Spring 2025 Running Shoe Guide
May 9, 2025
Spring 2025 Kids Running Shoe Guide
I’ve been testing kids running sneakers for over nine years now, and happy to report out my current favorites among the many offerings in the kid’s run shoe market. Rest assured I received no compensation for these reviews or my opinions; and all shoes were purchased at retail price (or sale price!!). Note: I do not purchase Nike sneakers for myself or my family, so you’ll likely never see a Nike shoe review on Running Peas. Brand values matter deeply to me and after many years competing in the professional/semi-professional track and field world, I can say with confidence: Nike is not a good neighbor. (If you're curious why, for one example just google "Allyson Felix maternity pay".) But that's a topic for another Running Note.
The kids shoe market is currently FLOODED with options, which honestly is a blessing and a curse. You now have access to incredible tech in tiny sizes, but it can also feel overwhelming. With all these options, how does a parent choose? I struggled with these choices starting when my kids were very young! Yes, I was the parent placing tiny running shoes on barely mobile tiny feet!! 😬 After many years of trial and error, here’s what I prioritize: Durability. Construction. Price.
💪 Durability
Sneakers come in all sorts of lightweight materials these days, and most include a breathable mesh upper—which is generally sufficient. But over the years, I’ve had more than a few pairs break down far too quickly, especially in the toe box, where fabric tends to wear thin after just a few months of consistent use. Toes start poking through, or the heel begins separating from the upper (New Balance, I’m looking at you).
I always look for a durable, lightweight mesh, and the best I’ve seen so far comes from ASICS kids running sneakers. They strike that perfect balance of breathability, flexibility and resilience.
🚩Construction
To foam or not to foam—that is my question! As a longtime runner, I’ve watched the rise of “fresh foam” with mixed feelings. This soft, squishy cushioning—widely used in New Balance models and others under different names—does offer immediate comfort. And yes, if you’re looking for a walking shoe or a casual-use runner, it’ll feel great.
But too much squish comes at a cost: stability. I avoid overly soft shoes for my kids because they simply don’t need all that foam. What they do need is a flexible, stable shoe that helps them respond to the ground and develop strong foot muscles. Kids benefit most from a shoe that keeps up with their quick movements and supports natural foot development—not one that feels like a marshmallow. Save those for the post run s’mores. 😋
💲Price Point
Let’s be honest—adult running shoes are expensive, and now kids’ shoes are creeping up too. The key is to find a shoe that’s worth the investment: something that lasts. I recently took a chance on the HOKA Mach 6 for my son (yes, pricey—even on sale), and so far, they’re holding up. Time will tell if they’re worth it, but they’ve passed the initial durability test.
Ideally, you want a durable, responsive shoe—not overly squishy—at a reasonable price. A $50–$75 pair might seem like a splurge, but if it lasts twice as long as a cheaper one, it’s money well spent.
One quick note: I didn’t purchase or review On kids running shoes. When I tested them in-store, I could barely flex the sole—too stiff for my liking, and the kids didn’t like the feel either. On is still relatively new to the adult running market, so I assume their kids’ offerings are still evolving.
I also steer clear of Under Armour and Adidas kids shoes for similar reasons—not enough structure or support in the models I’ve tested.
So without further ado—here are my top recommendations for Spring 2025 Kids Running Shoes. 👟 🏃
👟 1. ASICS GEL-NOOSA TRI 16
Weight: ~7.1 oz (kids size 3)
Price Paid: $49.95 (on sale Asics.com)
Heel Drop: ~8.5mm
This shoe continues to impress me, season after season. ASICS has figured out how to build a lightweight, breathable, and ridiculously durable kids’ sneaker—especially in the toe box area, which is where most shoes fail. The upper on the TRI 16 is an engineered mesh that doesn’t break down after many months of run club, school, and all other after school and weekend activities. They wear especially well in rainy and wet conditions without suffering the usual breakdown in the upper mesh.
The GEL cushioning in the heel gives just enough bounce for comfort but doesn’t overdo it in the squish department. The ride is responsive, stable, and flexible—exactly what growing feet need. Construction is better than most “performance” kids shoes I’ve seen, but does tend to be a bit heavier than other kid’s running shoes.
👟 2. HOKA Mach 6 (Kids Version)
Weight: ~6.7 oz (big kids size 6.5)
Price Paid: $110 (full price!)
Heel Drop: 4.0mm
Yes, the price made me wince. But these Mach 6s were the first pair of running shoes my son asked to wear even when we weren’t going anywhere. The upper is sleek and breathable, and the full-length midsole foam is comfortable without being overly squishy or adding an absurd amount of height to the shoe. According to my son, it feels comfortable and light all day at school and right through after-school and evening activities.
Durability has been solid so far—no outsole peeling or fabric tears, and they also wear really well in wet conditions without breaking down. The rubberized outsole provides solid grip on pavement and track surfaces. While it's not a trail shoe, it can handle light off-road detours without slipping. These shoes remind me of my own trainers, without feeling overly adult-like, perfect for my almost 10 year old.
👟 3. Saucony Kinvara 14 A/C
Weight: ~6.1 (estimated- kids size 3.5)
Price Paid: $51 (price with Saucony email signup discount)
Heel Drop: ?
The Kinvara line is a longtime favorite in adult racing circles, and this kid’s version keeps that same DNA. The Kinvara 14 A/C is feather-light, breathable, and zero fuss. The mesh is durable - last year my son somehow took chunks out of the side mesh and still kept right on running in them! With that being said, the mesh upper did tend to break down quicker than other shoes we’ve worn. Flexible lace structure plus velcro make for a fast morning routine (thank you, Saucony 🙏), and the fit is snug but forgiving. It’s a lower-to-the-ground ride, with decent cushion but no excessive foam.
If you have a nimble, fast-moving kid who loves to move—this is the one. Bonus- bold, fun color choices! My daughter is currently wearing orange Kinvara's.
👟 4. New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4
Weight: ~6.1 oz (kids size 3)
Price Paid: $59.99 (newbalance.com)
Heel Drop: ~8mm
New Balance makes a great entry level running shoe for kids. Low maintenance, and no fuss with lots of options for colors and easy on/off options. As you know, I have opinions about Fresh Foam, but I do understand its appeal—cushy and soft will feel great to kids. And I will also say that I am a big fan of New Balance running shoes in general; I’ve been training in them for over ten years now.
But: the toe box mesh will wear out faster than most sneakers and as I’ve said, the heal could separate from the upper with extended wear. Overall, a good entry level running shoe for kids doing light activity or lots of walking. But if your kid is pounding the playground or putting in miles, you’ll want something tougher.
🏁 Final Thoughts
If I had to rank them for Spring 2025:
1. ASICS GEL-NOOSA TRI 16 – Most durable, balanced, versatile- and so vibrant!
2. Saucony Kinvara 14 A/C – Best lightweight, flexible daily runner.
3. HOKA Mach 6 – Best high-performance foam shoe, but pricey.
4. NB Arishi v4 – Best intro to the kids running shoe market, not great for heavy wear.
In all my years of purchasing running shoes for my kids, I didn’t think I’d ever find a more impressive kids’ sneaker than the Saucony Kinvara—until I met the ASICS GEL-NOOSA TRI. I’ll admit, I was hesitant at first. The name made me think it was designed only for kids competing in triathlons (a bit misleading!). But once I got past that, I was completely won over by its lightweight yet incredibly durable design—a rare combination in kids’ shoes.
It’s tough to find a shoe this rugged without the extra bulk. I typically avoid heavy, overbuilt sneakers for kids—they just don’t need that much! The GEL-NOOSA TRI holds up impressively: after eight months of regular wear from run club, school, and daily chaos, they still look nearly new. And I’ll be honest- I really like the design and color choices of the GEL-NOOSA, very fun.
Bonus: ASICS thoughtfully designed this model for younger runners too, including a Velcro strap for easy on and off—something I so appreciate during hectic mornings.
I’ll continue testing as the year goes on, but if you’re looking to buy smart this spring, these four models are your best bet for balancing comfort, durability, and cost.
Happy spring running,
– Joanie
Proud Mom and Founder of Running Peas