10 Best School Shoes for Kids from Pre-K to Adult Sizes

At the top of most back-to-school shopping lists is a new pair of shoes for your child to kick off the new school year with. A quality pair of shoes is a must-have for any student heading into pre-K to high school. Naturally, we all want to find our children quality shoes that don’t break the bank. And, while it seems like a chore to find the perfect balance between quality and affordability, there are plenty of options out there for kids of any age.

We decided to round up some of the best-selling back-to-school shoes for kids so that you have a good idea of the brands and pairs that will work hard for your little learner. We have done the research to find the best shoes for kids that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Take a look at our durable finds for boys and girls below.

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Cienta Kids Mary Jane Shoe

$36 at the time of publication.

These easy Mary Jane’s from Cienta come in so many different colors and sizes. Yes, they have them for infants to larger youth sizes. These shoes are very simple in their design but they are extremely durable. The velcro strap is perfect for getting your little wiggle worm’s feet in these shoes.

Native Shoes Jefferson Kids Lightweight Sneaker

$39 at the time of publication.

You’re likely to have seen some children wearing these shoes around, and if you’re wondering if they’re worth the money, the answer is a resounding “yes” from their parents. Made of rubber, these shoes are extremely durable, with a thick sole that allows for all the running and jumping. Rubber also means that these shoes are incredibly easy to clean. Just throw them in the sink with some soapy water. We also love the holes for breathability because, as we all know, kids’ feet somehow always smell. They have shoes in many different colors and sizes that will fit a child from one to twelve years old.

Floafers Prodigy Driver for Kids

$39.99 at the time of publication.

While we think the Native sneakers are totally fine to be worn dressed up or more casually, if you’re looking for a shoe that’ll really have your little one styling, look no further than these Floafers. These babies combine the practicality we love from Natives with a more upscale look that matches more or dad’s favorite going-out pair. They also come in pink and other color options. They have sizing for toddlers to big kids.

Skechers Unisex-Child Ultra Flex 2.0 Sneaker

$44.99 at the time of publication.

If you can’t tell we are huge fans of school shoes that slide on for kids. Skechers makes these fashion-forward shoes in a variety of colors and sizes, making them perfect for plenty of age groups. They’re easy enough to wear for elementary-aged little ones but still stylish enough for your older kids.

Crocs Unisex-Child Kids’ Classic Clog

$26.24 at the time of publication.

While they might not be the most beautiful clogs in the world, Crocs really are a great, affordable option that holds up over time. They are also extremely comfortable and easy to keep clean. For kids, they come in sizes to fit children aged one to twelve. The adult clogs are also a great option for your older children.

Converse Unisex-Child Chuck Taylor All-Star Low Top Sneaker

$30+ at the time of publication.

Chances are you have worn a pair of Converse in your lifetime. They are timeless, stylish shoes that are extremely durable. They come in all sizes and colors for kids and if you are brave enough to want to deal with lace-up shoes, these are definitely a great way to go.

Converse Unisex-Adult Chuck Taylor All-Star 

$75+ at the time of publication.

For your middle school and high school kids, we recommend the Converse low-top converse as well. They are not the cheapest shoes out there but they are durable. Wearing a pair of Converse is like a right of passage for any middle or high schooler so you can’t go wrong with the always-cool Converse.

Stride Rite Unisex-Child M2p Lighted Victory Sneaker

$31.89+ at the time of publication.

Kids absolutely love light-up sneakers. This pair from Stride Rite are designed to look like they are on fire! These fun school shoes are easy to get on, comfortable for kids, and just really fun. These come in sizes for kids ages from one to eight. You can also throw these kicks in the wash when it is time for a refresh which is just about always.

Skechers Women’s Go Walk Joy Sneaker

$28.73+ at the time of publication.

These slip-ons for your older children in adult sizes feel like you are walking on air and the price cannot be beaten. However, that price varies depending on which of the many different colors and styles they offer. We loved this tie-dye but there are much tamer options for more reserved middle or high school kids.

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Adidas Unisex-Child Lite Racer Adapt 4.0 Running Shoe

$23.65 at the time of publication.

Inspired by classic running looks, these shoes slip on easily and stay snug with an elastic top strap. A Cloudfoam midsole makes every step super comfortable. These running shoes for kids from Adidas are extremely comfortable and easy to put on your children. They are appropriate for toddlers and have sizes that extend to children as old as twelve.

There you go! We hope you found the best pair of back-to-school shoes for your kids. Each one offers something unique and fun for children of any age. Now, go get a pair of these shoes so your kid can kick off the new school year.