With less than two weeks remaining until classes resume, now is the time when parents will be frantically rushing out on the school uniform run. Juggling style with rapidly growing feet and the notorious ability of the playground to ruin some shoes in a matter of weeks, picking out a pair of new back-to-school shoes can cause real headaches for parents. A good pair of school shoes matches a premium construction with durability and timeless style to be able to last the year while retaining their shape and design. With there being such a huge number of school shoes now available, AllSole has worked with our buying experts to carefully select ten of the best back-to-school shoes for 2016 that perfectly combine practical durability and comfort with timeless design.
1. Mini Melissa Toddlers' Ultragirl Silk Bow Ballet Flats - Black
A classic single strap flat with a simple bow detail at the toe, these elegant ballet flats have the benefit of being crafted from Melissa’s super-soft Melfex plastic which not just provides optimal comfort for the wearer but is also softly scented with a sweet aroma.
2. Clarks Originals Men's Trigenic Nubuck Suede Trainers - Black
With a lauded heritage stretching back centuries, Clarks made its name establishing classic silhouettes including the Desert boot in the UK and abroad. The Trigenic Flex shoe is one of its latest innovations, applying classic moccasin construction techniques with modern features including a three-part Vibram® sole. This shoe balances between a formal and casual shoe, ideal for school.
3. Asics Kids' Gel-Lyte III PS Trainers - Black
First introduced in 1990, the Asics Gel-Lyte III trainers were designed with an athlete, running-inspired silhouette than delivers outstanding comfort to the casual wearer. As well as providing great comfort in the classroom, the Gel-Lyte III trainers are built for sporting activity and can easily transition your son or daughter onto the playground in style.
4. PS by Paul Smith Men's Gilbert Leather Brogues - Black Oxford Dax Grain
The ‘Gilbert’ leather brogues are everything you would expect from Paul Smith Shoes, masterfully crafted from premium leather using a timeless silhouette and detailed with fine brogue detailing. Such a picture-perfect pair of brogues is an essential in any man or boy’s wardrobe, with the versatility to take you from the classroom to a family wedding and on a first date.
5. Dr. Martens Kids' Maccy J Patent Lamper Mary Jane Flats - Black
The perfect school shoe for the girl who likes to get stuck in on the playground whether it be beating the boys at football or taking on her friends at hopscotch, the ‘Mary Jane’ patented leather strap sandals are set on one of Dr. Martens’ signature air-cushioned Airwair soles for exceptional durability. You can rest assured that these shoes will last her the school year and beyond.
6. MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS Women's Fulton Patent Leather Moc Pumps - Black
Crafted from patent black leather, the MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Fulton’ pumps are made with a traditional moccasin-inspired construction and a classic low-top silhouette. A timeless monogram gold-tone brand plaque to the toe completes the look.
7. Superga 2750 Cotu Classic Trainers - Black
Simple, comfortable and endlessly timeless, Superga’s 2750 Cotu model has long been the go-to low-top canvas trainer for Italians. The classic construction of cotton canvas uppers and a vulcanised rubber has long been looked to for all-day comfort, and this all-black pair is perfect for pairing with school uniforms.
8. UGG Toddlers' Gemma Patent Leather Boots - Black
UGG is famous for providing plush comfort with its luxurious sheepskin wool linings and cushioned footbeds. The ‘Gemma’ boot features all the classic UGG features within a smaller boot built for toddlers, crafted with supple leather uppers and an adjustable buckle to the side.
10. Puma Men's Court Star NM Trainers - Puma Black/Puma Black
A more casual option, the Puma ‘Court Star’ sneakers are made with black leather uppers and finished with signature gold foil-embossed branding to the side.