Children’s shoes don’t need to be flashy to appeal to younger tastes. Kids want shoes that feel good, that are tough enough to take them on all kinds of adventures from racing on scooters to pedaling like crazy on their bikes.

LOWA INNOX GTX® MID JUNIOR

A kid’s shoe that’s always ready to go. That what the new INNOX GTX® MID JUNIOR by LOWA is all about. This midcut, multifunctional boot has a kid-specific construction with an optimum fit that is very impressive. This model is equipped with a waterproof GORE-TEX lining to ensure that kids can romp and play outside in any weather whilst the feet still stay dry. A LOWA “AL-K III” sole provides needed trip as well as gives great cushioning with every step.

Kids will line up for this one: Anaconda BOA Junior by Viking

Parents know how it goes: what they have, the kids want to have, too. Viking’s all-round shoe Anaconda IV, with the easy-to-use BOA Closure System, has been a success with adults -- and has no doubt been the subject of envious glances from their children, too. With the introduction of the Anaconda BOA Junior, the wait for the younger generation is over. Instead of the constant battle with shoelaces that refuse to stay tied, kids can simply dial in the lacing tension they need. Turning the dial on the BOA Closure System tightens the stainless steel cable lace millimetre by millimetre for a perfect fit. Releasing the closure is even simpler: Just pull upwards on the BOA dial, and the tension is released. A GORE-TEX membrane keeps the shoe waterproof, while the Viking UGC sole with its natural rubber and high-grip pattern keeps feet firmly on the ground. The Anaconda BOA Junior is geared toward active youngsters, so Viking utilises GORE-TEX Extended Comfort product technology. This offers exceptional breathability, especially in warmer conditions when children perspire heavily. Wherever the trail leads -- from hiking trips to biking tours -- this all-round shoe is perfect for young adventurers.

Salomon presents two new models for young explorers

With the X-Ultra Mid GTX J and the X-Ultra GTX J, the French sports and outdoor brand Salomon has two great children’s models ready to take kids on all kinds of outdoor adventures. Both models are ideal for basic hiking trips, and both feature GORE-TEX technology in size 31 and up. Stability and comfort are at the heart of these shoes. They allow the same natural roll-through by the foot as a running shoe, yet they still offer plenty of lateral stability on rough trails. A soft, flexible EVA midsole acts as a shock absorber and ensures that young hikers keep a spring in their step. Salomon’s legendary high-grip sole completes the package and ensures that slipping on the trail is a thing of the past. Two great all-round outdoor shoe models: très bien!

Kids can now lace up a legend with La Sportiva

The Trango range from La Sportiva has long been sought after by alpinists. With the launch of the Trango Kid GTX, the younger generation now everything found in the adult version. The grippy Frixion® AT sole with Impact Brake System bites into the trail like Don Vito Corleone bites into his pasta. GORE-TEX technology keeps young feet dry and comfortable, whilst a reinforced toecap keeps them protected. Plus, the dirt-shedding upper keeps parents happy, too. Kids can walk safely on mountain tracks while treading lightly on the Earth: The high-quality chamois leather is tanned using oils that can be oxidised.

On the lighter side: the Meindl Litepeak Junior GTX

It’s good to have a great role model, and the Meindl Litepeak Junior GTX follows in the footsteps of the successful adult model Litepeak GTX. This hiker provides stability for children’s feet even on rough trails. The MTH® Junior latex rubber sole absorbs the shock from each step, and the flexible upper allows the foot to roll through naturally -- a relief for young adventurers who have struggled with heavy, old-fashioned hiking boots. Something else which is a thing of the past are wet feet: Meindl has also equipped this high-quality boot with GORE-TEX technology.

Salewa’s JR Alp Player Mid GTX gives kids’ feet wings

The JR Alp Player Mid GTX by the Bavarian-South Tyrolean alpine brand Salewa has been tried and tested. This athletic-oriented, mid-high shoe has several interesting features, including the patented 3F system. This distributes the support from the lacing throughout the shoe and heel for improved hold but without limiting mobility or without leaving children’s feet feeling squeezed. Parents will appreciate the Slip-On lacing system of a Quick Lace and hook-and-loop closure, meaning children can lace up their boots all by themselves. The JR Alp Player Mid GTX is crafted from tough suede to withstand the rigours of any adventure. A GORE-TEX Extended Comfort liner keeps kids’ feet dry whether hiking in the rain or splashing through an alpine stream.

Taking to the trails with the SherpaG from Kamik

Every parent has at some point looked at the collection of different shoes piled on the shelf or in the closet (or strewn around the room) and wondered if there might not possibly be one shoe which would cover all of their child’s needs. One shoe that certainly covers a lot of different bases is the SherpaG from Kamik. GORE-TEX is built into the SherpaG to keep children’s feet dry on the way to kindergarten or school regardless of the weather. The rugged sole offers good support, and slipping into the shoe isn’t a problem either: The quick lacing system makes putting on the SherpaG quicker than a Formula 1 pit stop.

Three stripes for young outdoor adventurers

Athletically oriented and dynamic, the Terrex Mid GTX K by Adidas shows just how versatile a child’s outdoor shoe can be. Simply producing a smaller version of its adult models is not good enough for the shoe specialists in Herzogenaurach. Utilising the same high-quality materials and technologies built into shoes for professional athletes, Adidas has crafted a mountain-ready shoe, especially designed for kids. Fresh colours give the shoe a really cool look, underscored by the contrasting touch of the grippy Traxion sole. A Speed-Lacing system, also utilised on the adult version, means that laces that won’t stay tied are a thing of the past. Reflective logos increase visibility and safety.

The first step can be easy, thanks to Primigi

Those first steps in life can be the hardest, which is why the experts from Primigi offer the Ailen for the very young. The Italian brand has specialised in children’s shoes since 1976, and therefore understands the needs of children who are taking their first steps. The sole is flat on the outside to provide better grip, and is soft to allow small feet to adjust to wearing shoes. The uppers are light and flexible, too. To make sure that feet stay dry while taking those first steps, the Primigi Ailen has the all-round protection of GORE-TEX Surround® Technology. The open-sole construction provides excellent temperature management for feet, even on the warmest days.

Superfit offers casual comfort in a lace-up boot

Parents whose children wear Superfit shoes know how well made they are. The new model Tensy has a padded shaft and tongue, and the upper is a perfect combination of suede and smooth leather, accented with contrast stitching. Additional colour contrasts are provided by the sole and by the laces that are used to adjust the width of the boot. A zipper makes child’s play of the Tensy on and off. Hidden away inside the boot is GORE-TEX Surround® Technology. The open construction of the sole means that the Tensy has all-round breathability -- no more sweaty feet for young outdoor adventurers! No chance for water to make its way into the boot, since the pores in the integrated GORE-TEX membrane are 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet.