Northside Unisex Child Freemont Waterproof Hiking Boot Review
The Northside Unisex-Child Freemont Waterproof Hiking Boot is not just a footwear option; it's a gateway to adventure for your young explorers. Crafted with a blend of ruggedness and style, these boots are designed to withstand the elements while keeping your child comfortable in various outdoor settings. Whether it's a local trail or a camping weekend, these boots promise to deliver.
Featuring a robust suede and nylon upper, reinforced with abrasion-resistant materials, the Freemont boots ensure long-lasting durability. The inclusion of a sealed membrane paired with a topical spray guarantees that little feet stay dry, even when encountering unexpected puddles during hikes. Additionally, the moisture-wicking lining works diligently to prevent sweat accumulation, ensuring maximum comfort throughout the day.
Features
- Stylish and lightweight design: Perfect for day trips and weekend hikes.
- Waterproof: Sealed membrane and topical spray keep feet dry.
- Durable construction: Rugged suede and nylon with abrasion-resistant reinforcements.
- Moisture-wicking lining: Keeps feet dry and comfortable.
- Removable EVA insole: Offers customizable comfort.
- Quick lace-up closure: Ensures a secure fit with ease.
- Excellent traction: Ideal for various outdoor conditions.
Pros
- Exceptional waterproofing keeps feet dry in any weather.
- Durable materials that handle rough use.
- Comfort-enhancing features like cushioned insoles and padded collars.
- Great traction for stability on different terrains.
- Easy adjustment with quick lace-up system.
Cons
- A bit on the heavier side compared to some lightweight alternatives.
- Limited colour options may not appeal to all kids.
- Sizing can run slightly large, so trying them on is recommended.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Northside Freemont | KEEN Kids Targhee Waterproof | Merrell Kids Moab Adventure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Material | Suede/Nylon | Leather/Synthetic | Mesh/Leather |
| Weight | Moderate | Heavy | Lightweight |
| Traction | Excellent | Good | Very Good |
| Padded Collar | Yes | Yes | No |
Detailed Review
The Northside Freemont Waterproof Hiking Boot stands out in the realm of children's outdoor footwear due to its thoughtful combination of comfort, durability, and functionality. When you first slip these boots on, you will notice the balance they strike between being sturdy yet lightweight, allowing young adventurers to maneuver easily over rocky trails and grassy fields.
One of the standout aspects of these boots is their waterproof capability. With a sealed membrane and topical spray, the Freemont boots ensure your child's feet remain dry during rain-soaked adventures. This feature is particularly valuable for unpredictable weather conditions, making them a reliable choice for parents wanting to keep their kids dry.
In terms of comfort, the removable EVA insole provides necessary cushioning for extended wear, while the compression-molded midsole adds an additional layer of support. The padded collar further enhances comfort by supporting the ankle, which can be crucial for active children navigating uneven terrains.
Traction is another area where these boots excel. The dual-color TPR traction outsole grants excellent grip, helping to prevent slips and falls during excursions, whether on wet rocks or muddy paths. This means more confidence for your child as they explore their surroundings.
While the Northside Freemont boots do have minor drawbacks, such as being slightly heavier than some lightweight models, their protective features and overall performance in various outdoor conditions make them an outstanding investment for any young explorer.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | 4.5/5 | Built with high-quality materials for lasting use. |
| Comfort | 4.7/5 | Cushioned and supportive for all-day wear. |
| Waterproofing | 5/5 | Effectively keeps feet dry in wet conditions. |
| Traction | 4.8/5 | Excellent grip on various terrains. |
| Style | 4.3/5 | Modern design appealing to kids. |
User Reviews
These are great quality boots for the price. I ordered another pair of Northside boots for my son to try on as well, and these ones seem to be of better quality. He's worn them everyday for a month, and so far so good. He is really hard on shoes, so I'm pleased that they're still in great shape. I initially ordered size 5 and 6, since I was unsure of what size would fit him. I was shocked when I had to return both and order size 7. He does have a wide foot pad and narrow heel, but I believe these run smaller than the norm. He loves them and says they're comfortable. I definitely recommend!
The hikers looked good but they sent me the wrong size 3. Looked like it would almost fit an adult.Disappointed by that.
We liked these so much, we just bought a second pair after our 5 year old outgrew the first. They fit true to size, are very durable and good quality, and our kiddo says they're comfortable.
We live in the woods and I have a big family. I try to buy play shoes that will last and even be able to passed down to the younger kids. I am also cheap, which sometimes poses a problem, haha. This is my third time buying these hiking boots so I can confidently say they are worth the money if you’re looking for a product that will last. Other cheaper hiking boots in the $30 range tend to be poorly glued at the toe, but these soles have not fallen apart at the toe or the sides in over a year of constant (almost daily) use of climbing around in the woods and mountainous terrain.
Perfect for camping. They stay dry inside unlike other popular brands I got my other daughters. They are a bit bulky and clunky but that doesn’t bother my 6 year old. Great value for the money as well. Highly recommend.
I ordered these boots for my son who is 12 and admittedly rough on his shoes. I am constantly on the lookout for a well made, long (ish) lasting, reasonably priced shoe for him... and that seems like what most parents are looking for, to be honest.I paid $42.71 in early October 2018 for the "Dark Gray/red, 7 Medium US Big Kid" and the seller was Amazon. I also purchased these for $49.99. at the same time ( https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HZ0ENM4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1&psc=1When the order arrived, I was impressed with the rubber soles and high quality feel to both pairs of boots. I was excited! I had finally found a quality/reasonably priced shoe. The boy said they were very comfortable, no break in was needed and they were attractive as well.I'm writing this review 4 months later and I can tell you that my excitement has faded completely on this pair. There is a hole on the top of the shoe near the big toe and the tread has worn off to the extent that I am looking for another pair of shoes for him because they won't last the rest of the winter... and with the hole in the toe, they are no longer waterproof.On the converse of these shoes, the other Northside Junior Tracker boots I purchased for my other son have been terrific. Again, he said that they were very comfortable, no break in and they have lasted as his only pair of shoes for 4 months and counting. They have been as good as any Merrell shoes we've had. Consider the Junior Tracker boots over these Hiking Shoes.
I like these. Maybe I like them too much, because the soles don't hold up.
My boys are goat-monkeys and eat through hiking boots. These are durable and will last all season (this is our 2nd set since we outgrew last year's). Good grip, which is important for bouldering and loose gravel on steep slopes.