Image: MomJunction Design Team
Children of all ages enjoy sports and other activities that require them to run, jump and stay active. And sometimes, all that running can lead to severe tears in their footwear. So, here’s our list of the best running shoes for kids to help you out. These running shoes for kids are easy to wear, well-fitted, and comfortable. They have a breathable design, especially for running, are durable, and protect your child from impact and injury. Check out our list of parent-recommended running shoes curated after thorough style assessment and durability evaluation, to choose the right one for your child.
Top Picks
13 Best Running Shoes For Kids
1. Best Stylish: Nike Kids’ Preschool Flex Runner Running Shoes
Nike kids’ running shoes feature a flexible mesh surface with a slip-on design and easy pull-on tabs for a comfortable fit. They are designed with a breathable mesh lining and a comfortable footbed suitable for long hours. Their stretchy fabric and strong rubber soles, along with their foot-hugging design, offer added support and structure. The elastic straps and soft foam cushions provide ample grip and comfort, respectively, for running. If you want a detailed review of these supportive sneakers for kids, make sure to take a look at this video.
Pros
- Helps reduce fatigue
- Stylish
- Versatile
- Lightweight design
Cons
- May run small
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 66 buyers on Amazon have said the product lives up to the hype.
Quick fact2. Best Lightweight:Adidas Unisex-Child Duramo 10 Running Shoes
These Adidas unisex toddler running shoesare available in a variety of sizes and sport a mesh fabric upper. Featuring Adidas’ Lightmotion cushioning, these trusted shoes have a breathable design, provide a lightweight feel while walking, and facilitate quick movements. The woven stripes on the upper fabric bestow the pair the classic Adidas look. In addition, the rubber outsole offers excellent grip and enhanced traction, making these the best gym shoes for kids.
Pros
- Adjustable fit
- Breathable upper
- Hook-and-loop closure
- Available in multiple colors
- Classic style
Cons
- May not be durable
- Mesh upper may be thinner than expected
3. Best With Non-Skid Sole:Nautica Kids Fashion Sneakers For Girls
Nautica’s slip-on sneakers are one of the best athletic shoes for kids, with a snug closure, making them ideal for running, sports, hiking, climbing, and other outdoor activities. Their non-slip rubber outsoles provide superior grip on different terrains, while the cushioned footbed offers comfort. Liked by several reviewers, the cute and flexible shoes can help you encourage your little girl to go with you on evening walks or participate in various physical activities.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Comfortable
- Available in a variety of sizes
- Available in multiple colors and patterns
Cons
- Seams may not be wear-resistant
- Size might run small
Nike Kids Preschool Flex Runner Running Shoes Best Stylish | Adidas Unisex-Child Duramo 10 Running Shoes Best Lightweight | Nautica Kids Fashion Sneakers For Girls Best With Non-Skid Sole | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Black White | White/Black/White (Elastic) | Aloise-multi Pink |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 66 | 210 | 247 |
| Price | $54.78 | $35.97 | $39.98 |
4. Best Wear-Resistant:Kubua Kids Sneakers
The children’s running shoes are designed for playing sports and have a 50-inch platform for more comfort. With cushioned insoles, sturdy rubber soles, and soft and breathable fabric, these tried-and-tested shoes keep the feet dry and prevent sweat or bad odor for long hours. With fabric and a padded collar, the shoes have shock-absorbing soles to protect your child from muscle strains and injuries. Their hook-and-loop closure allows your child to put them on easily. For a thorough review of one of the top running shoes for kids, have a look at this YouTuber’s video.
Pros
- Anti-collision shoe head
- Wear-resistant, high-quality material
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Velcro may detach from the strap over time
5. Best Easy-To-Wear:Adidas Unisex-Child Lite Racer Adapt 3.0 Running Shoes
Adidas running shoes are designed especially for sports and offer a comfortable fit with anti-slip, strong rubber soles. These best-selling slip-on shoes have a breathable design and provide a sock-like fit, allowing your child’s feet to have a firm grip all day. The cushioned midsoles and sturdy design of these specialist shoes make them long-lasting.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Easy to wear
- Flexible outsoles
- Various colors
Cons
- Lace loops may not last long
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 322 positive customer reviews on Amazon attest to the product’s quality.
6. Best For All Seasons:Apawwa Sneakers
The unisex slip-on sneakers feature a polyvinyl chloride sole and an invisible elastic band, making them easy to wear. They have a breathable upper made of mesh, and insole with a flexible fit to offer added comfort and protection. The durable outsole is designed to resist slipping, and the insoles can prevent odor and sweat. These shoes are designed to reduce the burden on the feet for comfortable walking and running, making them the best athletic shoes for kids.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Suitable for all seasons
- Wear-resistant good-quality sneakers
- Flexible and stretchy
Cons
- May run small
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The tried-and-true product has earned over 298 good reviews on Amazon.
7. Best Sturdy:Nautica Kids Sneaker
Nautica’s slip-on sneakers feature wear-resistant, sturdy rubber soles and a durable design. They have a cushioned footbed and padded insoles. The mesh upper and comfortable insoles of these kids’ shoes allow your child a comfortable and flexible fit and offer protection to their feet. These bungee slip-ons are suitable for running, hiking, climbing, and walking and are designed to stand the test of time, so it’s no surprise that it’s one of the top running shoes for kids.
Pros
- Sturdy, good-quality sneaker
- Sleek
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Might wear off easily
8. Best Durable: Asics Kids’ Contend 6 GS Running Shoes
The Asics’ running shoes for children have strong rubber soles and a 0.75-inch platform. The rearfoot gel technology cushioning system paired with the shock-absorbing soles allows these shoes to absorb shock during impact for a smooth transition to midstance. It features a removable sock liner for enhanced cushioning performance. These trusted shoes have an AmpliFoam midsole for flexibility and comfort. Because of these features, it is considered one of the best gym shoes for kids.
Pros
- Comfortable gel cushioning
- Durable
- Stylish
- Lightweight
Cons
- Might run small
Quick tip9. Best Responsive:Under Armour Grade School Surge 2 Fade Running Shoes
The running shoes feature a breathable design with a mesh upper and Thermoplastic Polyurethane soles for extra support. It is designed with extra padding around the ankles for superior comfort. The full-length EVA sock liner offers a custom fit, and the shoes have a unique outsole with a printed design and raised rubber knobs for a better grip. As per reviews, their rubber pods placed beneath the heels and forefeet can reduce the shoes’ weight.
Pros
- Multiple colors
- Stylish
- Durable, good-quality sneakers
- Soft forefoot cushioning
- Responsive cushioned running shoes for kids
Cons
- Might wear off easily
10. Best Unisex:Under Armour Unisex Grade School Assert 9 Running Shoes
Placed among the best kids’ running shoes on this list, the Under Armour Grade School Assert 9 shoes for kids have a unisex design and are comfortable and breathable. Their upper is made of a lightweight mesh to ensure proper airflow, while the sturdy rubber sole offers enhanced grip. In addition, the EVA-equipped midsole helps smoothen the landings and provides superior support when running, while the rubber sole covers the impact zones, making the shoes long-lasting.
Pros
- Lightweight
- High-quality material
- Has a lace closure
- Available in multiple colors
- Synthetic materials-based overlays
Cons
- May not be true to size
11. Best With Breathable Mesh:Adidas Originals Kids X_PLR Running Shoe
Entirely made of rubber, the X_PLR kid’s shoes by Adidas fall among the top running shoes for kids. They are both stylish and functional, and ensure a good deal of durability. Its ethylene vinyl acetate-based sole and platform size of almost three inches offer enhanced support while walking. Ideal for active children spending long hours playing sports or outdoors, these tried-and-tested shoes have a breathable design with a mesh upper for ventilation, keeping the feet cool, and a three-inch opening to facilitate easy wearing.
Pros
- Durable
- Breathable upper
- Has textile lining
- Has a 12-inch shaft
- Speed lacing system
- Reflective detailing
- Available in several color variants
Cons
- May not be true to size
- Strings may be difficult to adjust for some
12. Best Water-Repelling:Saucony Wind A/C Sneaker
The deodorizing PET-lined shoes by Saucony are the best kids’ running shoes for keeping sweaty odor at bay. Made of durable leather, the sneakers have a mesh upper that provides a low-to-the-ground feel for better balance while walking or running. It also features a reinforced toe tip and traction pods on the outsole for enhanced stability and excellent grip. Moreover, these shoes have a water-repelling upper which has a good deal of durability, allowing your child to step into puddles.
Pros
- APMA-approved
- Padded midsole
- Lightweight
- Lace and velcro closure makes it easy to wear
- Stretchable heel
Cons
- Might run small
- Lace may get stretched over time
13. Best Grip And Traction:Asics Kid’s Contend 7GS Running Shoes
Asics’ shoes not only offer comfort while running but are also replete with features that make them one of the best gym shoes for kids. They have a mesh upper for more airflow to keep the feet cool and dry. Its rubber outsole and toe stitching provide enhanced durability. They are designed to offer more breathability, flexibility, stretchiness, and comfort. These lace-up shoes with quality craftsmanship have a front panel with an adjustable hook-and-loop strap to tighten them as needed, offering excellent grip and traction.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sturdy, good quality sneaker
- Breathable upper
- Stylish
- Cushioned insole
Cons
- Straps might be too short
How To Choose The Right Running Shoes For Kids?
Here are some points to consider before buying running shoes for your child.
- Durability: Since children use running shoes almost every day, choose durable, wear-resistant, and water-resistant athletic shoes for kids to withstand rough use.
- Size: As children outgrow shoes quickly, making a fit assessment is necessary. Choosing shoes with a thumbs-width gap between the toe and the front will help get a comfortable fit.
- Design: The closure type determines if the shoes are easy to wear. Choose between slip-on and lace shoes depending on your child’s preference and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do kids need special shoes for the track?
Ergonomic running shoes for kids are enough to practice running on the track. However, if your kid is competing on the track and you think they need a competitive edge over others, specialist shoes that have track spikes will be beneficial.
2. Are heavy shoes good for kids?
Heavy shoes are good for kids if you are looking for all-day comfort, as they have more cushion and help reduce the impact on joints. But if you are looking for running shoes, kids might tip over with heavy shoes or might slow their pace of running. Whereas lightweight running shoes are less comfortable in comparison but are ideal for racing.
3. How quickly do kid’s feet grow?
Depending on the age of the child, feet can be expected to grow anywhere from 1.5mm to 1mm in length per month. Between one to three years of age, a child’s feet may grow at an average rate of 1.5mm per month. Growth may decrease with age and grow at an average rate of 1mm per month between ages three to six and less than 1mm per month between ages six to ten.
4. How much bigger should I buy my child’s shoes?
As the growth rate in kids is high, it is preferable to buy a shoe length that is 1cm to 1.5 cm longer than their actual foot size. If your kid’s growth rate is more than average, you may buy one size more than the usually recommended size and length.
5. What is the difference between toddler and kid shoe sizes?
Toddler shoe sizes range from zero to 13 and are generally tagged with T for easy identification, and are suitable for ages one to four years. Little kids from four to six years have shoes ranging from sizes 10C to 13.5C. If your child outgrows the last size of little kids, upgrade to the big kid’s shoes, and the sizes start from 1Y, and the Y indicates youth size.
6. Do barefoot shoes establish good posture?
Barefoot shoes promote good posture as they allow natural foot movement when compared to cushioned shoes. They help strengthen the foot muscles and maintain proper foot alignment while reducing strain on the back.
7. Can I take my child hiking in running shoes?
If your child has comfortable running shoes, it is absolutely fine to use the same shoes for hiking. However, if you are planning for regular hikes, investing in special hiking shoes may be a better choice but not essential.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag is an exceptional product writer and reviewer who takes great interest in exploring clothing, fashion, and beauty products. She understands the needs of her readers and suggests best-selling, quality-tested products accordingly. Here, she has considered the durability, comfort, and quality of the product before listing the names of the best running shoes for kids. In addition, Poulami has conducted a stylistic evaluation to describe each recommended kids’ shoe in detail and mentioned its pros and cons. To further simplify your buying experience, she has also provided a handy purchasing guide for the best kids’ running shoes.
The Bottom Line
Running shoes allow children to be more active while giving them the required comfort and flexibility. Now that you’ve gone through our list of the best running shoes for kids above, choosing one can be hassle-free. However, when buying a pair for your little ones, you must ensure it is sturdy and durable. As kids keep growing, so do their feet; hence, these shoes must last until they fit them. Lastly, the size should not be too big as some extra breathing space will give your kid comfort. We recommend the Kubua Kids Sneakers for their shock-absorbing properties. The Under Armour Grade School Surge 2 Fade Running Shoes are great options as they offer a custom fit. In the slip-on range, the Apawwa Sneakers are a trusted choice.
Infographic: How To Choose The Right Running Shoes For Your Child?
A wrong pair of shoes can cause discomfort and hurt your child’s feet. Hence, purchasing the perfect, comfortable pair that doesn’t make the feet sweat and facilitates a good run is elementary. Check out the following infographic to ensure you buy the most suitable running shoes for your little one.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Children’s sport shoes.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1268773108000532
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