Best Shoes for Back to School Week
February 05, 2026
With the kids heading back to school for a new year of learning, it's time to renew their classroom wardrobes. From the best school shoes to the most stylish bookbags and uniforms, you'll want to get them everything they'll need to make a strong start to the new term. And as they keep growing, you might have to kit them out numerous times over the course of the year before school's out for summer again.
Whether they need just one pair of smart shoes, or a separate pair for inside the classroom as well as trainers for P.E. lessons, we've got you covered with our comprehensive guide.
Best outdoor school shoes for boys and girls
When it comes to walking to school or tearing around the playground, your kids need a sturdy shoe that's going to offer them the right support, fit securely and resist a few scuffs.
Best Boy's school shoes
Choose from:
- Easy to put on, these Trux school shoes are perfect for a hassle-free fit. The easy fasten straps provide easy fitting while the padded ankle collar offers comfort. Plus, they are gripped for stability.
- By Trux, these easy fasten school shoes are perfect for kids who aren't quite ready for laces but want a secure fastening. Plus, the flat-gripped sole offers extra stability for those wet days in the playground.
- These lace up shoes by Beckett are suitable for those seeking a smarter look thanks to the peppered pot punch detailing and pointed toe design. These make a great choice for older kids.
Trying to find the right shoe fastening? Check out our guide to the best fastenings for children's shoes.
Best girls' school shoes
Choose from:
- These easy fasten shoes are a classic choice for school. The flower details on this pair adds an extra-special touch your little one's steps into the new term. These shoes are an ideal choice for the spring and summer months.
- These easy fasten trainers are a wardrobe staple, even for little wardrobes. The padded collar provides a comfortable fit while the easy fasten straps offer an adjustable and quick fit. The patent accents and love heart design add a touch of flair.
- Great for a secure fit, these T-bar patent brogues by Lilley provide a smart school look while providing all the stability your little ones' feet need. The fine stitching and punch hole details ensure a polished look, and the buckle detailing ensures a secure fit.
Best indoor school shoes for boys and girls
Some schools have different requirements for shoes inside and outside, so knowing where to buy indoor school shoes is important. A comfortable plimsoll is often the way to go when it comes to shoes for inside. Why not check out our collection of kids plimsolls?
For boys and girls:
These plain black XL Kids plimsolls are the perfect indoor school shoes for both boys and girls. The rubber sole offers strong grip, so your kids won't slide around the school hall or classroom (no matter how much they try).
For girls:
The tried-and-tested plain plimsolls by XL can work wonders for kids who are a fan of love hearts thanks to the delicate embellishment on this pair. The stacked flat heel and rubber sole offer all the grip and stability they need, while the round toe means there's plenty of room for their growing feet.
Have more questions about what other school shoes you might need? Learn more by reading our answers to some common questions.
Best P.E. shoes for kids
While plimsolls can make a great option for P.E. lessons in the school hall, trainers may be more suitable for outdoor sports. You'll want something comfortable and sturdy which won't cost the earth and give their little feet some space to grow into.
By XL, these black easy fasten trainers make a great choice for PE for both girls and boys. The easy fasten design ensures quick fitting while the ridged outsole offers a stable grip perfect when running around.
Best P.E. shoes for boys and girls
Something with a pop of colour, these easy fasten trainers are a stylish sporty looking choice. Easy to put on they feature elasticated laces and an easy fasten strap. The sturdy design and smooth upper mean they're ideal for racing around the school field.
Best P.E. shoes for girls and boys
A dash of colour is sure to add some fun into P.E. lessons. The easy fasten set up and elasticated laces means they'll be able to get them on and off quickly and easily - ideal for changing between lessons. The mesh upper make these kids trainers ideal for PE in warmer conditions as they ensure breathability.
Get your kids all the footwear they need for back to school with the range of school shoes from shoezone. Find our full range of back to school girls' school shoes and boys' school shoes.
Check out the shoezone blog for more style tips and footwear suggestions for every occasion.