There’s a reason Air Force 1s keep showing up in school hallways year after year: They make almost any outfit look instantly cooler. With tons of colors to choose from, you can also skip the all-white pair if you’re not emotionally prepared to watch them get destroyed at recess.

Colorways: 26 Colors
Size Options: Baby/Toddler (2C-10C ), Little Kids (10.5C-3Y), Big Kids (3.5Y-7Y)

The chunky sneaker trend is still going strong, and the New Balance 530 lets kids get in on it without looking like they borrowed Dad’s lawn-mowing shoes. They’re sporty, comfortable-looking and cool enough that parents may suddenly feel the need for a matching pair.

Colorways: 10 Colors
Size Options: Kids (3.5-7)

With their retro shape and oversized laces, the Adidas Campus 00s have the kind of effortlessly cool look older kids tend to love. They come in lots of colorways, which should make it slightly easier to satisfy the child who has recently become a very serious fashion critic.

Colorways: 20 Colors
Size Options: Kids (3.5-7)

Kiziks are made for kids who want to put on their shoes independently. The hands-free design lets them step right in, which may buy you back a precious 30 seconds during the morning rush.

Colorways: 4 Colors
Size Options: Little Kids (10.5-3)

The Puma Palermo has the kind of retro, low-profile look that makes even a basic school outfit feel intentional. It’s sporty without looking like a gym shoe, which is ideal for kids who want something cool enough for class but still ready for recess.

Colorways: 3 Colors
Size Options: Little Kids (10.5-3.5), Big Kids (4-7)

These slip-ins bring plenty of bold color to the school-day lineup, so they’re an easy sell for kids who think neutral sneakers are boring. The hands-free design is the real win for parents, though: Kids can step right in and get moving without turning shoe time into a group project.

Colorways: 3 Colors
Size Options: Little Kids (10.5-3), Big Kids (3.5-7)

The Native Jefferson is the kind of easy everyday shoe parents will be happy to keep by the front door. They’re lightweight, simple for kids to slip on themselves and available in 31 colors, so even the pickiest little shopper should find one they’ll happily wear to school.

Colorways: 31 Colors
Size Options: Toddler (4-10), Kids (11-6)

The ASICS GEL-1130 brings serious running-shoe energy, even when the only race happening is toward the school bus. The cushioned, sporty design is a smart pick for kids who rarely stop moving and seem physically incapable of walking anywhere at a normal pace.

Colorways: 12 Colors
Size Options: Pre-School (K10-3), Grade School (3.5-7)

These platform Chuck Taylors take the classic high top and give it a little extra attitude. They’re bold without being difficult to style and perfect for kids who have decided regular sneakers simply aren’t dramatic enough.

Colorways: 10 Colors
Size Options: Big Kids (3.5-7)

The On Running Sky 2 is built for kids who treat hallways, playgrounds and grocery store aisles like their own personal track. They have a sleek, grown-up look and plenty of sporty appeal, though at $110, you may be tempted to politely ask their feet to stop growing.

Colorways: 6 Colors
Size Options: Youth (3.5-6.5)

Part Mary Jane, part sneaker, this pair delivers the polished look of a school shoe without subjecting kids to stiff, uncomfortable footwear all day. They’re especially cute with dresses, skirts or uniforms and have a chunky sole that adds just enough personality.

Colorways: Black
Size Options: Youth (11-6)

These Hoka’s bring the same chunky, cushioned look kids have probably already seen on every grown-up at school pickup. They’re a splurge, but with 13 colors and plenty of all-day comfort, they’re a strong pick for kids who want their sneakers to look as cool as they feel.

Colorways: 13 Colors
Size Options: Big Kid (3.5Y-7Y), Little Kid (10.5K-3K)

Crocs are already an easy sell with kids, and adding Super Mario makes them nearly impossible to resist. They’re easy to slip on, simple to clean and perfect for bringing a little Mushroom Kingdom energy to errands, playdates and casual school days.

Colorways: Multi
Size Options: Big Kid (C11-J6), Little Kid (C5-C10)

These Disney Princess high tops let kids wear their favorite characters without committing to a full ball gown before 8 a.m. The colorful design should satisfy little ones with very strong outfit opinions, while the under-$40 price is a little easier on the back-to-school budget.

Colorways: Multi-Color
Size Options: Toddler (6-10), Little Kid (10.5-3)

Oobi skips safe neutrals in favor of bold color combinations that are much more fun to spot on the playground. Even better, parents can tuck an AirTag into the shoe’s cushioned insert for a little extra peace of mind when kids are out and about. It’s one of those clever features you hope you never need but will be very glad to have.

Colorways: Black & Yellow, Pink & Blue
Size Options: Toddler (6-13)

The Bearpaw Elle is the cozy boot kids will want to pull on the second the temperature drops below 70 degrees. It works with leggings, jeans and school-day outfits while keeping little feet warm through chilly drop-offs, weekend adventures and all the other reasons they insist on leaving the house without a coat.

Colorways: 7 Colors
Size Options: Youth (1-5, 13), Toddler (7-12)