When your kids’ finally graduate to older kid sizing (sizes UK 13, 1-6; sizes EU 32-39) they’re also playing and exploring harder than ever. That’s why KEEN older 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.
Older 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 Older 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 Older Kids’ Newport sandal gets the same features and comfort, with a fit ideal for smaller feet. A bungee closure makes for convenient on/off for older kids on the go—because you never know when they’ll need to feel the mud/grass/sand between their toes.
For those late night frisbee games or ball games in the park, check out the glow-in-the-dark version of the Kids’ Newport, which will help you keep track of your little runners no matter how far they roam. With colours that look like regular shoes during the day, they’ll be delighted to see their feet light up at night (and you can breathe a little easier knowing they’ve got some added visibility).
For a feminine look, see our Moxie collection: Moxie Sandals represent performance plus style in a sandal that’s set for adventure with a soft, comfortable construction, cushioned footbed and covered toe.The Mary Jane versions of Moxie have bold prints and a wraparound rubber overlay. The cushioned footbed and reinforced toe offer comfort and protection, whatever the adventure.
Older Kids’ Shoes for Autumn
When the leaves start to change, that’s when it’s back to school, which means your older kid will need shoes that can stand up to the playground, 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 older kids’ shoe for autumn 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 older kid will pick day after day to fuel their adventures.
Older Kids’ Shoes for Winter
Depending where you live, winter can mean some tough calls for parents choosing footwear to get their older 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 older kids to suit every climate.
For light rain and snow, we recommend the waterproof 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 older kids is the Levo Waterproof Boot or the Terradora Winter Waterproof boots for a girls. Levo is sleek, lightweight, and ruggedly made with an insulated, padded interior and waterproof upper. Terradora Winter boots are equipped with supportive cushioning for a girl's maturing foot, plus a waterproof leather upper and insulation rated to -32°C/-25°F.
Older 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 older 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 colours, it offers the same great support and protection you expect from KEEN with a design that will win major style points. For older 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.
Jasper Casual Trainers can be great in most seasons. This kids' shoe looks like an old-school climbing design, but the soft, flexible material makes it ideal for everyday play. A padded collar cradles the ankle, and a mesh lining adds breathability.
