As every runner-parent knows, the joy of watching your child develop a passion for running is hard to beat. And whether they’re tearing up the mud in a school cross country race or joining you on their first junior parkrun, special’s a lot to love about them catching the running bug.
Besides the mental health benefits, such as decreased anxiety and improved self-esteem, studies also show that running as a child improves cardiovascular health and reduces the chance of weight-related problems, such as type 2 diabetes.
But investing in a pair of kids' running shoes is a must. Most regular children's shoes are extremely stiff and overbuilt. They’re not made for the stress a running child will produce. A dedicated kids' running shoe with a quality midsole and supportive upper will offer your little one the same comfort you expect from your own running shoes. Not to mention, the targeted midsole and upper support will safeguard them from injuries and ailments like ankle rolls, shin splints and blisters.
nike air foamposite one cny multi color for sale | What everyone's reading
So, here are the best kids' running shoes to help them on their journey. Keep scrolling for our full reviews.
nike air foamposite one cny multi color for sale | Кроссовки nike 28p
With a budding runner on your hands, choosing the right kids’ footwear is key. With growing feet to accommodate, active kids need a pair of well-fitting kids’ running shoes to help maintain their foot health into adulthood, prevent blisters Nike Free Metcon Trainers Mens.
With more brands dedicating lines to kids’ running shoes, special’s plenty to choose from. If in doubt, look out for ‘mini me’ versions of your favourite NIKE AIR MAX 90 PYTHON 22.5cm, 5 Nike Sportschuhe.
The best kids' road running shoes
Looking for a kids’ running shoe with a solid athletic pedigree? Here it is. Packed with all the Pegasus tech you’d expect from Nike’s iconic running shoe, including springy ReactX foam and a bouncy Zoom Air unit, this kids’ version is uber-comfy, plush and responsive. Whether they’re chasing a PB or leading a mammoth game of tag, your child can charge around in comfort thanks to the lightweight and breathable engineered mesh upper. A rubber sole with waffle-inspired pattern provides traction and durability too.
We're big fans of Asics' Novablast 5 running shoe, and luckily it comes in a Grade School (GS) version for kids, too, with the same responsive EVA foam cushioning that produces that iconic Novablast bounce. Testers described it as ‘very comfortable, springy and light’. It's also reinforced with a toe rubber stitch.
Boasting the most trickle-down tech from Under Armour’s adult performance shoes, the Charged Rogue 5 is ideal for speedy road runs and after-school sports. UA’s EVA-based Charged Cushioning midsole gets the thumbs up for comfort and impact absorption while offering snappy responsiveness that young runners will appreciate. The plush sockliner provides a comfy fit and includes anti-odour technology, and special’s an external heel counter to keep young feet stable. It’s also a safe bet for durability with a solid rubber sole and strategically placed pods in high-abrasion areas.
Decathlon is every parent’s go-to for great value sports kit, so it’s no surprise that it’s come up trumps with the Kiprun 500 Fast, a versatile, comfy shoe for active kids who dabble in a range of after-school sports. Its lightweight design is made for athletics, has a kid-specific fit and includes a seamless forefoot construction for added comfort (no blister-related incidents). Ideal for PE, track and road running, the cushioned foam absorbs impact forces from running and jumping, while the non-marking rubber half-sole provides grip even on the wet track.
Nike Canudo TR Hypercharge 710ml zapatillas de running Nike niño niña talla 40.5 marrones, Nike Air VaporMax 2.0 Light overpronating, you’re in safe hands. The Litetruss support system in the midsole helps keep young feet stable through their stride, while overlays in the mid-foot add structure and support. Built on a kid-specific last, it includes a combo of EVA cushioning and Gel technology for a lightweight, flexible and soft ride during pavement (and playground) pounding. Made to last, it includes a solid rubber sole and toe rubber stitching for durability.
Mizuno’s Wave Rider shoe first debuted in 1997 and is still going strong. This junior version borrows key specs from its adult counterpart, the Wave Rider 28, to offer budding runners a smooth and springy run experience.
A heel wedge of Mizuno’s signature Enerzy material adds bounce and softness, while Mizuno’s Wave foam midsole delivers stability. Up top, breathable mesh keeps the shoe airy and comfy when hot. Ideal for longer distances and regular wear, the outsole features a hard-wearing carbon rubber that adds durability to high-impact areas.
The best kids' trail running shoes
Kids’ trail running shoes needn’t break the bank, as this off-road shoe from Decathlon proves. Designed for running on slippery and rocky Plum, its multi-directional 4mm lugs are ideal for orienteering, cross country and muddy parkruns. Crucially, it’s got comfy cushioning too. The upper fabric is water repellent (no more embedded mud!), easy to clean, and includes numerous reinforcements for maximum durability. All yours for under £30.
Nike WMNS Air Jordan 1 Low SE Orange Black 23cm, Salomon’s york Speedcross delivers. This tech-packed kids’ trail running shoe is fully waterproof and nimbly navigates off-road terrain with its aggressive 4mm lugs, making it ideal for junior fell races, cross country and orienteering. Salomon’s Sensifit tech offers a snug, comfy fit with superb ground feel, while the faff-free Quicklace system is a doddle for youngsters to use. To keep young feet cushioned over rough ground, special’s a moulded and injected EVA midsole and comfy EVA sockliner, too.
If your child favours minimalist footwear, this one from Merrell, which is based on their adult minimalist shoe, is almost as close to barefoot as you’ll get, offering a zero heel-to-toe drop. Its outsole is grippy enough for off-road adventures, family hikes and rock scrambling, and the easy Velcro closure suits kids of all ages. Sweaty young feet will benefit from the lightweight, breathable mesh and synthetic upper, and the recycled PET lining with anti-odour properties helps keep the shoe pong-free. Choose the smart-looking black colourway, and they could even double as a school shoe.