Kids’ feet go pitter-patter all day and need traction, flexibility and style shoes. Read the school guidelines carefully to avoid buying shoes that aren’t permitted.
See Kai Run offers styles that meet school guidelines, including no-tie sneakers for 1st grade and younger children. These flexible shoes are designed with plenty of toe room so your child can wiggle their toes and develop more muscular bones, muscles and balance.
Comfort
A comfortable pair of kids shoes for school is necessary for kids to keep them going all day at school, but that doesn’t mean you must sacrifice style. For example, these sneakers from Rothy, an eco-friendly brand specialising in sustainable fashion (made from recycled single-use water bottles), are super comfy and stylish. Plus, they’re machine washable and come in fun colours and patterns that will look great with their favourite outfit.
Other options for a no-fuss, comfortable shoe include these clogs from Crocs—they’re easy to slip on and off in the morning. And if your child wears them to the pool or beach, they have drainage holes and an EVA sole that protects their feet from rocks or anything else that could snag or cut them when playing in or near the water. Another excellent water shoe option is these sandals from Amazon, which are lightweight and have a hook and loop closure to make them easy to put on for little fingers. They also have a sturdy sole that provides a little support while still being flexible enough for kids to walk and play in them all day.
When choosing a pair of shoes for kids, consider their age and what activities they’ll be doing at school. For example, toddlers and preschoolers need shoes that are easy to put on without needing help from an adult. Getting their shoes on and off can be a huge confidence boost for older kids.
For these kids shoes for school, shoes that are easy to tie can be a huge time saver in the morning, as they won’t have to wait on mom or dad to do it for them. Mika Oakes, founder of maternity swimwear brand Moloco, and Eunice Byun, CEO and co-founder of direct-to-consumer kitchenware company Material, both swear by their kids’ Stan Smith sneakers, which are Velcro—perfect for kids who don’t want to learn how to tie laces yet.
You can also find a wide range of slip-on shoes that are easy for kids to pull on and off, such as these sneakers from Nike, which feature a dial closure so kids can adjust the fit themselves. Or try these sneakers from Wildling, which are the closest thing to barefoot with a 2.5mm sole and are designed to help children reconnect to nature.
Durability
When shopping for kids’ shoes, durability is top of mind. Young students go through a tremendous amount of wear and tear during a school day. They run and jump around at recess and gym class, walk to and from the bus stop or school, and wear their shoes all day. It takes a lot out of a shoe, so finding tough ones is essential for parents trying to stretch their back-to-school budget and keep their kid’s shoes in good condition.
The soles are the most important place to look for durability in kids’ shoes. Look for shoes with rubber soles to provide shock absorption, cushioning, and traction. You’ll also want to check the uppers for structure. Many kids’ shoes are streamlined for style, which may be fine, but you should also find ones with some system to keep them from wearing out or stretching.
If you are looking for a durable shoe that will last your child through the school year and hopefully beyond, you’ll want to look at shoes with vulcanised rubber and high-performing nylon bonded threads. It makes the stitching 15% stronger than traditional threads, which helps extend the life of your kid’s shoes and keeps them looking newer and more extended.
Whether your kids are playing at recess or participating in their first 5K, the right pair of shoes can make all the difference. Take your time and consider all of the features available, so you can find the best shoes for kids that will stand up to everything their feet throw at them.