Shoe Recommendations for Haena State Park?

Question

We’ll be visiting Haena State Park at the end of March with our 14, 12, and 8 year old. Any shoe type recommendations, as I hear the terrain is steep and can be slippery? Would love specific brand and shoe types, if you found some that work, for both adults and kids. With our 8 year old, we probably won’t hike far, maybe max 2 miles in, but still want to be prepared. Thanks!

Answer

Haena State Park on Kauai features lush trails, steep inclines, and often muddy or slippery terrain, especially in March when rainfall can make paths slick. Choosing the right footwear is crucial for both safety and comfort, especially with children.

For adults, shoes should provide good traction, ankle support, and water resistance or quick-drying materials. Consider lightweight hiking shoes or trail runners rather than heavy boots, as the trails are relatively short but require good grip on uneven surfaces.

Adults:
- Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof – Offers solid traction and support, breathable, and durable for wet conditions.
- Salomon X Ultra 4 – Lightweight trail shoe with excellent grip, comfortable for steep and slippery trails.
- Columbia Redmond Waterproof – Versatile, good for short hikes and light mud or stream crossings.
Kids:
- Merrell Moab 2 Kids Waterproof – Durable, supportive, and designed for traction on trails.
- Keen Newport H2 Sandals – Great for younger kids if the trail is damp or involves stream crossings; open design dries quickly but still has a grippy sole.
- Salomon Trailster or XA Pro for kids – Good for older children who can handle a snug fit and need traction on slippery paths.

Additional tips for hiking Haena with children and a limited distance plan:

Bring extra socks or shoes if the trail is muddy or involves stream crossings.
Use trekking poles or walking sticks if anyone has balance concerns.
Wear moisture-wicking socks to avoid blisters from wet conditions.
Plan for short hikes, as the youngest may tire quickly; focus on viewpoints and stream crossings rather than the full trail length.
Water shoes can be a backup if your group wants to explore shallow streams or beach areas nearby.

Overall, the key is traction, comfort, and water-resistance. Prioritize lightweight, grippy shoes for both adults and kids, and plan for breaks and shorter distances to accommodate your 8-year-old while enjoying the lush beauty of Haena State Park safely.