When you’re a kid, there’s something almost magical about being outside in the wet. Finding the best puddles to jump in, cookin’ up some mud pies, or watching birds splish-splash in the birdbath are just a few of the reasons why kiddos love the rainy season.
But children and adults can agree that a good day out in the rain can easily be cut short if feet end up soaked and soggy. When the sound of rain can be heard on the roof and the kids are ready to get out there, it can only mean one thing — it’s waterproof boot time! Not sure which pair is best for the weather in your area? Check out these five favorites of KEEN parents to find the right waterproof footwear for your kiddo.
What parents love about it: “Keeps little feet warm in winter.” - KEEN fan Nicole
Weather report looking wet and cold? No problem. The Kootenay boot for big and little kids is ready for both. We took our bestselling slip-on style and added a thermal lining and 100g of KEEN.WARM insulation to help little feet stay toasty in temps as low as -4°F/-20°C. The KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane keeps out rain and slush. Whether your young adventurer is playing on a jungle gym or out for a snowy walk with the grandparents, the rubber outsole adds plenty of traction.
Parent pro tip: Got a kid that loves the rain but hates the cold? Little feet stay warm in the Kootenay boot, which means it’s easier to get kids outside this winter.
What parents love about it: “I have a very particular kiddo when it comes to shoes. My kid has agreed that these are keepers” - KEEN fan Kathryn V.
Our Wanduro shoe for big kids and little kids is the do-it-all waterproof sneaker. From the grippy rubber outsole to the KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane, it keeps kiddos comfortably on the go. Good for a wet spring day at the park? Of course! How about a damp hike through the nature area? You bet. The room-for-their-toes fit and air-injected midsole add up to all-day comfort.
Parent pro tip: Heading out for a long car drive or a winter road trip? The Wanduro shoe is perfect for play stops and exploring scenic viewpoints along the way.
What parents love about it: “Super sturdy and roomy.” - KEEN fan Sam
Hiking and exploring when it’s wet out can be challenging for little feet. That’s why we created the big kids’ and little kids’ Ridge Flex boot. KEEN.DRY waterproof protection helps keep feet from getting wet, and the high-traction rubber outsole makes sure kids’ can enjoy the outdoors with confident footing. Borrowing KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX technology from our adult boots, this hiking boot comfortably bends, making it easy for kids to jump, scurry, and climb. Translation? Comfortable feet = complaint-free adventures.
Parent pro tip: The secret to a successful fall hike with kids? Step one: lace them up in a pair of Ridge Flex boots. Step two: check out our KEEN parent hiking hacks.
What parents love about it: “So lightweight! (My favorite part)” - KEEN fan Moy17
Lightweight, warm, and waterproof? Yep, you read that right. Big kids and little kids love our Howser II chukka because the fit is super comfy, and it’s easy to get on and off (thanks to stretchy, bungee laces). Parents love it because it keeps feet toasty and dry. One of our most beloved indoor/outdoor styles, we make a Howser "shoe" for everyone in the family. But for those little feet out there, we added 100g of KEEN.WARM insulation that’s rated to -4°F/-20°C. Combine that with a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane, and you’ve got an adventure-ready shoe that brings the comfort of inside, outside.
Parent pro tip: Bring them along on a winter camping trip. They’re just the right balance of cozy and durable.
What parents love about it: “They stayed warm and dry during the few snowy and many cold winter days, some with rain, even on hikes.” - KEEN fan Isa
When it’s baselayer and insulated gloves weather, suit up your big kid or little kid in our Kanibou boot. Packed with 200g of KEEN.WARM insulation and a Thermal Heat Shield insole, this tall snow boot keeps kids warm even when temperatures drop to -25˚F/-32˚C. The KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane and secure collar help block out snow, slush, and rain so feet never feel a drop of wet. We even added multi-directional lugs on the bottom so little feet have excellent traction even in slick conditions. Versatile through fall and winter, from snowy playdates to the muddy pumpkin patch.
Parent pro tip: Add the Kanibou boot to your snow day checklist and get ready for cold-weather success!
Whether it’s a sprinkle or a downpour, a dusting or a blizzard, our kids’ waterproof boots and shoes keep little feet dry and comfy. (Which is good for kids, but great for parents).
