The Best Hiking Boots for Kids with Wide Feet – Waterproof, Lightweight, and Supportive!
Is every single pair of hiking boots that you try on your kids’ feet too hard to get on and pinch and squeeze your child’s toes? Hiking is a fantastic way for families to explore the great outdoors together. However, if your child’s hiking boots are uncomfortable, it can quickly turn an enjoyable adventure into a miserable experience. Properly fitting boots are essential for avoiding blisters, discomfort, and even injuries. Children with wide feet may find it particularly challenging to get boots that fit well, so in this resource, I will show you a list of the best hiking boots for kids with wide feet.
Do You Usually Struggle Getting Your Child’s Boots On and Off?
This can happen if, in addition to having wide feet, your child has a high instep as well. Do you know what the instep of the foot is? The instep is the top part of the foot, and when it’s high, it makes it very complicated to find shoes that fit. Below you can see where the instep of the foot is located:
Are Hiking Boots Available in Wide Widths (W)?
Several parents have asked me if hiking boots for children with wide feet exist, and the answer is yes. While the selection is small, there are a couple of hiking boot styles that are available in wide widths (W). However, finding a pair of hiking boots for your child with wide feet takes a lot more than just choosing a hiking boot that is labeled as wide.
Key Features to Look for in Hiking Boots for Kids with Wide Feet
➡️ Round Toe-Boxes: Let me show you the difference between two hiking boots that are the same length and width, but fit very differently. Do you notice how the hiking boot on the right has a rounder/wider toe-box?
➡️ Extra Depth: The hiking boots should also provide extra depth, that way your child’s feet can sit deeply inside the boots and prevent the top part of the foot (instep) from rubbing against the top part of the boots. Below you can find an image to better visualize the difference between a hiking boot that provides extra depth and one that doesn’t:
➡️ Oversized Openings: This feature makes it easier for parents and children to get their boots on and off. Children with chubby feet have a hard time slipping into boots that don’t easily open. You will notice that the hiking boots that I recommend open up widely, which makes it easier for children and parents to get the boots on and off.
The boots that I recommend also provide proper support, which is vital for young hikers. The extra cushion is going to help keep your child’s feet comfortable on uneven terrain. A cushioned insole can make a big difference in comfort levels, especially for longer hikes.
Not all hiking boots are created equal, especially when it comes to accommodating wider feet. Disclosure: Some links in this post may be affiliate links and we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) when you click our links and make purchases.
Top Hiking Boots for Kids with Wide Feet
Many of the boots featured below come in several color options, so if you want the boots to be made of a specific color, please make sure to click through and see if they are available in that specific color.
Toddler Sizes (0 to 10)
- Order the shoe style Tracks by Timberland on Amazon
- Double velcro straps
- Fits children with medium or wide feet
- Padded collar for a comfortable fit around the ankle
- Water-friendly
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Sam II by See Kai Run on Zappos
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof
- Double velcro closure
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Atlas II by See Kai Run on Zappos
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof
- Double velcro closure
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Atlas II by See Kai Run on Zappos
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof
- Double velcro closure
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Rover by Stride Rite on Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths (accommodates high insteps)
- Water-friendly
- Wide toe-box and an outsole with rounded edges
- Flex grooves in outsole for maximum flexibility
- Reinforced protected toe
- Velcro closure
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Rover by Stride Rite on Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths (accommodates high insteps)
- Water-friendly
- Wide toe-box and an outsole with rounded edges
- Flex grooves in outsole for maximum flexibility
- Reinforced protected toe
- Velcro closure
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Tracks by Timberland on Zappos
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Waterproof
- Heel and toe bumpers add durability
- Cushioned EVA midsole for all-day comfort
- Lining and removable insole made out of textile material
- Double velcro straps
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Shoe style Tokyo by Tsukihoshi
- Fits medium, wide, and extra wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof
- Velcro closure
- Machine washable
- Removable insoles
- I suggest that you get this boot the same size as your child’s current foot size as the boots fits long
- Order the shoe style Maddsen by Timberland on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- Full-grain leather
- Lace-up vamp
- Padded puffy collar
- EVA foam footbed
- Waterproof
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Little/Big Kid Sizes (10.5 to 7)
- Order the shoe style Moab Speed by Merrell on Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths (accommodates high insteps)
- Waterproof
- Velcro closure
- FLOATPRO FOAM footbed for enhanced cushioning
- Removable insoles
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Moab Speed by Merrell on Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths (accommodates high insteps)
- M Select DRY bootie waterproof construction to keep feet dry
- Non-marking outsole with M Select GRIP for superior traction
- Reinforced protected toe
- Velcro closure
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Maker by Deer Stags on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Gusseted tongue keeps the water out
- Padded insole
- Reinforced protected toe
- Double velcro straps
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style DynaSoft Trail Magic by New Balance on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths (accommodates high insteps)
- Breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays for added strength
- DynaSoft midsole adds plush cushioning and responsive performance underfoot
- The BOA® Fit System makes it easy to adjust the fit with a simple turn of a dial
- Removable, padded insole
- Bungee lace closure
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style DynaSoft Trail Magic by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium and wide widths (accommodates high insteps)
- Breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays for added strength
- DynaSoft midsole adds plush cushioning and responsive performance underfoot
- The BOA® Fit System makes it easy to adjust the fit with a simple turn of a dial
- Removable, padded insole
- Bungee lace closure
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Moab by Merrell on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths (accommodates high insteps)
- Constructed with M-Select® waterproof construction with faux-leather uppers and breathable mesh panels.
- Non-marking outsole with M Select GRIP for superior traction
- Reinforced protected toe
- Lace-up closure
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Moab 2 by Merrell on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths (accommodates high insteps)
- Constructed with M-Select® waterproof construction with faux-leather uppers and breathable mesh panels.
- Non-marking outsole with M Select GRIP for superior traction
- Reinforced protected toe
- Lace-up closure
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Howser II by Keen on Zappos
- Fits medium and wide feet (accommodates high insteps)
- KEEN.Warm® insulation rating of -4ºF/-20ºC
- Waterproof
- Removable insoles
- Lace-up system with toggle closure offer a secure fit
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Maddsen by Timberland on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- Waterproof to keep your child’s feet dry
- Traditional lace closure
- Padded collar and tongue
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Chameleon7 by Merrell on Amazon
- Fits medium and wide feet
- M Select Dry waterproof construction for keeping toes dry
- Traditional lace closure
- Good traction
- I suggest that you get this boot a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Do You Need Additional Shoe Recommendations?
If you are unsure about which specific boot might work best for your child’s wide feet or if you are unable to find a particular shoe, please do not hesitate to contact me since I will help you find it:
fittingchildrensshoes@gmail.com
Two Additional Awesome Features of the Boots I Recommend
- Waterproof: This is a very important feature as waterproof hiking boots are extremely versatile, as your child will be able to use the hiking boot for those rainy days instead of a rain boot. By the way, the only way to tell if a boot is waterproof is by checking if it has a label that reads “waterproof”. Take a look at the picture below for clarification:
- Traction: The hiking boot must provide good traction in order to prevent your child from slipping and falling, especially when walking on slippery surfaces:
The Advantages of Providing Your Child with a Pair of Waterproof Hiking Boots
I love the versatility that hiking boots provide since they are not just for going on hiking adventures, they are also great for those yucky, rainy days when you want to keep your children’s feet warm and dry. A pair of waterproof hiking boots makes them more functional and allows your kids to be able to wear them in the rain and snow, as long as it is also insulated.
Tips for Getting the Correct Shoe Size Online
I created a virtual shoe fitting service that helps parents determine their child’s exact foot size and whether the child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet. I also will be able to tell you whether your child has a high instep or not.
What Are the Best Hiking Socks for Kids?
Whether you are planning on providing your child with a pair of waterproof hiking boots to go hiking, wear them to school, or wear them occasionally for those rainy days, it’s important that your child wears a good pair of socks with the hiking boots. Socks also help cushion and prevent your kids’ feet from rubbing against certain parts of the shoes, preventing the formation of blisters around the toes or the ankles.
Certain socks provide better warmth and cushioning for those really cold days. Below you can find a list of the best socks for the winter season as they are made of merino wool, an ultra-soft, naturally anti-microbial, breathable material. The socks should be the same length as the hiking boot, that way the boot won’t rub against your kids’ ankles and create blisters.
- Order these Socks made by Meriwool on Amazon
- Merino wool’s natural wicking and odor-resistant properties keep your child’s feet dry
- 75% Merino wool blend ensures comfort all day long
- Order these socks made by Meriwool on Amazon
- Merino wool’s natural wicking and odor-resistant properties keep your child’s feet dry
- 75% Merino wool blend ensures comfort all day long
- Order these socks made by Seeyan on Amazon
- 6 pairs childs thermal socks
- Made from high-quality wool materials, durable and breathable enough for flexible movements with its great elasticity and durability
- Provide enough stretch to easily put them on and don’t squeeze legs
- Order these socks made by Smartwool on Zappos
- Flat knit toe seam for additional comfort
- 65% wool, 31% nylon, 2% recycled nylon, 2% elastane
- Order these socks made by Smartwool on Zappos
- Cushioning on the entire bottom of the foot
- 58% wool, 38% nylon, 2% recycled nylon, 2% elastane
- Order these socks made by Antsang on Amazon
- Made of the 55% wool, 25% cotton, 15% polyester and 5% spandex
- Special fuzzy inner design will keep the feet warm
What is the Main Difference Between a Hiking Boot and a Snow Boot?
The main difference is that hiking boots are a lot more versatile. Your child can wear a hiking boot on a daily basis, on rainy or snowy days, or when you take him for a hike in the mountains. However, snow boots are only meant to be worn for a very short period of time since they tend to be heavier and less flexible than hiking boots.
What Are the Best Sneakers for Kids with Wide Feet?
I created a different resource that showcases the best wide sneakers for kids in case you are unsure whether your child is wearing the correct types of everyday sneakers.
Do You Happen to Need a Pair of Hiking Boots for Yourself?
If you need a pair of hiking boots for yourself I suggest that you take a look at a different website that describes the best waterproof hiking boots for women.
A hiking adventure is a great idea to get your children away from the TV or their electronic devices. It will not only provide good exercise for them but also promote good, quality time with the family! For your children to have a pleasant experience and ask to do it more frequently, you should provide them with the right type of boots.
