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The Shoelist Edit

Questions & Answers

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

Frequently Asked

Questions

01 What are the best school boots for boys?

Boys School Boots for School According to the school uniform policy, boots are not permitted at all for boys in Years 7-11. Instead, pupils must wear formal black shoes that meet the following requirements: Plain black leather or leather-style shoes that can be polished No Velcro, large logos, embellishments, pa…

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02 What are the best school boots for children?

Best School Boots for Children The requirements for school boots vary depending on the year group: Years 7-11 Boots are not permitted at all for students in Years 7-11. Only proper school shoes are allowed. Years 12-13 (Sixth Form) For Years 12-13 students, certain boot styles are permitted: Chelsea boot styl…

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03 What are the best school boots for girls?

School Boots for Girls Based on the uniform policy, here's what you need to know about school boots for girls: Important: Boots are not permitted at all for students in Years 7-11. Only students in Years 12/13 may wear certain boot styles. Years 7-11 For girls in Years 7-11, boots are not permitted as part of the…

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04 What are the best school loafers for students?

Best School Loafers for Students When selecting school loafers, it's important to choose styles that comply with school uniform policies while providing comfort and durability for daily wear. Key Features to Look For Material: Full leather or polishable leather substitutes Colour: Plain black (some schools may p…

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05 What are the best school sandals for children?

Suitable School Sandals for Children Based on school uniform policies, children's school sandals need to meet specific requirements to be appropriate for school wear. Here are guidelines for selecting suitable school sandals: Key Requirements for School Sandals Plain black in colour Made of polishable material …

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06 What are the best school shoe boots for children?

Children's School Shoe Boots Guide When selecting school shoe boots for children, there are specific guidelines to follow depending on your child's year group: Age Restrictions For students in Years 7-11, boots are generally not permitted as part of school uniform. However, for students in Years 12-13, certain boot s…

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07 What are the best school shoe protectors for children?

Best School Shoe Protectors for Children Protecting school shoes is a wise investment to extend their lifespan and maintain their appearance throughout the school year. Here are some effective options: Types of Shoe Protectors Waterproof Sprays - Create an invisible protective barrier against water, dirt and stai…

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08 What are the best school shoes for a child with autism?

Best School Shoes for a Child with Autism When selecting school shoes for a child with autism, consider both sensory needs and practical features: Key Features to Look For Sensory-friendly materials - Soft leather or breathable fabrics that won't irritate sensitive skin Easy fastenings - Velcro straps are often…

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09 What are the best school shoes for boys?

Best School Shoes for Boys When choosing school shoes for boys, it's important to follow school uniform guidelines while also considering comfort, durability, and style. Here are key requirements and recommendations: Key Requirements Plain black, formal leather or leather-look shoes that can be polished Busines…

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10 What are the best school shoes for children?

Best School Shoes for Children When selecting school shoes for children, it's important to focus on both school uniform requirements and comfort. Here are the key considerations: Key Features to Look For Material: Full leather or polishable leather substitutes that are durable and weather-resistant Comfort: Good…

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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.
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