Trail shoes for kids

Why a serrated sole for cross and trails

The school cross and association races often take place on grass and dirt paths, which are soaked in autumn and winter. A road shoe, with a smooth sole, skids in the bends and uphills. The sole of a junior trail shoe has cleats a few millimetres long that dig into the ground and provide support for the child. On hiking paths, this grip also ensures stability when running downhill on gravel or roots, where young runners tend to speed up without watching their feet.

Reinforced toe and age-appropriate closures

At the front, a stone guard made of rubber comes up over the toe of the shoe and protects the toes from impacts against stones and stumps. On the sides, welded reinforcements limit wear from friction, which is frequent among children who drag their feet. For closure, the Velcro strap is suitable for younger children who still don’t know how to tie their laces; the quick lacing system with cord and lock can be tightened with one hand and doesn’t come undone while running; regular laces, which offer more precision, are suitable for teenagers who already run regularly.

How much room to leave for foot growth

A child's foot grows quickly, but a shoe that is too big can cause tripping and blisters. The ideal margin is about one centimetre between the longest toe and the end of the shoe, measured while standing, with sports socks on. A simple guideline is to take out the insole and have the child stand on it: there should be the width of a finger in front of the toes. The shoe size should be checked every three to four months for younger children, as a child rarely complains about tight shoes: they get used to the discomfort without saying anything.

Wear and care of a junior trail shoe

Worn every day at school, a trail shoe wears out faster: the asphalt and concrete of the playground round off the cleats, which lose their grip before the cross. Reserving it for outdoor outings and training keeps the sole intact for race day. After a muddy outing, let the dirt dry before brushing it off, then rinse the upper with warm water using a soft brush. The insoles should be removed to dry separately, and the shoe should be stuffed with newspaper, left to air out. The direct heat from a radiator can harden the upper and weaken the bond of the sole.

New arrivals and good deals

The new arrivals feature the latest releases, the promotions showcase previous versions at reduced prices, and items shipped within 24 hours are prepared and sent out in a day. The good deals, the clearance, the sales, and the Black Friday all have their running page.

Frequently asked questions

At what age should I buy trail shoes for a child?

As soon as the child walks for a long time on trails or runs in the school cross, a serrated sole enhances their stability. For the younger ones, a simple Velcro model that is soft and grippy is quite sufficient without aiming for a technical shoe.

Are trail shoes suitable for family hiking?

Yes, they are lighter and more flexible than a high walking shoe, which children like. They provide less ankle support: on a very stony path, it's important to watch the footing and keep a steady pace.

Do children need waterproof trail shoes?

A membrane keeps feet dry in dew and puddles, which is nice in winter. However, a child might jump into streams, and water that comes in from the top doesn’t escape: a breathable upper that dries quickly is often more practical.

What’s the difference between a child’s trail shoe and an adult's?

The children's version is lighter, more flexible to bend, and has simplified closures suitable for much lower weight. It does, however, share the essentials of adult models: serrated sole, protective toe, and reinforced upper.

How long does a pair of children’s trail shoes last?

Most often, the child changes size before the shoe wears out, after six months to a year depending on their age. A pair in good condition can then be passed on to a brother or sister, provided the insole is not deformed.