Hi-Tec Kids TT Mid WP Jr (Toddler/Youth)

I received these shoes the day after I ordered them which I was amazed by. The shoes look like they are just what we need for scout hiking and camping trips when the weather is not overly hot. They are sturdy, waterproof (so it says) hiking shoes with ankle support/protection, nice rubber type toe guard, in a masculine color scheme. The look is acceptable for older boys as well as younger. While I am sure they will be too hot for much of the time in our area, they will be nice alternative shoe for certain needs such as the larger hikes or times when it may be pouring rain. Unfortunately, they do run quite short in length. My son is wearing a 5½ in Asics running shoes that we bought a month ago. I bought a 5½ and a 6 in these particular shoes hoping one would fit. The end of his toe is at the toe of shoe in the size 6 with zero room to grow. For comparison, he has a full thumb's width in the Asics running shoes and less, but acceptable, (maybe ¾ of that) in the Keen and Columbia shoes that we also purchased to try. I would say this Hi-Tec runs a full size smaller than most and maybe even a little more than that. My son would need at least a 6½ in these shoes and possibly a 7. That is a big difference in sizing from other brands. But I do think they are great shoes for specific needs in the outdoors (ie We will also need one a little more breathable for the heat in this area.) My son is 11 and he likes the look of the shoe and how it feels (other than the length). I will try to get a larger size if available. I gave the shoes four stars (docking one for the sizing being so very different from most brands).

I'd also recommend: Keen, Teva, Columbia, Timberland

This is a great boot for kids! We bought these an extra size up so they would last longer with the sockliner and they worked out great. They lasted 2 winters and are still in great shape. Really excellent boot and my son absolutely loved them. Will be purchasing another pair for this winter as he's finally outgrown them.

My son loves his new hiking boots! Good fit, but had to buy one size bigger than we thought.

I bought these for my 11-year-old son, for this summer, b/c he will be going to several outdoor camps and on Boy Scout overnights/backpack trips. I ordered up a 1/2 size, but I probably shouldn't have done that b/c they were big on him. This son has a wide foot, but he said this boots were loose around his foot. His heel also slipped out while walking/running around the house. So, I recommend ordering the correct size. I am returning these, and NOT ordering the accurate size, though b/c these boots remind me a lot of sneakers. They have a sneaker-like softness about them. They don't really look like hiking boots. My son liked the another Hi-Tec pair I ordered at the same time better. I am going to assume that these are true to size, since we ordered a 1/2 size up and they were big.

I'd also recommend: keen, columbia, north face, spider