Best Shoes for Kids Who Live in Rural Areas – Get Your Kids’ Shoes Online

Do you live in a rural area and struggle to find the right shoes for your child? Many families in remote regions face the challenge of limited local stores and fewer options nearby. Plus, kids growing up in rural areas spend lots of time outdoors—running through rugged terrain, rocky trails, and muddy fields—which means they need shoes that can handle tough conditions while keeping their feet comfortable and supported. As a children’s shoe fitter with years of experience, I’m here to help you navigate these challenges and show you the best shoes for kids who live in rural areas, with great options you can conveniently order online.

First Step: Determining Your Child’s Exact Shoe Size

Please note that it’s important to know your kid’s exact foot size and shape (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide, high instep), especially if you are going to be buying the shoes online.

Step One: Measure Your Child’s Foot Length for Shoe Size.

Ensure your child is standing straight and measure both feet, as one may be larger than the other. Measure up to the tip of your child’s longest toe, which may not be the big toe—it could be the second or even the third toe. Record the measurements or email the image to prevent any confusion.

Measurement Box

You can follow the instructions in this video for better visualizations purposes.

Step Two: Pictures of Your Child’s Foot Width.

Create a brief video to assess if your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra-wide feet, along with high insteps. I will also be able to determine if your child has a foot condition such as flat feet. Below you can find a sample of how the video should look like:

If you’d prefer not to record a video, you can take three photos of your child’s feet as shown below. However, please note that the video will provide a more accurate assessment of your child’s exact foot shape.

Angle Box
Angle Box
Angle Box

Recap – What to Include in Your Email

  • Your child’s foot length measurements (or an image of their foot length measurements)
  • Sample video (or three images of your child’s feet)

Feel free to include in your email any additional information I should know about your child’s feet:

fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com

Main Factors To Consider When Looking For Your Shoes

As it relates to finding the best shoes for kids who live in rural areas, there are a few aspects to consider given that the rural environment may often involve different terrains, outdoor activities, and potential hazards. The following are some of the key characteristics to look for when selecting shoes for kids in rural areas:

  • Durability
  • Water resistant
  • Comfort and support
  • Breathable and easy to clean
  • Traction

Finally, take a look at the shoes I recommend below have been fitted by me at the shoe store that I work for. Each shoe has been carefully selected in terms of fit, support, comfort, and durability. Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links, earning us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Durable Shoes for Kids Who Live in Rural Areas

Based on my experience and expertise, here are some of the best shoes for kids in rural areas that you can consider this year. These options combine durability, comfort, and adaptability, making them perfect for adventurous young ones. Some shoes on the list come in wide (W) or extra wide (XW) widths, while others, though not labeled wide, naturally fit broader feet.

1. Uovo Sneakers

These waterproof, durable shoes are built to withstand the demands of gait trainers, helping keep your child’s footwear in great shape and ready for every adventure.

Waterproof sneakers for boys.
Waterproof sneakers for girls.
Fully waterproof sneakers for kids.
  • Order the shoe Uovo on Amazon
  • Fits children with medium or wide feet
  • Bungee closure
  • Anti-collision and strong toe-cap
  • Slip-resistant outsole
  • Fully waterproof
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

2. Chandler 2 CNX by Keen

These Keen durable sneakers for kids in gait trainers provide a rugged outsole and feature a water-resistant membrane to keep feet dry and comfortable, even in wet conditions.

Waterproof sneakers for kids.
Waterproof sneakers for girls.
  • Order the shoe Chandler 2 CNX by Keen on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • Elasticized lace panel with hook-and-loop closure
  • Protective rubber toe bumper to protect your toes
  • Reverse Strobel construction provides a streamlined interior
  • Water-resistant
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

3. Moab Speed 2 by Merrell

These Merrell durable shoes for kids are lightweight and provide excellent traction to help reduce slips and falls.

Merrell waterproof sneakers for girls.
Merrell waterproof sneakers for boys.
  • Order the shoe Moab Speed 2 by Merrell on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • Lace-up closure
  • Higher traction outsole provides grip in muddy environments and on rocky surfaces
  • Lightweight EVA midsole
  • Waterproof
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

3. Mishansha

The Mishansha toddler durable shoes are lightweight, flexible, and feature a non-slip sole, breathable upper, and secure hook-and-loop closure.

Waterproof shoes for toddlers.
Waterproof shoes for toddler boys.
  • Order the shoe by Mishansha on Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • Water-resistant
  • Non-slip rubber sole with convex texture pattern design provides excellent traction
  • Velcro closure with toggle lace
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size

4. Agility Peak by Merrell

These durable kids’ shoes have a lightweight design that allows for easy movement, while the durable sole provides excellent traction and support on various terrains.

Merrell waterproof sneakers for boys.
Merrell waterproof sneakers for girls.
  • Order the shoe Agility Peak by Merrell on Zappos or Amazon
  • Fits medium and wide feet
  • Toggle elastic lace closure
  • Rubber toe-cap for maximum durability
  • Water-friendly
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

5. Targhee by Keen

These are the most durable shoes for kids in gait trainers as they provide a rubber toe-box and feature a rugged, slip-resistant sole for excellent traction on wet surfaces.

Waterproof Keen sneakers for girls.
Waterproof sneakers for boys.
  • Order the shoe Targhee by Keen on Amazon or Zappos
  • Fits children with medium or wide feet
  • Adjustable bungee laces
  • Rubber toe-cap for maximum durability
  • Super-resilient cushioning adds to their comfort
  • Waterproof
  • I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

Questions or Further Assistance? – Contact Me

If you’re unsure about which shoes are best for your child’s unique foot shape, don’t hesitate to reach out for specific shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s needs. As a dedicated shoe fitter, I’m here to help guide you through the process, ensuring that your child steps into the perfect pair.

Medical professionals concur that shoes that are too small hinder the proper growth of the foot, diminishing blood circulation, causing painful blisters, ingrown toenails, calluses, corns, and many other foot problems. Shoes that are too large might prevent your child from maintaining grip on the ground properly, compromising your child’s stability.