Back to school shopping is not just about getting notebooks and pencils. Back to school shoes are just as important. Whether it’s walking through the school halls, playing at recess, getting to lunch, or doing activities in the classroom, kids are on their feet a good amount of the day. They need a shoe that will keep up with both their school day and beyond for after-school activities. We’ve gathered 14 of the best back to school shoes we could find to help make your shopping easier this year.
Back to School Shoes Your Student Needs
See Kai Run
Parents everywhere know and understand the struggle of the shoe department and tiny feet. Which shoes are the best options for growing feet? How can we trust that these shoes will not be uncomfortable or hinder foot development? Sometimes, this task can be daunting and stressful, but See Kai Run has met this parenting challenge with a solution. High-quality, comfortable footwear for your child’s foot development that is not only backed by podiatrist research, but meets fashion standards as well!
Children’s feet are NOT like adult feet-they move more often, and are very flexible. Doesn’t it make sense that your child’s back to school shoes should be flexible, too? See Kai Run created flexible shoes with a larger toe box, so that your child can not only move their foot comfortably, their toes can wiggle, too! The flexible shoe will also benefit your child’s development of proper balance, gait, and stride. They can go on amazing adventures fueled by imagination all day long, without having to worry about discomfort.
These shoes are flexible, not only to promote comfort, but so that muscles and tendons in the feet can be strengthened. The wide openings and secure closures make sure that these shoes slide on easily and stay on all day. These shoes are always working for your child’s foot health! The Oh Joy! is a unique collection featuring season-to-season comfort shoes for boys and girls. Their hook-and-loop straps and elastic bands ensure an easy on/easy off and great fit every single wear.
The rubber at the toe of the shoe ensure extra protection for their little toes, while protecting the shoe, meaning this shoe will be able to keep up with your little one at school AND at play!
See Kai Run offers a wide variety of shoes for every occasion and every climate. Shoes from their Fall/Winter line range from every day wear, to weatherproof, so your child won’t be held back by those cold or wet days on the playground, and their feet will stay warm and dry.
Another great thing about See Kai Run? You can’t find these shoes anywhere else. The quality is approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, and the patterns are unique to this specific company. See Kai Run is working for parents to make sure your little one’s feet are cared-for and growing properly, so you can just enjoy watching them grow throughout this next school year.
SHOP:
Peyton | Jamie | Oh Joy! Kristin | Russell 3 | Stevie II | Dane
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
See Kai Run | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest
READ MORE: De-Stress Your Back To School Morning Routine
Rack Room Shoes
Back to School means new shoes for the family and here to meet everyone’s needs is Rack Room Shoes. Carrying mens, women’s and children’s shoes in all the popular name brands and more, Rack Room is your one-stop shop for Back to School shoes (and back to work) footwear. Whether you’re in the market for uniform shoes, active shoes for the school day, or even cleats for all the upcoming after-school extracurriculars, Rack Room has it all.
For active kids heading back to school we love the wide selection of athletic shoes available. This season our top picks include the Nike Boys Air Max Motion 2, Nike Boys LD Victory GS, Nike Boys Flex Experience, and the Saucony Boys Cohesion. Supportive and comfortable shoes for developing feet is the name of the game when it comes to the kicks your kids will wear day in and day out.
Picking up a pair of high quality, durable and well-fitting back to school shoes is a must as the new school year begins. Unlike many adults, most kids will wear the same pair of sneakers every day until they are shot, making the purchase of good shoes even more important to their overall foot care. Available in stores and online, head to Rack Room Shoes this season for quick, easy and convenient Back to School shoe shopping for the whole family.
SHOP:
Nike Boys Air Max Motion 2 | Nike Boys LD Victory GS | Nike Boys Flex Experience | Saucony Boys Cohesion
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Rack Room Shoes | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest
Nina Shoes
There are few things that speak to someone’s sense of fashion like shoes. They can be simple pieces that complement an outfit or bold statement pieces that speak for themselves. Whatever your passion is for footwear, Nina Shoes is the place to find your next favorite pair of back to school shoes.
Ninas a household name for women’s footwear that also offers high end styles for little girls too. Your little one will love pairing these with any outfit to add her own extra flair. One high fashion style we love is the IMA in gold crepe/mesh. Talk about back to school shoes that speak for themselves! A hi-top sneaker that comes in gold or silver crackle, with fashion laces and an inside zipper for easy on/off, these shoes add that personal touch to any outfit.
Next up on our list is the JACQI in grey microfiber, another adorable hi-top with chunky glitter stars your little one just can’t go without this fall. The color is perfect for any back to school outfit. The sole is made of memory foam to carry her throughout the day in comfort and style.
Finally, for adding a little edge to her style this fall give the TIANNA in black a try. Adorned with silver studs for an unexpected but adorable flair to the typical black bootie, these boots are made of smooth vegan leather with an elastic topline and back edge.
No matter what her style, she will be sure to find the perfect back to school shoe with a quick visit to Nina Shoes. Dress your little one for success in style with Nina Shoes.
SHOP:
IMA | JACQI | TIANNA
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Nina Shoes | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest
READ MORE: Back To School: Prepping Your Home For Back To School
Stride Rite
Back to School shopping is in full swing and there is no better brand for your little (or big) kids feet than Stride Rite. Stride Rite has been developing and perfecting children’s shoes since 1919 making this the go-to for parents looking for everything from soft soles for their littlest walkers just starting out, to wide and extra wide shoes for those chubby toddler feet and beyond.
Children’s feet are always growing, making it so important that they have proper and supportive footwear allowing their feet, muscles and ligaments to develop properly, avoiding any future problems. With a wide selection of colors and styles, Stride Rite’s shoes come in wide widths, little and big kids sizes, and most are washable (which every parent will appreciate).
Perfect for this school year is the Made 2 Play collection by Stride Rite. We love the made2play Jude sneaker in navy. Dress this shoe up or down from everything from the playground to church on Sunday; with a rubber outsole for ultimate traction and durability, an easy on/off hook and loop closure, and a memory foam insole for added comfort your little one will be able to play all day.
Another versatile shoe we love for the upcoming fall and winter is the Parker Sneaker. This shoe’s seamless construction cradles the foot’s natural shape for ultimate comfort while the flexible soles encourage natural movement and improve balance.
For a breathable playground shoe for the kid who is always on the move, we love the Faris Sneaker. Crafted using a lightweight breathable athletic mesh, an adjustable strap, memory foam insole, and lightweight flexible outsole, these shoes won’t hold your little one back from anything. With shoes from Stride Rite this school year, your toddler, preschool, or even elementary school age child will love being able to comfortably run, play, jump and climb in these supportive, developmentally appropriate shoes made just for them.
SHOP:
Made2Play Jude Sneaker | Parker Sneaker | Faris Sneaker
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Stride Rite | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube | Pinterest
Rothys Kids
You already know how much we LOVE Rothy’s shoes, and we were thrilled when they released their kids’ line. The same bold, fun style is now available for your favorite girls and boys and we can’t get enough of this cheerful rainbow sneaker. Featuring rainbow insoles, white outsoles and Rothy’s signature Blue Halo, there’s no break-in period for these back to school shoes. If your kid isn’t a fan of rainbows, be sure to check out their other color waves.
SHOP:
White Rainbow Sneakers
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Rothy’s | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest
Pediped
All kids need a quality pair of sneakers to get them through the school year. Pediped is known for creating kids footwear that can withstand running, jumping, and playing. The Flex Force is a stylish sneaker that comes in a variety of color combinations. The mesh upper makes this shoe both light and breathable. The flexible rubber sole supports the child’s foot for natural foot movement and maximum flexibility.
The Flex Dani is a more casual sneaker but still reliable for everyday school activities. The machine washable material allows these back to school shoes to be kept clean and looking new all school year. The Velcro closures with faux laces keep these shoes snugly on your child’s feet without them having to worry about untied laces. All Pediped footwear is approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting healthy food development.
SHOP:
Flex Force | Flex Dani
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Pediped | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube | Pinterest
Billy’s Footwear
It’s quite possible that learning to tie your shoes is a thing of the past. A quick survey of our kids’ classrooms and a lot of parents have opted to use no-tie laces. But what if you could teach your child to tie their shoes, with the option of a zipper?
BILLY Footwear offers a universal design that accommodates a lot of special needs (including kids struggling to tie their shoes) 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 with super fun new designs, including toddler shoes, Billy’s shoes are worth a look-see.
This back-to-school season, we’re especially excited to see the release of two new designs (among many others): rainbow and camouflage. Both pairs of zipper shoes feature Billy’s innovative FlipTop™ technology that gives kids a fun and easy way to put on and take off their shoes. Once you’ve gotten 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), just unzip the shoes to see what’s going on. With well-cushioned, removable foot bed inserts, and flexible out-soles, these back to school shoes are built for all-day-play.
SHOP:
Kids Rainbow Classic Lace High Top | Toddler Green Camo High Top
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Billy Footwear | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | YouTube
Samuel Hubbard
If you’re looking for an every day staple type of shoe that can be worn with a school uniform or college classroom, these Tailored Traveler Loafers are a must-have. Made with the finest leathers from around the world, the these loafers are comfortable and high-quality so they will last you all school year long, and beyond.
The hand-stitched seams on these high-end leather shoes give them a classic look that can be worn casually with straight leg jeans or with a school uniform. The slip-on makes them easy to wear all day, too. The cushy Triple-density memory foam insoles are made to form to your foot so you are comfortable all day long. They are the perfect back to school shoes for high school uniforms or college students looking for a classic look for internships or other business casual needs.
SHOP:
Tailored Traveler Loafers
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Samuel Hubbard | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest
Mizuno
Teens, college students and teachers are always on the go. Often times, they attend a full day of classes, and have extra-curricular activities that last until well after dinner time. For a busy student or teacher who is on their feet all day, foot health is usually the last thing on their minds. This is where Mizuno comes into play with their new Mizuno Men’s Wave Sky Waveknit 3 Running Shoe. This shoe delivers an all-new athletic shoe experience, so lightweight it feels like you’re floating. The upper build of the shoe provides necessary stability for extended-wear, but it is flexible enough to support natural foot movement through its “dynamicsock-like fit”.
Mizuno is an excellent choice for anyone who will be learning, running, or teaching this school year. Available in a variety of colors for men and women, this shoe is an excellent choice for footwear for teens and adults alike!
SHOP:
Mizuno Men’s Wave Sky Waveknit 3 Running Shoe
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Mizuno | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
KEEN
School is the first step to journeys that last a lifetime. The first steps our little ones take into the real world are integral building blocks in one’s life; that is why they need the best shoes possible. KEEN provides top of the line durable back to school shoes for kids of all ages.
If your kiddo is one who loves to climb, run, and jump into life, then KEEN is the shoe for them. All of their footwear is made for exploring and living life to the fullest. One of our favorites is the Little Kids’ Sprout Mid Boots because they are fun and stylish with just the right amount of support. They also feature easy on and off closures to make it easy for little hands to handle.
Kids should be encouraged to explore their surroundings. They need shoes that are durable and comfortable and made for all walks of life. The Terradora Hiking Shoe is the perfect shoe for play and adventures beyond. They are both waterproof and breathable, composed of Cleansport NXT for natural odor control.
SHOP:
Little Kids’ Sprout Mid Boots | Terradora Hiking Shoe
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
KEEN Footwear | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Pinterest
Sock It to Me
This just in boring white crew socks are out so step up your style with socks in different colors and patterns from Sock it to Me. Kids are all about patterns and self-expression so what better way to spice up an outfit than to start with your feet. Take a boring dress to fab with knee-high socks like the Hula Hoopin’ Bunnies or Keep Dreamin’ Unicorn socks. School uniforms cramping your style? Not anymore; express yourself with the Catterfly and Look at Me Meow.
How cool to kick off your shoes at your best friends house and impress them with what is on your feet with patterns like Monster Trucks or Totally Jawsome!. Get ready for football season with these Touchdown cuties. Finally, never lose your footing with the Arch-eology glow in the dark socks. Follow your passion and express it on your feet with Sock it to Me.
SHOP:
Hula Hoopin’ Bunnies | Keep Dreamin’ Unicorn | Catterfly | Look at Me Meow | Monster Trucks | Totally Jawsome! | Touchdown | Arch-eology
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Sock it to Me | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | Pinterest
Western Chief
Can you believe the first day of school is right around the corner? Don’t let a little rain stop your little one from starting their day with dry feet. From character favorites to colorful prints and wear-with-everything basics, Western Chief Kids Rubber Boots put the fun in functional. Western Chief has been making trusted family footwear since 1891. All products are handmade with moisture-absorbing cotton lining to keep little feet dry. Each pair of boots also come with two handles to make it easy for kids to pull them on and off.
SHOP:
Kids Rubber Boots
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Western Chief | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest
Bombas
B is for Bombas. C is for Comfort. Bombas and Sesame Street are teaming up to bring you a limited edition collection of Bombas fuzzy quarter socks inspired by your favorite Sesame Street Muppets. As always, one purchase = one donated. All donation socks from this collection will go directly to organizations that support those experiencing family homelessness.
SHOP:
Kids Sesame Street Socks
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Bombas | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest
Caterpy Laces
When it’s time to get out the door for school in the morning, nobody has time to fumble around with shoelaces or recover from a “I can’t tie my shoelaces” meltdown. Turn their existing tie-shoes into slip-ons with Caterpy Laces! Caterpy Laces feature elastic bump technology which allows you to customize tension at every eyelet row to match your foot shape.
Just lace the shoes as you normally would, adjust the tension at each eyelet row and the bumps hold the laces in place with no need to tie a knot at the top.The customized tension also allows for better blood circulation to the feet. Available in a variety of bright and fun colors, the laces are one size fits all, so they are great for kids and adults! Once they are inserted in the shoes, the ends can be cut to the perfect length to tuck back into the laces or leave out.
SHOP:
Caterpy No-Tie Laces
EXPLORE AND CONNECT:
Caterpy | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube
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These back to school shoes are not only supportive, comfortable, and great quality, they are stylish. Your kids will look great while having their feet feel great. These shoes will last all school year and look as new on the last day of school as they did on the first day of school.
WANT TO READ MORE?
Looking for more back to school shoes? Check out this article for Fun and Fashionable School Shoes.