Best kids’ sneakers for boys and girls to go back to school

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.

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:

Best Sneakers for Preschoolers and Kindergartners

Editor’s Pick: Nike Force 1 Low EasyOn

We need to take a second to admire the Nike Little Kids’ Court Borough Low Recraft Shoes. Pretty in navy (and plenty of other bright colors, too), they’re the sleek and stylish name-brand shoes that every kiddo would love in their closet. Not only that, but they’re also durable, comfy, and exceptionally easy to put on due to the hook-and-loop strap.

New York Post Review: Toddlers are picky to the point of melting down in public when they decide they no longer want to wear their shoes. Thankfully, for my two-year-old, this hasn’t become a major issue. I may owe that to these adorable pink Nike sneakers. She is obsessed with her EasyOns, and honestly, I am too. No tying is necessary; the lace area opens up and closes with velcro, allowing you to slip them right on (even when she is squirming around). They hug her feet without constriction, and have managed to stay in pretty great shape for the last year we’ve had them. Ample traction affords extra stability for her playground sessions (pictured above). They’re casual enough for everyday wear, and come in so many colors that you’ll want to collect them all.

Size: Toddler (2-7)

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Most comfortable: New Balance Kids Unisex 515 V1 Lace-Up Sneaker

No, New Balance isn’t just for “dad shoes.” It’s 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.

Size: Toddler (8-9.5), Little Kid (10.5-3), Big Kid (3.5-7)

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Best Designer: Golden Goose Kids’ June Basket Mid Top Sneaker

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.

Size: Walker (5-7), Toddler (8-10)

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Best Sneakers for Elementary Schoolers

Best Light-up: Skechers Light-up Dream Racer

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!

Size: Little Kid (11-3), Big Kid (4)

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Best Lace-up: 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.

Size: Little Kid (11-3), Big Kid (3.5-7)

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Best Unisex: Veja Kids’ V-10 Sneaker

Ready to retire the loud logos? Vejas are a breath of fresh air for parents and kiddos who want to skip he fads and stick to serious quality. The V-10 blends classic court design with Veja’s quiet commitment to sustainability. They’re designed with responsibly sourced materials, and still built to last every leap and tumble.

Size: Toddler (12), Little Kid (12.5-3), Big Kid (4)

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Most Trendy: Vans Kids Old Skool V Skate

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.

Size: Little Kid (10.5-3)

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Best Sneakers for Middle Schoolers

Most Breathable: 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 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.

Size: Toddler (8.5-10), Little Kid (12.5-13), Big Kid (1.5-7)

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Best High-Top: Nike Kids’ Blazer Mid ’77 SE Sneaker

Blazers are built for the cool kids. These off-court sneakers have an old-school look — some styles featuring a pop of soft terry cloth and a fun grippy tread — all delivered in a fun-sized package. Constructed with a mix of leathers and suede overlays, reviewers say they’re pretty durable too.

Size: Little Kid (10.5-3), Big Kid (3.5-7)

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Best Casual: 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.

Size: Big Kid (3.5-7)

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Best for Sports: 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.

Size: Big Kid (3.5-6.5)

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Buyer’s Guide: How to choose the right kids’ sneaker

Sizing

Kids’ sneaker sizing is a little complicated. While different brands use their own systems, most are divided into three groups: Toddler (5-10), Little Kid (11-3), and Big Kid (4-8). Refer to the image below for the full breakdown on US sizing.

Material

Kids’ sneakers come in a variety of materials. Selecting the right materials can have a major impact on the overall fit, comfort level, and how well the shoes grow with your kiddo (AKA how long they last). Keep an eye out for the following materials:

• Mesh: Mesh is very breathable, lightweight, and flexible, which means it may offer some growing room and won’t require too much breaking in. Be aware that mesh tends to be less sturdy than some other materials, so it may show more signs of wear. Some mesh styles can be worn in water.
• Leather: Leather is very durable and offers more structure, which might make it a more secure choice for everyday wear. It does mold to the feet, but it can take some time to break in. Make sure to consider that leather is a bit heavier than other materials, so leather sneakers tend to be best for casual wear versus sports and higher-impact activities.
• Rubber: Rubber is one of the more budget-friendly materials used in kids’ sneakers, and it still has some great qualities; it’s durable, grippy, and can help prevent slips. It can be used in more athletic shoes to provide a comfier, bouncey feel.
• Canvas: Canvas is another good material for kids’ sneakers, as it’s breathable, lightweight, and still has some flexibility for space to grow. Canvas is a bit more structured than mesh, so you can expect it to last longer. It’s important to note that canvas is not waterproof, and can stain a bit more easily than other sneaker materials.
• Suede: Suede is a stylish and fashionable choice as far as sneaker materials go — it’s soft, smooth, and still offers a good amount of structure. You may see it as an accent on a pair of sneakers. Suede is also not water-resistant and can be prone to staining as well as moisture damage.

Construction

There are several features to look for when selecting the best kids’ sneakers. Kids are very active, which means you should be looking for sneakers that are secure, comfy, breathable, and offer appropriate traction.

• Closure: The closure of a shoe refers to the way it fastens onto the foot. For kids’ sneakers, some popular closures include Velcro, laces, and hook-and-loop. Laces can create a more contoured, closer fit, but Velcro and hook-and-loop styles tend to be the easiest to secure across a child’s foot (especially if they’re prone to squirming). It’s important to select a sneaker with a proper closure as it can help reduce tripping and improve stability.
• Breathability: Skip the sweaty toes. Good air circulation is key, especially in warmer months or during after-school activities. Look for sneakers that feature moisture-wicking materials, mesh panels, or canvas, which can help reduce sweat buildup and increase airflow.
• Flexibility: Kids move around all the time, and it’s important to find sneakers that offer ample flexibility. To test the amount of flexibility, we suggest a simple bend test. Parents can bend the shoe near the toe, and there should be some flexibility (versus stiffness). This helps ensure the sneaker is comfy, but also means it will contour better to your child’s foot as they grow.
• Tread: Good tread is essential. Toddlers and little kids are still getting the hang of their balance, which means you’ll want to find a pair of sneakers with some traction. Durable rubber and grooved soles help prevent slips and keep kids stable. Parents can also look for non-marking soles for sneakers that can be worn indoors.

Durability

The best way to ensure sneakers are durable is to look for structured materials (like leather, rubber, and suede) and read the reviews.

Parents can also check to ensure sneakers are double or triple-stitched and have a firm feel. Look for water resistance, and consider cleaning your kids’ sneakers with a shoe cleaner or any leather conditioner to help them stay in top condition.

Red flags include loose threads, flimsy Velcro, and any sign that the sole is separating from the heel. Be aware that all-foam soles may wear down faster, and thin uppers could be more prone to cracking.

Price

The cost of kids’ sneakers varies depending on several factors, including the brand, style, materials, and overall quality. Budget sneakers (from brands like Reebok and adidas) can range from $20 to $50, whereas most higher-quality styles (like Veja and On Cloud) cost closer to $60-$100 mark.

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