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Choosing a solid pair of running shoes is especially important when it comes to shopping for feet that are still growing and developing. First, it’s important to measure your little one’s feet, since ill-fitting shoes can cause foot and posture problems down the line. In addition to finding the proper fit, look for styles that are lightweight and breathable with ample cushioning and support. These tend to include features like mesh knit uppers, memory foam cushioning and hook-and-loop velcro straps that offer a locked-in feel. Styles with velcro are especially great for toddler boys, as the can easily take the pairs on and off themselves.
For an added bonus, pairs featuring anti-odor linings help prevent shoes from stinking.
Since there are tons of running shoes for boys on the market, we’ve curated 15 great options to narrow down your search. Some are also available in adult sizes, so you can match with your mini-me if you so desire.
From simple styles to bold, brightly colored pairs, shop 15 great running shoes for boys from top athletic brands like Nike, Under Armour, Adidas and more.
Nike Air Zoom Arcadia Sneaker
Nike’s Air Zoom Arcadia has a breathable mesh upper and a visible Zoom Air unit with soft foam cushioning for a bouncy feel. Meanwhile, added cushioning around the ankle makes them more comfortable and supportive and the rubber soles deliver dependable traction.
Adidas Swift Run X Sneaker
Offering a retro ’80s-inspired look, Adidas’ Swift Run X features a sock-like knit pull-on upper with welded 3-Stripes and lightweight EVA cushioning. It’s also fixed with a removable OrthoLite insole for a premium feel underfoot.
Saucony Flash Glow 2.0 A/C Light-Up Sneaker
Not only does the Saucony Flash 2.0 A/C Light-Up Sneaker have an adjustable hook-and-loop strap with elastic laces, but it also boasts a playful light-up sole to make every step more fun. What’s more, it contains an antimicrobial lining engineered to hinder the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
New Balance Kids Rave Run Sneaker
For kiddos in need of a roomier fit, look no further than New Balance’s Rave Run Sneaker. Available in wide and extra-wide widths, the design offers a breathable no-sew mesh upper, mesh lining and an IMEVA midsole for cushioning underfoot. It also has durable rubber outsoles and slightly larger pull-on tab than most pairs.
Puma RS-Fast Courtside Junior Sneakers
These colorblock Puma RS-Fast Courtside Junior Sneakers feature a breathable mesh upper with suede and leather overlays for added support and durability. They sit atop a lightweight cushioned midsole and rubber outsoles offering reliable traction and grip.
Skechers Vortex Flash Sneaker
Also designed with a stay-put closure, Skechers’ Vortex Flash Sneaker has a breathable, flexible mesh upper with supportive 3D-printed overlays and flashing light-up accents for extra fun. It’s also equipped with responsive midsole cushioning and grippy rubber soles with visible technology that frames the midfoot strike zone for enhanced traction.
Asics Kids GT-1000 10 GS Sneaker
Does your little man have flat feet? If so, we recommend the Asics GT-1000 10 GS made to support low arches to enhance his posture and ensure a more comfortable stride. Mesh in the upper offers breathability while the midsole unit is layered with a combination of EVA foam and Gel technology for better shock absorption.
Stride Rite Made2Play Ashton Sneaker
Stride Rite’s Made2Play Ashton Sneaker can take a beating thanks to an abrasion-resistant PU casting detail on the mesh upper. It also has a a memory foam footbed, antimicrobial lining and lightweight EVA outsole with rubber pods for traction. A hook-and-look closure completes the look.
Champion Hyper C Equal Running Sneaker
Champion’s Hyper C Equal Running Sneaker offers slip-on ease with an ankle collar featuring contrast pull tabs and crossover logo straps for a secure fit. The lace-free mesh style also features cushioned EVA midsoles and grooved rubber outsoles with a logo tread pattern for grip.
Fila Crater 19 Stay-Put Sneaker
You can also count on Fila’s Crater 19 Stay-Put Sneakers to lend comfort and support. They feature a breathable mesh upper with a convenient hook-and-loop strap, cushioned midsoles and soft fabric linings. Grippy rubber outsoles offer durable traction.
Under Armour Pre-School Assert 8 Running Shoe
Coming in a wide variety of colorways, Under Armour’s Pre-School Assert 8 Running Shoe has it all: a breathable mesh construction with supportive leather overlays, a soft EVA sockliner, cushioned EVA midsoles and rubber outsoles designed for greater durability with less weight. It also features a supportive hook-and-loop closure.
Reebok Rush Runner Alt Sneaker
A lightweight, breathable mesh upper, cushiony EVA midoles and criss-cross patterned outsoles work together to make these Reebok Rush Runner Alt Sneakers ultra-comfy. Meanwhile, the hook-and-look strap adds support.
Tommy Hilfiger Cadet Strap Running Shoe
Tommy Hilfiger’s Cadet Strap Running Shoe is designed with an exceptionally tough ballistic nylon upper, a hook-and-loop strap, memory foam cushioning and grippy outsoles.
Merrell Trail Chaser Sneaker
Made to take on the great outdoors, Merrell’s Trail Chaser has flexible, non-marking M Select Grip outsoles. What’s more, it boasts a breathable mesh upper with durable leather overlays, cushy EVA footbed and hook-and-loop closure for a snug fit.
Columbia Pivot Shoe
Columbia’s Pivot Shoe featuring Omni-Grip non-marking traction rubber outsoles is also ideal for the trail as well as the playground. The style also boasts a breathable mesh upper with durable synthetic overlays, an elastic bungee lacing system for easy on and off, and Techlite cushioned midsoles for long-lasting comfort and high energy return.
