The Best Hiking Sandals for Kids: Mom Tested for Camping, Creeks & Summer Adventures
As a mom of four active kids living in Michigan, we spend most of our summers outside — camping, hiking trails, climbing dunes, splashing through creeks, and exploring every campground we can find. When your kids practically live outdoors, having a reliable pair of hiking sandals makes a huge difference. Through the years my children have tried a variety of sandals and I’m sharing the top sandals that have held up and checked all the boxes for waterplay.
Here are the sandals that can handle muddy trails, rocky creek crossings, playgrounds, bike rides, and long days on their feet without falling apart halfway through summer. I’ve learned pretty quickly that not all kids sandals are made for real outdoor adventures.
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Key Components of What Makes a Good Hiking Sandal
When shopping for hiking sandals for kids, here are a few things I always look for:
Breathable materials that dry quickly after water play
Secure straps that actually stay on
Good traction for slippery rocks
Arch support for long walks and campground exploring
Protective toe coverage for climbing and rough terrain
Durable soles
One helpful tip: let kids wear socks with new hiking sandals for the first few wears. It helps prevent rubbing and blisters while the straps soften up.
Here are some of our favorite hiking sandals for kids that have held up through nonstop summer adventures.
1. Teva Kids Tirra Sandals
The Teva Tirra sandals are lightweight, comfortable, and great for active kids who love water and trails. They have adjustable straps for a secure fit and dry quickly after creek stomping or rainy campground days.
Why We Like Them:
Lightweight and breathable
Adjustable straps
Comfortable for all-day wear
Great traction for hiking trails
Perfect for: hiking, campground exploring, and everyday summer wear.
Teva
2. Teva Hurricane Sandals
Teva Hurricanes are one of the most popular hiking sandals for kids for good reason. The thicker sole gives extra support and durability for rough outdoor play. My son wore his for several years and they held up and even were passed down to his younger brother. $40- 50.
Why We Like Them:
Durable sole
Secure fit
Good grip on wet surfaces
Easy for kids to put on themselves
Perfect for: active kids who are hard on shoes.
3. KEEN Kids Seacamp Sandals
If your child constantly stubs toes on rocks or roots, KEEN Seacamps are worth looking at. The closed-toe design offers extra protection while still being breathable and water-friendly. When my children were toddlers and a bit more prone to tripping or stubbing toes, these sandals were my go to for summer adventures. Priced around $40-50.
Keen’s Seacamp Sandals
Why we like them:
Protective toe cover
Excellent grip
Waterproof and quick drying
Secure fit for climbing and hiking
Perfect for: creek walking, rocky trails, and adventurous kids.
4. Salt Water Sandals
These classic sandals are surprisingly durable and fully waterproof. While they are more fashion-forward than trail-ready, Salt Water Sandals hold up well for beach trips, splash pads, campground wear, and everyday summer adventures. They run around $40 depending on sales.
Salt Water Sandals made of Leather
Why We Like Them:
Waterproof leather
Stylish and versatile
Softens over time
Can be dressed up or down
Perfect for: vacations, beach towns, and casual summer exploring.
5. Bedrock Cairn Kids Sandals
These are a favorite for minimalist outdoor families. Bedrocks are incredibly durable and designed for serious outdoor use while still staying lightweight.
Why We Like Them:
Excellent traction
Secure footbed
Durable for hiking and water use
Lightweight minimalist design
Perfect for: older kids who love hiking and outdoor adventures.
6. Vivo Barefoot Ultra Kids
Vivo Barefoot Ultra Kids
For families who prefer barefoot-style shoes, these are a fun option. They are lightweight, flexible, and made for water and trail play. These are on the pricey side at $75.
Why We Like Them:
Wide toe box
Flexible barefoot feel
Lightweight and breathable
Great for water play
Perfect for: kids who like natural movement and minimalist footwear.
7. Earth Runners Sandals
Earth Runners are another minimalist sandal option with a simple, secure fit. These work especially well for older kids and teens who enjoy hiking and outdoor activities.
Why We Like Them:
Earth Runners
Lightweight design
Flexible sole
Secure lacing system
Great for travel and hiking
Chaco Kid Outdoor Sandal
Chaco Kid Outdoor sandals are a trusted brand that have been making hiking sandals with supportive food bed, arch support, and waterproof components with adjustable straps. Runs around $60.
Why We Like Them:
Durable for hiking, camping, and creek walks
Adjustable straps and grippy soles
Quick-drying, breathable design works great for water adventures
Supportive and sturdy
Perfect for: minimalist families and experienced hikers.
8. Merrell Bare Steps Sandals
Merrell Bare Steps are designed specifically for growing feet with flexible soles and wide toe space. They are especially nice for younger kids learning to hike and explore outdoors comfortably. Priced around $45.
Why We Like Them:
Flexible natural feel
Wide toe box
Lightweight and breathable
Good traction for little hikers
One important note: Merrell sizing can run a little weird. I highly recommend measuring both of your child’s feet and comparing them carefully to Merrell’s online sizing chart before ordering.
Perfect for: toddlers and younger hikers.
Final Thoughts
Hiking Sandals Were a Must Hiking at Turkey Run State Park
After years of camping with four kids, I’ve learned that good hiking sandals are one of the best summer gear investments for families who spend time outdoors. The right pair keeps kids comfortable, protects their feet, and holds up through trails, creeks, campsites, and countless summer memories.
On a recent camping trip to Turkey Run State Park, where stream bed crossings were common, hiking sandals were a must. Whether your family spends weekends hiking Michigan trails, playing by the lake, or camping at state parks, having durable outdoor sandals makes adventures easier for everyone.
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