back to school shoes 2022

Intro to Back to Cool Shoes 101

Putting your resident student in the shoe styes they will like with the comfortability and budget protection you will love is pretty academic if you use our Back to Cool Study Guide.

Familiarizing yourself with the Back to Cool Study Guide means learning how students of all ages will find the “really-right-trendy-shoes” to match with any of their outfits. Then they may go back to worrying about important school things like where’s the cafeteria, which part of the homework did my dog eat and what time’s the dance on Friday.

Whether you have a fashionista, a skater, a sports nut, or just one cool kid, here’s a list of shoes for kids and teens that are durable, comfortable, affordable, and trendy. Now take out your pencils and pay attention. Remember, you may be tested on this later.

Intro to Best School Shoes for Boys

Boys Skechers Mega Craft™ 2.0

When we say this shoe is even cooler than it looks, we mean it. Sure, the Mega-Craft™ pixel thread design is the talk of the playground. But the mesh knit upper combined with the Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam® cushioned insole makes staying comfy a breeze. Totally cool.

Boys Puma SR Rift Slip-On

When they are heading out to school, or making a run to the playground, the Puma Softride Rift slip-on sneaker keeps little ones ahead of the class in style and comfort. Designed to feature a slip-on silhouette with lace detailing, this sneaker has a breathable upper and high traction rubber sole for extra practicality to help them properly puma pounce.

Best Girls Back to School Shoes for Beginners

Girls Adidas LT Racer Adapt 4.O

When girls are on the move all day, a kids’ slip-on shoe like this one makes the going great. The sock-like fit and cushioned midsole keeps feet comfortable for all-day in the classroom and at the playground. Adidas logos and stretch laces complete the smart look.

Girls Paris Blues Mila Platform Sneakers

Shop here: Girls’ Paris Blues Little Kid Mila Platform Sneakers

Give your little girl two legs up on the rest of the class with Platform sneakers from Paris Blues. This shoe gets high marks in style thanks to its approximate 1 inch platform. Its breathable canvas upper, durable cushioned insole with fabric lining and easy lace-up closure gives it A++ in comfort and fit.

There. Your primary education was a snap. You’ve graduated to the next steps in your schooling. You are now ready to move on to … Middle School.

A+ Middle School Guys Styling

Men’s Vans Range Sport Slides

Shop here: Men’s Vans Range Sport Slides

Let the ‘tude come through. Slip into comfort in a fresh pair of Vans Slide-Ons. Inspired by Vans’ classic vulcanized roots, this slide-on sandal is perfect for popping off before or after the game or for just Chill-a-xin.’ Soft rubber and stretch textile lining for comfort. For looks and versatility, this one is in a class all by itself.

Boys’ Champion Big Kid Drome Power High-Top Sneakers

When it comes to the style game, the stakes are a little higher. The winner is the Drome from Champion. The high-top design features a padded collar and fabric lining ready for any kind of moves. The adjustable Velcro strap and lace-up closure forms a very custom fit. The rumor is that those wearing these shoes come off about 87% cooler than they might really be.

Why have both adults’ and kids’ shoe recommendations for middle schoolers?

Most children transition from youth shoe sizes to adult shoe sizes between the ages of 9 and 12. Because of this, some middle schoolers will still be wearing children’s sizing, while others have already graduated to adult shoes before even starting middle school. To be ranked on our list of best shoes for middle school, the look must be available in both grown-up and kids’ sizes.

Middle School Girls Fashion 101

Women’s Blowfish Malibu Clay Sneakers

No one knows why, but when some young ladies reach middle school, they are suddenly full of moods and low on smiles. The Clay from Blowfish brightens the attitude and refreshes the smile. Why not? First, like all Blowfish shoes, there is a unique California feel afoot. Then, functional laces, branded eyelets and a cushioned footbed for all day comfort lets your favorite, little diva stand in style from home room until she is back home.

Women’s Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Lift Hi High-Tops

First, they expect a lift to school, then they ask for lift to the mall, and then plead for a lift to their gal-pals’ house. Might as well get them a lift in style too. The Classic Chuck elevates their look above the rest. It not only looks good, but the extra layer of comfort comes complete with EVA cushioning. Plus, the Lift Hi can be matched with pretty much any outfit in the closet.

Things start getting “real” in high school. Things that may end up on your “permanent permanent” record. Make sure your high school student is down on record of having real smart style.

Top Shoes for High School Guys

Men’s HEY DUDE Wally Sox Casual Shoes

While we cannot do anything about how long fifth period Modern Literature seems to last, we can offer never-ending, feel-good-forever footwear. The Wally Sox is the Hey Dude most popular moc and this time out, it meets sock-like comfort. Designed with breathable stretch fabrics without losing any support. The easy-on system features the no-tie elastic laces. It’s easy, it’s breezy and it’s on-the-go style even in classes where time seems to stop.

Men’s Nike Court Vision Low Sneakers

Let’s say you have big-time affection for the classic look of ‘80s basketball. But at the same time, you kind of have a thing for the faster paced vibe in today’s game. Enter the Nike Court Vision Low. The crisp upper and stitched overlays pay homage to the hook shot of old-school basketball while its totally plush, low-cut collar adds a sleek look that is comfortable all day or until the final buzzer – whichever comes first.

Cute Shoes for High School Girls

Women’s HEY DUDE Wendy Slip-On Shoes

Wendy is going to end up as the BFF for quite a few high school girls this year. For good reason. A light, breathable cotton canvas is paired with a soft, cotton lining for simple strides. If that is not enough of an invite, there is an easy-on system with elastic laces and an ultralight outsole for comfort that lasts all day. Neutral color makes this one friendly with lots of things in the wardrobe.

Women’s Puma Kaia Fade Platform Sneakers

Shop here: Women’s Puma Kaia Fade Platform Sneakers

Getting “up” to face another day at school just got a lot easier. The Puma Kaia Fade has everyone fired up to elevate their style. This one is perfect for those looking for a leather and synthetic upper with lace-up closure for a secure fit. The SoftFoam footbed has a way of cushioning and soothing your feet. Up and down the halls and in and out of classrooms, the rubber treaded outsole lends excellent grip and traction all day long.

So there you have it! A shoe to fit every kid’s personal style, as well as your budget. While we can’t promise they’ll make your kids run faster or jump higher, they will almost certainly put a smile on their faces. And once you see the total on your Shoe Carnival receipt, you just might smile, too. Your homework is to visit Shoe Carnival and educate yourself in the exceptional selection of footwear for your student. Class dismissed.

All items in stock as of time of publication. Original publication 7/15/20. Updated 7/06/22.

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