Shoes for back to school: the essential guide for parents

As the new school year approaches, many parents wonder: which children's shoes to choose for school? Whether at primary or to secondary, properly fitting your child is crucial to ensure comfort, safety, and compliance with school rules.

Here are our tips for finding new shoes — without compromising style or budget.

Why is choosing school shoes so important?

During the school year, children wear their shoes almost all day. They must withstand heavy use, adapt to daily activities, and above all follow the school's guidelines.

Best shoes to choose for boys and girls?

Needs may vary slightly according to gender, especially in style and personal preferences. For boys, we often look for sturdy shoes in sober colors like black, gray, or navy blue, capable of keeping up with the pace of lively recesses. On the side of little girls, the models are sometimes more colorful or decorated with playful details, but it is just as important to prioritize comfort, durability, and non-marking sole. Whether for an active boy or a creative girl, a versatile sport shoe is always an excellent choice to avoid duplicates and simplify the school routine.

Choosing the right size: an essential step

A shoe that is too small can cause discomfort, blisters, or even harm foot development. Conversely, a shoe that is too large can cause falls or hinder movement. It is therefore crucial to take the time to measure your child's feet before each school year — even if the last pair still seemed to fit. Children grow fast!

Always consult our size guide to choose the exact size according to the length of the foot. Several brands fit differently, so it's better to check each time. If unsure between two sizes, choose the one that offers a little more space, especially if you plan to use thick socks in the fall.

A single shoe that does it all: practical and economical

Many schools require three types of shoes:

• Outdoor shoes for arrival at school
• Indoor shoes worn in class
• Physical education shoes reserved for the gym

Our advice? Opt for a good quality sports shoe choice, equipped with a non-marking sole, which can serve both as indoor shoes and as shoes for physical education classes.
Result: one less pair of shoes to buy, identify, carry... and lose!

Why choose a non-marking sole?

Non-marking soles are designed not to leave black marks or scratches on school floors, especially gym floors. Many schools refuse entry to the gym to any student wearing classic black-soled children's shoes.

🔍 Look for the following mentions when purchasing :

• Non-marking sole
• Non-marking sole
• Light sole or beige rubber

Elementary: which shoes to prioritize?

For elementary school children, focus on:

• Models lightweight and easy to put on (velcro, elastic laces or quick fastening)
• A soft and non-slip sole
• A good support for long hours of activity

High school: think style and function

Teenagers often have a say in their personal style, but the requirements remain the same:

• Non-marking sole mandatory for the gym
• Shoe with infinite comfort for walking and standing for long periods
• Neutral design or compliant with the school's dress code
• New branded shoe collection (High-top sneakers, Platform)
• Trendy shoe to make your teens happy

In summary: what to look for in a good back-to-school shoe?

• ✔️ Comfort and support suitable for the child's age
• ✔️ Non-marking sole
• ✔️ Easy to put on (especially in elementary school)
• ✔️ Versatile model (indoor + gym)
• ✔️ Wear resistance
• ✔️ Right size

💡 Bonus tip for parents

Have the shoes tried on a few days in advance before the start of school to avoid blisters. Don't forget to write the child's name inside each pair of shoes!