Shoes for Secondary School Students

Finding shoes that meet the requirements of both your child and your child’s school doesn’t get easier as they grow. Secondary schools can be very strict about what is and isn’t allowed, and teenagers are notoriously at the stage where they want to challenge anything resembling a rule. They also tend to outgrow shoes and wear them out just as quickly as when they were little. But thankfully, some excellent quality brands make shoes that will pass all the tests – the school requirements, your teenager’s fashion standards and your own quality and budget needs.

While each school has their own rules for footwear, in general they require black or navy shoes without colourful details or logos. Some schools insist the shoes are polishable, ruling out canvas or athletic shoes – much to the distress of the fashion-loving youth. Part of growing up is learning to follow some basic rules, but shoes that look good without breaking those rules can ease the pain for teens.

Quality is critical. Young people can be very hard on shoes. If they walk to school or to the bus stop, you can make their days a lot more comfortable by getting them waterproof shoes.

Top Brands at Shoe Stores

Teens and parents might value brand names for different reasons. Young people want kids’ shoes that are going to impress their peers, while parents want value for money and durability. That’s why our shoe stores are proud to stock names that please both parents and students. For secondary school, you can’t go wrong with Ecco.

Ecco men’s shoes range includes slip-on dress casual shoes as comfortable as trainers and waterproof lace up shoes that will keep their feet dry even if they have to walk to school in the rain. Ecco’s women’s shoes offer both velcro and lace choices that provide all day comfort, including an option with GoreTex. The logo is discreetly embossed rather than stitched.

For the boys, Swiss K is another solid choice for lace-up trainers that work as a school uniform shoe. If your son is a Converse fan, we have a wonderful compromise. Converse makes an all-black, leather shoe that isn’t a high top. It’s a win for students, parents and schools.

Girls in some schools have the option of boat shoes, a fashionable scholarly look that provides non-slip comfort. When they come from Dubarry Shoes, you know you’re making a sound investment. If she’s mad about Sketchers, they do make some all-black shoes a discreet logo. Visiting local shoe stores gives you a chance to really examine them and consult with the staff.

Buying shoes for teenagers isn’t easy – especially when both your child and their school need to approve of them. If the school has provided written criteria, you can bring that with you to shoe shops. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff if they have any insight into your school’s requirements. No doubt they’ve been talking to your child’s classmates and their parents too!