Encouraging your child to be active and spend time outside has numerous benefits: physically, mentally, and emotionally. The easiest way to get your kids to enjoy time outside is by making sure they’re comfortable as they’re running from here to there. This selection of youth running shoes is built specifically for little ones who are still growing. With durable, lightweight models that offer ample cushion and protection, you kids won’t ever want to come back inside. Offered in a myriad of bright, bold colors and both lace-up and slip-on options, you can be sure to find the perfect running sneaker for your kid at every age.
Table of Contents
7 Best Youth Running Shoes for Girls & Boys (2025 Reviews)
Best Youth Running Shoes for Girls & Boys
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1. Littleplum Running Athletic Shoes
(Best lightweight — $)
Why it’s great: Made from air-mesh fabric with ultra-lightweight support, the Littleplum Running Athletic Shoes allow your children to run freely without heavy sneakers weighing them down. These youth running shoes have a rubber outsole with anti-slip grip plus a memory foam interior for ultimate comfort. The sleek, stylish design makes these shoes perfect for the field or the classroom.
Keep in mind: The toe area is not reinforced and may cause the top mesh to wear out if exposed to a lot of friction.
Good for: Kids who are light on their feet and don’t want a sneaker that could weigh them down.
![Littleplum Running Athletic Shoes]()
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2. HOBIBEAR Kids Breathable Knit Running Shoes
(Most breathable — $)
Why it’s great: These running sneakers for kids are made from a sporty, woven fabric that lets air in and out of the shoe, keeping feet cool and protected. The HOBIBEAR Kids Breathable Knit Running Shoes feature an alternative closure with hook and loop fastening in addition to a rugged outsole for running on a variety of surfaces. The flexible and shock-absorbing EVA midsole supports feet and ankles during high-impact movements.
Keep in mind: The velcro may wear out over time if it continually gets caught on other fabrics.
Good for: Warm climates or kids who run hot and need a sneaker that lets their feet breathe.
![HOBIBEAR Kids Breathable Knit Running Shoes]()
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3. adidas Unisex Children’s Ultraboost 21 Running Shoes
(Best unisex option — $$$)
Why it’s great: The sleek, gender-neutral color options of the Adidas Unisex Children’s Ultraboost 21 Running Shoes makes this an exceptional option for sneakers that both boys and girls will love. These youth running shoes offer a durable rubber sole that provides enough traction to avoid slipping in addition to comfortable materials around the foot. From bold, bright colors to subdued neutrals, this running shoe has an array of choices to appease your kids.
Keep in mind: These shoes run on the smaller side. Consider sizing up if your child is between sizes or growing quickly.
Good for: Parents looking for a shoe that can be passed down between siblings that work for both genders.
![adidas Unisex Children’s Ultraboost 21 Running Shoes]()
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4. EGMPDA Athletic Running Shoes
(Best slip-on — $)
Why it’s great: The unique slip-on design featuring a bungee cord for tightening makes these running sneakers easy for little fingers to take on and off. The EGMPDA Athletic Running Shoes offer a breathable mesh upper layer that’s supportive and won’t overheat little feet. The sole boasts shock absorption, protecting little bones and joints during big, powerful movements.
Keep in mind: These sneakers come on the wider side and may be too large for children with narrow feet.
Good for: Independent kids who want a running shoe they can quickly and easily put on and take off independently.
![EGMPDA Athletic Running Shoes]()
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5. Under Armour Unisex Asset 9 Running Shoe
(Best color selection — $$)
Why it’s great: From all black to a rainbow of neons, the Under Armour Unisex Asset 9 Running Shoe is sure to align with your child’s fashion sense. The upper portion is constructed from a completely breathable mesh while the durable leather overlay provides stability and longevity. The solid rubber outsole covers high-impact zones so this shoe won’t wear out in overused points.
Keep in mind: The narrow design of these sneakers may cause them to be tighter on children with wide feet. Consider sizing up or ordering a wide size if between sizes.
Good for: Kids who are particular about the color and patterns on their running shoes.
![Under Armour Unisex Asset 9 Running Shoe]()
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6. ASICS Kids’ Gel-Venture 7 Grade School Running Shoes
(Best cushioned sole — $$)
Why it’s great: The uniquely designed rearfoot GEL technology cushioning system on this youth running shoe helps absorb shock during your child’s big movements. The solid rubber outsole on the ASICS Kids’ Gel-Venture 7 Grade School Running Shoes enhances durability and traction while the upper portion includes mesh openings to allow for airflow. This running shoe boasts excellent moisture management for sweaty kids so their feet can stay cool, no matter what the temperature is.
Keep in mind: These running shoes are very grippy and may cause feet to feel too “sticky” when making quick movements.
Good for: Active kids who need extra support and a soft landing during high-impact activities, like running, jumping, and playing sports.
![ASICS Kids’ Gel-Venture 7 Grade School Running Shoes]()
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7. Nike Unisex Child Star Running
(Most flexible sole — $$)
Why it’s great: The Nike Unisex Child Star Running has a grooved rubber sole that provides optimal flexibility, allowing for a full range of movement. These youth running sneakers have extra foam around the collar and on the tongue for added comfort. Plus, the soft midsole foam ensures improved cushioning and support.
Keep in mind: Pay attention to which model and color shoe you pick, as some of these sneakers offer a velcro strap while others just have laces.
Good for: Kids who want a shoe that allows for a full range of motion of their feet.
![Nike Unisex Child Star Running]()
Best Overall
Littleplum Running Athletic Shoes
The Littleplum Running Athletic Shoes is our overall top recommendation. It's the highest quality product we have found with the most affordable price making it the best value on our list..
FAQs about Youth Running Shoes for Girls & Boys
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1. What should I look for in a running shoe for my child?
When selecting a running shoe for your child, look for lightweight materials that won’t weigh them down as well as durable fabrics that can hold up against dirt, rocks, and puddles. Since most kids run on a variety of surfaces throughout the day, from the playground to the gymnasium to the field, opt for a running sneaker that helps support feet and ankles and grips a variety of surfaces.
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2. How is a running shoe different from other types of sneakers?
Unlike casual sneakers, running sneakers are typically made with lighter-weight materials that allow for quicker movements. They also provide more cushion and support to avoid your child hurting their bones and joints during high-impact activities.
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3. What size running shoes does my kid need?
The most precise way to know your child’s current shoe size is to visit a shoe store and have them professionally fitted. You can also print out a sizing guide to measure your child’s foot. Keep in mind their shoe size is continually changing and they need larger shoes multiple times a year, especially when used in high-impact activities like running which cause feet to slightly swell.
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4. How can I keep my children’s running sneakers looking clean?
Investing in a shoe cleaner designed for the particular material of your child’s shoe can help get our mud, grass, and food stains. A mild detergent on a damp microfiber cloth can also help keep shoes clean.
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5. Should I opt for laces or slip-on running shoes for my kids?
There are pros and cons to different types of shoes. Lace-up shoes can often provide a more secure fit but may be difficult for younger children to get on independently. Slip-on shoes can be taken on and off easily but might not be as stable during high-impact activities.
Conclusion
Running sneakers for kids is one of the most important investments you can make in your children’s attire. After all, kids spend the majority of their day on their feet running around. This selection of youth running shoes is created for not only comfort but to also guarantee that your kids’ feet are protected and supported. Flexible soles, lightweight construction, and durable materials can withstand rough, active play and you can rest easy knowing your little one’s shoes won’t ever slow them down. The wide range of styles and designs means your children can find the shoe perfectly tailored to their particular feet in addition to their level of activity. Offered in a rainbow of colors and patterns, picking out new running shoes will eliminate a parent battle as these options please kids and caregivers alike.
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