Freeze tag at the neighborhood park. A game of fetch with the family pup. A scavenger hunt on the trail. Outside is all about finding a different way to play every day.
KEEN makes a whole bunch of kids’ shoes for your grass-rolling, monkey bar-swinging, caterpillar-spotting kiddo. What do all these play shoes have in common? That’s right: a protective toe bumper and an easy-on design! Both are must-haves for active kiddos. (There’s nothing like a stubbed toe to put a damper on things.)
But which kind of shoes should you outfit your play-hard child in? Check out this handy chart:
| Kids' play shoes | Waterproof | Low-profile outsole | More luggy outsole | |
| Chandler CNX | X | |||
| Motozoa | X | |||
| KNX | X | |||
| Targhee | X | X | ||
| Wanduro | X | X |
Want to hear more? Here’s our shoe-by-shoe breakdown of the playful pairs on this list:
Chandler CNX sneaker: This kids’ sneaker has a super light, streamlined, and flexible feel, and it's been a kid fave for years and years. As happy at recess as it is on a trail through the forest. The mesh upper gives ventilation for comfort when those sunny days start to heat up.
Pro tip: See “CNX” in the name of a KEEN shoe? That means it has an especially lightweight design and a minimal outsole (great for giving toddlers more balance and dexterity as they find their footing).
Motozoa sneaker: This is our newest addition to the kids' sneaker line-up, featuring a fast and light design. It's our sportiest kids' all-terrain sneaker yet. Kids can just cinch up the bungee laces and go-o-o-o!
KNX sneaker: Like the Chandler, the KNX sneaker has a minimal outsole that moves with their feet. This barefoot-inspired design keeps kids grounded in every activity, with a versatile look that's ready for every outing and outfit. Available in leather or knit.
Targhee hiker-sneaker: Whether you’re heading out for a hike or just have a wild backyard zone for kids to roam in, you need a shoe that protects their feet. The higher-traction outsole is reliable on all kinds of terrain, and the waterproof upper keeps their feet dry and comfy on rainy days.
Wanduro waterproof shoe: The Wanduro shoe brings a sporty feel to family hikes and outdoor play. Light and fast for school and recess, plus rugged traction and support for the trail. It’s even waterproof (in case the forecast calls for rain). We make the Wanduro in both a shoe and a boot version — both have no-tie bungee laces they can quickly cinch themselves.
If your kids are anything like ours, the whole world is their playground. Whether they’re helping us garden, learning about nature with a day camp, or just working off all that extra energy on a jungle gym, we just love to see them enjoying time outside. Wherever their feet take them, they’ll be comfy and happy in KEEN shoes and sandals.
Chandler Sneaker
