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Sure, 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.
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, 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).
Not to mention, the New York Post Shopping team hand-picked the 20 best options based on what we used to pick up back in the day (and now, look for online for our nieces who are heading off to preschool this year).
Click to jump to a specific age:
Before you shop, check out the shoe sizing chart we used for reference.
Best Sneakers for Preschoolers and Kindergartners
1. TOEDNNQI Lightweight Little Kids Running Shoes with Strap
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.
2. adidas Grand Court 2.0 Toddler/Kids Sneaker
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.
3. Thereabouts Little & Big Girls Lace-Up Sneakers
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.
4. Nike Toddler/Kids Court Legacy Stay-Put Closure Casual Sneakers
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.
5. See Kai Run Kids’ Kristin Sneaker
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.
Best Sneakers for Elementary Schoolers
1. Under Armour Unisex Big Kids Assert 9 Running Shoe
For elementary schoolers, the comfort of the Under Armour Unisex Big Kids Assert 9 Running Shoe is great for any day of the week, for any occasion — whether walking to class or shooting hoops at recess. They’re a No. 1 Amazon best-seller, too, with nearly 5,000 reviews praising its name.
2. Burberry Kids Larkhall Icon Stripe Logo Gabardine Sneakers
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 all-white sneaker. Its flat heel, round-cap toe and cotton/leather-hybrid lining make these a signature pair worth trekking to school with.
3. Sam Edelman Kids’ Ethyl Low Top Sneaker
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.
4. adidas Racer TR21 Kids Sneaker
Shop the adidas Racer TR21 Kids Sneaker to take elementary school days in stride. We love its color combo, along with breathable exterior, to serve your student well for the entire year (and then some). More, it’s made from partially recycled materials to make you feel good about your purchase.
5. New Balance Kids Unisex 515 V1 Lace-Up Sneaker
No, New Balance isn’t just for “dad shoes.” Its Kids Unisex 515 V1 Lace-Up Sneaker come 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.
Best Sneakers for Middle Schoolers
1. adidas Unisex Child Grand Court Sneaker
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.
2. Reebok Club C Kids Unisex Sneaker
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.
3. Vans Old Skool Big Kids Sneaker
This roundup would be incomplete without the Vans Old Skool Big Kids 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.
4. On Cloud Sky Kids Sneaker
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.
5. Keds Big Kids Girls’ Triple Step Leather Sneaker
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.
Best Sneakers for High Schoolers
1. Cariuma Women’s Catiba Pro Low Off-White Sneaker
We love Cariuma so much, we wrote an entire review about the brand. Its Women’s Catiba Pro Low Off-White Sneaker is a step up from others in your closet and, the best part? They’re sustainably made, less than $100 (which is great for a high-quality pair) and come in a bunch of colors to choose from.
Eco-consciously, for every pair purchased, Cariuma will plant two trees (pretty amazing, right?)
2. Nike Men’s Jordan Jumpman Pro Quick Sneakers
The high school boy would be amiss to ignore the Nike Men’s Jordan Jumpman Pro Quick Sneakers. This all-black, handsome pair is ideal for heading back to school, thanks to its classic, court-inspired look and solid-rubber outsole for well-made traction.
3. lululemon Women’s Blissfeel Trail Running Shoe
We reviewed the lululemon Women’s Blissfeel Trail Running Shoe — the first of the brand’s shoes to take you from road to trail. Especially apt for cross country and track runners (or, those who love a top-of-the-line, supportive feel), this pair is worth the investment. Consider it a back-to-school present.
4. Reebok Women’s Fluxlite Training Shoe
For a fairly priced sneaker to refresh your current collection, the Reebok Women’s Fluxlite Training Shoe is one we recommend. It’s lightweight, breathable, perfect for gym or casual study days and will hold up nicely for years (trust us, we had these).
5. Converse Unisex Adult Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top Sneakers
We’d like to say we’re saving the best for last, as the Converse Unisex Adult Chuck Taylor All Star Low Top Sneakers are the traditional footwear of choice for heading to class in classic comfort. Not only that, but they’re less than $30 right now (aka, buy them ASAP before your classes).
Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.
