When your kids’ finally graduate to older kid sizing (sizes UK 13, 1-6; sizes EU 32-39) they’re also playing and exploring harder than ever. That’s why KEEN older kids’ shoes are built to last with the same premium materials and construction you’ll find in our grown-up (or really, really big kids’) models. Outfit your whole family with supportive, stylish, and versatile KEEN shoes for every season.
OLDER KIDS’ SHOES FOR SUMMER
When you’re a kid, summer’s what it’s all about. There are countless bugs to be hunted, puddles to be stomped, trees to be climbed, and rocks to be scaled—and at KEEN we want to make sure their shoes never hold them back.
Our top choice for summer is the Older Kids’ Newport H2, which offers a grippy and protective sole with a minimal and easy-draining upper. Designed around our legacy Newport model for adults, the Older Kids’ Newport sandal gets the same features and comfort, with a fit ideal for smaller feet. A bungee closure makes for convenient on/off for older kids on the go—because you never know when they’ll need to feel the mud/grass/sand between their toes.
For a feminine look, see our Moxie collection: Moxie Sandals for girls represent performance plus style in a sandal that’s set for adventure with a soft, comfortable construction, cushioned footbed and covered toe. KEEN has Moxie Sandals for toddlers, younger girls, up to teenagers.
OLDER KIDS’ SHOES FOR AUTUMN
When the leaves start to change, that’s when it’s back to school, which means your older kid will need shoes that can stand up to the playground, gym class, and everything in between. Plus, with the weather getting colder, it’s great to find a shoe that has a little more coverage and weatherproofing.
Our top-rated older kids’ shoe for autumn is the Chandler CNX Shoes for Kids. With sporty but neutral styling and a lightweight, flexible sole, it’s the perfect do-everything shoe for activity-packed days. The easy bungee closure makes the Chandler simple to put on (perfect for hectic mornings).
The Chandler CNX is available in a non-waterproof model, perfect for super-active kids and warmer, drier weather. With surprising durability despite its light weight, this is the shoe your older kid will pick day after day to fuel their adventures.
OLDER KIDS’ SHOES FOR WINTER
Depending where you live, winter can mean some tough calls for parents choosing footwear to get their older kids through the day. When you go for maximum weatherproofing, they’ll stay dry on the way to school—but they might be stuck wearing clunky boots for gym class. Go too lightweight, and they’ll be sitting around in soggy shoes all day. And of course, there’s always sledding. Luckily KEEN offers a range of waterproof winter shoes for older kids to suit every climate.
For light rain and snow, we recommend the waterproof boots for kids, Hikeport Strap, which comes with our breathable waterproof membrane and an extended chukka-style ankle for added weather protection. The non-marking rubber outsole provides good grip, and the simple hook-and-loop strap closure makes them much easier to get on and off than traditional lace-up snow boots.
For advanced snowman construction and sledding adventures, our most popular option for older kids is the Redwood Waterproof Boot or the Greta Winter Waterproof Boot for girls. Both the Redwood Boot and the Greta Winter Boot are for kids, equipped with supportive cushioning plus a waterproof leather upper and insulation rated to -32°C/-25°F.
OLDER KIDS SHOES FOR SPRING
When the weather starts warming up again, you might start planning those family adventures into the mountains. With variable wet rocks, mud, and roots out there, you’ll want a hiking shoe for your older kid that performs as well as your own. Luckily, you’ll find a handful of popular adult designs perfectly scaled down for your growing hiker.
The Targhee hiking shoe & boot comes in both regular and waterproof models, with the same support and traction that has made it a classic among adults. The Targhee waterproof boot for kids is one of our most versatile hikers, and it strikes that elusive balance between protection and agility. The lugged sole provides grip on all sorts of surfaces, and the stiffer shank gives them efficient, consistent footing as the miles add up.
The Jasper Casual Trainers can be great in most seasons. This kids' shoe looks like an old-school climbing design, but the soft, flexible material makes it ideal for everyday play. A padded collar cradles the ankle, and a mesh lining adds breathability.
