Every parent wants the best for their child, but the outlay for uniforms every year can be a difficult financial challenge. Some believe school shoes should last at least a full school year, but is that true for everyone? There are countless stories of parents who had to wear ill-fitting shoes as children, and even some whose parents or grandparents went to school barefoot. Here’s what to keep in mind when checking your little one’s shoes before the 2026 school year begins.
Do last years shoes fit?
Quick growth spurts can happen fast especially over the summer break. Have them stand on the insole to see if they are bunch at the end or hanging over the edge. If their toes or heels hang over the ends or sides, the shoes are too small. Check their feet for blisters or red spots after school, as they might be too busy playing to notice or tell you their shoes no longer fit. Common rubbing spots include the little toe and heel. The width matters just as much as the length—too narrow can cause blisters, too wide won’t provide enough support. Have a good look underneath! Is the sole still functional, or has last year's playtime worn it away?
Are they well constructed?
Just because your child’s shoes still “fit” doesn’t mean they’re doing their job. They might be worn out and no longer giving proper support. If that’s the case, it’s time for a new pair—even if they still fit. It’s tough to accept, but junior school kids can be especially hard on their shoes. These early years are key for growth and development, and worn-out shoes can literally and figuratively trip them up, affecting their gait, balance, and coordination. If you see your child looking awkward or struggling to run, skip, or jump in certain shoes, that’s a warning sign. Don’t let worn-out footwear hold them back—good posture while running and playing is vital for muscle memory, bone strength, self-esteem, and early social skills. Quality shoes are an important investment at this stage, especially if they're growing fast. If your child needs extra support or stability, a good pair of shoes can help, but if they have pain, coordination issues, or can’t keep up with others, it’s worth seeing a podiatrist for advice.
When to look for new shoes?
If you go by the standard rule, kids’ shoes last about 700 hours of wear. Given that most children will complete approximately 1500 hours every year, that means your child’s shoes should last around 6 months. That might sound like a lot when we think of wanting a pair of shoes lasting all year, but delaying buying new shoes could cost more in podiatry or physio later if worn-out shoes harm your child’s mechanics. Think of it as investment in your child's future health and if they're young athletes, its even more important to have them in quality supportive shoes every day.