In my opinion for beginning hikers, no kids don't need hiking boots. Buy shoes that make your kids feet happy and start living your best outdoor life. As you advance and take on longer or more difficult hikes, a pair of good hiking boots becomes invaluable. I wore a vented trail runner instead of thick hiking boots on a long and dusty hike in Arizona. The sand got into the mesh of my shoes and by the time we got to camp I had several blisters on each foot.