Slow down there friend
Hottest Kids' Sneakers for Back to School
Parents love sneakers for the healthy support and all-day wearability they provide. But for kids, a new pair of kicks is all about style. Luckily, there’s no need for either side to compromise, thanks to this season’s selection of comfy, well-made, super-stylish sneakers.
We’ve rounded up all the hottest trends kids are craving this year, plus top style picks for each.
Top Sneaker Trends for Back to School 2022
Light-Up Technology
Shoes that glimmer and glow have been around for a while, and this trend isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it’s better than ever, with even more innovative designs and high-performance features. (And for parents who need to know, yes, these light-up shoes do come with an on-off switch!)
Best Light-Up Sneaker for Girls
Skechers Star Sparks Light Up Running Shoe
Watch her shine like a shooting star in these light-up slip-ons for girls by Skechers. With every step the midsole design blinks bright in pink and turquoise. Perfect for the playground, turns off in the classroom. Shop Now
Best Light-Up Sneaker for Boys
Skechers Flex-Glow Dezlo Light-up Athletic Shoe
Push a button, take a big step, and turn on the glow. The midsole sides of these boys’ slip-ons from Skechers light up in brights to complement the hyper-hues of green and blue. When it’s time to settle down, he can hit the on-off switch cleverly concealed in the hook-and-loop strap. Shop Now
Cool Ombré
Ombre was absolutely everywhere this year, and sneakers are no exception. The best picks combine a flow of color with intricate texture for a mesmerizing effect.
Best Ombré Sneaker for Girls
Not just ombré, but with tie-dye styling, too, these Fila girls-sneakers are rainbow bright with a retro vibe that’s modern again. Comfort comes in a lightweight design that’s crafted from canvas with a padded insole, while the textured rubber outsole provides maximum traction. Shop Now
Best Ombré Sneaker for Boys
Flow of color? Intricate texture? Mesmerizing effect? Check on all three and then some. Fila delivers on features with this slip-on sneaker for boys thanks to bungee laces to secure the foot, a cushioned insole for long hours at play, and a lightweight outsole that won’t weigh him down. Shop Now
Bright Whites
The “Dad Shoe” trend lives on in simple, sturdy, classic white styles. They’ll make a statement fresh out of the box.
Best White Sneaker for Girls
Adidas Cloudfoam Pure K Running Shoe
Crisp on the outside and cushiony on the inside, these girls’ white running shoes from Adidas are designed with more than meets the eye. There’s a super-subtle shimmer on the textured upper and rubber midsole, along with super-soft Cloudfoam cushioning. Shop Now
Best White Sneaker for Boys
These white Puma sneakers do double duty, going back to school and hitting the courts with crisp, comfy style that’s another nod to retro. The cushioning comes from softfoam and a thick rubber outsole. Shop Now
Platform Soles
Another echo of the “Dad Shoe” trend, platforms take active kids to new heights. Quality and good construction really matter here, to make sure those extra inches don’t come at the cost of stability.
Best Platform Sneaker for Girls
Under Armour Surge 2 Running Shoe
Built with a little something extra on the bottom, Under Armour gives girls a leg up with some sole height. The traction of these platform sneakers is patterned for added grip, while considering durability and support. Textured mesh keeps the upper lightweight and airy. Shop Now
Best Platform Sneaker for Boys
Reebok Zig Dynamica Athletic Shoe
A style standout with its zigzag platform midsole, Reebok’s boys’ athletic shoe is more than just aesthetically cool—it’s crafted with lightweight FuelFoam for long-lasting comfort and Zig Energy Bands on the outsole for added power boosts. Shop Now
Neutral Tones
For kids who favor a more subtle look, this season’s trends have plenty to offer. Specifically, shoes that score style points with quiet-but-cool tech features and textural design details.
Best Neutral Sneaker for Girls
Adidas Lite Racer Adapt Running Shoe
Categorized as blue, but so light in hue that it goes with so many styles, Adidas has a neutral sneaker girls will love. The textured mesh of the slip-on style is finished with a bold logo strap and crafted with Cloudfoam cushioning for ultimate comfort. Shop Now
Best Neutral Sneaker for Boys
Puma Pacer Future Running Shoe
These gray slip-on sneakers for boys are perfect for a style of substance over the flash of fashion. The chunky, durable-traction outsole gives heavy-duty support for some serious play days, while hiding all the evidence of dirt. Shop Now
Super-Bright
Loud, colorful sneakers are nothing new, but kids still can’t get enough of ‘em. This season’s freshest takes showcase a limited palette of bright hues and streamlined, aerodynamic styling.
Best Super-Bright Sneaker for Girls
When the day calls for attention-grabbing color, these super-bright girls’ Asics runners are the answer. Comfort heeds the call, too, with a cushioned insole, solid rubber outsole, and breathable mesh upper. Shop Now
Best Super-Bright Sneaker for Boys
Under Armour Runplay Green Camo Running Shoe
Camouflage comes out of hiding with the day-glow green of Under Armour’s super-bright boys sneaker. The slip-on style is lightweight, ventilated, and cushioned.
