Kids will trek through various messes; their boots should be made to stand up to that. Look for boots with sturdy materials that withstand wear and tear, like leather or waterproof fabrics.

When measuring for shoes or boots, add 1/2 inch to allow room for growth. Also, check the fit often to ensure they aren’t pinching or rubbing.

Comfort

Boots for kids must provide comfort to keep them happy and active during play. Look for boots with a cushioned insole and soft lining to prevent blisters. The shoes should also fit comfortably and accommodate warm socks without being too loose or tight.

Children’s feet need proper support, and a contoured insole provides excellent arch support. It’s also crucial that the boots are breathable and moisture-wicking to prevent overheating.

The ideal kid’s boots will have easy fastening options to avoid frustration and allow your child to put on and take off their shoes themselves. Look for features like wide openings, Velcro closures, or slip-on designs. Some models even have a patented barrel lock bungee system that makes them easy to operate and eliminates the need for tying or untying laces.

Kids are bundles of energy, and it’s hard to slow them down for a proper shoe fitting. However, our Bobux Fit Guide and virtual fitting tool help you accurately measure and select the perfect boots for your child.

Durability

Whether your child is splashing through puddles or sinking into snowbanks, boots must be durable enough to keep their feet dry. They must also be flexible so kids’ feet can move freely, providing good traction.

A waterproof coating on the outside is critical, and some brands have gone the extra mile to add extra protection, like a rugged sole or a layer of fleece. A quality boot should also offer a tight closure to keep snow and cold air out and not constrict foot movement or cause chafing.

Boots should fit comfortably and securely on your child’s feet, even with a pair of thick socks and mittens on. If you notice your child struggling with their boots or if they are constantly removing them and trying to put them back on, it’s time to get a better fit.

Sizing

The key to great winter boots is a comfortable fit that is snug enough to keep out snow but not so tight that it’s constricting or restrictive. Boots that are too loose won’t be as warm or durable, while those that are too tight can cause foot discomfort and inhibit foot circulation.

Children’s feet increase, so finding a pair of snow boots that fit well while leaving room for thick socks and mittens is essential. Look for kids’ sizes in popular adult boot brands carefully scaled to suit children’s feet and accommodate their rapid growth.

Pull-on, insulated rubber boots work best with young kids. Those with a simple rubber upper and soft faux-fur lining are cozy and warm, while boots that close with velcro or bungee straps are easy for toddlers to manage. The Bogs B-Mocs feature a pull handle on each side to help young kids put their boots on themselves and boast odor-fighting technology. They are also lightweight and water-resistant, making them an excellent choice for romping in puddles or walking through snow drifts.

Style

Kids need tough boots to endure all winter’s snow, slush, and rain. It must be warm but not too heavy, rigid, flexible, and waterproof. Plus, it must fit well now and last a season or two with room to grow. That’s a tall order for any boots, especially for kids.

Fortunately, modern technology and kids’ outdoor gear have come a long way since your childhood’s clunky, heavy boots. An array of warm and comfortable boots for kids strike the right balance between function and style to match their personalities and interests.

For example, boots are built for extreme temperatures with a multi-layer removable inner boot system that includes a layer of poly wool for incredible insulation. But they’re also stylish and easy to get on, even with mittens. Boots with velcro or toggle closures are more accessible for kids to secure than boots with zippers, which can ice up in the cold. And boots with pull handles on both sides are great for toddlers learning to dress themselves.

Involve Your Child

The right shoes are essential for kids’ growing feet. They need shoes that support proper foot development and prevent problems such as flat feet and discomfort.

The first step is to find the right size. Many shoe stores have printable foot-sizing charts to help you measure your child or toddler’s feet. Measure both feet and take the length based on the largest foot. Remember that kids’ feet are not symmetrical, so one foot is usually more significant than the other.

Once the right size is found, look for shoes that fit well. They should be snug without causing rubbing or pinching of the toes or ankles. They should also have enough room in the toe box for your child to wiggle their toes easily.

If they feel comfortable, your child is more likely to wear them. Letting them pick their shoes can make them more invested in wearing them and help them develop self-esteem and independence. You can also encourage them to decorate their shoes using stickers or paint to increase the fun factor.