two also has much to do with functionality. Low shoes tend to be more lightweight. This allows for more freedom of movement for kids keen to add a little speed to their hikes. Mid-height shoes tend to offer better ankle support. A mid-height boot will ensure safety on rougher terrains. Columbia provides an excellent selection of both.

When selecting a child’s pair of shoes or boots for hiking, you will also need to consider a lacing system. Many of our options feature laces with a bungee closure, allowing for quick and easy adjustments. Our quick toggle lace system saves time and ensures a flexible fit.

Material

You have two materials choices: natural or synthetic. Natural materials, such as suede and leather, provide a classic look. They are also recognised as more protective and durable. Hiking footwear made from synthetic fabrics will be lighter and more versatile.

Columbia offers hiking boots and shoes for children that combine both. You can have the best of both worlds: suede or leather's durability and protective qualities with the lightweight, more versatile fabric qualities.

Whether you have a child keen to get outside and explore or some reluctant teens going for a family hike, you can rest assured that you provide them with the best hiking boots and shoes. Columbia’s range of children’s shoes and boots for hiking reflect our unwavering commitment to durability, versatility and style.