Most parents probably understand that back-to-school shopping typically involves the classic wild goose chase of “what supplies are on sale” findings.
But, the one item at the top of our list — aside from new pens and lunch boxes — is always a new pair of sneakers, without fail. girls patent shoes
And, rightfully so. After racing to the bus and running on the playground, what was once your bright white, velcro-topped pair is now scuffed, dirt-bordered, and beaten up.
So, it’s about time you browse for a new pair of kids sneakers ahead of back-to-school season. Along with a new backpack, and fresh clothes, these kicks — for any age — will ensure your child is both stylish and comfortable for the entire school day (and probably, after, with sports and extra-curricular activities).
For more exclusive deals on the coolest back-to-school sneakers and more trendy shoes, be sure to hop over to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. Otherwise, read on for our recommendations below — handpicked by a first-time mom, and evaluated on design, aesthetics, and value.
Click to jump to a specific age:
Before you shop, check out the shoe sizing chart we used for reference.
OK — we need to take a second to admire the Nike Little Kids’ Court Borough Low Recraft Shoes. Pretty in pink (and other colors, too), they come in a wealth of shade options. Luckily, they’re part of Nike’s Back to School Sale — up to 60% off! — so be sure to use code SCHOOL20 at checkout to redeem your savings.
The TOEDNNQI Lightweight Little Kids Running Shoes with Strap come with nearly 13,000 gleaming reviews for their comfortable fit, well-varied color options and non-slip sole to effectively help prevent slipping. What’s more, they feature all-around shock-absorbing technology that’s said to protect against bone and muscle strains — made perfect for your preschooler or kindergartner.
Pretty in pastels, the adidas Grand Court 2.0 Toddler/Kids Sneaker has a clean yet colorful look that’s less than $50 to add to your back-to-school shopping list. Its Cloudfoam cushioning “makes all the difference in the midsole,” per the brand, and its design is bound to match a variety of outfits.
Keep things classic with the Thereabouts Little & Big Girls Lace-Up Sneakers. For just $20 right now, they’re a low-profile option with a court-style look — complete with secure laces and a subtle star detail on the sides. Their memory foam insole is another nice touch, and they also come in a glittery pink option, should you prefer.
We have to admit: Old Schools just happen to look the best on the youngins, and this unisex pale iris shade is really as dashing as they come. Plus, the velcro style is much easier for little hands to work with — and can be adjusted easily for a close fit.
Doesn’t the Nike Toddler/Kids Court Legacy Stay-Put Closure Casual Sneakers look like the quintessential “school” sneaker? We’re all about its preppy and clean look —fairly priced at $40, too. With a supple leather upper and plush midsole, this white, brown and black trio is too fresh to pass up.
The See Kai Run Kids’ Kristin Sneaker is for the student who’s all about the pink and purple, and the red truck accent simply gives the pair a more school-ish charm. Complete with velcro at its upper — making it easy to take on and off — they’re an all-around great pick.
Cool as can be — Golden Goose specializes in making vintage-inspired, designer, worn-in sneakers, which may sound like an oxymoron — these shoes are a major win when you have kiddos that love to get dirty and scratch up their sneakers.
Sparkle and shine in style. These light-up butterfly sneakers come in three darling shades. Features include a glittering mesh upper, stretch-laced toggle front, and an ultra-cushioned footbed for unparalleled comfort. Plus, they come with a bonus gift upon purchase!
For elementary schoolers, the comfort of the Under Armour unisex-child Charged Rogue 3 Running Shoe is great for any day of the week, for any occasion — whether walking to class or shooting hoops at recess. They’re ranked as an Amaztop top choice, too, with reviews commenting that they fit true to size and are comfortable all day long.
Looking for a designer back-to-school purchase? Open your online shopping cart for the Burberry Kids Larkhall Icon Stripe Logo Gabardine Sneakers — a luxe take on the typical sneaker. Its flat heel, round-cap toe, and cotton/leather-hybrid lining make these a signature pair worth trekking to school with.
OK, the Sam Edelman Kids’ Ethyl Low Top Sneaker is simply too adorable not to mention. Made perfect for the student who adores all things pastels and charm bracelets, this less-than-$75, match-all option is wonderful to style from Monday to Friday — versatile and trendy.
Shop the adidas Racer TR21 Kids Sneaker to take elementary school days in stride. We love its color combo, along with its breathable exterior, to serve your student well for the entire year (and then some). Moreover, it’s made from partially recycled materials to make you feel good about your purchase.
No, New Balance isn’t just for “dad shoes.” Its Kids Unisex 515 V1 Lace-Up Sneaker comes in different color pairings to best suit your child’s style and preference. Not to mention, they’re the perfect balance (ha!) of an everyday and active shoe.
These Nike’s are ready to escort your kiddo on all their adventures, on and off the track. The Nike Run Flow Big Kids’ Running Shoes are lightweight, ultra-supportive and hug your foot without being constrictive. The combo of color-popping shades and sleek build make them hip enough to hit the halls in, too.
For a budget-friendly option that rarely scuffs, stick with Sketchers. These shoes are easy to put on, light on the feet, and offer a touch of stretch for fast-growing kiddos. Plus, with this bright neon yellow colorway, you’ll be able to spot them even in the dark. Reviewers mention the bright colors hold up fantastic after years of use.
Blazers are built for the cool kids. These off-court sneakers have an old-school look — compete with pops of soft terry cloth and a fun grippy tread — all delivered in a fun-sized package.
When we were in middle school, we lived in the adidas Unisex Child Grand Court Sneaker. Its low-profile, versatile look took a whole new spin on the classic white pair, and its lace-up detailing is well-made. Hello, $50 pair.
Another pair we wore on repeat in middle school? The Reebok Club C Kids Unisex Sneaker, much ado to its classic yet 90s-leaning look that simply matched any outfit. Whether worn to gym class or from algebra to social studies, rest assured this $60 pair will get you from point A to B comfortably.
This roundup would be incomplete without the Vans Kids Old Skool V Skate Sneaker — one of the most popular back-to-school kids’ stock-ups. Perfect for middle school, this pair will look even more put together with your favorite T-shirts and jeans.
For the middle schooler who loves running and athletics, the On Cloud Sky Kids Sneaker is a fan-favorite and one we highly recommend. Specifically, this pair is designed with runner-tech construction with springy cushioning and a flexible sole to serve as your elevated pair of white sneakers — but performance-grade.
Middle school is not an elevated experience without Keds, simply put. The brand’s Big Kids Girls’ Triple Step Leather Sneaker has an on-trend platform style we love, along with pink interior cushioning and gold accents by the laces to have a clean, aesthetically pleasing look — all for less than $50.
New Balance has struck a perfect balance with the 997R Sneakers. These shoes have just the right amount of chunk, grip, and cushioning for day-long comfort — the perfect pre-back-to-school purchase.
big girl shoes For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.