What are the best school shoes for secondary students?
Best School Shoes for Secondary Students
When choosing school shoes for secondary students, it's important to follow school uniform guidelines while also considering comfort and durability.
What Makes Acceptable School Shoes
The best school shoes for secondary students should have these features:
- Plain black design with no visible logos or branding
- Leather or polishable leather-style material
- Formal business-like style (not casual)
- Black laces and stitching (no contrasting colours)
- Low heel (no more than one inch)
Shoes to Avoid
These styles are typically not acceptable for secondary schools:
- Trainers or sports brands (even if they're black)
- Canvas shoes, plimsolls or pumps
- Converse or Vans style footwear (even in leather)
- Boots (except certain styles for Sixth Form)
- Shoes with coloured stitching, logos, or reflective areas
- Suede shoes that cannot be polished
Recommended Brands and Styles
Some reliable brands that offer appropriate school shoes include:
- Clarks (formal styles, not their trainer-like options)
- Kickers (formal styles only)
- Start-rite
- Geox (formal styles)
- Marks & Spencer school range
Always check your specific school's uniform policy before purchasing, as requirements may vary slightly between schools. If in doubt, contact your school's uniform coordinator or head of year for guidance.
Tips When Buying
For the best experience with school shoes:
- Shop in person rather than online if possible
- Get feet properly measured, especially during growth spurts
- Try shoes on late in the day when feet are at their largest
- Check for adequate toe room (about 1cm beyond the longest toe)
- Consider buying slightly more expensive shoes as they often last longer
Properly chosen school shoes should be comfortable enough for all-day wear while meeting school requirements and offering good support for growing feet.