Merrell Little Kid Bare Steps Ridge Boot

These are the absolute best kids hiking/ adventure boots I have found. Appropriate for a new walker or older kid too. Just enough structure to protect but not so much the foot is stifled. Comes up around the ankle to keep sticks/rocks/grasses from getting in. The outsole is super grippy and great for climbing on rocks. My little one loves that they look like “workbooks”. I went back to order the next size up but sadly looks like these are discontinued. Merrell please bring them back! The low ankles don't work as well for hiking and field work.

We love these shoes! They have become the everyday favorite for my 2.5 (almost 3) year old. She wears them to daycare, and they are perfect for all-day wear in the fall/winter months. They have good traction for walking & hiking on dirt trails, and the slightly higher ankle keeps out the dust and rocks. These do seem pretty wide and large for the size. This may be intentional since the barefoot style allows for flexibility and for the toes to spread out. I love this, especially for shoes she wears all day at school. They are lightweight, very easy on/off and the retro styling is adorable. These are absolutely worth the investment! We will likely get a full year of wear out of them.