KEEN's Targhee line has been the default recommendation for kids' hiking boots for years, the wide toe box alone makes it worth it for growing feet, and the waterproofing actually holds up.
What holds up
4.8/5 stars across 47 REI reviews, top-rated kids' hiking boot on the platform
Waterproof construction keeps feet dry on wet trails and creek crossings
Wide toe box accommodates growing feet and thicker hiking socks
Mid-cut ankle height provides extra support on uneven terrain
Available in both Big Kids' and Little Kids' sizing
What to know
Heavier than low-cut alternatives at 1 lb 3.5 oz per pair
Higher price point at $75 compared to budget options
Some kids may find the mid-cut height restrictive for casual wear
Expert verdict
Top Rated with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, the highest-rated kids' hiking boot on REI's platform
I wore low Keene Targhee IV hiking shoes for the Long Trail, and my ankles definitely rolled more than with the boots, implying the mid version provides better support
The Moab name carries serious weight in hiking communities, it's been the default 'just get these' recommendation for years, and the kids' version inherits all that trail-tested credibility at a fair price.
What holds up
Hook-and-loop A/C closure makes it easy for kids to put on independently
Waterproof construction with Vibram-style outsole for reliable traction
Can be resoled, exceptional durability for a kids' boot
Merrell Moab line praised across Reddit, Good Housekeeping, and Switchback Travel as the best value hiking boot
4.1/5 stars across 63 REI reviews
What to know
Heavier than low-cut alternatives at 1 lb 3.7 oz
Traction struggles in deep mud compared to more aggressive lugs
Hook-and-loop closure may not provide as precise a fit as laces for older kids
Expert verdict
What makes this boot so popular is its foot-friendly, comfortable feel, and reliable trail chops at such a reasonable price
Best Overall: Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof, Beginners and veteran hikers alike will appreciate the balanced comfort and support of this pair from Merrell
I got a pair of Merrell Moab Mid boots last May and they have served me well for 40 miles on the Colorado Trail and others. I'm 68, and was amazed how well they fit and how well they did on rough trails.
When a parent screenshots nine Amazon orders of the same shoe over six years, that's the kind of real-world endorsement no expert review can match. The Terrex is the kids' hiking shoe that parents keep coming back to.
What holds up
4.8/5 stars across 67 REI reviews, highest-rated kids' hiking shoe on the platform
Water-resistant for light rain and mild snow days
Works for wide feet, noted by multiple parents as accommodating
Durable enough to hand down from older to younger siblings
Lightweight at 14.4 oz, easy for kids to wear all day
What to know
Low-cut design offers less ankle support than mid-height boots
Water-resistant but not fully waterproof, not ideal for deep puddles or creek crossings
Some reports of earlier versions wearing out quickly (newer versions appear more durable)
Expert verdict
Top Rated with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, the most-reviewed and highest-rated kids' hiking shoe on REI
I echo the shouts for Adidas Terrex. In fact I overbought them, I have two new pairs (slightly different variants) waiting to go but my original pair from years back are going on and on. Extremely durable.
If your kid moves fast and doesn't want to feel like they're wearing 'hiking boots,' the XA Pro is the answer, it's a trail runner with waterproofing that serious adult hikers trust on the AT and beyond.
What holds up
4.7/5 stars across 20 REI reviews, top-rated waterproof trail shoe for kids
Dual-use: rated for both trail running and hiking
Waterproof construction handles creek crossings and wet trails
Salomon's aggressive lug pattern provides excellent grip on varied terrain
Lightweight at 14.8 oz, won't slow active kids down
What to know
Low-cut design offers less ankle support than mid-height boots
$75 price point is mid-range but not budget-friendly
Salomon sizing can run narrow, may not suit wide feet
Expert verdict
Top Rated with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, one of the highest-rated kids' waterproof trail shoes on REI
At under $50 on sale with a 4.9-star rating, this is the sleeper pick, Columbia's trail credibility is real, and parents consistently praise these for everyday hikes without the premium price tag.
What holds up
4.9/5 stars across 17 REI reviews, highest average rating of any kids' hiking boot on REI
Waterproof construction at a budget-friendly price (often under $50 on sale)
Mid-cut height provides ankle support without the weight of heavier boots
Columbia's OutDry waterproofing is proven across thousands of adult reviews
Lightweight enough for all-day wear on family hikes
What to know
Fewer reviews than KEEN or Merrell, less long-term durability data
Columbia's kids' line is less discussed in hiking communities than KEEN or Merrell
May not have the same resoleable durability as Merrell's Moab line
Expert verdict
Top Rated with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, the highest average rating of any kids' hiking boot on REI's platform
Best Value: Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof, Columbia's hiking boots are some of the most popular ones you'll see on the trails and for good reason
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