Is your child a real little traveler? Does he like to play outside? Choosing shoes designed for his size and needs will ensure his comfort and protection while he learns to hike. In this article we will only talk about Salomon shoes for children from 3 to 6 years old.
High top or low top boots
The first thing to consider when choosing shoes designed specifically for your child is what he will use them for.
For mountain walks, your novice hiker needs stability and support. Stability is ensured by a certain rigidity of the sole, which will ensure safety on the most difficult sections of the hike. A high top that covers the ankle will provide extra support. High-top boots are recommended if your child is hiking with a small backpack or if your route involves some slight downhill or ascent.
For hiking on flat, easy terrain, you can choose versatile shoes.Low-top shoes with soft soles will provide the freedom of movement and sensitivity your child will need to get used to hiking on rough terrain, whether in the city or in the mountains.
How to choose the right shoes depending on the weather
For summer and other hot periods, look for shoes that are well ventilated, since children's feet have a harder time shedding sweat than adult feet. Open-toe shoes are a good choice, but if you want to protect your child's feet from small rocks and other debris, you may want to choose closed-toe Salomon shoes made from highly breathable fabric such as mesh. These shoes will not be waterproof, but they will dry very quickly.
For mid-season use when temperatures are cooler, or for hiking in the mountains, we recommend closed shoes. For wet conditions, choose shoes with a water-repellent treatment or waterproof ones with a membrane like Gore-Tex or similar. These shoes will keep your baby's feet dry unless he decides to jump into all the puddles.
In winter and snowy conditions, Salomon's waterproof, high-top boots with insulated lining provide all the protection you need. Après-ski boots are suitable for a short walk in the snow or for building a snowman. When your child tries on boots, be sure to wear thick winter socks.
How to choose the right size
Finding the right size hiking boots for your child is not easy. Your child's feet are constantly growing and it is important to make sure they get the correct size when they try them on.To increase your chances, start by measuring your child's feet using a foot measuring device, which is readily available at shoe stores. Take one size up. Eventually, you should be able to fit your little toe between your child's heel and the shoe. No more and no less.
It may be tempting to buy larger shoes to make them last longer, but keep in mind that if the shoes are too big, the child's foot will move around inside the shoe and will not be well supported. In addition, if you choose the wrong size, the risk of overheating or calluses increases.
Laces, elastic or Velcro?
Hiking boots with laces are common, although younger children will need your help to tie them.
Elastic laces and Velcro fasteners are simple, provide good foot support and allow the child to be more independent. You can also find children's hiking boots that have an elastic strap at the bottom of the foot and Velcro at the top that provide excellent support.
OK it's all over Now! Now you know everything about how to choose Salomon hiking shoes for your child. All you have to do is find an easy and fun route that will allow him to discover how much fun hiking can be. As for hiking in big mountains, there will still be time for children when they grow up.