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We have one absolute to predict this school year: You’ll want your kids to have the best kids sneakers you can find. And we’re guessing the last pair you bought no longer fits because those feet grow no matter what! Plus, children need to move, indoors and outdoors. So for this back-to-school season, we thought we’d help you choose the best sneakers.
If you’re just too busy to hit the stores, you’ll be relieved to know that the best kids sneakers are available online. The huge question remains — what size is right for them this time? We highly recommend printing out a measuring guide like this one from Zappos. It’s not foolproof, of course, as shoe sizes aren’t an exact science, so you may want to buy from places with excellent return policies and consider buying the same shoe in two different sizes, so you can return the one that doesn’t fit. Think of yourself as the shoe salesperson who definitely does not love walking back to the storage room 15 times to go up one-half size at a time. It’s faster if you try on all possible variations at once if you have the means.
Once you’ve determined the right size(s), you still have so many other choices to make — but these are more fun! Do you buy them a sneaker featuring their favorite Disney character? Do you get laces they’ll have to tie themselves? Do you buy kids sneakers with lights and wheels and sequins and jet-propulsion packs? Do you dare get anything in white? Should you get them shoes meant for all types of weather? And should you buy more than one pair of kids sneakers now, or just let them wear out one size at a time, since they’re bound to grow yet again?
We sincerely apologize for being unable to make these decisions about the best kids sneakers for your child. All we can do is hunt down a variety of styles and select our favorites — for their aesthetics, their practicality, and their price — from the most reliable retailers we know.
And when you have purchased your kids’ sneakers for going back to school, consider donating their lightly-used, outgrown shoes to a program like Soles4Souls, which can then recycle them. Zappos offers free shipping to the program here.
Here are the best kids shoes we recommend for going back to school.
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A version of this story was originally published in 2020.
Soooo Many Colors!
For those mornings when you’re in a rush (so let’s be honest – most mornings), you can’t beat Native shoes’ slip-on, easy-clean style. And they come in so many colorways that you’ll find a pair to go with any and everything.
A True Classic
You can’t go wrong with a classic, and this unisex style from Adidas is a perennial bestseller for a reason. Versatile, durable, comfy, and cute — just what the perfect back to school sneaker should be!
Sequined Sneaks
While stylish adults might sacrifice function for fashion, children don’t have to. These sequined beauties have the traction and durability kids need to move and play. They’re also available in a variety of materials and style treatments — ask your kiddo which they prefer!
No Worries
No laces, no problem. The folks at Rothy’s have created their first-ever kids shoe with velcro — perfect for those little ones who just don’t have the time to tie, and re-tie laces all day. They come in three awesome colorways and are, like all Rothy’s, crafted with durability in mind. These sneakers are knit with 100% recycled materials and designed to last wash after wash!
Flashy Feet
Who can resist shoes that sparkle and shine? There are so many new styles available of these Skechers that your kiddo will surely find a pair (or two) that they love. How about these high-tops? They feature a glittery canvas upper with star cutouts, a lace-up front with a side zip closure, and a light-up rhinestone-embellished toe cap. Cool!
Trail Runners
Even as the weather gets cooler, outside activities for kids are more important than ever for kids this year. We swear by these breathable, rugged trail-runners for muddy hikes and treks through the park alike.
Chunky Soles
Thick, bouncy soles are still in, and this unique pair makes for a quirky update to the classic Puma style. On the outside, they feature a material mix of mesh, suede and synthetic leather. Inside, a SoftFoam+ sockliner provides superior cushioning and optimal comfort.
Preppy Ease
Sneakers of the ’70s and ’80s are also still in style this year (are they ever not)? We love that these Sperry sneakers hint at a retro look, but have that elastic heel for slip-on ease that make them totally practical, too. They also have a memory foam footbed for comfort and stability. This color is called Champagne, but they’re also available in black and navy.
Brand Alternatives
When you’re willing to stray from the big dominant brands of sneakers for kids, you can find some great deals. These thick-soled running shoes from Caitin have tons of glowing reviews and the cutest colorways.
Retro Style
Here’s another way for kids to enjoy the ’70s-redux of the moment. If only they also had ’70s prices amirite? New Balance are known for their comfort and durability so they’re worth a wear.
Our Adidas
These classic high-tops are so much more than basketball shoes. They’re fashion shoes in a unisex style so your kiddo can feel free to coordinate their outfit to these kicks for school and play.
Toddler Specials
Young kids feet are not just miniature versions of adult feet. Ten Little worked with podiatrists and pediatricians to design this shoe to fit those little feet and accommodate their walking and running needs. Plus, you can buy special NASA-themed stickers, so your child can customize their own kicks.
Flashy Feet
Like their popular womens shoes, Rothy’s kids sneakers and loafers are made from recycled plastic water bottles. Your little one will be walking on rainbows in these casual and comfortable slip-on sneakers (also available in other designs and colors), and you’ll enjoy that these are machine-washable.
Roller Shoes
Got a kid who drags their feet every time they’ve got to walk to school? Give them these wheels. Teachers and principals probably don’t want kids rolling through the halls on these, however, so make sure your child knows how to retract that feature.
A Solid Choice
These practical, comfortable Under Armour sneakers come in so many colors to suit your kid. There’s a durable leather overlay for stability that locks in their midfoot. We also love that there are no laces to tie!
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