Why Buy KEEN Kids Boots and Shoes for Big Kids

When your kiddos finally graduate to big kid sizing (sizes 1-6) they’re also playing and exploring harder than ever. That’s why KEEN Kids big kids’ shoes are built to last with the same premium materials and construction you’ll find in our grown-up (or really, really big kids’) models. Outfit your whole family with supportive, stylish, and versatile KEEN shoes for every season.

Big Kids’ Shoes for Summer

When you’re a kid, summer’s what it’s all about. There are countless bugs to be hunted, puddles to be stomped, trees to be climbed, and rocks to be scaled—and at KEEN we want to make sure their shoes never hold them back.

Our top choice for summer is the Big Kids’ Newport H2, which offers a grippy and protective sole with a minimal and easy-draining upper. Designed around our legacy Newport model for adults, the Big Kids’ Newport gets the same features and comfort, with a fit ideal for smaller feet. A bungee closure makes for convenient on/off for big kids on the go—because you never know when they’ll need to feel the mud/grass/sand between their toes.

Big Kids’ Shoes for Fall

When the leaves start to change, that’s when it’s back to school, which means your big kid will need shoes that can stand up to recess, gym class, and everything in between. Plus, with the weather getting colder, it’s great to find a shoe that has a little more coverage and weatherproofing.

Our top-rated big kids’ shoe for fall is the Chandler Waterproof CNX. With sporty but neutral styling and a lightweight, flexible sole, it’s the perfect do-everything shoe for activity-packed days. The easy bungee closure makes the Chandler simple to put on (perfect for hectic mornings), and the waterproof breathable membrane will help keep their socks dry even if it gets drizzly outside.

The Chandler CNX is also available in a non-waterproof model, perfect for super-active kids and warmer, drier weather. With surprising durability despite its light weight, this is the shoe your big kid will pick day after day to fuel their adventures.

Jasper and Jasper Slip-On are basic black school uniform shoes, but rugged and ready for the playground as well as the classroom.

Big Kid Shoes for Winter

Depending where you live, winter can mean some tough calls for parents choosing footwear to get their big kids through the day. When you go for maximum weatherproofing, they’ll stay dry on the way to school—but they might be stuck wearing clunky boots for gym class. Go too lightweight, and they’ll be sitting around in soggy shoes all day. And of course, there’s always sledding. Luckily KEEN offers a range of waterproof winter shoes for big kids to suit every climate.

For light rain and snow, we recommend the Hikeport Strap, which comes with our breathable waterproof membrane and an extended chukka-style ankle for added weather protection. The non-marking rubber outsole provides good grip, and the simple hook-and-loop strap closure makes them much easier to get on and off than traditional lace-up snow boots.

For advanced snowman construction and sledding adventures, our most popular option for big kids is the Lumi Waterproof winter boot. It’s ultra-lightweight for trudging up the hill but has layers of insulation around the foot and ankle to keep them cozy the whole ride down.

The Lumi’s convenient bungee closure makes it easy to get on and off—but for kiddos who struggle with boots, we recommend the Winterport Neo, which comes with a zip closure around the ankle for added ease and comfort.

Big Kids' Shoes for Spring

When the weather starts warming up again, you might start planning those family adventures into the mountains. With variable wet rocks, mud, and roots out there, you’ll want a hiking shoe for your big kid that performs as well as your own. Luckily, you’ll find a handful of popular adult designs perfectly scaled down for your growing hiker.

The Targhee comes in both regular and waterproof models, with the same support and traction that has made it a classic among adults. The Targhee is one of our most versatile hikers, and it strikes that elusive balance between protection and agility. The lugged sole provides grip on all sorts of surfaces, and the stiffer shank gives them efficient, consistent footing as the miles add up.

For lighter weight, a brighter look, and a shoe that’s crafted for a girl’s maturing foot, we love the Terradora. Available in a range of fun colors, it offers the same great support and protection you expect from KEEN with a design that will win major style points. For big kids who need a little extra motivation to get out the door, Terradora can be the shoe they feel cool and confident wearing, no matter where the trail takes them.