My son is 12, already in size 13 so I hate to spend a ton of money on a pair of boots. I'm thinking classic rubber knee boots coupled with his running shoes. I know it would be nice to have some ankle support and myself I hate rubber boots but he seems to love wearing them. Any suggestions?

LaCrosse neoprene boots work for me, I'm also a 13 shoe size, and he's a 12 year old? What are you feeding him? :)

Whatever he wants!

Lacross Grange boots give good ankle support for a rubber boot. I like them with a felt insole. And Don't forget merino wool (70% or more) socks no matter what shoe. Especially when not summer.

I think ankle support is overrated, especially in growing children. A strong, well developed joint will do just fine. Artificial support lends itself to the atrophy of the necessary strength and flexibility of the joint. So, economy rubber barn boots would be fine as long as they don't chafe.

Thanks for the replies, I think as long as we stick with a good sock chafing shouldn't be an issue. I am a huge fan of darn tough merino socks. Really help to keep the feet dry!

quote Unas10: "I think ankle support is overrated, especially in growing children. A strong, well developed joint will do just fine. Artificial support lends itself to the atrophy of the necessary strength and flexibility of the joint. So, economy rubber barn boots would be fine as long as they don't chafe."

I disagree with that sentiment.

My ankle problems started at a very young age. My first severely sprained ankle happened in first grade, and I had 3-4 sprained ankles a year while playing sports and hiking until I discovered high-top sneakers in high school.

On a hike in Colorado at the age of 11 or 12, I rolled my ankle and fell down no less than 7 times because I was wearing regular low-cut sneakers not designed for trail hiking. This was carrying no more weight than a day pack with my lunch and a canteen. If I had been carrying a canoe, I might have been killed. (Ace Ventura quote paraphrased.)

If I had worn better shoes from a young age, I'd have much stronger ankles now.

If you are interested in cheap rubber boots, I recommend Servus non-steel toe, which are available at Fleet Farm for under $20. I've used these in the BWCA for the last 12 trips or so and been quite happy. Strangely I found brand does matter. I also tried a pair of Tingleys and hated them. They were much, much more stiff and difficult to walk in.

I do like to add a good quality insole (about another $20), which gives my arch more support, provides more insulation (if cold), and most importantly provides a better "cup" for the ball of my foot. I may change some day, but have been quite content in these from April to October.

for what it is worth - back in the 70s, I did one of my first trips in canvas sneekers. No problems at all.

We like Bog boots. They seem somewhat sturdy and aren't too slippery on rocks.

I think the ankle support issue is going to vary from person to person. If he has ankle problems, get support. For a 12 year old with size 13's....I would be strongly tempted to go cheap until he stops growing. walmart boots if they have them. you will be throwing/giving them away in 3 months anyway!