Back-to-School Shoes for Kids & Teens: Fit & Buying Guide

The right back-to-school shoes hold up to recess, gym, and daily wear without hurting growing feet. Here's how to choose for kids and teens, and which durable, comfortable styles we carry at Feet Heart.

What makes a good back-to-school shoe?

Three things matter: durability (real leather or sturdy canvas that survives a school year), all-day comfort (a supportive footbed, not a flat slab), and easy on-and-off for younger kids (slip-ons or simple laces). For older kids and teens, a classic sneaker or boot they'll actually want to wear matters just as much.

Best back-to-school shoes for kids

• Dr. Martens Kids' 1460 — leather boots built to last, great for kids who are hard on shoes. See our Dr. Martens collection.
• Creative Recreation Kids' Vito — durable high-top sneakers for everyday play.
• Timberland Kids' 6-Inch Premium — waterproof nubuck for wet mornings.
• UGG Kids' — Neumel and Bailey Bow for cold-weather comfort.
• TOMS Kids' — easy slip-ons for the younger set.

Browse everything in sizes for toddlers through big kids in our kids' shoes collection.

What are the best shoes for teens?

Teens usually want a classic sneaker or boot that works in and out of school — Vans, Converse, Dr. Martens, and UGG are perennial favorites. Shop the full size range in women's and men's.

How should kids' shoes fit? (leave room to grow)

Leave about a thumb's width — roughly half an inch — between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. Kids' feet grow fast, so check the fit every two to three months; a shoe that fit in August may be snug by the holidays. Avoid buying too big to "grow into," which causes tripping and blisters.

Do leather school shoes need breaking in?

Leather styles like Dr. Martens need a short break-in. See our Dr. Martens sizing guide and how to break in Dr. Martens before the first day. For UGG kids' sizing, our UGG sizing guide helps.

Get the kids fitted in person

Growing feet are easiest to size right in person. Visit Feet World in Culver City or at Westfield Santa Anita in Arcadia and our staff will measure and fit your kids. Questions before you shop? Call (310) 398-7497 or email info@feetheart.com. See store locations and hours.