Early mornings (too early?). Filling lunch boxes, backpacks and water bottles. A cup (or three) of coffee. The excitement of a new classroom, new friends, and a new start – it’s back-to-school time.
We might be biased, but we think the school year goes smoother when you find that one shoe that’s versatile for everyday and durable enough for the toughest outside play. From sandals to boots, sneakers to slip-ons, we’ve got the right back-to-school shoe for big kids, little kids, and toddlers.
So how do you know which shoe is best? Read on to choose the sentence that best describes your kid!
RUGGED, ALL-YEAR SHOE
“My kiddo needs a one-and-done shoe that will last through winter, spring, summer, and fall.”
If you’ve got a kid that loves sports, a kid that likes to play pretend or make up dances, if you’ve got a kid who spends recess nestled up with a book or swinging on the monkey bars … well basically if you’ve got a kid, the Newport H2SHO Shoe is an easy ‘A’ – created with all the seasons in mind for 365 days of maximum comfort and fun. The Newport H2SHO features an adjustable fit, our iconic rubber toe bumper, and is fully enclosed with breathable mesh to keep debris out while keeping active feet comfy. Plus, it’s machine washable, so you can keep it looking first-day fresh all year.
Pro tip: Looking for a boot that will keep up with those weekend family hikes? Check out the Hikeport II Strap Waterproof Boot – rugged enough for the trail, light enough for neighborhood play.
“I always buy these shoes because my children could use them all over the winter, everywhere!” – Sara
DURABLE, GRIPPY SNEAKER
“We love getting outside to walk and bike to school as a family, and I need a shoe that can stand up to lots of outdoor time.”
Getting to school on foot or on wheels gives kids a chance to get the wiggles out before sitting in the classroom. The Speed Hound Sneaker was made for mobile kiddos with durable toe-to-heel protection. Inspired by car and bike tires, we created tread that grips and lasts (foot braking, included). And the hook and loop straps make it easy for kids to get them on and get out the door fast.
“We are always out and about. This shoe offers everything we need for our outdoor adventures.” - Bob M.
ALL-WEATHER CHUKKA
“It’s about to get cold where I’m at. I need a shoe that will keep my kid warm on the playground but comfortable when they’re indoors.”
Slush proof. Cozy. Easy on and off. The Kootenay III Boot is a waterproof chukka that makes back-to-school shopping easy because it’s like the teacher’s pet when it comes to all-weather protection and comfort. These hook-and-loop closure boots are just-right cozy for inside and outside with 100g of KEEN.WARM insulation and a fleece lining.
“They are the best all-purpose boots. Super easy to put on (both kids can do it without assistance). Waterproof, warm, excellent traction.” – Me
LIGHT, FLEXIBLE SNEAKERS
“My kid loves recess and is rough on their shoes. I typically need multiple pairs of shoes just to get through the school year.”
For those always-on-the-go, jumping-into-everything boys, girls, and enby kids, try our Chandler CNX or Knotch Peak sneakers. Both feature a low-profile outsole that gives kids traction without being bulky so they can get carried away playing tag on the grass or parkour on the playground.
“Great shoe for an active boy and I love the colors and design!...” – Anonymous
WHAT SIZE SHOE DOES MY KID WEAR?
Take the stress out of back-to-school shopping by buying online. Not sure how to tell what size shoe your kid wears? Use our Handydandy Foot Measuring Thingamajig to buy your kids’ shoes online with confidence. If you need to exchange for another size, no problem. Orders are eligible for a refund within 30 days of purchase.
