The end of the summer holidays can only mean one thing – it’s back-to-school season! The start of a new school year calls for a school uniform refresh, starting with a brand-new pair of school shoes.
From loafers and brogues to boots and plimsolls, choosing the best kids’ school shoes can be a challenge. Luckily, our handy guide can make the process easier. Help your kids step into the new term with the best school shoes from shoezone.
What’s on this page:
What are the best school shoes?
Your little learners can spend around seven hours a day in their school shoes. That’s why they need a pair that is comfortable, supportive and stylish. Fortunately, our back-to-school range ticks all three boxes.
Find out what to look out for when shopping for the best kids’ school shoes.
Style
You and your little one may have different ideas of what shoes are stylish. After all, we know how picky kids can be! But you can still help them dress to impress by following the current school shoe trends.
When picking the best school shoes for girls, consider the most popular styles that are still appropriate for school. These can range from loafers to T-bar brogues, with patent styles, bow details and light-up designs for some extra style.
The best school shoes for boys are typically ones that resemble trainers or dress shoes. Consider lace-up shoes with synthetic leather and a padded sole. Suitable for school, but comfortable enough for break time fun.
Top tip:
It’s important that younger children fasten their shoes by themselves. A touch fasten strap is supportive and easy to secure, so it’s a popular option for primary school shoes.
However, older children may be more style conscious. Consider involving them in the shoe shopping experience to find the best school shoes for secondary school together.
Price
The latest design of school shoes can come with a hefty price tag. But it’s possible to find a pair with great designs that won’t break the bank.
Once you have a budget in mind, find a pair with a design that will stay on trend. Even if they experience some wear and tear, you don’t have to rush out and buy new ones.
Check out our tips on looking after school shoes to keep them fresh throughout the school year.
Fit
If standard school shoes don’t feel comfortable on your children’s feet, then it’s possible they require a specific style of shoe. The good news is that you don’t have to look far to find a good pair of shoes that suit different types of feet.
If flat feet are a cause of discomfort, then look for shoes with arch support. A pair with easy-fasten straps are some of the best school shoes for wide feet.
Meanwhile, the best school shoes for narrow feet are ones that offer a tighter fit than a standard pair. Most importantly, make sure school shoes fit well, as they will be worn day in, day out.
School policy
Many primary and secondary schools will have specific guidelines for school shoes. Some may not allow students to wear certain styles of footwear, such as trainers or boots. You may also find materials such as leather or suede are not permitted within certain school shoe policies.
Checking the school’s uniform policy is a helpful first step to choosing the best school shoes for your child. Once you’ve narrowed down the options, you can buy the perfect pair to last the whole year.
Age
As your child progresses through primary and secondary school, the style of shoe they want may change. The shoes that your child picks for their first day of Year 3 will be quite different to their chosen pair for Year 8!
You will find that, as your kids get older, the pairs they pick will be more in line with what is trending in current fashion. When it comes to picking the best school shoes to match your child’s age, it’s best to ask for their opinion first.
Season
A standard pair of school shoes may be suitable for summer, spring, and autumn. However, winter comes with its own challenges. If your local area is prone to wet or snowy winters then the material of your kids’ school shoes may not be enough to keep their feet dry. Consider investing in a pair of wellies, with a change of shoes in their backpack just in case.
You can also take a look at our guide on the when to buy school
shoes
to make sure your kids are prepared for all seasons.
If your area has mild weather then your kids’ current footwear may be enough, but consider opting for extra grip during the winter. Even if the snow has held back, a light frost might make the ground slippery. Try to grab a pair of shoes with a rubber grip sole – better safe than sorry!
What is the best brand of school shoes?
The best school shoes are durable, protective and appropriate. But they can also be fashionable, popular and trendy. If you’re wondering what shoes are best for school, the truth is there’s no one brand that’s better than the rest.
Ultimately, the pair you decide on will depend on your child’s style and needs. It’s important to remember that premium brands often come with premium prices. To help you along, here are some of our top brand picks that we offer at shoezone.
Kickers
If you’re looking for effortless style and durability, then Kickers could be your best bet. It’s not just the notorious red and green tabs that make these shoes unique. The iconic brand offers sturdy soles for maximum grip and stability, while the padded heels put an extra bounce in your little one’s steps.
Shop our range of Kickers now to keep your kids’ feet protected and secure for long school days.
Our top picks:
Fragma Sr Boys Lace Up
Lach Girls Black Leather T-Bar
Walkright
Known for their supportive styles, Walkright offer some of the best school shoes for practicality and comfort. Their variety of styles ensure your kids’ will find a pair they love, from shoes for the classroom, to trainers for PE.
Whether your child is hopping in puddles or running laps in the playground, their feet will stay comfy all day with Walkright.
Our top picks:
Tweed Kids’ Slip On Plimsoll in Black
Cleo Kids’ Black Patent Shoe
Hush Puppies
Offering quality, practicality and comfort, Hush Puppies remain a staple school shoe brand. Their designs are simple yet timeless, with subtle detailing that will make your little one a trendsetter.
With an adjustable fit system and interchangeable footbeds, Hush Puppies are easily some of the best school shoes for growing feet.
Our top picks:
Maine Boys Black Easy Fasten Shoe
Talisman Girls’ Black Leather Shoe
With our handy guide, you find the perfect pair of school shoes to keep your kids happy. Remember, you don’t have to sacrifice style for safety! For more advice, read our complete guide on getting back-to-school ready.
Discover more shoe guides and style advice on our shoezone blog.
