Written by Andrew Marshall
UK parent of three sharing practical advice to help families enjoy camping, walking, garden play, and simple outdoor adventures across the UK.
Creator of Simple Days Outside.
Anyone who walks regularly in the UK knows one thing very quickly: dry ground rarely lasts long. One minute the trail looks fine, and ten minutes later the kids are jumping through puddles, sliding across muddy paths, and stomping through wet grass.
We learned this the hard way on family walks where trainers looked fine when we left the car… and completely soaked by the time we reached the halfway point. Once kids’ socks get wet, the mood changes fast.
Good waterproof walking boots solve that problem immediately. They keep feet dry, add grip on slippery paths, and give a bit of ankle support when trails get uneven. When kids are comfortable, they walk further — and the whole day feels more relaxed. If you’re choosing boots for younger children, you might also want to look at some of the best walking boots for toddlers, which are usually lighter and easier for smaller feet to manage.
If you’re planning more family walks, hills, or countryside adventures, you can also explore our Family Walking & Easy Hiking hub, where we share practical gear guides and simple advice for getting outdoors with kids in the UK.
Below are some of the best waterproof walking boots for kids available from retailers we trust in the UK, including Amazon, Decathlon and Cotswold Outdoor.
Best Waterproof Walking Boots for Kids (UK Picks)
These boots balance waterproof protection, grip, comfort and value — the things that actually matter when kids are running through mud and puddles.
Quick Picks: Best Waterproof Walking Boots for Kids
If you just want the quick recommendations, these are the boots that consistently perform well for UK family walks.
| Boot | Best For | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Keen Targhee Waterproof | Best overall durability | Amazon |
| Merrell Moab Speed Mid Waterproof | Lightweight active kids | Amazon |
| Regatta Holcombe Mid | Best budget waterproof boot | Amazon |
| North Face Fastpack Hiker Mid | Premium hiking boot | Amazon |
| Quechua MH100 | Best value starter boot | Decathlon |
Keen Kids Targhee Waterproof Walking Boots
Best overall waterproof kids hiking boot
If we had to pick one pair that consistently works well for family walks, the Keen Targhee range is usually near the top of the list.
Keen boots are known for their durability and slightly wider toe box, which many kids find more comfortable than narrow hiking boots. That extra space can make a noticeable difference on longer walks.
The outsole grip is excellent on muddy trails, and the waterproof membrane keeps water out when kids inevitably stomp through puddles.
Why parents like them
- Reliable waterproof protection
- Excellent grip on muddy woodland trails
- Comfortable wider toe area for growing feet
- Durable enough for regular walking and camping trips
If your kids walk regularly or you plan longer countryside walks, these are one of the most dependable options. One thing we noticed with boots like the Keen Targhee is how well they handle puddles. Kids always seem drawn to the deepest water on the path, and boots like these actually keep their socks dry instead of turning the walk into a rescue mission halfway through.
Merrell Moab Speed Mid Waterproof (Kids)
Some walking boots can feel stiff or heavy for children. The Merrell Moab Speed Mid solves that by offering a lighter, more trainer-like feel.
Kids who like running ahead on the trail tend to prefer boots like this because they feel less bulky while still giving proper grip and protection.
Despite the lighter build, the waterproof membrane and solid tread still handle muddy UK trails well.
Why they work well
- Lightweight and flexible
- Waterproof membrane keeps feet dry
- Good traction on mixed terrain
- Comfortable for long walks
These are particularly good for kids who walk quickly, run around a lot, or prefer lighter footwear. Our youngest is at the stage where he wants to run ahead on every path rather than walk. Bulky boots slow him down and he notices immediately. The Merrell Moab style — lighter, more flexible — is exactly what works for kids like that. He covers twice the distance in these compared to heavier boots and doesn’t complain once about his feet.
Regatta Holcombe Mid Waterproof Walking Boots (Kids)
Best budget waterproof walking boot
Kids grow quickly, so spending a lot on footwear isn’t always realistic. The Regatta Holcombe boots are one of the best affordable options that still perform well.
They’re simple, sturdy, and waterproof — exactly what many families need for weekend walks, camping trips, or school outdoor activities.
They may not have the premium feel of more expensive boots, but they do the job very well for the price.
Why they’re popular
- Affordable price
- Waterproof lining
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Good grip for muddy paths
For families who want a solid budget option, these are a reliable choice.
Worth noting: at the time of writing these start from size 6, so they won’t suit younger children — but if your kids are in that range they’re one of the best value options available.
The North Face Youth Fastpack Hiker Mid Waterproof
Best premium kids hiking boot
If your family spends a lot of time outdoors — hill walks, national park trips, or longer hikes — these boots are one of the strongest premium options.
They combine durability and grip with a lighter build than traditional heavy hiking boots.
The sole provides excellent traction on slippery ground, and the waterproof construction handles wet grass and puddles easily.
Standout features
- Fully waterproof construction
- Excellent traction on wet terrain
- Durable build quality
- Comfortable for longer walks
These are the boots we’d choose for a proper hill day. We’ve done some longer walks in the Trossachs and up towards Ben Lomond with the kids, and on that kind of terrain — wet rock, boggy ground, steep descents — you notice the difference between budget boots and something built properly. For families who walk regularly rather than occasionally, the extra cost makes sense.
Quechua Kids MH900 Waterproof Hiking Boots
Best affordable waterproof hiking boots
Decathlon’s Quechua hiking boots have become incredibly popular with families because they offer very good performance for the price.
They’re lightweight, comfortable, and surprisingly capable on muddy woodland trails.
For families just starting to walk more regularly, these are often the easiest and most affordable entry point.
Why they’re worth considering
- Very good value
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Waterproof membrane
- Good grip for trails and woodland paths
We’ve recommended these to a few friends starting out with family walks and they’ve all been happy with them. For a first pair of proper walking boots for kids, the Quechua range is where we’d start — good enough to handle everything a typical UK family walk throws at them, without spending a lot on boots kids will outgrow in a year.
What to Look for in Waterproof Walking Boots for Kids
Parents often look at brand names first, but a few practical features matter much more when kids are walking outdoors. If you’re unsure what actually matters when buying footwear for family walks, it can also help to understand how to choose the right walking boots for kids, including sizing, support and grip.
Proper waterproofing
In the UK this is essential.
Waterproof membranes and sealed uppers stop water soaking through when kids walk through puddles or wet grass.
Without this, even good boots quickly become uncomfortable.
Grip for muddy trails
Kids rarely walk carefully. They jump, run, and slide across trails.
A good walking boot should have:
- Deep tread patterns
- Rubber trail soles
- Good traction on mud and wet ground
Grip makes a huge difference on woodland paths or hills.
Ankle support
Boots provide more stability than trainers, especially on uneven ground.
This helps when:
- Walking on rocky paths
- Climbing hills
- Carrying small backpacks
Even light ankle support can reduce slips or twisted ankles.
We noticed this on a rocky path above Loch Lomond last year — our eldest slipped twice in trainers before we switched to proper boots. The ankle support isn’t just about serious hiking, it matters on any uneven path where kids are moving fast and not paying attention to their feet.
How to Choose the Right Size for Kids Walking Boots
Kids walking boots should feel secure but not tight.
A good rule most outdoor shops recommend is leaving about a thumb’s width of space at the front of the boot. This allows room for thicker walking socks and growing feet.
If boots are too small, toes can hit the front when walking downhill. Too big, and kids may trip more easily on uneven ground.
Trying boots with walking socks rather than thin everyday socks usually gives the best fit.
Comfort and fit
Comfort matters more than anything.
If boots feel stiff or tight, kids will complain immediately.
Look for:
- Soft internal lining
- Cushioning in the midsole
- Enough space at the front of the boot
Many parents also size up slightly to allow for thicker walking socks.
Are Waterproof Boots Always Necessary?
For most UK family walks, they’re worth it.
Even on dry days, grass and mud often soak through trainers, which is why many parents eventually switch once they understand the real differences between trainers vs walking boots for kids when walking on UK trails. Waterproof boots keep feet dry for far longer and make walks much more enjoyable. Wet grass is actually what soaks kids’ shoes fastest in the UK. Even on dry days, long grass and muddy woodland paths can quickly soak through trainers.
They also tend to last longer because they’re built for rougher terrain.
Common Mistake Parents Make When Buying Kids Walking Boots
One of the most common mistakes is buying fashion boots instead of real walking boots.
Many children’s boots look waterproof but only have basic water resistance. Once kids start walking through wet grass or mud, water quickly soaks through.
Proper walking boots include:
- Waterproof membranes
- Sealed uppers
- Grippy outdoor soles
We made this mistake ourselves early on — bought a pair that looked the part, had one rainy walk, and binned them by the end of the month.
What We’ve Noticed Walking With Kids
One thing we’ve definitely noticed over the years is that comfortable feet equal longer walks.
If kids’ feet stay dry, they’re happy exploring and climbing over things. Once their socks are wet, the complaints usually start pretty quickly.
On muddy woodland trails or countryside paths, waterproof boots make a huge difference. Kids can stomp through puddles, walk through wet grass, and generally enjoy the adventure without worrying about soaked feet.
Which boots would we actually buy?
For most families doing regular UK walks, the Keen Targhee is where we’d start if budget allows — they last, they keep feet dry, and kids don’t complain about them. If you’re buying a first pair and want to keep costs down, the Quechua boots from Decathlon are the sensible choice.
The one thing we’d say from years of family walks: don’t compromise on waterproofing. Fashion boots and basic water-resistant trainers look fine on a dry day and let you down within ten minutes on a wet one. In the UK, that means almost every walk.
Related Family Walking Guides
Choosing the right boots is just one part of making family walks easier and more enjoyable. These guides cover other useful gear and tips that can help make outdoor adventures with kids much smoother.
About The Author – Andrew Marshall
Andrew Marshall is the creator of Simple Days Outside and a UK parent of three who regularly camps, walks, and explores outdoor activities with his family. His guides focus on practical gear, realistic family adventures, and simple ways to help families enjoy the outdoors across the UK. The recommendations on this site are based on real-world use, research, and the kind of equipment families actually rely on for weekend trips and everyday outdoor fun.