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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 to look for when buying first school shoes?

What to Look for When Buying First School Shoes Choosing the right first school shoes is important for both comfort and meeting school uniform requirements. Here's what to consider: Key Features to Look For Material: Plain black full leather or leather-style that can be polished Style: Formal, business-appropria…

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02 What trainers are suitable for school PE lessons?

Suitable Trainers for School PE Lessons For school PE lessons, students should have the following trainers: Key Requirements Non-marking trainers - These are essential as they don't leave scuff marks on indoor gym floors Trainers should be appropriate for physical activity and provide proper support Separate t…

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03 Where can I buy Angry Angels school shoes?

Where to Buy Angry Angels School Shoes Angry Angels school shoes can be purchased from various retailers both online and in physical stores. While the specific documentation doesn't mention Angry Angels by name, these are recognized as appropriate school shoes that typically meet school uniform requirements when they …

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04 Where can I buy black brogue school shoes?

Where to Buy Black Brogue School Shoes You can purchase black brogue school shoes from various retailers that specialize in school footwear: High Street Retailers Clarks - Known for quality school shoes with good foot support M&S - Offers durable school shoes including brogue styles Next - Has a range of forma…

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05 Where can I buy black trainers for school?

School Footwear Requirements Based on current school policies, black trainers are not permitted for school uniform. Since September 2021, the school requires polishable black shoes only. Acceptable Footwear The school requires: Polishable black formal shoes Shoes with a traditional shoe sole (not trainer-type s…

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06 Where can I buy boys' summer school shoes?

Where to Buy Boys' Summer School Shoes Boys' summer school shoes can be purchased from a variety of retailers. When shopping for school shoes, keep in mind that they should meet specific requirements: School Shoe Requirements Plain black, full leather or leather-like material that can be polished Formal in style…

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07 Where can I buy brown school shoes for girls?

Where to Buy Brown School Shoes for Girls Brown school shoes for girls can be purchased from various retailers across the UK. Here are some recommended places to shop: High Street Retailers Clarks - Offers durable, properly fitted school shoes in brown Start-rite - Specializes in children's footwear with good qu…

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08 Where can I buy brown school shoes in the UK?

Where to Buy Brown School Shoes in the UK You can purchase brown school shoes for children from various retailers across the UK: High Street Retailers Clarks - Offers a wide range of school shoes with measuring service Marks & Spencer - Known for durable school footwear Next - Good selection of formal brown sc…

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09 Where can I buy Clarks school shoes?

Where can I buy Clarks school shoes? Clarks school shoes can be purchased from multiple locations: Clarks Official Stores - Visit Clarks dedicated retail shops on high streets and in shopping centres across the UK Clarks Website - Purchase directly from the official Clarks online store at www.clarks.co.uk Depa…

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10 Where can I buy Geox Savage school shoes?

Where to Buy Geox Savage School Shoes Geox Savage school shoes are not specifically mentioned in the school's approved footwear list. However, Geox shoes may be acceptable if they meet the school's footwear requirements: Plain black leather (able to be polished) No suede No visible logos, motifs, or colored st…

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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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