Best Sneakers for Summer Camp – Supportive, Durable, and Versatile
Finding the best sneakers for summer camp is essential, since kids spend long days running, hiking, playing sports, and exploring the outdoors. Parents want shoes that are durable, breathable, and supportive enough to handle every camp activity while keeping their child’s feet comfortable and protected. The right summer camp sneakers can help prevent blisters, reduce fatigue, and give kids the confidence to enjoy all the fun without foot pain slowing them down. I’ll also share a list of affordable backup pairs—because many parents like to pack two pairs to keep their kids covered all week long.
When it comes to summer camp sneakers, parents aren’t just looking for comfort—they need shoes that can withstand mud, water, sports, and endless outdoor adventures without falling apart. Breathability, durability, and easy-to-clean materials are top priorities, along with price, since camp shoes tend to take a beating.
My Experience as a Passionate Shoe Fitter
As a professional shoe fitter with years of experience testing countless brands, I’ve learned which models consistently deliver on versatility, durability, and value. I’ll point you toward the sneakers that hold up best at camp, giving you peace of mind that your child’s feet are supported every step of the way.
Durability: A Key Factor
Durability is one of the most important features to look for. A well-built pair of sneakers won’t fall apart after a few days of heavy use and will keep your child’s feet supported throughout camp. At the same time, durability should go hand in hand with breathability. Shoes made with lightweight, breathable materials help keep feet cool and dry, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort during long days of activity.
Breathable sneakers are essential for keeping your child’s feet cool and dry during the hot summer days at camp.
Supportive Summer Camp Sneakers Might Help Prevent Injuries
Support is just as important as durability when it comes to choosing the right sneakers for summer camp. With kids spending hours running, jumping, and climbing, proper ankle and heel support can make a big difference in keeping their feet aligned and reducing the risk of injuries like sprains, blisters, or sore arches. Look for sneakers with cushioned midsoles, firm heel counters, and flexible yet supportive outsoles.
Versatility on Different Terrains
The traction pattern on the outsole should be versatile enough to handle different terrains.
Practical Color Choices
I usually suggest to look for neutral or darker colors that can hide dirt and stains, prolonging the shoe’s appearance and usability. These colors are less likely to show wear and tear, meaning the sneakers maintain their look and functionality throughout the camp duration.
Summer Camp Sneakers: What Really Matters to Parents
Parents are looking for sneakers that strike the right balance between quality and price. They want shoes sturdy enough to survive camp adventures without breaking the bank—and if affordable backup pairs are available, that’s an even bigger win. Many parents are also willing to pay a little more for durability, knowing a tough pair of sneakers will last the entire season (and maybe even beyond).
Top Sneakers for Summer Camp in 2025
My sneaker recommendations are designed to fit a variety of foot shapes—including wide feet—while still keeping kids comfortable and supported. Some of my top picks are even waterproof, saving you the hassle (and expense) of buying a separate pair of boots.
Uovo Sneakers. These durable kids’ sneakers for summer camp are waterproof and will help keep your child’s feet dry, supported, and protected, even in rainy or wet conditions.
- Order the sneaker 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
Chandler 2 CNX by Keen. These are the best sneakers for summer camp as they provide rugged outsoles and feature waterproof membranes to keep feet dry and comfortable, even in wet conditions. The sturdy rubber outsole provides excellent traction, making them perfect for outdoor adventures, while the lightweight construction ensures all-day comfort.
- Order the sneaker 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
990v6 by New Balance. The robust outsole and the reinforced mesh helps with the shoe durability. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.
Key Features
- Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
- Order the shoe 990v6 with laces on the New Balance website, Amazon, or Zappos
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Also available in pink, black, and navy blue
- There is also a Velcro version of these shoes available in navy blue and pink
- Water-friendly
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
Moab Speed 2 by Merrell. These summer camp sneakers are lightweight and provide excellent traction to help reduce slips and falls.
- Order the sneaker 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
Agility Peak by Merrell. These water-friendly sneakers for summer camp have a lightweight design that allows for easy movement, while the durable sole provides excellent traction and support on various terrains.
- Order the sneaker 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
Targhee by Keen. These waterproof and durable sneakers for summer camp are durable, lightweight, and feature a rugged, slip-resistant sole for excellent traction on wet surfaces.
- Order the sneaker 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
Trail Chaser by Merrell. These durable sneakers for summer camp are known for their durability. These shoes stand up to wear and tear, ensuring your child’s feet stay protected and comfortable during all their active explorations.
- Order the sneaker Trail Chaser by Merrell on Amazon or Zappos
- Fits children with medium or wide feet
- Velcro closure
- Rubber toe-cap for maximum durability
- Super-resilient cushioning adds to their comfort
- Water-friendly
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
With reinforced toe boxes, durable outsoles, and strong stitching, these sneakers are built to handle the wear and tear of active play. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Awesome Features: Padded Collars for Comfort
Padded collars offer additional cushioning around the ankle, enhancing comfort and preventing chafing. This feature is especially beneficial during prolonged periods of wear, ensuring that your child remains comfortable even after hours of activity.
Reach Out For Specific Shoe Recommendations
Every child’s foot is unique, and finding the right shoe is essential for their comfort and foot health. As a passionate shoe fitter, I encourage parents to reach out for specific shoe recommendations based on their child’s unique foot shape and needs. Whether your child has wide feet, high arches, or requires extra support, there’s a perfect shoe out there for them.
Cost-Effective Choices – Get Your Backup Pair
Choosing cost-effective sneakers doesn’t have to mean settling for poor quality. Many trusted brands offer durable, supportive shoes at reasonable prices, so families can keep their kids’ feet comfortable and protected without stretching the budget.
One smart tip is to look for previous versions of popular models. Older styles are often discounted once new releases hit the market, but they deliver the same reliable fit and quality—just at a much friendlier price. While the sneakers I recommend in that resource aren’t quite as durable as the top picks in this guide, they make excellent, budget-friendly backup pairs.
Bonus Resource: Summer Camp Sandals
Sneakers may be the camp essential, but a good pair of sandals can be a real lifesaver. Perfect for water activities, hot-weather comfort, or those moments when kids need to slip shoes on and off in a hurry, sandals add convenience without sacrificing protection. I’ve put together a separate guide with my top picks for durable, camp-ready sandals—so your camper stays comfortable no matter the activity.
