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Best school shoes for kids that'll survive the year
Embarking on the yearly hunt for the perfect shoes for school? Look no further than our roundup of the best school shoes to get you ready for September.
By Rebecca Roberts | Last updated Dec 30, 2025
When a new school year is approaching, it’s essential to make sure your child has good fitting, durable shoes that will survive five days a week in all weather conditions and activities.
There's no denying it - school shoes can be one of the more expensive parts of your child’s uniform. Thankfully, parents like I can find footwear to suit various budgets and school uniform sales throughout the year certainly help.
When it comes to school shoes for my two DC, there are several criteria I like to consider:
How comfortable they are
Are they durable and hard-wearing?
Will they be long-lasting?
Are they scuff resistant?
Do they match the school's uniform guidelines?
There are plenty of retailers and styles suitable for a range of needs so you should find a pair of shoes that are right for your child, whether they are older children going back to school or little ones just starting preschool.
To help you find the best school shoes around - and to take some of the leg work out of shopping for you - I’ve scoured the Mumsnet forums to work out which brands are the best and what shoes fit well, are comfortable and robust. I'd like to say this is just for work purposes, but in reality, I too am on the hunt for the best school shoes for my kids.
As ever, I turned to our Talk boards as my first port of call to see what our trusted Mumsnet users recommend. I've then combined this research with online reviews to help me come up with a list of the best products around.
Here are the best school shoes for children in 2026.
Best school shoes at a glance
Best school shoes for girls: Start-Rite Samba Rip-Tape School Shoes, £55
Best school shoes for boys: Start-Rite Quad Rip-Tape School Shoes, £58
Best sporty school shoes: George at ASDA Black Leather Double Strap Sporty School Shoes, £18
Best supermarket school shoes: ToeZone® Black Dinosaur Shoes, £22
Best high street school shoes: M&S Kids’ Leather T-Bar School Shoes, from £32
Best wellies for school: Grass & Air Kids Navy Colour Revealing Wellies, £24
Best school shoes for PE: adidas Tensaur 3 Trainers, £28
Best black trainers for school: Nike Court Borough, £32
Best school shoes with laces: Kickers Kick Hi Classic Boots, £52
Best school shoes for girls
Classic Mary Jane design
Soft leather upper that moulds to foot shape
Five widge options for perfect fit
Lightweight, flexible soles promotes healthy foot development
Easy rip-tape fastening for independent little ones
Pricey compared to supermarket alternatives
Some sizes may have a pink sock lining
Key specs
RRP on writing: £55 | Size range: 13S - 5½ L | Material: Leather
What Mumsnet users say
These Samba Mary Jane school shoes strike the perfect balance between classic style and modern comfort features. The traditional design will satisfy even the strictest school uniform policies, while the thoughtful construction details ensure your DC's feet will stay comfortable throughout long school days.
In my opinion, what sets these shoes apart is the attention to fit - with five different width options from extra narrow to extra wide, plus comprehensive half-sizing, parents like I can find the perfect fit for their child's feet. The soft leather upper moulds to the foot shape over time, while leather linings help absorb moisture and keep little feet dry.
The lightweight, flexible sole is also particularly impressive, and is designed specifically to support natural movement and healthy foot development - a crucial consideration for growing feet in my opinion, and one that I consider myself regularly when purchasing shoes. Padded ankles provide extra comfort and support, while the central rip-tape strap makes these shoes perfect for children who haven't yet mastered laces. The non-marking soles make them suitable for indoor school use, too.
At £55, they sit in the premium price bracket alongside brands like Clarks, but the quality construction and sizing options justify the investment. These shoes should easily last a full school year, making them good value for money despite the higher upfront cost. The only minor drawback is that some sizes may feature a pink sock lining, which isn't clearly indicated when ordering - something to be aware of if your child has strong colour preferences.
Top tip: While the shoes are lower in price on Amazon, stock is limited so I'd personally recommend buying these directly from Start-Rite.
Best school shoes for boys
360° bumpers provide all-round scuff protection
Reflective panels for enhanced safety in low light
Biomechanically engineered sole with age-specific flexibility
Removable insoles for customised fit and easy cleaning
Dyed-through leather resists colour scuffing
Premium price point
Limited width options compared to some competitors
Key specs
RRP on writing: £58 | Size range: 10S - 4 | Material: Leather
The Quad primary school shoes are engineered specifically for active boys who put their footwear through its paces.
What makes these shoes worth it is the 360° bumper protection that wraps around the entire foot - a game-changer for those tired of replacing scuffed shoes mid-term. The dyed-through leather means colour stays true even after playground adventures, while the biomechanically engineered sole provides age-appropriate flexibility for growing feet. Safety features include reflective panels for visibility, breathable mesh linings, removable insoles, and non-marking rubber soles with excellent grip.
I tested these with my youngest, who's starting preschool this September in a learn-through-play environment with plenty of outdoor time. During our full-day home trial (didn't want to scuff them before school!), he showed complete comfort throughout - no complaints, no fidgeting, and even bounced around in them to prove how comfortable they felt. The reinforced toe protection is particularly reassuring given his clumsy tendencies.
The rip-tape fastening makes them perfect for children who haven't mastered laces yet, like my DC, while the standard, wide and extra-wide options should suit most children's feet. We've tried out the wide option since my youngest has hobbit feet and they've fit just fine.
At £58, I'll admit that they sit at the premium end for school shoes, but represent a solid investment for parents seeking maximum durability. Based on my DC's testing experience, these shoes deliver on their promise of combining genuine comfort with robust construction for active young feet.
What about the Rhino Warrior shoes?
We previously had Start-Rite's Rhino Warrior school shoes as the best school shoes for boys but after trying both with my two DC, the Quad pipped the Rhino. And for me, this mainly comes down to price point and a couple of design features.
The Rhino Warriors retail at £65, whereas the Quad shoes are £58. Both are equally robust, hardwearing and made to last - but the Quad wins thanks to the additional toe bumper and the reflective design.
Best sporty school shoes
At just £18, significantly cheaper than premium brands
Touch and close fastenings allow children to manage them alone
Durable construction and scuff-resistant finish
Versatile sporty style suitable for both classroom and playground
Excellent grip from chunky sole for safety on various surfaces
Comfortable textile lining for all-day wear
Easy maintenance as the leather upper wipes clean easily
No width fitting options unlike some premium brands
Lacks advanced technologies like antibacterial treatments
Key specs
RRP: From £18 | Collection: Boys' School Shoes, Trainers & Plimsolls | Material: Leather upper with textile lining
Finding the perfect school shoes that combine durability, comfort, and style doesn't have to break the bank. These Black Leather Double Strap Sporty School Shoes offer exceptional value for money while delivering on all the essentials parents look for in children's footwear.
Crafted with a genuine leather upper, these shoes are built to withstand the daily adventures of active school children. The innovative double strap design with touch and close fastening makes them incredibly easy for children to put on and take off independently - perfect for busy mornings and PE changes. The secure fit ensures the shoes stay comfortable throughout the school day.
Best supermarket school shoes
Coated scuff resistant leather
Handy guide and markings on sole for getting the right fit
Easy riptape strap
Fun dinosaur pattern
No half sizes or different widths
Key specs
RRP on writing: £22 | Size range: 8 Infant - 2 Junior | Material: Leather
What Mumsnet users say
Another brand that comes up time and time again from our Mumsnet users is ToeZone. While the shoes don’t offer a range of different widths like some of the other brands, they come with markings on the sole of the shoes and a fitting guide to help you make sure they fit your child correctly.
Fans of ToeZone claim they are comfortable, robust and long-lasting and come at a decent price too, sitting between budget options like Asda and pricier brands like Clarks.
This particular pair come with a fun dinosaur design (I'm biased as my eldest loves dinosaurs) and are made from leather with a scuff-resistant finish and padded toe cap to help them withstand boisterous play.
With a memory foam insock, padded lining and collar and a riptape strap, they’re comfortable too so your child should be happy slipping their feet into them every day for school.
Best high street school shoes
Comfortably padded
Stylish patent leather design
Robust and hard wearing
Three different widths
Some reviews claim the bow came off
Key specs
RRP on writing: from £32 | Size range: 8S - 2L | Material: Leather
What Mumsnet users say
The school uniform shop at M&S is the place to go for parents who want quality, style and longevity and that includes their footwear. The shoes have been designed to last with antibacterial Freshfeet technology to keep odours away and your child’s feet fresh for longer, as well as a scuff-resistant finish and soft linings to keep your child’s feet comfortable and supported throughout the day.
The range of shoes include Mary Janes, brogues, loafers and trainers and these patent leather T-bars with a cute bow would make a gorgeous addition to your child’s uniform this year. The riptape fastening is easy for younger ones starting school to get on and off and they come in a wide range of sizes, including three different widths - standard, narrow and wide. They come at a more affordable price too compared to other high end brands.
Some reviews claim the bow came off, but otherwise these shoes get rave reviews. Some M&S stores offer a fitting service too so you can take the guesswork out of shoe shopping.
Best wellies for school
Magic colour-changing pattern when wet
Fleece lined for extra warmth and comfort
100% waterproof rubber construction
Fun feature that encourages outdoor play
Affordable price point
Novelty feature may wear off over time
Key specs
RRP on writing: £24 | Size range: 3 Infant - 13 Infant | Material: 100% Rubber
These Grass & Air wellies bring a delightful twist to traditional rain boots with colour-revealing technology - when the boots get wet, a multicoloured pattern appears, transforming muddy puddle adventures into exciting discoveries for your DC.
The fleece lining sets them apart from basic rubber wellies, providing extra warmth and comfort for little feet during cold, wet weather. The 100% rubber construction ensures complete waterproofing, while the simple wipe-clean care makes them practical for parents.
The colour-changing feature is particularly clever for encouraging reluctant children to embrace outdoor play, turning rainy day walks and forest school sessions into magical experiences.
Customer reviews on Tu are overwhelmingly positive, with a 5-star rating and 100% recommendation rate, suggesting both children and parents love the novelty factor and practical performance of these wellingtons.
At £24, these wellies sit in the mid-range price bracket, offering good value for the added features compared to basic rubber boots. While the colour-changing novelty might eventually lose its appeal, the quality construction and fleece lining make them a solid investment for active children who spend time outdoors. They're perfect for schools with outdoor learning programs or simply for making everyday puddle-jumping more exciting, in my opinion.
Best school shoes for PE
Breathable mesh fabric
Easy fastening
Made from 50% recycled materials
Some users say they get scuffed easily
Key specs
RRP on writing: £23 | Size range: 10 Child to 6.5 | Material: Leather
What Mumsnet users say
For under £30, these versatile black trainers by adidas are an absolute bargain IMO. And when it comes to designing comfortable sports shoes that can withstand many gruelling PE sessions, adidas is one brand that always comes out tops.
The Tensaur 3 trainers are a firm favourite amongst Mumsnetters due to their durable construction and solid rubber sole that provides ample comfort for little feet.
The breathable mesh fabric is also easy to clean, and we like how simple the shoe is to get on and off fast thanks to the double hook and loop tape straps.
adidas has also done a great job of caring for the environment by reducing plastic waste - as these shoes are made from 50% recycled materials. That's an easy win, win in my eyes.
Best black trainers for school
Unisex design
Made from durable leather
Shock absorbing sole for extra comfort when playing
May not be suitable for all schools
Key specs
RRP on writing: £38 | Size range: 10 - 2 | Material: Synthetic
What Mumsnet users say
If your child’s school allows them, trainers make affordable, comfortable school shoes.
These Nike Court Boroughs are all black, so they tick all the uniform boxes, plus they have the sporty elements you’d expect from trainers including a shock-absorbing sole, all-round padding, and the classic Nike branding. Plus, they’re leather – making them ultra-durable.
A great choice for teens, these unisex trainers are designed for activity rather than looking smart, so they’ll last well, however your kids spend their time at school.
Just make sure to check your school’s uniform rules before buying.
Best school shoes with laces
Chunky, bouncy sole
Can be bought with laces or zip
Good for all weather
May not be suitable for all school uniform policies
Expensive
Key specs
RRP on writing: £52 | Size range: 3-6 | Material: Leather
With their iconic red and green labels, Kickers’ ankle boots are a timeless school classic. Living up to their name, the chunky sole, triple stitching and great quality leather mean they’ll withstand any and all playground antics.
The smaller version of the Kick Hi has a side zip, so you won’t need to worry about little ones tying and untying laces. The sole is bouncy with really deep treads, so these boots will see you through all seasons. Another bonus is that they’re made with anti-odour technology to keep feet fresher for longer.
However, their casual style may not be suitable for all schools, so make sure to check your child’s uniform policy before purchasing these.
Related: Top tips for starting primary school
How to choose the best school shoes
Fit
The most important factor is how well the shoes fit. Leave it as late as you can before buying shoes for school to make sure they fit comfortably and have a bit of room for growth. Ideally you’d get your child’s feet measured when you buy shoes and you can do this in store or look at an online guide to help you do it from home. Look at different shoe styles to suit your child, especially if they have narrow or wide feet or high arches.
Durability
Because kids will be doing a lot of walking, running and playing in the shoes you’ll want some that will last. Look for brands that make good quality, durable shoes, with features like a scuff-resistant finish and a chunky sole that offers a bit of toe protection, as this is the part of the shoe that gets bashed the most. Look for a style and material - such as leather - that will be breathable and will soften with wear.
Style
There are a lot of different styles available, such as slip ons, Mary Janes and trainer style shoes, as well as embellishments like light-up soles and Disney themes. With so many styles available, you’ll want to make sure the shoes you pick fit your child’s school uniform policy.
Fastening
As you won’t be at school with your child to help them put on their shoes, pick shoes they can easily do up themselves. If they can’t tie laces yet, you can choose from hook and loop riptape, buckles and laces with zips.
Price
Shoes can range from as little as around £10 up to £60 depending on where you shop. This can feel like a hefty investment but remember these shoes will be worn five days a week so they’ll get plenty of use. Cheaper shoes can mean lower quality materials so they may not last as long, however, we have included shoes from a range of high street, supermarket and online retailers to meet all budgets.
Do schools have different rules on school shoes?
Yes - some are stricter than others when it comes to stitching, trainers and heel height, so double-check your school’s policy before buying.
Related: When do kids go back to school in the UK?
What’s the best material for school shoes?
Leather - it’s comfortable, breathable and softens with wear to avoid blisters.
What are the best school shoes to buy?
Lightweight, flexible and with an easy rip-tape fastening, the Leapfrog Riptape Glossy Leather Shoes by Start-Rite have been designed to be comfortable and long-lasting. They also come with a cushioned insole for extra comfort, padded ankles and a scuff bumper to the toe to keep them looking scratch-free for as long as possible. There are plenty of sizes and widths to choose from too, so you can get the perfect fit.
For boys, the Start-Rite Kids' Rhino Warrior Shoes come highly recommended for being comfortable, affordable and, most importantly, sturdily designed for lots of boisterous play.
How long should school shoes last?
A good quality pair of shoes should last the whole school year, however, cheaper shoes, made from lower quality materials may not last as long. On average, school children’s feet grow one shoe size a year until their teenage years so if you invest in a good pair of school shoes, it could be the only pair you have to buy all year.
How to clean and maintain school shoes
Kids coming home with dirty shoes is inevitable so you’ll need to clean them up from time to time, especially if you want to help them last longer. Here’s how to clean them:
Remove any insoles and laces
For a small amount of dirt, let it dry and then brush away with a shoe brush.
For very muddy shoes, wipe them with a paper kitchen towel and gently scrub with a wet cloth and mild soapy warm water.
Wipe with a dry cloth and then leave to dry naturally.
For leather shoes, you may want to finish with an oil or polish to keep them looking their best.
How often should school shoes be replaced?
A good pair of school shoes should only need replacing when your child grows out of them. Children’s feet grow quickly though so measure them every few months or so to check they haven’t outgrown their shoes. Watch for signs of discomfort and consider checking after growth spurts or weight gain.
You can have your child’s feet measured in stores but you can also do it at home. See below for help doing this.
What are the best shoes for kids with wide feet?
If your child has wider feet, then standard sized shoes may rub and cause discomfort. There are four standard widths for children’s shoe sizes in the UK, but not every brand caters to all of these. Brands like Clarks, M&S, Geox and Start-Rite cater to a range of sizes and needs.
How to measure a child's feet for school shoes?
You can do this in store at the likes of Clarks, M&S and Start-Rite, but you can do it at home. Schuh has an online fitting guide to help you do this - you’ll need a ruler and a flat surface, like a piece of paper or a book, to ensure accurate measurements.
To measure your child's feet accurately, follow these steps:
start by ensuring that they are standing with their weight evenly distributed on both feet - make sure to remove socks and footwear
place your child’s foot on top of your paper, pressing down gently so it’s flat and making sure toes aren’t curled
measure the length of each foot from the heel to the longest toe
draw a small line behind the heel and another in front of the longest toe.
measure the width of each foot at the widest part
then, use a sizing chart to determine the correct shoe size for your child based on the larger foot
Keep in mind the difference between UK and US shoe sizes for an accurate fit. Children’s shoe sizes in the UK start and go up to size 13 in smaller kid’s shoes. After that, in bigger kids’ sizes, they go from size 1 to 6.
Related: Top tips for starting secondary school
Are orthopaedic school shoes necessary for children with flat feet?
Flat feet is a very common condition in young children. In fact, it’s not until around the age of four to six that the fat pads found on younger children start to disappear and the arch forms. It's not essential to get specialised orthopaedic shoes if your child has flat feet.
Arch support and shoes with good toe and heel support can help, as well wider fit shoes. Insoles can be a good alternative to orthopaedic shoes as you can take them out and move them around their different shoes.
How we chose our recommendations
Tried and tested by our users
Because we know that there’s nothing like a real recommendation, we first headed to the Mumsnet Talk forum to find out which school shoes parents were recommending and had bought for their kids. We took special note of what parents said about the overall quality, design and comfort level of the shoe, plus additional factors like the material used, heel height and fastening mechanism.
Our list includes a variety of budget-friendly options (that are still great quality), as well as the classic school shoes from the likes of Clarks and Start-Rite.
Celebrated best products
We then did some research across the wider web, looking at which school shoes had won accolades or been featured in ‘best buy’ lists across websites, and what customer reviews said about them.
Having collated all that information, we then spent around 10 to 12 hours narrowing our list down to the top school shoes on the market. We chose unisex school shoes as well as the best options for girls and boys in a variety of styles for all seasons.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.
About the author
Rebecca Roberts is a Senior Content Editor hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she aims to bring parents content that’s designed to make life easier. As a parent of two young children herself, she knows full well how much school uniforms can cost parents. So, she’s created this guide to help fellow families save and keep back to school affordable.
Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog up and down country lanes.