Getting outside with the right kids hiking gear is one of the greatest gifts we can share as parents, mentors, or adventuring companions. While excitement may peak during the first mile, the key to turning family hikes into joyful, tear-free outings lies in having comfortable, trail-ready equipment built for little legs. Whether you’re taking on a casual stroll in Great Smoky Mountains National Park or climbing the gentle slope of Mount Major in New Hampshire, proper hiking gear for kids makes all the difference.
What to Look for in Hiking Gear for Kids
When choosing hiking gear for kids, prioritize safety, comfort, and long-lasting durability. Children grow fast—both vertically and in their adventurous spirit—so their gear should handle growth spurts, energetic movement, and exposure to mud, brush, and rocks with ease.
Start with footwear. Sturdy trail shoes or boots with support and grip will protect feet across varied terrain. The Merrell Moab Speed Low A/C and Keen Targhee Waterproof Mid are top choices featuring flexible soles and traction tuned for trails ranging from packed forest loops in Shenandoah to rocky hikes in Colorado’s Butler Gulch. For rainy climates like the Pacific Northwest, waterproof options are essential.
Layering is just as important. Kids heat up quickly when climbing but cool off fast once they rest. A three-layer system—breathable merino base, insulated mid-layer, and waterproof shell—offers flexible protection against surprise shifts in weather. This works well on variable trails like Bryce Canyon’s Fairyland Loop or the Mist Trail in Yosemite, where waterfall spray and altitude call for packable, moisture-wicking gear.
Backpacks should be light, adjustable, and sized specifically for children. Models like the Deuter Fox 30 and Osprey Ace 38 offer hydration compatibility, supportive load transfer, and built-in whistles. These features are ideal for family overnights on the Appalachian Trail or combo hiking-paddling adventures around Lake Powell.
Top Picks for Kids Hiking Gear by Trail Type
Choosing gear that fits the trail environment improves comfort and safety. Tailor your kid’s hiking gear for kids to each hike based on elevation, moisture, and mileage.
For Day Hikes in Mild Terrain
- Trail: Trillium Gap Trail, Smoky Mountains (6.6 miles round-trip, moderate grade)
- Shoes: Keen Chandler CNX – breathable mesh, dries quickly after puddle splashes
- Clothing: Columbia Silver Ridge Lite Shirt – combines UPF sun protection and ventilation
- Pack: REI Tarn 18 – perfect capacity for essentials without weighing kids down
- Weather Tip: Storms often roll in by afternoon—bring a compact rain shell or poncho
For Mountain and High-Elevation Trails
- Trail: Mount Sanitas Loop, Boulder, Colorado (3.2 miles, 1,343 ft. elevation gain)
- Shoes: Salomon XA Pro V8 – strong grip and heel support on steep, rocky paths
- Clothing: REI Down Hoodie – lightweight warmth that packs down small
- Pack: Deuter Fox 30 – adjustable torso straps, high comfort for longer efforts
- Safety Consideration: Bring sunscreen, SPF lip balm, and a wide-brimmed hat
For Wet and Variable Weather Routes
- Trail: Avalanche Lake Trail, Glacier National Park (4.5 miles round-trip, alpine moisture)
- Shoes: Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof Mid – protects against puddles and wet rocks
- Clothing: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L – dependable rain protection in a kid-sized fit
- Extras: Include dry socks and gloves stored in a resealable plastic bag
Gear tweaks mid-hike can ease common discomforts like sore heels, pressure points, or overheating. Short breaks allow you to fine-tune fit, swap wet items, or adjust layers before issues become setbacks.
Durability and Fit Set Great Kids Hiking Gear Apart
Kids leap, slide, somersault, and scramble—often within the first hundred yards. That’s why quality construction is key. Trusted brands use ripstop fabrics, reinforced stitching, and abrasion-resistant materials. One standout is the REI Sahara Convertible Pants. With zip-off legs and reinforced knees, they transition easily for muddy puddles or hot climbs like Oregon’s McKenzie River Trail.
Fit is just as vital as durability. Backpacks with adjustable torsos and hip belts make a world of difference on longer hikes like Angel’s Rest in the Columbia River Gorge. Shoes should allow about a thumb’s width at the toe plus secure heel support to prevent blisters. Conduct trial hikes—roughly three miles on local trails—to evaluate fit under real-life conditions.
Essential Safety Gear for Hiking with Kids
Every hike, regardless of distance, calls for thoughtful safety planning. Including a compact, child-aware safety kit brings peace of mind. Must-haves include:
- Whistle clipped to the chest strap—teach the “three blasts” distress signal
- Headlamp (Petzl Tikkid is eye-safe and easy to use)
- First-aid bundle with child-specific items: pain relievers, antiseptic, and bandages
- Cold-weather layers like hats, gloves, and windproof shells
- Tasty, energy-packed snacks: dried fruit, bars, and kid-sized trail mix
- Hydration gear like a 12 oz Hydro Flask or youth hydration bladder
- Simple navigation tools—a paper map, compass, or GPS to learn together
Practice basic trail skills before venturing far. Play games like geocache scavenger hunts or wilderness bingo to reinforce safety pointers while keeping the mood light and adventurous.
Gear Longevity, Growth Spurts, and Sustainability
Because kids outgrow gear fast, choose items that hold resale or hand-me-down value. Brands like Patagonia and REI Co-op offer used-gear programs. Facebook marketplace groups and local family gear swaps also help parents recirculate quality kids hiking gear affordably.
Teaching care extends your gear’s lifespan. Have kids clean boots, properly store outerwear, and organize items into bins at home. Consistency creates routine—and routine fosters readiness. The goal is to eliminate the stress of packing and focus more on time outside.
Family-Friendly Trails to Test Kids Hiking Gear
Real-world hikes provide the ultimate test for your child’s trail setup. Try one of these scenic, approachable routes suited for beginning hikers with well-fitted gear:
- Cascade Falls Trail, Virginia – 4 miles round-trip, easy incline and waterfall payoff
- Bear Lake Loop, Rocky Mountain National Park – 0.6 miles, short but stunning lake vistas
- Hidden Falls via Jenny Lake, Grand Teton, WY – 5.2 miles with shuttle access, offering variety and wildlife
- Skyline Loop Trail, Mt. Rainier NP – 5.5 miles, wildflower meadows and marmot spotting for fit kids over age 8
Great hiking gear for kids helps enable independence, comfort, and confidence from trailhead to summit. When packs fit well, shoes grip securely, and clothing adjusts to changing weather, kids can forget about discomfort and focus on wonder. That’s how outdoor adventures evolve from occasional weekend outings to lifelong passions.
