The Best Running Shoes for Kids – Allow Your Kids’ to ZOOM in Their Shoes
Is your child into running and you are trying to find a pair of supportive, lightweight, flexible, and durable running shoes? The running shoes should fit your child’s foot shape correctly (narrow, medium, wide, extra wide), that way your child can get the full support and stability that shoes have to offer. I am going to show you a list of the best running shoes for kids so you can keep your child’s feet supported and prevent injuries.
As children get older and become serious about running, they will need a pair of running shoes. Even if your children are not going to be actually doing competitive running in their shoes, a high-quality and supportive running shoe offers significantly more support and comfort than the everyday sneaker.
Running Shoes for Kids – Stay Away From These Shoe Brands
You will be surprised to know that the best running shoes are not made by some of the most well-known shoe companies such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, or Under Armour. Those shoe companies actually make some of the worst running shoes for kids, and several children that I have helped actually were dealing with foot and leg pain from wearing running shoes made by those shoe companies.
Some of the best shoe brands that manufacture kids running shoes are Asics, Saucony, and New Balance. You will find supportive running shoes that are lightweight and flexible and capable of fitting different foot shapes.
What Makes the Running Shoes I Recommend Ideal for Running?
1️⃣ Certain running shoes provide targeted cushion to key areas of the foot such as below your kids’ arch and heels, to minimize the impact that your kids’ feet take every time they come in contact with the ground. For example, let me show you the amount of cushion of one of the shoes I recommend versus a different shoe:
As children grow, they run faster and jump higher, and their feet and legs receive more impact and abuse than ever before.
2️⃣ Sturdy, supportive shoes with a firm heel counter and supportive outsole that are also lightweight and flexible will prevent foot injuries such as twisted ankles. I believe there is a misconception about minimalist shoes for kids. Children should wear substantial shoes when running. Let me show you the difference in support between one of the running shoes I recommend a different style:
How to Retrieve Your Child’s Exact Foot Length and Shape
Not all parents have a good-fitting children’s shoe store in their area. That is the reason why I decided to create a resource where I describe the best-fitting children’s shoe stores by state. If after looking at the resource you still can’t seem to find a kids’ shoe store in your area, then you can use a virtual shoe fitting service that will help you retrieve your child’s shoe size from home.
Below you will find a list of the best running shoes for kids that are supportive but lightweight and flexible at the same time. This is going to help prevent your child’s feet and legs from easily getting tired. 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.
Best Running Shoes for Kids – Supportive and Lightweight
Little Kid Shoe Sizes (10.5 to 3)
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam X 860v13 by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Ultra Heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style RaveRun by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Ultra Heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Axon by Saucony on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths
- EVA midsole provides increased shock attenuation, responsive cushioning and lasting durability
- Cushioned footbed
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Axon by Saucony on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths
- EVA midsole provides increased shock attenuation, responsive cushioning and lasting durability
- Padded tongue and collar
- Cushioned footbed
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam X 860 V13 by New Balance on Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Dual-layer midsole construction featuring top-bed foam cushioning and underfoot Fresh Foam X
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam X 860 V13 by New Balance on Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style RaveRun by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- Dual-layer midsole construction featuring top-bed foam cushioning and underfoot Fresh Foam X
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam X 860v13 by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Strong rubber outsole and cushioned midsoles
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style TR14 LTT by Saucony on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Foam padding placed around your ankle collar and under the tongue for an incredibly comfortable fit and feel
- Comfort sockliner molds to your foot with padding in the heel for ultimate cushioning at heel-strike
- Engineered mesh for structure, stretch and enhanced breathability
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Cohesion TR14 LTT by Saucony on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Foam padding placed around your ankle collar and under the tongue for an incredibly comfortable fit and feel
- Comfort sockliner molds to your foot with padding in the heel for ultimate cushioning at heel-strike
- Engineered mesh for structure, stretch and enhanced breathability
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
Big Kid Shoe Sizes (3.5 to 7)
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam Arishi by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Ultra Heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Ultra Heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Kinvara by Saucony on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths
- EVA midsole provides increased shock attenuation, responsive cushioning and lasting durability
- Padded tongue and collar
- Cushioned footbed
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Kinvara by Saucony on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Foam padding placed around your ankle collar and under the tongue for an incredibly comfortable fit and feel
- Comfort sockliner molds to your foot with padding in the heel for ultimate cushioning at heel-strike
- Engineered mesh for structure, stretch and enhanced breathability
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style RaveRun by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- Dual-layer midsole construction featuring top-bed foam cushioning and underfoot Fresh Foam X
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style RaveRun by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Ultra Heel design hugs the back of the foot for a snug, supportive fit
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Fresh Foam X 880v12 by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium and wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Lightweight EVA foam cushioning in the midsole and padded heel increases comfort
- Firm heel counter
- Supportive heel for active kids
- Breathable mesh upper
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style FuelCell Propel v5 by New Balance on the New Balance website
- Available in medium and wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Lace-up closure
- Dual-layer midsole construction featuring top-bed foam cushioning and underfoot Fresh Foam X
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Kinvara 14 by Saucony on Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths
- Lace-up closure
- Lightweight mesh upper
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Arishi Fresh Foam by New Balance on Amazon
- Available in medium, wide, and extra wide widths (fits high insteps)
- Fresh Foam midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
- Lightweight mesh upper
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
- Order the shoe style Axon by Saucony on Zappos
- Available in medium and wide widths
- EVA midsole provides increased shock attenuation, responsive cushioning and lasting durability
- Cushioned footbed
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
Unsure About What Shoe Size You Should Order?
In each of the descriptions of the running shoes, I indicate whether you need to order a half size or a whole size bigger than your child’s current foot size to allow for the correct amount of growing room.
*A half a size bigger translates to 3/16 of an inch or 0.4 centimeters of space between your child’s longest toe and the end of the shoes.
*A whole size bigger translates to 3/8 of an inch or 0.8 centimeters of space between your child’s longest toe and the end of the shoes.
Always make sure that your kids’ running shoes are tied properly, The shoes should be comfortably tight, but the tighter they are the more stable your child is going to feel.
Are Any Other Running Shoe Choices Available?
Do not hesitate to contact me directly at my email if you have any further questions or if you need a different pair of shoes for your child. In the meantime, you should refer to a couple of different resources I created that describe the best running shoes for children with “complicated” foot shapes. You will learn about the best extra wide running shoes for kids and also the best narrow running shoes for kids.
Running Shoes for Kids – How Much Should You Spend?
I have spoken with several parents who hesitate to buy running-specific kids’ shoes because the price is higher for a shoe that their children may quickly outgrow. While it depends on the style of shoe that you are looking for, you can end up paying anywhere from $40 to $100 for a good, supportive running shoe. I have seen certain running shoes in the $40 range that provide the same support and durability as shoes in the $70 range, so don’t assume that expensive shoes automatically translate into better shoes for your child.
Minimalist or Supportive Running Shoes for Kids? – Let’s Find Out!
Some parents believe that children should wear shoes with minimal support and there is a lot of hype going around about minimalist shoes but their popularity is actually going down since fewer shoe companies and manufacturing minimalist kids’ shoes. Children live a much more active lifestyle than adults, so if your adult shoes need good support, shock absorbency soles and heel cushioning, why wouldn’t your child’s shoes provide the same features?
Some parents would point out that their child’s feet are still developing. I would agree, but point out that because children’s feet continue to develop past their teenage years, that is all the more reason that we need to take care of their feet by providing them with good, supportive shoes. I describe why your child shouldn’t wear minimalist shoes for running in another article. Note, children need a stable base of support, heel cushioning and shock absorbency in their running shoes.
Have you found a particular running shoe that has worked well for your child’s feet? Please share your findings below so other parents can benefit from your experiences.
Hello,
I was wondering if the Saucony Zealot 2 lace Sneaker is the right choice for my 4 yr old daughter who wears medical inserts.
Thanks!
Hello Sarah,
That particular shoe style offers good support and structure, so it will work great for your child who needs orthotics/medical inserts. It is also available in wide widths (keep in mind that orthotics take a lot of room inside the shoe). The lace version of this sneakers will provide more support and more stability for your child!
You know, I never considered getting my kids a good pair of running shoes. I knew I needed a pair for myself, I guess I never considered the impact on their legs and feet. I agree that shoes that come with shoe laces are best when running. Do you know where I can get women’s shoes for myself? Do you recommend any particular style and which online store offers the best price?
Hello Anita,
What is the shoe size that you wear? If you wear a women shoe size 8 ½ or smaller you can get the kids’ version of the shoe and pay half of the price. I am talking about the same support and structure, but at a much more affordable price. Most parents don’t even know about the shoe size conversion, but I have fitted hundreds of mother’s who come to the store and learn how they can be fitted for kids’ shoes.
Read my post: Women And Kids Shoe Size Conversion Chart – Save Big Buying Kids Shoes
I explain there in more detail how this shoe size conversion works!
Hello Juan,
I got a real education on your website today, until today I had no idea there was such a thing as kids running shoes.
What is the purpose of the kids running shoes, are they just for active kids into sports or are they a good choice of shoe for any kid who loves to play outdoors? My kids are always running around and I want to provide them with the best shoe support. What are the most supportive shoes for a child with wide feet?
Kids’ running shoes are for children who engage in more intense activities but also good as their everyday shoes. I always recommend parents to get a running shoe for their kid so they can wear for their everyday activities! Please read the post carefully, I explain there and show you a selection of the most supportive running shoes that come in wide and extra wide widths.
Wow! I have been trying to find good information about kids shoes for a while! My kids’are starting to engage in sports with hige levels of competition, and it’s time to provide them with good running shoes. I found some websites where people review and comment about the shoes but I wanted to be sure I was providing my kids’with the best type of running shoes. I am confident after reading your post since you seem to have so much experience and been fitting kids’shoes for a long time. Thank you thank you!!!
I am glad that you found the post informative. Let me know anytime you have a specific question about your kids’ feet and shoes.
One of my big complaints about schools is that they insist on kids wearing plimsols for PE lessons. They need to realise that its 2017 and that plimsols are very poorly designed for any form of physical activity let alone sports! I just bought my 7-year old son a pair of New Balance (373s) and he just loves them. They are very comfortable and look great. Are they one of your recommended trainers for kids?
Hello Kristian,
That is crazy! Is that the school policy or the physical education teacher is recommending those shoes? Plimsolls are meant to wear as casual shoes, when kids’ go to the shopping mall or for short periods of walking, but they don’t provide any support or stability.
The pair of sneakers you got your child is much better than plimsolls since it has better structure, a much firmer heel counter, and will provide your child with more stability. It is not one of the shoes I recommend for running simply because the sole of the shoe is not as substantial as I would like.
Hi Juan,
Awesome information! I have been looking for running shoes for my kids’ (they are older now and they run like crazy). My older is complaining about foot pain and when I took him to the doctor he said that the shoes were too flimsy and non-supportive. He was wearing a pair of converse shoes which he loves, but I told him we need to find a better pair. I ordered a pair of Asics from the shoes you recommend, and boom! It worked! No more pain! Thank you!!!
I am glad you got it all figured it out! Keep an eye on his feet and make sure the pain doesn’t come back!
Converse shoes are great and stylish, but they are more fashion oriented than anything else. Asics are top of the line when it comes to support and structure. Let me know anytime you have questions about your kids’ feet.