10 Best Boys & Girls Kids Athletic Shoes in 2024
Ana
Lyndsey Fosher
Kids love to be active. In addition to play, schools often have physical requirements of children. But their tiny legs often struggle to lift heavy or bulky shoes. This leads to many tripping or otherwise struggling with their footwear. And if they struggle enough, kids will eventually just take the shoes off.
We scoured the internet to find the best kids athletic shoes available today to bring them to you. The entries on this list offers options for both boys athletic shoe and girls athletic shoes. But the big focus was on finding shoes with especially high functionality. So, whether your little one is running track or tracking frogs, their shoes will be the last thing on their minds.
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
These shoes are machine-washable.
The inside is made from green tea-infused anti-bacterial insert that is also removable.
The outsole is made with Flex-Joint technology. This helps kid’s feet to move and bend properly.
This set is durable, it can withstand children’s rough play.
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ASICS Gel-Noosa Tri 9 GS Running Shoe
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New Balance KJ990 Lace-Up Running Shoe
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Saucony Zealot Alternative Closure Shoe
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Tsukihoshi CHILD37 Glitz Shoe
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New Balance KJ750 Youth Lace-Up Running Shoe
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DADAWEN Breathable Outdoor Trail Running Shoe
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AVIA Girls' Avi-Kismet Running Shoe
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DADAWEN Leather Outdoor Breathable Shoes
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Champion Boys' Gusto Cross Trainer
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ASICS GT-1000 2 GS Running Shoe
10 Best Boys & Girls Athletic Shoes Reviewed
1. ASICS Gel-Noosa Tri 9 GS Running Shoe
The sock liner is removable
.Several colors are available online for purchase.
The print glows in the dark.This pair is designed to be lightweight to help them sprint a little faster.
Kids wear out their athletic running shoes quick, but the synthetic reinforcement helps provide extra longevity.
Puppy’s tend to love chewing on these shoes because they are made from soft materials.
They are colorful and fun for kids to wear. They are lightweight so kids can wear them all day long without issues. And the mesh fabric helps the shoes dry quickly which minimizes smells.
Read moreCompatability
This pair of footwear provide shock absorption and moisture control. Around the toe it is reinforced with specialized stitching.
Comfort
Asics Gel running shoes are triathlon inspired footwear. These are made with synthetic and fabric materials and a rubber sole. The shaft measures about low-top from the arch.
Design
These shoes colors are so bright, that kids can find them quickly as they scramble to get ready for school. They are lightweight making it more comfortable for kids to wear for extended periods of time. They can wear their shoes all day at school, through recess and P.E. Because of the mesh lining they dry quicker, so their feet don’t get so stinky.
Materials
Made up of manmade breathable mesh material these sneakers glow in the dark as an added effect for your child to enjoy. Not only are these shoes made up of textile material, but they are also synthetic as well. This makes it so that these shoes are completely lightweight and easy for your child to wear throughout the day. These shoes come with a rubber sole and they are shock absorbing as well. These glow in the dark sneakers come with a removeable sock liner if needed.
2. New Balance KJ990 Lace-Up Running Shoe
These shoes are good for over-pronation.
Fit kids with little chubby feet.
The soles are non-marking.
Dirt is easy to brush off the set.
These shoes have minimal arch support.
Don’t put these shoes in the dryer.
These shoes offer excellent support and are easy to keep clean. The stylish look means that even adults with small feet can wear these shoes without issue. And the laces ensure that even kids with chubby feet can wear them comfortably.
Read moreCompatability
From New Balance, these lace-up kids running shoes are comfortable and long-lasting. This speedy shoe’s midsole is injected with EVA foam making it lightweight and safe to use.
Comfort
The heal has shock absorption to protect joints. And there are reflectors on the outside that helps keep kids visible.
Design
The rubber content (ABZORB) increases cushioning, compression resistance and absorbs forceful impacts. This set was modeled after the adult version of the same style running shoe. They are smooth, breathable and flexible. These features give New Balance kids running shoes the performance they need every step of the way.
Materials
New balance is one of the most popular brands when it comes to sneakers. Not only will your child be able to comfortably wear these throughout the day or for the entirety of their sporting event without their feet getting sore, but these sneakers are made up of manmade materials. They feature a synthetic sole as well as an EVA foam midsole for extra comfort. They also provide a heel cushion.
3. Saucony Zealot Alternative Closure Shoe
The soles are flexible and comfortable
The shoelace is a bungee-type lace, they are already tied to the shoe.
This pair is just like the adult version of running shoes.
The neon bright colors enhance visibility when kids are outside.
Kids don’t need to tie their shoelaces with this pair, but it doesn’t encourage them to practice tying their shoelaces during a time of their life when they need to start practicing.
The bright colors make it safer for kids because it helps to see them when it's dark. We also like the bungee-style lace because it makes it convenient for kids to put on their shoes in the morning. But the swift drying material and extra traction are some of the best features of this pair.
Read moreCompatability
The weather isn’t always bright and sunshiny when kids are running around. Thankfully, the outsole was created to provide kids with extra traction, so they don’t slip as often as with other shoes in bad weather. When kids are found splashing in puddles, they’re feet and shoes will dry quicker in these shoes than in any other set. While kids are running around they won’t have to keep fussing with their shoes because the bungee laces were specifically designed to maximize performance. This helps kids focus on the activity and not on their shoes.
Comfort
This footwear is made from fabric and synthetic materials. It has a synthetic insole and it was created with a breathable mesh. Kids can secure their shoes by overlaying the hook and loop strap. For additional support, the shoe’s tongue, collar and midsole are padded.
Design
Saucony Zealot’s shoes are decorated with colors kids enjoy. This set is gray with pink and yellow highlights. The laces are pink as well as the strap and parts of the bottom. The inside is mostly yellow and there are splashes throughout the shoes. They’re cute and safe for kids to use.
Materials
Available in six different colors, these fabric sneakers by Saucony are perfect for your little ones. They feature a hook and loop strap for easy on and off use. They also come with ap added midsole as well as a padded tongue and collar. These sneakers provide a synthetic sole for extra comfort and also have great traction.
4. Tsukihoshi CHILD37 Glitz Shoe
These shoes are machine-washable.
The inside is made from green tea-infused anti-bacterial insert that is also removable.
The outsole is made with Flex-Joint technology. This helps kid’s feet to move and bend properly.
This set is durable, it can withstand children’s rough play.
The shoe has a slippery spot on the underside. The entire base has good traction except for that middle part.
This pair of running shoes is lightweight and flexible. The toe provides plenty of room without feeling loose. It moves and folds with the kids foot instead of remaining stiff if they run on harder bottomed shoes. The removable green tea infused lining ensures bacteria and smells get shut down before they ever build up.
Read moreCompatability
This is a fun and glittery footwear that keeps kids feet comfortable and protected. When kids are running they need shoes that are lightweight, provide heel support and have enough room for toes to splay properly
Comfort
These shoes provide excellent support and encourage healthy walking habits. They also provide good balance and help keep feet dry because they are made with a special breathable lining.
Design
Kids can use their Glitz Sneaks at school and P.E. They are comfortable for kids to walk in them all day long and for times they are required to run during physical education class. The dark color ensures they continue looking good even after they have been broken in. But if they get too nasty, just throw them in the wash and they will come out good as new.
Materials
With five different color choices to choose from your child will love these synthetic breathable mesh shoes. Not only are they light weight but they also feature a rubber sole. Your little one will be comfortable and be able to wear these for a long period of time without any issues. These shoes are also made in the USA.
5. New Balance KJ750 Youth Lace-Up Running Shoe
Kids can run in this pair, but they can also jump rope, climb on things and ride their bikes and scooters daily.
The colors stay on for a long time.
There are glow-in-the-dark parts on the shoe.
They are easy to wipe down and clean.
Make sure to follow the shoe guide carefully because it is easy to buy a pair of their shoes that don’t fit your kid.
New Balance built these shoes to last with reinforced seams and durable rubber soles. The compression molded midsole ensures feet feel good after standing or engaging in vigorous activity. There are also parts on the shoes that glow-in-the-dark so you can always see them. These shoes remain secure through hours of rigorous play. And the dark colors keep the shoes looking cleaner for longer.
Read moreCompatability
This is a cute set of running shoes from the New Balance shoe collection. It is made from colorful synthetic and mesh materials. They are made with rubber soles and have supported midsoles called C-Cap’s.
Comfort
New Balance designed their shoes to help athletes achieve their goals. By providing safe and comfortable shoes using up-to-date research and development techniques.
Design
New Balance is a good company that has a reputation for making great shoes and they don't disappoint with this fabulous footwear. The stitching is reinforced so they last longer than traditional running shoes. The soles are made of durable rubber which take scuffing and rough play well. The compression molded EVA foam midsole ensures support and comfort while standing or engaging in vigorous activity. And these continue to look great long after they break in thanks to the mesh upper and synthetic overlay.
Materials -
These new balance sneakers are perfect for your little one to look stylish in as well as be comfortable. They are leather made with mesh material so that your little one will be able to wear these with as much comfort as possible. They are made in the USA and provide a synthetic sole.
6. DADAWEN Breathable Outdoor Trail Running Shoe
Kids can run, walk, job, hike, climb, travel, bike and play in these shoes all year round.
The upper layer is made of suede and fabric for added durability.
The rubber soles are soft and are made to resist wear.
The tips are made with anti-collision to protect toes.
The heal is stable and absorbs shock.
The Velcro starts to fray a little after a couple months of wear.
The Velcro straps make it quick and easy for kids to put on and take off these shoes. The rubber sole ensures secure and shock-absorbing footing. The padded upper ensures these shoes remain comfy after hours of use. And kids that haven't mastered knots yet don’t have to worry about tripping on their laces because there are none!
Read moreCompatability
Cool black and red shoes that are easy and quick for kids to put on. Kids can run and play with this pair all day long without feeling discomfort. It is made with synthetic materials and the sole is made from rubber.
Comfort
The shoes are lightweight, soft and have a rounded head that don’t squeeze the toes. The collar and tongue is padded and the mesh is breathable.
Design
Kids can run and play all day long without their feet feeling distressed. The dark colors keep the shoes looking good for longer. And the bungee-style cords make the shoes easier to put on and take off. The Velcro strap lets kids adjust the shoe to their comfort.
Materials -
These sneakers by DADAWEN are made of suede and fabric like material. They feature a rubber sole and are made up of the highest quality materials to ensure their durability. They do have an adjustable fit so that they will be able to provide your little one with extra comfort. They also are incredibly breathable. They’re great for any type of work out or just to wear for everyday use.
7. AVIA Girls' Avi-Kismet Running Shoe
The soles do not make marks on the floor.
After a month of wear, shoes still look great; like new.
Several sizes for different kid’s ages are available online for purchase.
The upper mesh helps fit kids with chubby feet well.
The outer mesh fabric tears quicker when kids play on cemented or concrete foundations.
These shoes are great for kids to wear during warmer climates. The knit material is specially designed to help wick moisture away from feet and keep them as dry as possible. This pair will reduce problems like odor and athlete's foot while providing secure comfort during physical activity.
Read moreCompatability
This pair of cool green and pink shoes can be worn all day long. The breathable mesh and molded midsoles provide optimum comfort and support while kids are running and playing. The insoles are made of a lightweight rubber and the mesh is knitted.
Comfort
Avia’s shoes are made with clever designs like the Cantilever heel, Anatomical Cradle and Fom Technology that revolutionized athletic footwear. Avia continues to create shoes that enhance training performance and increase sports movements.
Design
During hot weather, kid’s feet need to be able to evaporate the sweat. Otherwise, they’re little feet will struggle with athlete’s foot and other medical conditions. That is why Avia made their pair of running shoes with a breathable woven mesh. It protects kids feet from issues like athletes foot while the lightweight sole ensures the floor remains scuff-free.
Materials -
These sneakers are made up of fabric and suede material. They provide a rubber sole and are incredibly durable. Not only are they comfortable because of the fabric lining made up of breathable materials but they also have an adjustable fit. They are incredibly easy for your child to take on and off and great for any type of occasion.
8. DADAWEN Leather Outdoor Breathable Shoes
There are several sizes available online for purchase.
The anti-slip bottoms make kids feel like they can run faster.
Kids love the feeling of memory foam on their feet.
The cool black, blue and gray colors are well arranged.
Boy tend to enjoy these colors.
The Velcro starts to fray a little within a few months.
This company pays close attention to the details when their shoes are in the manufacturing process. Durable rubber soles and soft fabric uppers are only the beginning. These shoes have memory foam insoles so feet feel like they are being supported by tiny clouds.
Read moreCompatability
These shoes are easy to slip on and adjust to fit snugly. Kids can run in these shoes all day long because they are specifically made for young athletes.
Comfort
The bottoms are made with a light rubber material and they are anti-slip, wear-resistant and flexible. These shoes bend and move with the foot instead of causing their feet to become uncomfortably restricted.
Design
Kids feet can enjoy the summer with these ventilated running shoes. The fronts are well rounded so that kid’s little toes don’t get pinched. The anti-skid bottom and mesh fabric upper provide ankle support when kids play or horse around. And once little ones outgrow their current pair, parents can order bigger sizes.
Materials -
These durable sneakers are made up of suede and mesh fabric. They do come with a rubber sole. It’s important for parents to pay attention to the size chart provided so that they can get the best fit for their child correctly. Having the best fit sneaker is an important part for comfort of the shoe as well. These shoes also are made up of breathable material. Not only is their air circulation but these shoes will help keep your child's feet dry which makes it perfect to wear for any type of outing.
9. Champion Boys' Gusto Cross Trainer
The upper material is lightweight and breathable.
The insole is made of memory foam.
No need to tie shoes because the laces are bungee-style
The bottoms of the shoes are made with non-marking materials.
The Velcro will start to fray a little in a few months.
The colors match several boy’s outfits. The Velcro straps mean that even kids that haven't mastered knots can put these on without issue. And the dark fabric makes them look newer and cleaner for longer.
Read moreCompatability
This pair of running shoes by Champion are bendable and really cute. They are gray and blue with a mesh top and rubber bottom
Comfort
The materials are lightweight and allow kids feet to breath. They are great to wear during warm weather and they are easy to clean.
Design
Little boy’s can run and play out in the sun with comfort and ease in these shoes. The dark colored materials look great and ensure the shoes continue looking new long after getting broken in. The Velcro strap lasts for a long time, even though it starts to fray a little over time. The color on this pair matches with almost every set of clothes a boy can have.
Materials -
These shoes are made up of mesh materials. They also provide your child extra comfort as they feature a cushioned memory foam inside the sneakers. These sneakers are incredibly light weight so that your child will be able to wear them for a long period of time without their feet feeling heavy. They do have stretchy laces which makes it easy for your child to be able to slip on and slip off.
10. ASICS GT-1000 2 GS Running Shoe
There are several sizes to choose from.
The laces are made bungee-style.
The heels are raised by 3 millimeters.
Heels are also supported with a special gel cushion.
Kids won’t stutter step with this pair.
Kids won’t want to take their shoes off once they leave the box.
The neon colors and reflective accents make it easier to see kids when they are in low-lit areas. This pair is easy to clean and the traction keeps them from slipping too much in the mud if they are running on a rainy day.
Read moreCompatability
The ASICS GT-1000 is an amazing running shoe for little girls. They are made well with quality materials and care.
Comfort
These are made with little girl’s comfort and safety in mind. The sole is made of rubber and the toe cap’s stitching is reinforced. These shoes are made to last for several years of run and play.
Design
This pair of running shoes are great for kids who enjoy playing physical sports. The design of the shoe is made to keep up with their rough play and they will feel like they can run faster. The raised heel absorbs running shock and furthers their momentum. The pointed low angled toe also increases their momentum. Kids are incredibly competitive; these shoes will help give them an edge to be the fastest running kid in their class.
Materials -
Made up of synthetic materials these sneakers feature a rubber sole. They do offer a gel cushioning on the inside of the shoe for comfort. They are extremely durable and great for any type of activity that your little one might be wearing them for. It’s important to note that these shoes do have a bit of a heel raise to them raising at 3 millimeters.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Compatibility
Kids unknowingly work out their muscles while they play. And kids love to play for as often as they can. Parents want to buy shoes for their kids that specifically help them to keep their feet from getting injured. Kids play in all sorts of locations with different types of environments. It is important that kids wear shoes that can be worn in several types of areas like the park.
Comfort
Kids also need to wear shoes that protect them when it’s hot. Sometimes, kids play on black pavement. On a hot summer day, pavement can get so hot that it starts to melt and stick to people shoes. There are people who have suffered the misfortune of walking barefoot on pavement before they realized it got too hot to be without shoes. The city grounds can get so hot they stick to people’s fit if they’re not careful.
Design
It’s hard for many parents to continue purchasing good shoes for their kids every few months. Some companies seem to charge a lot for basic running shoes. It’s almost like they know parents need to buy several kids shoes because they grow so fast. Adults hang on to their shoes for much longer because they’re feet stop growing after a certain size. But buying good athletic shoes for kids is not an option parents can cut too cheaply.Buying cheap shoes is not a good investment. Low quality shoes mean that the number of times parents must buy kids shoes increases. Parents feel like they’re saving money by purchasing low quality shoes because their kids will just grow out of them. But cheap shoes break faster than good shoes. And, having kids wear bad quality shoes all the time is condemning them to back aches and other medical issues down the road.
Materials
When it comes to shoes it’s important to get the best comfort out of something that you’re going to generally wear every single day. Knowing what type of materials your shoe is made of is incredibly important for parents to know so that they know the best comfort that’s out there for their child. With all the shoes featured on our top ten list, we made sure that we included more information about the detail and design that went into each shoe. We want to make sure that your child gets the best use out of these stylish shoes so that they can enjoy whatever activity they are doing while wearing them. We’re sure you will find the best choice for your little one to wear.
Compatibility Comfort Design Materials 
The long-term damage from wearing bad shoes for too long are back injuries related to the muscles and bones. Organs can also suffer damage because people that don’t have good posture end up putting extra pressure on their organs. Back muscles start to hurt because they start to pull more unevenly to one side or another. Joints start to ache before too long because they are either being pulled incorrectly or they are experiencing extra pressure.
People that live in the woods needs shoes that protect them from rocks and twigs. When kids start to attend P.E. classes, they learn run often. If they don’t wear shoes that allow them to run comfortably, they’re performance starts to suffer. Kids with shoes that don’t fit right or are worn out can also cause serious injury short term and long term.
The park can have at least 3 different grounds: cement, grass and wood chips. Sometimes there is a black rubber tarmac in the playground. Kids need to wear athletic shoes that they can use when they are outside and when they are indoors. They need to be able to walk around the stores when they shop with their parents. They need to be able to walk in the library without making squeaky sounds with their feet.
The shoes on this list all provide the highest levels of performance available. They are some of the most researched and advanced kids athletic shoesavailable. But not everything is synthetic fabrics and EVA foam. Many of the shoes on this list are made from real leather and rubber, adding a degree of class and classic style without breaking the bank.
Making sure that the shoes fit correctly is very important. Make sure that the arch sits right for your kid. Some kids have low arched feet, high arched feet or neutral feet. The heel should feel adequately cushioned for best shock absorption. There should be an index finger width between the longest toe and the end of the toe.
Other Factors to Consider
Materials
Their little feet are going to eventually wear out the anti-bacterial lining and they are also going to wear out the stuffing inside. The padding on the soles will also start to warp in the wrong place from normal everyday wear. Kids grow up quickly and they tend to need new shoes before they start to break them.
Safety
Bad shoes cause sickness because they need to be changed out every school year. Adults tend to keep a hold of their shoes for longer if they are not working out in the same shoes they hang out in every day. Most adults live sedentary lives and don’t sweat too much in their shoes. But children and kids run all day long 7 days a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What do Doctors say when it comes to running shoes?
Some kid’s shoes are over cushioned, and that doesn’t mean that those are the best option for kids. Some shoes are not well designed for children. They recommend that children should play in their bare feet or in activity shoes that fit their developing feet. The shoes that best allow kids feet to move naturally are the best type.
q: Which is best, shoes that imitate being barefoot or shoes that provide support?
Whichever is best is debatable; there is plenty of evidence that support both sides to the argument. It is good for children to play barefoot but in environments where their feet won’t be harmed. And it is equally important for children to play in shoes that protect their feet when they walk, run and jump. Bones take 18 years to fully develop and harden, that is why it is a good idea to get them shoes early to allow their feet to develop properly. But also give their little toes time to wiggle freely and get some air.
q: When is the right time to change out old running shoes?
Children should have several pairs of shoes that they wear alternatively every other day. A set or two for physical education classes and playground times. Kids will play rougher with workout shoes and they won’t last as long as their other shoes. Athletic shoes tend to wear out faster than children grow out of them. Getting kids more than one pair of shoes allows other shoes to not wear down as quickly.
q: Can children play basketball in their running shoes?
Yes, children can play basketball in their running shoes. Running shoes allow kids to move off hard surfaces. However, there are shoes known as cross-trainers that are meant to be used as running shoes and basketball shoes.
q: Do children’s athletic shoes eventually cause damage?
Doctors recommend that children play barefoot as much as healthily possible. But when being barefoot is not an option it is recommended that they play in running shoes that fit properly. Shoes that cause minor pressure can cause their feet to become deformed or develop other permanent problems. They also say to not fall for the idea of ‘corrective shoes’ because it is a misnomer.
q: What are some important things to know about kid’s athletic shoes?
Not all athletic shoes are the same. Some have more traction in other parts of the shoes. It depends on the sport kids are playing that the shoe is best used for. When playing soccer, there are athletic shoes that are made to cushion their feet differently than a normal runners shoe. When it is time to buy kids running shoes, it is better to buy them athletic shoes that are meant for runners.
q: Why are athletic shoes so important?
Athletic shoes protect the feet while providing aid in their sport performance. There are four components to athletic shoes: the outsole, midsole, upper and insert. The midsole is what provides cushion and the outsole provides traction and protection. The insert provides the support and stabilization to the arch. The upper hold the feet securely.
Sources
- , How to Choose Running Shoes, Informative Article
- , Proper Shoes for Kids: Thoughts From a Family Doctor, Blog Article
- , 10 Tips for Choosing Athletic Shoes, Web MD
- , Ticking Time Bomb: Children’s Shoes Cause Health Problems Later in Life for Adults, Online Article
- , CHANGING YOUR RUNNING SHOES - KNOWING WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME, Blog Post
