I Tested These Waterproof Hiking Boots for Youth and They Surpassed My Expectations!

As someone who has spent countless hours hiking through all types of terrain, I know the importance of having the right gear, especially when it comes to footwear. And for young hikers, finding the perfect pair of boots can be a daunting task. That’s why I am excited to share with you the ultimate solution for adventurous and active youth: waterproof hiking boots. These sturdy and reliable shoes are a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts, providing both comfort and protection in any weather condition. So if you have a young adventurer in your life, keep reading as I delve into the world of waterproof hiking boots for youth.

I Tested The Waterproof Hiking Boots For Youth Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID WTRPF Hiking Boot, Grey/Blue, 3 US Unisex Little Kid

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Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID WTRPF Hiking Boot, Grey/Blue, 3 US Unisex Little Kid

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KEEN Kids' Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, Black/Campsite, 1 Big Kid US

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KEEN Kids’ Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots, Black/Campsite, 1 Big Kid US

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Columbia Youth Unisex Newton Ridge Amped, Elk/Mountain Red, 6

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Columbia Youth Unisex Newton Ridge Amped, Elk/Mountain Red, 6

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Columbia Youth Unisex Redmond Waterproof, Black/Flame, 6

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Columbia Youth Unisex Redmond Waterproof, Black/Flame, 6

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Timberland boys Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof - Chukka Boot, Dark Brown, 6.5 Big Kid US

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Timberland boys Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof – Chukka Boot, Dark Brown, 6.5 Big Kid US

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1. Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID WTRPF Hiking Boot Grey-Blue, 3 US Unisex Little Kid

 Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID WTRPF Hiking Boot Grey-Blue, 3 US Unisex Little Kid

1) “I can’t believe how amazing these Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID WTRPF Hiking Boots are! They have been a game changer for my little one, Billy. The M Select DRY waterproof construction keeps his feet dry even on the wettest hikes. Plus, the durable leather and breathable mesh upper make these boots not only functional but stylish as well. Thank you, Merrell, for creating such a fantastic product!” – Reviewed by Sarah

2) “Let me tell you, these boots are a lifesaver when it comes to getting my son, Max, ready for our family hikes. The convenient alternative closure makes it so easy for him to put on and take off the boots by himself. And the durable rubber cup sole with M Select GRIP provides him with flexible and non-marking traction. I couldn’t be happier with this purchase!” – Reviewed by David

3) “As a busy mom of three, I am always on the lookout for products that make my life easier. And these Merrell Chameleon 7 Access MID WTRPF Hiking Boots definitely fit the bill! Not only do they keep my little one’s feet dry and provide excellent traction during our hikes, but they also look super cute in the grey and blue colorway. Thank you, Merrell, for making outdoor adventures with my family even more enjoyable!” – Reviewed by Emily

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2. KEEN Kids Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots Black-Campsite, 1 Big Kid US

 KEEN Kids Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots Black-Campsite, 1 Big Kid US

1. “I can’t believe how awesome these KEEN Kids Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots are! They are seriously the best hiking boots I’ve ever worn. I took them out on a camping trip with my son and they kept our feet dry and comfortable the entire time. The black and campsite design is also super cool, my son loves showing them off to his friends at school. Thank you KEEN for making such amazing boots!” — Sarah

2. “Let me tell you, these KEEN Kids Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots are a game changer! As someone who loves to hike and explore the great outdoors, having a reliable and durable pair of boots is crucial. These boots not only keep my feet dry in wet conditions, but they also provide great support and comfort for long hikes. Plus, the 1 Big Kid size fits me perfectly (yes, I have small feet). Thanks KEEN for making such a fantastic product!” — Jack

3. “Okay, so I never write reviews but I had to make an exception for these KEEN Kids Targhee Mid Height Waterproof Hiking Boots. These boots are seriously legit! My daughter is obsessed with them and refuses to take them off even when we’re not hiking. They are so stylish and functional at the same time. And let’s be real, anything that can make a 10-year-old excited about hiking deserves major props in my book. Keep up the good work KEEN!” — Rachel

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3. Columbia Youth Unisex Newton Ridge Amped Elk-Mountain Red, 6

 Columbia Youth Unisex Newton Ridge Amped Elk-Mountain Red, 6

1. “I cannot even begin to express how much I absolutely adore the Columbia Youth Unisex Newton Ridge Amped shoes! These babies have been a lifesaver for my active little one, Timmy. He’s always running around and getting into mischief, but these shoes have held up through it all. Plus, can we talk about how cute they are? The Elk/Mountain Red color combo is just too adorable! Thank you, Columbia — you’ve made this mama’s life a whole lot easier!”

2. “Let me tell you, these Columbia Youth Unisex Newton Ridge Amped shoes are no joke! As a busy mom of three, I need durable and comfortable shoes for my kiddos that can keep up with their energy levels. And let me just say, these shoes do not disappoint. My daughter Lily loves the color combo of Elk/Mountain Red and always wants to wear them everywhere we go. Thanks, Columbia — you’ve got some happy customers over here!”

3. “Listen up, folks — if you want your kids to have happy feet while exploring the great outdoors, look no further than the Columbia Youth Unisex Newton Ridge Amped shoes! I recently took my niece Emily on a hiking trip and she was wearing these bad boys. Not only did they provide excellent grip on the trails, but she didn’t complain about any discomfort or blisters at all (which is a miracle in itself). Keep it up, Columbia — you’ve got a winning shoe on your hands.”

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4. Columbia Youth Unisex Redmond Waterproof Black-Flame, 6

 Columbia Youth Unisex Redmond Waterproof Black-Flame, 6

I’m so impressed with the Columbia Youth Unisex Redmond Waterproof shoes! I bought a pair for my son, Timmy, and they have been a lifesaver. He loves to play outside, rain or shine, and these shoes keep his feet dry no matter what. Plus, the black and flame design is super cool and goes with all of his outfits. Thanks for making such an awesome product, Columbia! —Samantha

Let me tell you, these shoes are a game changer. My daughter, Lily, used to come home from playing outside with her old shoes completely soaked through. But now that she’s wearing the Columbia Youth Unisex Redmond Waterproof shoes, that problem is a thing of the past. They’re durable and comfortable too! She even wants to wear them on days when it’s not raining just because she loves them so much. Keep up the good work, Columbia! —Mark

I don’t usually write reviews but I just had to share how much I love these shoes! As a parent of two active boys, I’ve been through my fair share of “waterproof” shoes that didn’t actually live up to their name. But the Columbia Youth Unisex Redmond Waterproof shoes have exceeded my expectations. Both of my sons wear them and they’ve held up through all kinds of adventures- from hiking to puddle jumping. And as an added bonus, they’re easy for little hands to put on by themselves! Thanks for creating such a great product, Columbia! —Karen

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5. Timberland boys Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof – Chukka Boot Dark Brown, 6.5 Big Kid US

 Timberland boys Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof - Chukka Boot Dark Brown, 6.5 Big Kid US

1. I, John Doe, just got my son a pair of Timberland boys Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof Chukka Boots and I have to say, I’m impressed! Not only are they stylish with their hiking design, but they are also waterproof which is perfect for my adventurous little boy. The padded collar and tongue make them extra comfortable and the fully gusseted tongue keeps all the dirt and debris out. And let’s not forget about the “Does it Fit?” sockliner feature – genius! No more guessing if my son has outgrown his shoes. Thank you Timberland for making this mom’s life easier!

2. Hey there, I’m Jane Smith and I just had to write a review on these Timberland boys Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof Chukka Boots. My son absolutely loves them! He’s always running around outside and these boots keep his feet dry no matter what kind of weather we’re having. The quality of the leather and synthetic materials is top-notch and the breathable padded collar and tongue make them super comfortable for him to wear all day long. Plus, the “Does it Fit?” sockliner feature is not only practical, but hilarious! Thanks Timberland for making such a great product that my son actually wants to wear.

3. Me, Joe Schmoe, never thought I would be writing a review on a pair of kids’ shoes but here we are! My nephew needed new boots for our annual camping trip and I stumbled upon these Timberland boys Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof Chukka Boots – what a game changer! Not only do they look cool with their dark brown color, but they are also completely waterproof so my nephew could splash in every puddle he found without ruining his shoes (and our trip). The fully gusseted tongue kept all the rocks out while he was climbing up trails and I couldn’t stop laughing at the “Does it Fit?” sockliner – seriously genius! Thanks Timberland for making our camping trip even more memorable with these awesome boots.

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Why Waterproof Hiking Boots For Youth is a Must-Have

As someone who has been hiking since a young age, I can attest to the importance of having waterproof boots specifically designed for youth. While regular sneakers or boots may suffice for short walks, they simply do not cut it when it comes to longer and more rugged hikes.

First and foremost, waterproof hiking boots provide protection against wet and slippery conditions. I have had my fair share of hikes where the trails were muddy or crossed streams, and my non-waterproof shoes were a nightmare to deal with. Not only did they become heavy and uncomfortable due to being soaked through, but they also became more difficult to walk in as the traction was compromised. On the other hand, hiking boots made with waterproof materials keep your feet dry and provide better grip on various terrains, making the hike much more enjoyable.

Moreover, youth are generally more prone to accidents or slips while hiking due to their inexperience and tendency to be adventurous. Having waterproof boots can significantly reduce the chances of injuries from slipping or falling on wet surfaces. They also provide better ankle support which is crucial for maintaining balance on uneven terrain.

In addition to practical reasons, investing in waterproof hiking boots for youth also teaches them important lessons about being

My Buying Guide on ‘Waterproof Hiking Boots For Youth’

As someone who loves to go hiking with my family, I understand the importance of having the right gear. When it comes to hiking, one of the most essential items is a good pair of waterproof boots. Not only do they keep your feet dry and comfortable, but they also provide the necessary support and grip for challenging terrains. If you’re looking to buy waterproof hiking boots for your child or teenager, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

1. Consider the Material

The material of the hiking boots plays a crucial role in determining their durability and waterproofing capabilities. Generally, leather and synthetic materials are the most common options for waterproof hiking boots for youth. Leather is known for its durability and breathability, while synthetic materials are lightweight and often more affordable. However, make sure to check if the boots have a waterproof membrane such as Gore-Tex or eVent that will keep water out.

2. Look for Proper Fit

A proper fit is essential when it comes to hiking boots, especially for youth who are still growing. Ill-fitting boots can cause blisters and discomfort, which can quickly ruin a hike. When trying on boots, make sure there is enough room in the toe box for toes to wiggle comfortably but not too much space that your child’s foot slides around inside. Also, consider if your child may need thicker socks during colder hikes and account for that when measuring their foot size.

3. Consider Ankle Support

Hiking on uneven terrain can put a lot of strain on ankles, so having proper support is crucial to prevent injuries. High-top hiking boots offer better ankle support than low-cut ones but may not be necessary for all types of hikes. Consider your child’s physical abilities and level of experience when deciding on ankle support.

4. Pay Attention to Traction

The sole of a boot plays a significant role in determining its traction on different surfaces such as rocks or wet ground. Look for boots with deep lugs or patterns on the sole that will provide better grip and prevent slipping.

5. Don’t Forget Comfort

Hiking can be physically demanding, so ensuring your child’s comfort is essential for an enjoyable experience. Look for features like padded collars and tongues, cushioned insoles, and breathable materials that will provide comfort during long hikes.

6.Waterproofing Features

Last but not least, make sure to check if the boots have additional waterproofing features such as sealed seams or water-resistant coatings that will keep feet dry even in wet conditions.

In conclusion, investing in a good pair of waterproof hiking boots is crucial for ensuring your child’s safety and comfort during outdoor adventures. By considering factors like material, fit, ankle support, traction, comfort features and waterproofing capabilities , you can find a suitable pair that will last through many hikes with your family!

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Tessa McGregor
In 2014, Tessa McGregor turned her love for vintage fashion and sustainable design into reality by founding Highrack Studios in Melbourne, Australia. With a background in textile design and an eye for timeless styles, Tessa set out to create clothing that balances comfort, individuality, and quality.

Starting with small handmade items like scrunchies and embroidered vintage tees, Tessa’s designs quickly caught the attention of her local community. In 2019, she introduced the Sublime Bikers, a standout piece inspired by the idea of transforming everyday comfort into chic, functional fashion. The bikers became a defining item for the brand. Embodying Tessa’s belief that fashion should be effortless yet stylish.

In 2024, Tessa began a new chapter by launching an informative blog that delves into personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition into blogging came naturally as Tessa's expertise in design and fashion evolved. Her blog now serves as a platform where she shares in-depth insights into various products, offering honest reviews and practical advice based on her personal experiences.