The Best Kids’ Hiking Sandals

Buying Guide for Children’s Hiking Sandals

Why buy hiking sandals for kids?

Hiking sandals are designed to provide support and protection to the wearer’s feet while hiking, camping, or engaging in other outdoor activities, and those made for children are no exception. They help prevent injuries such as sprains, cuts, blisters, and stubbed toes. Hiking sandals are typically made with breathable materials that allow air to circulate, helping to keep your child’s feet cool and dry even on hot, sweaty days. They also tend to be more lightweight and flexible than hiking boots, making them comfortable for children to wear for extended periods of time. And since hiking sandals are often designed to be adjustable with straps, they’re extremely beneficial for kids who seem to grow out of their old shoes every week—a feature that every parent can appreciate.

What should you look for in hiking sandals for kids?

• Support and Protection: Hiking sandals should provide adequate support and protection for kids’ feet to prevent injuries while they’re out on the trails. A sturdy sole can help prevent sore or achy feet and provide traction on uneven terrain, so kids are less likely to slip and fall. A cushioned footbed is a useful feature that helps absorb shock and provide additional comfort. Also look for close-toed sandals with a protective toe cap to guard against rocks and other debris that can cause injury.
• Durability: Kids are active and energetic, not always careful, and can (literally) run roughshod on their shoes, so it’s important to choose hiking sandals capable of withstanding rough terrain and frequent wear. Look for sandals with sturdy straps made from durable materials such as nylon. The sole of the sandal should also be well-constructed to ensure it can handle the impact of hiking and other outdoor activities. Water-resistant or waterproof hiking sandals are ideal since they’ll hold up to the elements better and keep your little one’s feet drier.
• Comfort and Fit: Kids’ hiking sandals should be comfortable and fit properly to prevent blisters and other foot injuries. It’s important to measure your child’s feet before buying hiking sandals to ensure the correct size. (Some brands may have different sizing standards, so it’s best to refer to the manufacturer’s sizing chart.) Adjustable straps can help ensure a secure and comfortable fit for your child’s feet, preventing them from slipping or rubbing against the sandal. A comfortable and well-fitting sandal will help your child stay active and enjoy their outdoor adventures without discomfort or pain.

Are kids’ hiking sandals suitable for all types of outdoor activities?

For activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring nature, hiking sandals are a great choice. They provide a balance of comfort, support, and protection, making them suitable for most terrains and weather conditions. That said, it’s important to consider the specific demands of the activity when choosing your child’s footwear for the day. Hiking sandals may not be the best choice for activities that involve more intense physical exertion, such as rock climbing or trail running, as they may not provide enough support or protection for these types of activities.

Ultimately, the best footwear for a particular activity will depend on several factors, such as the terrain, weather conditions, and the level of physical activity involved. It’s important to choose footwear that is specifically designed for the type of activity you’ll be doing and to ensure that the shoes fit well and provide adequate support and protection for your child’s feet.

Our Picks for the Best Kids’ Hiking Sandals

Pros: These adjustable closed-toe sandals are the perfect solution for children who love hiking, camping, or outdoor play. They provide sturdy support for running and hiking, while the soft inside ensures comfort all day long. The easy-to-use Velcro strap allows for quick and easy on and off, making it the perfect pair of shoes for active kids. And they come in a variety of sizes, including toddler and half sizes; between these two factors, they allow for a perfect fit every time, regardless of your child’s age or foot size. These sandals are adjustable, durable, and comfortable, so your little one will enjoy wearing them instead of finding an excuse to fling them off at their first chance.

Cons: While these are generally comfortable sandals, there is a chance the inside threading or material may rub against the top of your child’s foot, causing discomfort or even blisters. And while they’re generally durable, in some cases, the threads might start showing and unraveling after only a few wears.

Bottom Line: These hiking sandals are an excellent choice for parents who want their children to be comfortable and well-supported during outdoor activities. The adjustable Velcro strap and wide range of sizes ensure a perfect fit, while the durable construction makes them ideal for any summer adventure. Moreover, the soft and comfortable interior will keep your child’s feet happy, meaning they will be more likely to wear them for the entire day.

 

Pros: Looking for a comfortable and durable pair of open-toed hiking sandals for your child? Look no further. Made with energetic kids in mind, these sandals have been tried and tested by many parents and their active children and have held up wonderfully. The open-toed design allows for plenty of ventilation and airflow, keeping your child’s feet cool and comfortable even on hot summer days. The sporty non-skid soles provide excellent traction and stability on all kinds of terrain, making these sandals perfect for outdoor adventures. And the best part? You can get them wet! These sandals are quick-drying and perfect for water-based activities, so you don’t have to worry about your child’s feet getting soggy or uncomfortable. With a great fit and cute design, these sandals are sure to become a favorite in your child’s wardrobe.

Cons: The rubber spikes on the sole of these sandals can wear off over time, which makes them less than ideal for children who are sensitive to textures. Additionally, some users have found these sandals to be a bit on the heavy side, which may not be comfortable for or tire out younger or smaller children. And while the sandals are generally sturdy and durable, they tend to wear down quickly in rocky or abrasive environments.

Bottom Line: These durable hiking sandals are perfect for active kids, featuring an open-toed design for breathability and water-friendly fabric for all kinds of adventures. Keep your child’s feet cool and comfortable while providing excellent traction and stability on any terrain.

 

Pros: These hiking sandals are the perfect combination of durable and stylish. Available in 22 different color options to suit any taste and with a well-built design that’s perfect for the lake, pool, or trail, these sandals are sure to become a summer favorite for your child. The sizing runs a little large, which parents will appreciate for kids with fast-growing feet, and the rubber material promises long-lasting wear. Throw in the sneaker-like sole and enclosed rubber toe, and you’ve got a pair of hiking sandals that offer excellent protection and security on any terrain. Choose from a wide variety of colors to match your child’s style and personality.

Cons: The Velcro closures on these hiking sandals don’t hold up well over time, which can be a disappointment, and they tend to get smelly pretty quickly when used for water-adjacent activities. And while the sizing runs large and may be useful for most growing feet, you’ll want to be sure to size down if your child has narrower feet.

Bottom Line: Let your child’s personality shine with these colorful and durable hiking sandals, perfect for water activities and outdoor adventures. With a well-built design and sneaker-like sole, these sandals offer both comfort and protection for your child’s feet.

 

Pros: Available in a wide range of sizes to fit any child’s needs, these leather hiking sandals are perfect for any outdoor activity, from hiking to water play. Made with high-quality materials and designed for maximum comfort, they’re sure to become a go-to choice for your child’s summer footwear. Not only are these hiking sandals well-built, durable, and versatile, but they come in a variety of sizes to fit any child’s foot; there are 36 sizing options total, with options for younger and older kids alike, including some options for kids with naturally wider feet. They are comfortable, easy to put on and take off, and won’t break down if they get wet.

Cons: Even with the size variety, your child may still find these sandals to be too narrow if you don’t size up for a wider size or if the straps are too short. And while these sandals are generally durable, there is a chance the Velcro closures may wear out fairly quickly.

Bottom Line: These Merrell hiking sandals are a great choice for parents looking for durable, versatile, and comfortable outdoor footwear for their children. With a wide range of sizes, high-quality materials, and stylish design, these sandals are sure to become a go-to choice for any hiking adventure.

 

Pros: These kids’ hiking sandals are the perfect combination of stylish and comfortable, ideal for any outdoor summer activity. The sandals come in a variety of multi-colored designs and sizes to fit any child’s taste and feet, especially with adjustable straps that allow for a more customized fit. The closed-toe design ensures better protection for your little one’s toes without hindering the sandals’ ventilation properties. The no-slip sole provides excellent grip and support, and they’re easy to put on and take off as many times as needed. These sandals are great for outdoor adventures of all sorts, not just hiking, and even for daily wear. Your child will love the look and feel of the sandals, and you’ll love the quality and affordable price.

Cons: While made for athletic undertakings, these hiking sandals aren’t quite as durable as some other models. The cords may break after only a few uses. And though they’re safe to wear for water-based activities, they’ll likely smell after being worn in water; allow them to dry thoroughly after use in water and store them in a well-ventilated area.

Bottom Line: With adjustable straps, a closed-toe design, and a no-slip sole, these sandals will ensure that your child stays both protected and comfortable all day, whether they’re hiking, camping, or playing all day. They’re affordable and available in a variety of colors for nice style.

Final Thoughts

Hiking sandals are a practical and comfortable footwear choice for kids who love to explore the outdoors. They offer protection for your child’s feet while being cute, colorful, and lightweight, so kids are much less likely to complain about their heaviness or having to wear them all day, as is sometimes the case with hiking boots.