With younger kids, the name of the game is finding shoes that they love to wear, so you can get them out and exploring. And with so much to see out there, they’re going to need shoes that can stand up to the task. We design our younger kids’ shoes with the same care and quality we put into our adult shoes, so when you choose KEEN Kids for your little one, you know they’re getting shoes that play as hard as they do.
YOUNGER KIDS’ SANDALS
Our most popular sandal for younger kids is the Seacamp CNX Kid's Summer Sandal. With a design based on our popular Newport Hiking Sandals, the Seacamp will keep their feet cool and comfortable in a closed-toe design. The uppers dry quickly, and they’re machine washable to keep them looking fresh no matter what your little kid gets into.
The Seacamp CNX Sandal for Kids also comes with our lightest and most flexible sole. Some children’s shoes get clunky in the smaller sizes—but the Seacamp gives them plenty of freedom to develop the balance and skills they’ll need for a lifetime of exploring.
A simple bungee closure (just like mum and dad’s!) makes for easy on and off, and the extra hook-and-loop strap adds security. The non-marking rubber sole is nice and grippy to help avoid unexpected spills, and a wide variety of colours, including glow in the dark, keeps things fun—because that’s what it’s all about when it comes to younger kids!
STRAP-CLOSURE SHOES FOR YOUNGER KIDS
For younger kids who like to do everything themselves (or parents who just appreciate simplicity wherever they can find it) strap-closure shoes are a great option. With no laces to fiddle with, they’re quick, simple, and easy enough for your little one to put on all by themselves.
Our pick for strap-closure shoes is the Speed Hound for Younger Kids. With a grippy, non-marking sole, two hook-and-loop straps, and a padded ankle, the Speed Hound is a versatile shoe for younger kids on the go. It also comes with our breathable membrane, to help keep their toes dry when puddles beckon. Ready to bike, skate, and scoot.
BUNGEE CLOSURE SHOES FOR YOUNGER KIDS
The KEEN signature bungee-closure shoes are great for younger kids for the same reason they’re great for adults. Not only are they easy to put on and take off, but they give your little kid a flexible, custom fit for all-day comfort. Plus, they also can work like slip-ons when you’re in a rush.
Our top-rated bungee-closure shoe for younger kids is the Chandler CNX, which features the same lightweight and flexible sole material to give maximum freedom and dexterity. With a variety of fun colours (and both waterproof and non-waterproof options) the Chandler CNX Trainer for Kids is a great everyday adventure trainer.
For the same lightweight performance and traction with an added flair for style, the Newport Hiking Shoe for Kids is another great option. Designed after our popular hiking sandal, and for a kid's growing feet, the Younger Kids’ Newport Shoe is as comfortable as it is adorable.
Most of our bungee-closure shoes for younger kids also feature a hook-and-loop strap across the instep for a little added security—because there’s nothing worse than losing a shoe halfway across the playground.
SLIP-ON SHOES FOR YOUNGER KIDS
Of course, nothing is easier to get on their feet and get out the door than a slip-on shoe. Here at KEEN we designed a handful of slip-ons specifically for little kids to make life a little easier (and cuter).
Our iconic Howser slip-on shoe for kids has a burrito wrap design with a hook and loop closure for extra comfort and security when they're outside exploring the world. The durable, grippy rubber outsole makes Howser the perfect indoor-outdoor slip-on shoe for younger kids.
