15 New Shoes For Back To School & Work The Family Will Love

Shoes for back to school are always a necessity. Whether you are in search of the perfect pair of athletic shoes, soft soles for your preschool-age toddler, or uniform-compliant kicks, there is something here for everyone that both parents and children will approve of. So often our kids love to express themselves and their style through their shoes (and crazy socks) so what better way to allow them to do so than to choose shoes for back to school they love. Plus, when buying shoes for back to school you are likely to hit get some of the best deals of the year whether purchasing one pair or grabbing an extra pair for weekends or in the next size up. We all know how fast those little feet grow so check out the best shoes for back to school this year!

Table of Contents

Children’s Shoes for Back to School

Billy Footwear

15 New Shoes For Back To School & Work The Family Will Love

After a year of distant/virtual/remote/hybrid/pandemic learning, I think it’s safe to say that we’re all ready for the kids to go back to school this fall. One of our favorite parts of getting ready for school is buying new shoes for back to school. Considering that these kids only want to wear Billy Footwear shoes and they have to be in uniform, the decision is quite simple: Navy Zip-Up WDR High Tops for the win!

Available in both toddler and kid sizing, the WDR style is a universal design that accommodates a lot of special needs (including kids with sensory issues, kids who struggle to tie their shoes, and kids with AFOs) by incorporating zippers that go along the side of the shoes and around the toe, allowing the upper of each shoe to open and fold over completely. No more Velcro. No more stuffing your feet into shoes. Just easy and comfortable, and perfect if your child attends a school with a dress-code requirement.

Beyond the classroom, our kids still love wearing Billy shoes. The Kids Unicorn Metallic High Tops are perfect for our sparkly, unicorn-loving girl that wants to look like a “teenager.” Meanwhile, our boy wants to look just like his dad, so he prefers a pair of Toddler Black to Floor Canvas High-Tops. Not only do these shoes allow our kids to dance, run, jump and do whatever else kids do, but they’re also super cute and comfortable!

Billy’s innovative FlipTop™ technology (featured in every pair of shoes featured today) gives kids a fun and easy way to put on and take off their shoes. Once you’ve got the fit right with the laces, double-knot it, then use the zipper system to get in and out. If something doesn’t fit right (like those unruly socks that just keep bunching up or that piece of mulch that happened to sneak in), just unzip the shoes to correct the problem. With well-cushioned, removable footbed inserts, and flexible outsoles, these shoes for back to school are built for all-day-play and we love them!

pediped

Little feet are always growing and our children’s health and development, especially when it comes to their tiny tootsies, is of the utmost importance. Pediped knows this and all of their shoes promote healthy growth giving your child’s feet the proper support, cushioning, and room to grow. With a variety of selections from birth to big kids, pediped’s Originals, grip ‘n go, and Flex lines all offer the most natural fit, flexible outsoles, and extended length of wear. As pediped states, they are the “next best thing to bare feet”.

The Flex Logan is the perfect sneaker boot for older children heading off to elementary school this fall. Featuring an all-natural rubber outsole for traction, faux laces, and a hook and loop closure, and a soft breathable lining as well as a durable exterior, this sneaker boot can go from the playground to the hiking trails with ease. With pediped’s signature Flex Fit System ™ allows you to adjust the size and the foot of the shoe to accommodate your growing child. The Logan is available in Rasberry and Navy.

The perfect uniform shoe, the new Flex Justice in Black features an exterior leather upper with a flexible rubber outsole, faux laces, and a hook and loop closure. Easy for kids to get on and off and perfect for both the playground and the classroom, your child will be on the go all day with these awesome athletic shoes. Available in black, grey/navy, and navy/orange.

If you are looking for a more casual style in a sneaker, the Flex Gehrig Surf has got you covered. Featuring a more on-trend style with double velcro closure, these sneakers feature a breathable mesh lining and a flexible rubber outsole. With a microfiber suede upper, these casual kicks pair perfectly with jeans or khakis and are available in 5 different colors.

Another fabulous selection is the Flex Force athletic sneaker available in 8 bright and brilliant colors. This ultra-lightweight shoe is perfect for kids at play. With a hook and loop fastener, faux laces, and a truly athletic style, kids will love the color combinations of this style, as well as the lightweight and airy feel of wearing these shoes. With a flexible natural rubber sole, these shoes will keep them quick and steady on their feet from work to play. As with all pediped’s children’s shoes, the Flex Force is approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting healthy foot development, making them the best choice for your child.

Finally, the Flex Dani is an awesome casual style, especially for kids with a bit wider or flatter foot. The Flex Dani features a natural rubber outsole, easy on/off hook and loop adjustable closure, and pediped’s signature flex fit system for easy sizing adjustments. Available in multiple color combinations for boys and girls, pediped’s Flex Dani can be paired with everything from athletic clothes to skirts and rompers for a cute and classy back-to-school style.

Stride Rite

Shoes for back to school shoes are always a necessity and Stride Rite is the perfect one-stop shop for all of your shoes for back to school for kids of all ages, stages, and abilities. With everything from soft soles for infants to toddler shoes for those first steps to big kid shoes made to play, Stride Rite should be a household name when it comes to the very best in quality, durability, and podiatric health for kids.

Perfect for your preschooler heading back to the playground, the Made2Play® Brighton Sneaker is a must-have for fall. This lightweight athletic shoe is machine washable with high traction rubber outsoles for those kids who are always on the move. From the playground to the classroom, wherever your little one is headed, he will be safe and steady on his feet. Featuring Ortholite® memory foam footbeds, an adjustable hook and loop closure with elastic gore faux laces, and antimicrobial materials to improve breathability and reduce odors, the Brighton Sneaker is made for active kiddos! Available in all black or white, perfect as a uniform shoe, or a tan/navy combo great for fall, these kicks will keep up with your kids this school year.

We know all kids beg for the light-up shoes when it comes to back to school shopping and with Stride Rite’s Made2Play® Radiant Bounce Sneakers you can confidently say “yes” knowing this is still a shoe that will last. Featuring an illuminating light-up sole in a machine washable shoe, these lightweight sneakers offer the best of everything, including breathability and easy cleaning. With a dual-density outsole for superior traction and comfort, a soft memory foam insole, and a hook and look closure, these are the shoes for back to school your preschooler will beg for this year.

Finally, we as parents know that every once in a while you really like to pry the athletic shoes off of their feet and dress them up just a bit. Here to make that super stylish and simple is the AJ Sneaker. Perfect for pairing with uniforms or jeans, your dapper dude will love these trendy, casual kicks. With neutral styling, a classic slip-on design, Ortholite® memory foam footbeds, and soles with superb traction and grip, the AJ Sneaker is the perfect shoe for both back to school and the fall season ahead.

Skechers

Have your feet ever fallen in love? With Skechers, they absolutely will! We all love Skechers and know that they bring us quality and durable shoes, which is why they are a must-have for shoes for back to school.

Do you have an active kid who needs a shoe with maximum endurance? Look no further than Skechers x JGoldcrown: Max Cushioning Elite – Painted With Love! Proving that you don’t have to sacrifice art to functionality, this pair of sneakers combine the famous muralist’s design with the lightweight, Ultra Go cushioning platform.

When it’s time to get those steps in, the Skechers x JGoldcrown: Max Cushioning Elite – Painted With Love will have your back. Intentionally added to keep you safe and comfortable, the Natural Rocker Technology ensures a smooth heel-to-toe transition for extra protection. As if that weren’t enough, designers also included air-cooled, goga mat, breathable insoles, not only letting your feet stay fresh but putting in even more comfort than you thought possible in an athletic shoe.

The Skechers x JGoldcrown: Max Cushioning Elite – Painted With Love are perfect for all active kids, or ones that just need a little more support on the go.

But what about you, Mom? Back-to-school means you’re constantly on the go as well. It’s the perfect time to ensure that your feet aren’t exhausted at the end of the day.

The BOBS B Cute- Philosophy Love are perfect for moms who want to stay fashionable but also need support as they run around from school to soccer practice. Not only has a world-renowned artist created their signature design on its canvas, but the cushioned Memory Foam on the inside will have you swooning. This casual slip-on shoe is the ultimate travel shoe. Stylish to the max and quick to put on and remove, those TSA lines will be a breeze in the BOBS B Cute- Philosophy Love sneaker!

Want to feel even better about your purchase? With over $7 million dollars donated from their sales of the BOBS from Skechers line, more than 1.3 million shelter pets have been helped and saved. That’s something your feet, your heart, and your wallet can feel good about.

With Skechers, you can stay comfortable and fashion-forward with a shoe that stands out!

Keds

Help your kiddos look fresh with shoes for back to school by Keds. The Keds company has been creating shoes since 1916. This school year, give your kids the gift of style and comfort with a few new pairs of Keds sneakers.

As our babies grow, so do their feet. Keds is ready to address all ages and stages. The Big Kid’s Kickstart Sneaker is the versatile sneaker all kids need in their shoe collection. Featuring a lace-up closure and memory foam footbed that will keep your mini fashionista comfortable all day. The Big Kid’s Kickstart Sneaker has a leather upper and a very durable rubber outsole and a flexible vulcanized bottom. A great attribute of these all-white sneakers is the ability to pair them with jeans, dresses, or school uniforms.

The Big Kid’s Riley is another great back-to-school shoe offered by Keds. Keds always delivers when it comes to durability and comfort and the Big Kid’s Riley is no different. Major highlights of the Big Kid’s Riley are the memory foam footbed, premium leather upper, lace-up closure, vulcanized rubber bottom, and the overall durability and flexibility of the shoe. Even better, these are easy to wipe clean after an adventurous outing on the playground. This back-to-school season let Keds make your girl stylish and comfortable.

It’s time to transform your mini with the old school 1975 classic retro-styled Little Kid’s Jump Kick Jr Canvas shoe by Keds. The appeal of this shoe is the stunning textile upper with stitching look and the ease the fixed laces offer your scholar. The Little Kid’s Jump Kick Jr Canvas contains a memory foam footbed that gives all-day comfort and has a rubber outsole for traction for whatever the day brings.

Oomphies

When it comes to affordable, high-quality shoes for back to school, Oomphies is your go-to online store. This kids footwear line bridges the gap between durability, style, and value in fun, versatile options your children will love. The Wynn is an anytime, anywhere boys sneaker that is perfect for both play and casual wear. Made with a breezy knit upper, elastic laces, and foam cushion insole, this shoe will keep your child supported and comfortable for a long day of school and activities. The Wynn is available in black, grey, or navy.

The Reese is a runner style designed with an elastic band that provides a snug yet flexible fit appropriate for all varieties of school and after-school activities. This sneaker is available in a subtle grey color with blue and lime green accents or in red for a more bold look when it comes to your child’s shoes for back to school.

Sunny is a simple, jersey-knit shoe with a soft outer feel but a durable, runner sole. Using elastic laces, these shoes for back to school are easy to put on and take off while still staying snuggly on your child’s feet. These adorable sneakers are versatile enough to be both school-friendly as well as more casual occasion-appropriate.

See Kai Run

Parents, it’s easy to pull a pair of shoes off of the clearance rack and check the “school shoes” off of your list of shopping. However, when choosing your child’s shoe, it’s so important to remember how vital it is to choose a shoe that keeps their foot growing properly. This means that the shoe must move with your child’s delicate foot while providing the support they need to get through their day. When it comes to finding the best shoes for back to school, adding See Kai Run is a given.

If your child’s school does not have a uniform policy, then getting creative with your shoe selections is a great way for them to express themselves. Self-expression alongside healthy foot growth comes naturally when exploring the Dane Electric Blue. These funky high-tops will never go out of style, and the vibrant colors are unbelievable.

The rubber toe cap provides extra protection for his little feet while the classic SKR fit gives his feet room to move and grow, so when he is climbing, running, and jumping, his shoe will be supporting him the entire way.

Kids love to get outside, and when they do, how is it that they always find water? Going through the rest of your day with soggy shoes is nothing short of uncomfortable, so why not find a shoe that is one step ahead? The Saylor features a mesh textile upper which is water-friendly and quick to dry.

As with all SKR shoes, if your shoes are feeling a little snug, the removable liner will provide nearly 1/2 size up so their little toes can have some wiggle room. Another bonus for the Saylor is that it is machine-washable. No matter how many adventures they go on, they can always look good as new the next day.

Grown Up Shoes for Back to Work

Rothy’s

Head back to school and back to work in style this year with Rothy’s. Look good with Rothy’s on your feet and feel even better knowing their shoes are made from eco-friendly materials. The Rothy’s company uses 3D knitting technology and handcrafted assembly to create high-quality footwear. Whether it is back to school or back to work, Rothy’s shoes are a great choice.

The Merino Point by Rothy’s gives mom the shoe she needs to keep looking fantastic. The Merino Point comes in the fabulous one-of-a-kind camel herringbone print and flattering shape. Made from premium merino wool and Rothy’s signature spun thread, The Merino Points will instantly become Mom’s favorite back-to-work shoe.

Why should the kids get all the goodies? Back to work shoes like The Point by Rothy’s will make for a happy mom. The Point is perfect for work or any occasion and comes in 26 different patterns. With so many lovely patterns to choose from it’s easy to find a pair or two.

The Lily style features a soft off-white upper with a delicate lace design that is as stunning as it is comfortable. Rothy’s signature blue halo graces the top of the back of the Lily. There is no break-in period so these beauties are ready to be worn, displayed, and enjoyed. After a long day at work, Mom can toss these treasures in the washing machine to keep them looking pristine. This “any occasion shoe” will be very popular with Mom.

Be sure your kid has the best shoe game in school this year with the Black Kids Sneaker by Rothy’s. The Kids Sneaker in Black by Rothy’s is a popular choice that will easily pair with any outfit in your back-to-school wardrobe. Mom will love the ease that the slip-on Kids Sneaker provides, and your kid will enjoy the comfort they offer.

The Kids Sneaker is available in 17 patterns and ranges from sizes 10 to 4. With so many patterns to choose from your scholar will have no problem matching their personality or uniform. No need to worry about the wear and tear school shoes endure, as the Black Kids Sneakers by Rothy’s are machine washable. The Kids Sneaker in black is a classic shoe that is a must-have in your child’s closet.

If your stylish diva is looking to add some flare to her feet, look no further than the Pink Candy Stripe Kids Sneaker. This slip-on sneaker features a four-color striped pattern on the toe of the shoe and has a matching pattern on the insole. The Pink Candy Stripe Kids Sneaker is a knit shoe that is made with Rothy’s signature thread that is spun from plastic water bottles.

Brooks

The end of summer means getting back into your regular school and work routines. Be ready for all of the extra running around you’ll be doing with Brooks. If your teens did summer right, there are probably holes worn in those old sneakers from the past school year. And if you are heading into the office again yourself after a longer than expected stint of remote work, it may be time to kick that running routine into high gear before heading back into society.

No worries, the Glycerin GTS 19 can help. This soft, yet supportive running shoe will have you feeling like you’re on cloud nine. Thanks to DNA LOFT and built-in GuideRails®, wherever you’re running around campus, you’ll be doing it in complete all-day comfort.

Looking for a shoe that will allow you to put in those extra miles while protecting your knees? Check out the Beast 20. From the patented BioMoGo DNA midsole to the enhanced, spacious fit, they provide superior support and durability. The Beast doesn’t care if you’re a heel, mid, or toe striker, the full-length segmented crash pad keeps you comfortably in stride, keeping your fitness routine on track.

Finally, there’s the Ghost 13 road-running shoe. Soft is an understatement. There’s a reason these are called Ghosts – it’s because you won’t even know they’re on your feet! Whether you’re taking the dog for a quick walk at the park or training for that upcoming half marathon, we promise that these will be your new best friends heading into the back-to-school season.

From comfort to support and lots of other benefits in between, Brooks lets you completely customize your running shoe experience. Replace those old worn-out sneakers and give yourself the gift of a better day this fall, with a quality pair (or three!) of Brooks running shoes.

Vionic

For many parents back to school also means back to work this year as school and businesses reopen and welcome people back in person. After our last year spent in leggings and slippers, our work wardrobe could likely use an overdue update and there’s no time like the present to pick up a few things for ourselves. While you’re searching online for all the best gear and gadgets for the kiddos, hop over to a few sites just for you and pick up a pair of new kicks (or two or three) and step out in style this post-COVID year. Perfect for moms doing a bit of shoe shopping themselves, Vionic features on-trend shoes from classics to contemporary in styles that will fit your casual, weekend, athletic, or work wear needs.

When it comes to high heels, as we get older our tastes not only change, but our feet do too! Vionic knows this and has designed comfortable heels for women that are both stylish and supportive. A timeless classic, the Mariana Pump in Tan Suede is a shoe for every occasion. Featuring a 3-inch heel, breathable, cushioned insole, and rubber outsole for traction, this traditional pump is easy to wear all day long, keeping your feet comfortable without and slipping or sliding inside the shoe.

If you prefer a wedge or are searching for a more casual style, the Amy Wedge Sandal. Perfect for pairing with midi dresses or denim skirts, this shoe features a rubber outsole for traction, an ankle strap for added support, and a comfortable, cushioned insole. From weekends to workdays, these trendy wedges are stylish and sleek for summer and early fall wear.

Finally, we know you can’t spend all day every in heels so Vionic’s line of casual or athletic sneakers is here to keep you moving. The Nana Casual Sneaker is a weekend favorite for trips to the soccer field, long walks with our furry friends, and simply jaunting around town from farmers’ markets to fall festivals. Available in a variety of trendy colors, these lace-up casual sneakers feature extra cushioning for cozy support, a durable memory foam footbed, and a sleek and sexy suede and satin blend upper. Let Vionic help you head back to the office this season while keeping you comfortably on the go!

Minnetonka

It is time for school and possibly returning back to the office – which means it is time for a pair or three of new shoes. Minnetonka’s 5-Layer Fringe Boot is a stylish, snappy boot perfect for the on-the-go, chic kind of woman. Soft suede leather boots are wonderful, but soft suede leather boots with five layers of fringe AND extra padded insoles are even better. Buttery-soft handmade fringe boots make you stand out in all the best ways. These 5-layer Fringe Boots are the perfect pop of boho flair for the simplest of outfits regardless of the event you have in mind. Whether it is shoes for back to school parent-teacher meetings, parties, or a business casual, walk with comfort and assurance knowing these chic shoes are on your side.

Shoe styles that defy the test of time are shoes worth owning. Minnetonka’s Women’s Two Button Softsole Boot defies the test of time, all right – any and every season that comes along. These boots are handmade in the same original design from 1968. See what we mean?!

Wrap your feet in soft suede leather for the perfect indoor comfort, because these boots give you a nearly barefoot feel with soft padding between you and the unforgiving hard surfaces beneath your feet. The Women’s Two Button Softsole Boot is decorated with fringe, embellishing metal conchos, and adorable suede ties.

When it comes to your child’s house shoes for those homeschooling kids or weekend unwinding, simplicity is trending and Minnetonka’s Kilty Hardsole is the classic moccasin that tops the simplicity trend by a mile. Ultra-flexible bottoms and padded insoles make these moccasins beyond comfortable for the house-bound child who doesn’t like to be barefoot. Wrapped in soft suede leather and styled with a touch of fringe. These lightweight sporty rubber soles are perfect for sensitive feet that need a bit more cushioning.

Lamo

Kane

Heading back to school sometimes means throwing on a pair of shoes for a quick drop-off or trekking through wet grass at after-school sports practice and sensible footwear is a must. Kane has the perfect shoe for you for these and many other instances. The Revive is a unisex active recovery shoe that is washable, quick-drying, and durable. Shaped like a traditional sneaker, this shoe features all the benefits of regular athletic shoes with some extras that take your active lifestyle to the next level.

Blowfish Malibu

Dearfoams

Whether your kiddos are heading back into the brick and mortar classroom this year or hanging out at the homeschool, everyone’s tootsies need a chance to relax at some point and Dearfoams is the answer. As the school year starts and the weather cools, check out Dearfoams for a fabulous selection of slippers and scuffs the whole family will love. From gathering the mail to cool mornings on the porch with coffee, keep those toes warm and dry with the comfort and coziness of Dearfoams.

A few of our favorites for women include the Women’s Zoey Jersey Booty Slipper featuring a cozy jersey upper, luxe lining, and memory foam footbed. Machine washable and with a no-sweat design, these booties are the perfect slipper for cool fall mornings and those who prefer a more secure style slipper. Alternatively, the Women’s Nora Striped Scuff with Bow is a sweet and stylish choice if you prefer a lined scuff with a bit of flair. The cozy jersey footbed and memory foam insole keeps your feet comfy, cozy, cool, and dry, with an easy on/off design perfect for slipping into any time of day.

When it comes to the guys the styles we love include the Alpine by Dearfoams Men’s Bern Clog Slipper. This sustainably made, eco-friendly slipper features a micro-wool upper with an uber cozy lining to keep his toes warm. With built-in arch support and shock-absorbing contoured insoles, he will love to live in these rubber-soled slippers. Whether he is lounging in front of the fire or taking out the trash, the Alpine is the perfect slipper to get the job done.

15 New Shoes for Back to School & Work the Family Will Love

Children’s Shoes for Back to School

Read More: How School Shootings Are Victimizing Our Kids in More Ways Than One

Read More: Research Shows Why Kids Need Recess

Grown Up Shoes for Back to Work

Read More: The 30 Million Word Gap

Read More: 4 Stupendous STEM Activities for Elementary School Children

Read More: What is the Montessori Method

Read More: How to Help Kids Manage Bullying in Schools

Read More: Self Directed Learning vs. Progressive Learning

Read More: 10 Science Projects for a Homeschool Classroom

DON'T MISS THE TIPS

RELATED ARTICLES

LATEST

MORE LIKE THIS

TRAVEL

LIFESTYLE

FINDS

FAMILY

PARENTING

HOME

FASHION

GIFT GUIDES