Login Register
The Shoelist Edit

Questions & Answers

Everything you need to know about school shoe lists, fitting, subscriptions & more.

Frequently Asked

Questions

01 Are Dr Martens suitable for school uniform shoes?

Are Dr Martens suitable for school uniform shoes? Yes, Dr Martens can be suitable for school uniform shoes, but with specific conditions that vary by school policy: Key Points About Dr Martens as School Shoes Style matters: They must be shoes, not boots Colour requirements: Must be all black with no col…

school shoes leather black boots uniform
Read full answer
02 Are Dr. Martens suitable for school uniform shoes?

Are Dr. Martens suitable for school uniform shoes? Dr. Martens can be suitable for school uniform shoes, but this depends on your specific school's uniform policy. Based on various school guidelines: When Dr. Martens are allowed At some schools, Dr. Martens shoes (not boots) are explicitly permitted if they meet thes…

leather black boots uniform policy
Read full answer
03 How do I keep school shoes shiny and polished?

How to Keep School Shoes Shiny and Polished Maintaining shiny, well-polished school shoes not only helps them look smart but also extends their lifespan. Here's how to keep black leather school shoes looking their best: Regular Cleaning Remove dirt and dust with a soft cloth or brush before polishing Wipe shoes…

school shoes leather black uniform sole
Read full answer
04 How do I tie lace school shoes properly?

How to Tie Lace School Shoes Properly Tying shoelaces properly ensures your school shoes stay secure throughout the day. Here's a simple step-by-step guide: Standard Method Start with untied, even laces on both sides Cross the laces, pulling the bottom lace over and through the loop created Pull both ends to …

school shoes black acceptable velcro foot
Read full answer
05 What are good school shoes for a 5-year-old?

Choosing School Shoes for 5-Year-Olds When selecting school shoes for a 5-year-old, several factors should be considered to ensure comfort, durability, and compliance with school policies. Key Features to Look For Comfort - Children spend over seven hours daily in their school shoes, so comfort is essential for c…

school shoes leather fitting width comfort
Read full answer
06 What are good school shoes with straps for children?

Recommended School Shoes with Straps for Children When looking for school shoes with straps for children, there are several good options that combine comfort, durability, and compliance with typical school uniform policies: Recommended Styles Velcro-fastening shoes - Particularly beneficial for younger children w…

school shoes leather black clarks kickers
Read full answer
07 What are good shoe options for teenagers in school?

Appropriate School Shoes for Teenagers Finding the right school shoes for teenagers is important to meet school uniform requirements while providing comfort for daily wear. Here are guidelines for selecting appropriate school shoes: Acceptable School Shoe Options Plain black formal shoes - uniformly black leather…

school shoes leather black teenage teenagers
Read full answer
08 What are popular school shoes for girls?

Popular School Shoes for Girls When selecting school shoes for girls, it's important to choose styles that are both compliant with school uniform policies and comfortable for everyday wear. Here are some popular options: Common Styles Mary Janes - Classic style with a strap across the instep, often with a buckle f…

school shoes leather black girls clarks
Read full answer
09 What are the best back to school shoes for girls?

Best Back to School Shoes for Girls When selecting back to school shoes for girls, it's important to follow school uniform guidelines while also considering comfort and durability. Here are recommendations for appropriate school shoes: Key Features to Look For Plain black leather or leather-style shoes that can be…

school shoes leather black girls clarks
Read full answer
10 What are the best black trainers for school uniforms?

Black Trainers for School Uniforms According to the current uniform policies in many schools, black trainers are generally not acceptable as part of school uniforms. Footwear Requirements Most schools require formal black shoes that: Are polishable leather or leather-style Have traditional shoe soles (not train…

school shoes leather black kickers trainers
Read full answer
The Shoelist Guide

How to Choose, Measure & Fit School Shoes

A parent’s definitive guide to getting school shoes right — from measuring at home to spotting the perfect fit in-store. Five steps, no guesswork.

01

Measuring Your Child’s Feet

Children’s feet can grow up to two full sizes in a single year. Last term’s size is almost certainly wrong.

Time it right

Measure in the afternoon when feet are at their largest after a full day of activity.

Stand, don’t sit

Full weight on both feet spreads the foot and gives a true reading.

Use a proper gauge

A Brannock device or printable gauge — heel against the back stop, read length and width.

Measure both feet

One foot is often larger. Always fit to the bigger foot, wearing school socks.

02

Choosing the Right Style

Always check your school’s specific requirements before purchasing.

Material

Genuine leather or quality synthetic. Avoid canvas for daily wear.

Sole

Flexible, non-marking rubber. Should bend at the ball, not the middle.

Fastening

Velcro for younger children, lace-ups for older. Slip-ons lack hold.

Colour

Plain black for most schools. No coloured stitching or metallic finishes.

Toe Box

Rounded or wide gives growing toes room. Pointed styles cause problems.

Weight

Lighter shoes reduce fatigue for children on their feet all day.

03

The Perfect Fit Checklist

Run through every check before committing. Tick them off as you go.

04

In-Store vs. Online

In-Store
  • Trained fitters assess gait, arch & width
  • Calibrated gauges for accuracy
  • Instant try-on and walk test
  • Expert advice on foot issues
vs
Online
  • Wider selection & price comparison
  • Check brand size charts carefully
  • Choose generous returns policies
  • Try both shoes before removing tags
Editor’s tip: Use our shop finder to locate specialist children’s shoe retailers near you. Many offer free measuring even if you don’t buy on the day.
05

When to Replace

Even the best shoes have a shelf life. Watch for these warning signs:

Sore feet or blisters Toes pressing the front Sole worn smooth Heel counter collapsed Upper cracked or leaking
Rule of thumb — check the fit every 6–8 weeks during term and always re-measure at the start of each school year.
Explore

Browse by Topic

school shoes 160 black 160 leather 142 clarks 128 uniform 116 kickers 90 trainers 85 requirements 84 converse 77 start-rite 72 policy 71 boots 56 girls 49 vans 42 acceptable 33 loafers 29 boys 28 suitable 28 fitting 25 mary jane 17 comfort 17 nike 16 adidas 15 oxford 15 durable 15 size 14 velcro 12 polishable 12 teenage 11 foot 11 width 9 teenagers 6 sandals 6 shops 5 heel 5 sole 5 toe 4 retailers 3 quality 3 price 3 lace-up 3 stores 2 polish 2 slip-on 2 strap 2 how 2 primary 2 buckle 1 maintenance 1 secondary 1 expensive 1 ankle 1 tie 1 lace 1 school 1 shoes 1 budget 1 cleaning 1 waterproof 1 infant 1 online 1 buying 1 junior 1