Boots! This is a list of the best waterproof boots for kids that are on the market right now. My kids feet grow quickly and we are always outside, so I’ve gotten to try all sorts of boot options as they grow up. Even if you don’t hike, I think waterproof boots are a great option since it can be slushy and damp just walking from the car to the library. A few things I avoid are furry linings (they attract burrs and generally look gross after being washed), leather boots (even if they are waterproof, they stay wet, which leads to wet pants and generally sogginess, you can’t dry them very easily), and non-flexible soles (I don’t think they’re good for little feet, and I assume they make it harder to be nimble and climb). Be sure to check out what other gear we wear in cooler temperatures, over in this post about fall hiking clothes!
They’re not in particular order; these are all brands we have worn or have been recommended to me by multiple people that I trust. I did not list prices because they can vary even day to day, and depending on size and color. These are almost all affiliate links, which means that I’ll get a small cut of the price if you purchase through my link, at no added cost to you. In addition to Amazon, I highly recommend checking 6pm.com and Sierra Trading Post for discounted versions. Shopping locally can get tricky, I haven’t seen a fantastic selection of kids boots with all the brands I love, but you can check out Fit To Be Tied, Active Endeavors, REI, and Nordstrom Rack. You can also shop used on Ebay, the Kidizen App, ThredUp, and local Facebook b/s/t groups. I know it hurts to pay a bunch of money for good boots when kids feet grow quickly, but the good news is that in my experience these brands hold up so well, both my kids wear them and then I can resell them for a few bucks still.
In addition to waterproof boots, our rain suit is our best gear for wet weather, we really like Oakiwear – buy at least 1 if not 2 sizes up because they cinch really well at the wrists and ankles and waist:
In no particular order, the best waterproof kids boots:
Sizes 8-13
We’ve been wearing these for a while now and they are great. The bottom feels more like a sneaker, my kids say they’re very comfy, and Keen designs excellent rubber toe beds to last a long time. The top can cinch up, keeping water from leaking down in if you’re truly puddle jumping.
Bogs Toddler Classic Flower Stripes Winter Snow Boot
Sizes 4-10
I am a Bogs fangirl. They say these are snow boots, but we have had no trouble using them 3/4 of the year. They are the most flexible boots by far and make a perfect snow/rain boot for early walkers. They hold up nicely, machine wash, and are pretty easy to find used. Once you get over a size 10, they seem to only make taller, less flexible versions, but these are great.
Keen Kids’ Versatrail Mid Wp-c Pull-on Boot
Size 8-13
Another Keen option, these wash nicely, give great traction, and hold up well.
See Kai Run Kids’ Atlas WP Pull-On Boot
Sizes 4-13.5
We have had good experiences with SKR in the past but not tried this specific boot, it gets good reviews and recommendations.
See Kai Run Kids’ Montlake Wp Rain Boot
Sizes 4-13, 1-3
We have had good experiences with SKR in the past but not tried this specific boot, it gets good reviews and recommendations. I wish these had a toggle like the Keen boots, but they do go up in bigger sizes.
Size 8-13, 1-6
This comes in adult versions as well; super durable and keeps feet dry.
Sizes: Toddler 3/4-Youth 2
This is the only boot I’m including that I have neither tried the model or brand, but it comes highly recommended. It is a really neat design – there is a wider foot bed version as well.
Thandi Waterproof Boots from Plae
Sizes 8-13.5 and 1-4.5
We have had good experiences with Plae in the past but not tried this specific boot, it gets good reviews and recommendations.
Kaiden Waterproof Boots from Plae
Sizes 8-13.5 and 1-4.5
We have had good experiences with Plae in the past but not tried this specific boot, it gets good reviews and recommendations.
Honorable Mention:
Sizes Small/Medium/Large
These are not waterproof, only water resistant, but I’m including them because they go the absolute smallest!
If you really want to stay clean and dry, pair these boots with a rain suit and some wool socks, you’ll be set to go exploring!
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