Back-to-school shoe shopping can be a bit of a challenge if you don’t know what to look for. But with the right information, it’ll be a painless and even enjoyable experience! Check out our recommendations below.

Before the new school year is the perfect time to re-measure your child’s feet and see how much growing they have done over the summer! Look at our sizing chart for tips on how to do this.

Once you’ve established your child’s size (and this will vary from brand to brand), it’s time to pick a shoe that is going to hold up against the wear and tear of frequent use and the playground.

Here’s what you should look for:

1. The right material: 

Most experts say that leather is the best material for kids’ school shoes as it is flexible and soft, but durable. Leather is also breathable but keeps moisture out so that feet stay dry. Nubuck and suede are names for different types of leather. Canvas is also a good choice as it is breathable and sturdy. Both leather and canvas can be cleaned with a damp soapy cloth. 

2. The right construction: 

The heel should have a broad base and be wide enough to provide stability. The heel should also be tall enough to provide enough shock absorption but not so tall that too much pressure is put on the ball of the foot (ideally the heel should be around a quarter to one half inch). 

The toe cap should be rounded and provide adequate room for toes to wriggle. 

The foot should be kept in place by velcro straps or laces. This prevents the feet from sliding back and forth and damaging the toes.

3. A design that pleases you, your child, and conforms to school requirements.