Toddler (4yr old boy) Hiking boots (mid-top) or hiking/ trail running shoes?

Hello!

I've have been taking my 4yr old boy (size 10 tollder shoe) to the crags more and more, and he is starting to scramble around on rocks a lot these days. Currently, he is wearing a pair of keen sneakers, but seems to slip/slide more than I would expect. Our son is on the autistic spectrum, so his gross motor skills are a 'little behind.'

So, I'm curious and hoping if anyone has input on what type of hiking shoe is best? Would you recommend a hiking boot, mid-top not high top, or a normal hiking / trail running shoe?

I don't know if the weight on a mid/top boot may be too much, or if the trail running shoe wouldn't give him the better ankle support when he's scrambling around on low angle rock as much as a mid-top would?

Any information and advice much appreciated!

Here is one at REI I am looking at.

When I was at a gear shop the Vasque Breeze was really popular in the children's sizes.

My kids absolutely love these (4&6). They're light, comfortable, and great for scrambling:

merrell.com/US/en-US/Produc…

I would stop by the local thrift stores. You would be amazed at what you can find and the money you will save. My perspective is that $60 or $75 is way too much to spend for a kids shoe that will be too small in a few months. At that age I don't think he will tell the difference between boots or trail runners. Just get a shoe that fits.

Whatever you decide, good luck with your purchase.