Gear Review: Hi-Tec Total Terrain Mid Waterproof Jr.
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Hi-Tec not only makes great gear for adults, but kids too (see our previous review of the Women’s Harmony Mid here.) We put these boots through the fool-proof test of keeping up with an active kid. J played in them, wore them daily, hiked in them, climbed in them and jumped in them (a lot.) They went through mud, snow, and streams, and up and down mountains. While I can certainly see the value in velcro or quick elastic for getting kids’ boots on and off quickly, the tie laces mean a perfect and suppo
rtive fit. I am firm believer in quality footwear (yep, even for kids) and have no problem buying shoes that are being handed down (again and again), used OR new!
What we loved:
- Completely waterproof (unless the water goes up and over the boots, of course!)
- Solid construction
- Stitched tip of shoe that translates into no peeling of the different parts (which seems to be a big issue for kids’ shoes in general)
- They GROW WITH THE KID! I was a slightly ambitious mom when we ordered these, and J was wearing a size 10 shoe on a size 8 (and that’s generous) foot. He managed fine because of the fact that the sole flexes well and they provide tons of support. Eight months later he is still wearing the boots because of their “Big-Fit” system which allows an insole to be removed and gives more room to grow. He’ll definitely be wearing these for a few more months (if not all winter long!) Find out more about the “Big-Fit” system here.
- Despite the fact that he has worn these boots for nearly 8 months now, they show little sign of wear (besides the aforementioned laces.) Plenty more adventures in them for him (and a few kids after him.)
- The colors are great for hiding dirt AND the shoe cleans up really easily.
What we weren’t so crazy about:
- The laces. Yes, they are easily replaceable, but I am someone that doesn’t want to HAVE to change out laces. The are way too long for the shoe, rounded (and so come untied easier) and are the only part of the shoe coming apart.
- They are a bit heavy/”beefy” as far as kids’ shoes go (when compared to the ultra-light shoes most toddlers wear) BUT, J never complained, walked different or even noticed. Apparently it isn’t an issue.
Do you have favorite hiking boots for kids? Do you think kids NEED special hiking shoes/boots?? Anyone else love Hi-Tec?
Hi-Tec generously provided us these boots to review. However, as always, the opinions expressed here are completely and honestly our own.
The Bottom Line
Some of the best kids' hiking boots I have seen. Durable, solid, quality boots! Worth every dollar.
We love M’s new Hi-Tec hiking boots (Altitude IV Jr. Approach Boots)! I believe that whether or not kids need hiking boots depends on what they are doing. We regularly hit trails that I wouldn’t do without hiking boots on my feet so I wouldn’t send my son on those same trails without the support and traction of hikers on his feet. Kids who never do more than a groomed path at a park wouldn’t need hikers. It’s all about gearing up for what you’re doing.
My five-year-old son has been wearing his pair of Hi-Tec hiking boots for the last nine months. Love them! Time for us to get a new pair within the next month or two…