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Shop August 15, 2025

Shop top kids shoes for the 2025 back-to-school season

WATCH: 'The Right Stuff' spotlights back-to-school shoes

From preschool to middle school, we're rounding up top kids shoe picks that combine comfort, style and durability for the upcoming back-to-school season.

Lifestyle correspondent Lori Bergamotto has handpicked shoes for preschoolers, middle schoolers and everything in between.

For example, the Crocs Kids Classic Clogs are lightweight, easy to clean and customizable with Jibbitz charms, which can make fashion fun. The Skechers Hands Free Slip-ins add sparkle and all-day cushioning.

If you have an elementary student that needs a little more of an elevated look, you can try the Lands' End Easy On Mary Janes or Slip-On Penny Loafers.

Check out these picks and more below.

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Pre-school fashion picks: Crocs Classics and fleece-lined clogs

Crocs mean all-day comfort -- and of course, they're (thankfully) easy to clean.

Classic Clogs (Toddler)

Price: $34.99 · From Zappos

Classic Lined Clog (Little Kid/Big Kid)

Price: $49.99 · From Zappos

Crocs Jibbitz Food - Stylish Shoe Charms

Price: $4.46 · 15% Savings
From Amazon

Original: $5.26

Pre-school sneaker picks

All three sneaker picks here are designed with slip-on features that make getting out the door in the mornings a breeze. What's better than a light-up sneaker that doesn't need to be tied?

Unicorn Charmer - Lil Starlite

Price: $55 · From Skeckers

Skechers Slip-ins S-Lights: Thermo Flash 2.0 - Heat-Brisk

Price: $60 · From Skeckers

S Lights: Tri-Namics 2.0

Price: $50 · From Skeckers

Elementary dress shoe pick for boys and girls

A timeless uniform-ready pick with a secure fit for both boys and girls at the elementary school level.

Girls Easy On Classic Mary Janes

Price: $24.97 · 50% Savings
From Lands' End

Original: $49.99

Kids Slip On Everyday Penny Loafers

Price: $17.99 · 63% Savings
From Lands' End

Original: $49.95

Elementary sneaker pick: Nike Air Force 1

Nike Air Force 1 LE

Price: $90 · From Nike

Middle school (girls): Adidas Samba OG and Sambae

Adidas are timeless, sporty and versatile -- making them a great pick for middle schoolers.

Samba OG Shoes

Price: $100 · From Adidas

Sambae Shoes

Price: $110 · From Adidas

Middle school (boys): Hey Dude

Comfort is key with Hey Dudes. They are lightweight and flexible for all-day wear.

Wally Youth Stretch Canvas

Price: $44.99 · From Hey Dude

Kid's value pick

The perfect pick for everyday adventures, the Athletic Works Bungee Jogger Sneakers from Walmart come in over 15 colors and a wide range of sizes for both little and big boys and girls. At under $15, they’re a fantastic deal for the school year.

Athletic Works Little and Big Girls Bungee Mesh Jogger Sneakers

Price: $14.98 · From Walmart

Athletic Works Little & Big Boys Bungee Mesh Jogger Athletic Sneakers

Price: $14.98 · From Walmart

Best pick for ages 3-5

The Converse Chucks are the classic back to school shoe that goes with ever outfit for the little ones. The Malden Street takes what you love about Chucks, and adds more cushioning in all the right places with space-inspired graphics for stellar style. Plus, an adjustable ankle strap and heel-pull tab make on-and-off a breeze.

Chuck Taylor All Star Canvas

Price: $40 · From Converse

Best pick for all ages

These slide sandals are appreciated for their comfort and lightweight design Customers enjoy the stylish appearance and vibrant colors, making them perfect for the student who wants to make a fashion statement. The partially plant-based material is a bonus for eco-conscious buyers.

Slide Sandals (Partially Plant-Based)

Price: $5.99 · 70% Savings
From Old Navy

Original: $19.99

Slide Sandals for Men (Partially Plant-Based)

Price: $10.99 · 56% Savings
From Old Navy

Original: $24.99

Platform Slide Sandals for Girls (Partially Plant-Based)

Price: $9.99 · 50% Savings
From Old Navy

Original: $19.99