Freeze tag at the neighborhood park. A game of fetch with the family pup. A scavenger hunt on the trail. Outside is all about finding a different way to play every day.

KEEN makes a whole bunch of kids’ shoes for your grass-rolling, monkey bar-swinging, caterpillar-spotting kiddo. What do all these play shoes have in common? That’s right: a protective toe bumper and an easy-on design! Both are must-haves for active kiddos. (There’s nothing like a stubbed toe to put a damper on things.)

But which kind of shoes should you outfit your play-hard child in? Check out this handy chart:

Want to hear more? Here’s our shoe-by-shoe breakdown of the playful pairs on this list:

Chandler CNX sneaker: This kids’ sneaker has a super light, streamlined, and flexible feel, and it's been a kid fave for years and years. As happy at recess as it is on a trail through the forest. The mesh upper gives ventilation for comfort when those sunny days start to heat up.

Pro tip: See “CNX” in the name of a KEEN shoe? That means it has an especially lightweight design and a minimal outsole (great for giving toddlers more balance and dexterity as they find their footing).

Knotch Hollow sneaker: This is our newest addition to the kids' sneaker line-up, featuring a double hook-and-loop strap design for a secure fit. Rugged yet low-profile for plenty of ground feel across different terrain. Parents, you'll love that this one is machine-washable.

Speed Hound shoe: Got a kiddo who loves zipping around on their bike or scooter, and also loves to use their feet to brake? That's exactly why we extended our durable rubber toe bumper all the way to the heel when creating Speed Hound. Available with easy-peasy hook-and-loop straps or as a slip-on, so it's super fast to get on and out the door, too.

Speed Hound shoe

Targhee Sport Vent sneaker: Whether you’re heading out for a hike or just have a wild backyard zone for kids to roam in, you need a shoe that protects their feet. These sneakers have a versatile, hiking-inspired design that’s cushioned for comfort, just like the adult version of the Targhee. The high-traction outsole is reliable on all kinds of terrain, and the vented upper keeps their feet comfy when it’s warm out.

Pro tip: If you live in a cooler, wetter part of the country, consider the Targhee waterproof sneaker. Same Targhee fit everyone loves with a waterproof design.

Wanduro waterproof shoe: The Wanduro shoe brings a sporty feel to family hikes and outdoor play. Light and fast for school and recess, plus rugged traction and support for the trail. It’s even waterproof (in case the forecast calls for rain). We make the Wanduro in both a shoe and a boot version — both have no-tie bungee laces they can quickly cinch themselves.

If your kids are anything like ours, the whole world is their playground. Whether they’re helping us garden, learning about nature with a day camp, or just working off all that extra energy on a jungle gym, we just love to see them enjoying time outside. Wherever their feet take them, they’ll be comfy and happy in KEEN shoes and sandals.

Chandler Sneaker