The Best Hiking Gear for Kids of All Ages in 2025

Last Updated on 24 May 2025

Did you know that children who hike regularly are more likely to develop a lifelong love for nature?

I certainly didn’t when I first started taking my reluctant kids along muddy trails in the Lake District, equipped with nothing but trainers and school backpacks. That disastrous first family hike—complete with tears, blisters and me carrying everyone’s gear by the end—taught me something crucial: the best hiking gear for kids isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s essential.

I understand the hesitation, believe me. For years, the thought of investing in quality outdoor gear for rapidly growing children made my purse quiver in fear. “They’ll outgrow it in months!” was practically my family motto. But after witnessing the remarkable transformation hiking boots for children, child-sized daypacks, and weatherproof gear for kids made to our hiking experiences, I’ve become something of an evangelist for appropriate kids’ hiking equipment.

In this article, I’ll share everything I’ve learnt about the best hiking gear for kids—from children’s base layers to trail-ready footwear for children to junior first aid kits to kids’ outdoor safety equipment, and how to choose gear that offers the best value without compromising safety or enjoyment.

Let’s read on to find out more!

Read more: Hiking with Children: The Best Guide for Parents in 2025

Why the Best Hiking Gear for Kids Matters?

Safety is important when taking kids into the wilderness, even if that wilderness is just your local country park.

The correct hiking boots with ankle support reduce the risk of sprains on rocky paths—something children are particularly susceptible to as their coordination is still developing. I’ve seen firsthand how a good pair of boots can make the difference between a confident child scrambling over obstacles and one nervously clinging to my hand on even the gentlest incline.

Gear requirements shift as children grow, something I completely underestimated as a novice family hiker. Toddlers need weatherproof all-in-ones and supportive first walking boots with flexible soles. Primary schoolers require lightweight, but durable children’s outdoor backpacks that distribute weight properly across their smaller frames. And teenagers? They require equipment that handles increasing distances while accommodating those rapid growth spurts that seem to happen overnight.

Finding that sweet spot between durability and accommodating growth is the holy grail of kids’ outdoor equipment. I once spent a small fortune on boots that were outgrown before they showed any signs of wear, and conversely, bought an adjustable rucksack that technically “fit” for years, but never sat right on my daughter’s back. Through much trial and error (and expense!), I’ve discovered which items are worth investing in for longevity and which can be more budget-friendly without compromising safety.

Read more: Hiking for Beginners: The Ultimate Guide You Need to Know in 2025

Hiking with Toddlers Gear List (Ages 1-3)

The first time I took my then two-year-old daughter on a hike up Ben Nevis was an absolute disaster. I naively put her into our backpack carrier in a thin puddlesuit over the clothes she was wearing and Wellington boots. By the time we got down from the top—following a drop in temperature and fog rolling in—her feet were cold and she was not a happy traveller.

Layering is absolutely crucial with unpredictable little bodies that overheat one minute and get chilly the next. I’ve found that a good base layer (merino wool is brilliant), a fleece mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell work wonders in British conditions.

Hydration is trickier than you’d think with toddlers on trails. After trying countless options, I’ve found that insulated bottles with straws work best for this age group. The straw means less tipping (and spilling), while insulation keeps water cool enough to tempt reluctant drinkers. I always pack about 50% more water than I think we’ll need.

Sun protection is another necessary item. I made the error of forgetting my daughter’s sun hat on a cloudy April day in the Cotswolds. The clouds cleared, and despite liberal application of sun cream, her little face was pink by lunchtime. Legionnaire-style hats that protect the neck, wraparound sunglasses (attached with a strap so they don’t immediately disappear into the undergrowth), and high-factor sun cream that’s reapplied religiously are now permanent fixtures in our hiking kit.

Footwear for toddling hikers needs careful consideration. Those adorable hiking boots in outdoor shops aren’t just fashion statements—they provide ankle support on uneven ground. For toddlers just finding their hiking legs, look for flexible soles with good grip, waterproofing (puddle magnets, the lot of them), and easy fastening systems that you can adjust quickly when needed.

Even the youngest hikers can carry a little bit of their gear, and it helps build their enthusiasm for the adventure. My daughter had a tiny animal-shaped backpack that carried nothing, but her favourite stuffed bunny and a snack, but she wore it proudly for entire walks from age two. These small packs aren’t about lightening your load as the parent—they’re about giving toddlers a sense of independence and responsibility that gets them excited about hitting the trails.

Safety gear might seem over-the-top for a family stroll, but I never hike with toddlers without certain essentials. A whistle attached to their jacket (taught to use only in emergencies, if they can help it), reflective strips on their outerwear, and a waterproof ID card with contact details tucked into their pocket have provided peace of mind on countless outdoor adventures. I also like to dress my kids in bright colours, so they can be seen easily.

Read: How to Use Walking Poles for Better Hiking in 2025

Must-Have Hiking Equipment for Primary School Children (Ages 4-8)

When I was searching for the best hiking gear for kids, looking at youth hiking backpacks for my 5-year-old was a game of trial and error. Look for adjustable chest straps, padded hip belts that sit on their hips (not their waist), and shoulder straps that don’t slip. My daughter’s pack has grown with her for three years now, with clever adjustable features that have saved me a small fortune.

Nothing ruins a family hike faster than wet, uncomfortable feet. Investing in the correct waterproof hiking boots with a decent grip means we no longer have complaints about cold, soggy feet. It also means I don’t have to worry if they jump in any puddles, knowing their feet will stay dry. Don’t be tempted to size up too much “for growing room”; I made this mistake, and the resulting blisters cut our Snowdonia trip short by a full day. I normally go up half a size, taking into account thicker socks they may wear.

The layering system that works for this age group is simple enough: a base layer (non-cotton), a mid-layer fleece, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Kids at this age run hot when they’re moving and cool down quickly when they stop, so use layers that can be easily removed.

Keeping kids hydrated on the trail is a constant battle, isn’t it? After watching my eldest ignore her water bottle for an entire hike, then complain of headaches, I switched to junior hydration packs with drinking tubes for all of my children. The novelty factor of drinking from a tube doubled their water intake almost immediately. I’ve found that bladders with at least 1 litre capacity work well, and the bite valves prevent the leaks that used to soak everything in their packs.

Weatherproof gear for kids is another important factor. After getting caught in an unexpected hailstorm in Wales with my daughter in just a light raincoat, we always make sure our packs contain:

• Packable down gilets for sudden temperature drops
• Waterproof gloves
• Good-quality rain covers for their backpacks

Read: 9 of the Best Hiking Apps of 2025

Advanced Hiking Gear for Older Children (Ages 9-12)

The transition to hiking gear for older children can mark a significant milestone in their outdoor adventures. Look for packs with 20-30 litre capacity, adjustable back systems, and compression straps that keep loads stable. Don’t scrimp on boots for this age group either. Children at this age are carrying more weight and tackling more challenging terrain, which means their footwear needs to provide substantial support.

Performance clothing made a noticeable difference to my friend’s nephew’s hiking comfort after he reached nine. Technical base layers, such as merino, and mid-layers designed specifically for hiking manage both temperature and moisture significantly better.

Basic survival, including child-friendly whistles and first aid items, can also be introduced at this stage. My friend’s 10-year-old daughter, who often hikes with us, has her own small first aid kit, a whistle, an emergency foil blanket, and a headtorch – all of which create a sense of responsibility.

The correct rain gear becomes non-negotiable for older children as they’re likely to be out in all conditions for longer periods. Jacket features worth paying extra for include adjustable hoods, waterproof zips, and ventilation options for when they’re working hard uphill. Cold-weather accessories like waterproof hiking gloves and moisture-wicking neck gaiters are good options, too.

Read: A Hiking Backpack Guide: 9 of the Best in 2025

Technical Gear for Teen Hikers (Ages 13-17)

The transition from kid’s gear to proper technical equipment is a major change for many families who enjoy hiking adventures. When searching for the best hiking gear for kids, look for packs with proper load-bearing hip belts (positioned differently than on adult packs), adjustable torso lengths, and harness systems that can be modified as they grow.

For teens tackling varied terrain, a mid-weight boot with good ankle support generally provides the best versatility. However, for specific conditions, the best hiking gear for kids should take into account appropriate specialisation—approach shoes for scrambling sections, waterproof boots with deep lugs for boggy conditions, or lighter trail runners for summer paths.

The best hiking gear for kids should include technical clothing systems that make a huge difference to teen hiking comfort and safety. For teens, look for the same technical features you’d want in adult gear—moisture-wicking fabrics, articulated joints for movement, and adjustability for changing conditions.

Advanced hydration and nutrition needs become apparent as teens tackle more challenging routes. Hydration reservoirs with two-three litre capacity, electrolyte supplements for hot weather, and nutrition that accounts for their significantly higher caloric needs are all worth considering. High-energy, lightweight, and palatable children’s trail snacks help maintain energy levels throughout challenging days.

Top Brands for Children’s Hiking Gear in 2025

After years of spending more money than I care to calculate, I’ve developed strong opinions about which brands deliver for young hikers. If you’re searching for the best hiking gear for kids, Mountain Warehouse is a great option to consider. They’ve remained our family’s go-to for everyday hiking basics that won’t break the bank. For parents just starting, their frequent sales make building a basic kit much more affordable.

Decathlon deserves special mention in the value category—their Quechua line has repeatedly surprised me with its performance-to-price ratio. My friend’s nephew’s Quechua MH500 boots outlasted pairs costing three times as much, and their children’s backpacks feature genuinely useful design elements created by people who understand what young hikers need.

For families serious about hiking, certain premium brands justify their higher price tags through significantly better performance and durability. Berghaus has impressed me with their children’s range—particularly their waterproof jackets that keep kids dry in persistent rain. Osprey’s youth packs are essentially scaled-down versions of their excellent adult equipment, with the same attention to load distribution and comfort. After watching my daughter’s Osprey pack survive years of rough treatment while remaining comfortable and functional, I’m convinced the initial investment was worth every penny.

Craghoppers, a British stalwart, produces children’s hiking trousers that withstand endless sliding down hillsides while remaining comfortable and quick-drying. For boots, I’ve found French maker Salomon’s junior hiking range offers the perfect balance of support and flexibility for developing feet, with sizing that accommodates growing feet without compromising stability.

For families watching their pennies (and who isn’t these days?), the best hiking gear for kids can be found with these budget-friendly options. Regatta’s higher-end children’s lines offer decent waterproofing and thoughtful design at accessible price points, especially during their frequent sales. Trespass has dramatically improved their children’s technical gear in recent years. For boots, Merrell’s children’s range frequently appears in outlet stores at substantial discounts despite offering excellent grip and support.

Little Trekkers is another consideration for the best hiking gear for kids that offers excellent breathable fabrics for children in a range of outdoor clothing.

Packing Checklists by Age Group and Hike Duration

For toddlers (1-3 years) on day hikes, the essentials remain mercifully simple:

• Weather-appropriate clothing with spare layers
• More nappies than you think you’ll need
• Gentle wipes that work for both bottoms and sticky hands
• Familiar snacks that won’t crumble everywhere
• A comfort item for inevitable meltdowns
• At least one complete clothing change
• Kid-sized hiking gloves

Primary school children (4-8 years) on day hikes can manage their own small packs with:

• A water bottle they can operate independently
• Personal snacks
• A lightweight waterproof jacket
• Sun hat
• A small treasure collection bag for interesting finds
• The adult pack for this age group still needs to accommodate spare clothes, first aid supplies, and additional water

For toddlers, I’ve found that packing outfits in complete sets within ziplock bags saves tremendous hassle when changing damp or muddy little ones. Primary schoolers can manage overnight essentials in their own 15-20 litre packs: pyjamas, toothbrush, comfort item, and perhaps a small responsibility item like their headtorch. Teens can handle most of their gear, but still benefit from guidance on efficient packing—rolling rather than folding clothes and using compression sacks for bulky items like sleeping bags.

Seasonal additions are necessary in our changeable British weather. For summer hikes, regardless of age, we never leave without sun protection (minimum SPF 30), insect repellent (the wipe-on type works brilliantly for wriggling toddlers), and additional water capacity. Autumn requires extra mid-layers as temperatures fluctuate dramatically, while winter demands winter gloves, warm hats that cover ears, and emergency heat sources like hand warmers.

Certain emergency items remain non-negotiable regardless of hike duration or child age. A first aid kit (not just a few plasters), emergency contact information, whistle, mobile phone with battery pack, and weather-appropriate emergency shelter option, such as a lightweight tarp, should accompany every family hike.

Final Thoughts on the Best Hiking Gear for Kids

Looking back on our family hiking adventures, I can confidently say that the best hiking gear for kids has been the single most influential factor in our outdoor success. The transformation from those early disaster hikes—with tears, blisters, and soaked clothing—to our recent three-day hike around Devon, where everyone remained comfortable, safe, and enthusiastic, was primarily down to having the right equipment.

Finding that sweet spot between quality, safety, and budget constraints remains the eternal challenge for parents. After years of both penny-pinching mistakes and unnecessary splurges, I’ve learned that certain items simply shouldn’t be compromised on—the correct footwear, effective waterproofing, and well-fitted backpacks make or break the experience. Other items can be acquired gradually, borrowed for occasional use, or purchased second-hand without significant downsides.

Building your family’s hiking kit gradually makes both financial and practical sense. Start with the absolute essentials for your most common adventures when searching for the best hiking gear for kids—for most British families, that means good waterproof boots for kids, children’s hiking clothes, and waterproof layers!—and expand as your explorations become more ambitious.

For more outdoor inspiration, check out our related guides:

• The Best Guide to Solo Camping: Top Tips for Beginners in 2025
• The Best Camping Checklist for 2025: Essential Gear You Need
• The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Wales in 2025

Happy travels!

Have you found this best hiking gear for kids guide helpful? What else would you include to make it an enjoyable experience for everyone? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s continue building this community of family adventure-seekers together!

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