The kids' Merrell Moab Speed Low is the gold standard for a reason — buy these first

The Merrell Moab Speed Low Waterproof for kids is the gold standard for a reason. If you’re looking at a list of kids’ hiking boots and can only buy one pair, make it these. They’re light enough that a kid won’t complain about wearing them, waterproof in a way that actually works through puddles and wet grass, and the sole grips well enough on real trails that I don’t worry about slips. My kid has worn them on day hikes, camping trips, and muddy park outings without any complaints — and if you’ve ever tried to get a kid to wear uncomfortable shoes, you know how rare that is.