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You may remember a few months ago I wrote about the school shoes that I had been sent for my three children from Start-Rite. They have been giving the shoes a good run for their money during the last term of school, testing out how durable these shoes really are and if they can stand up to the test of time and I’m pleased to report that the shoes were still going strong, even on the last day of term. They made it through lunchtime football games, two heatwaves and many walks to and from school and are still in good condition to head back to school in September! I am seriously impressed with this brand. Not only do they have a fantastic selection of shoes to choose from (really important when you are dealing with teens, especially my neurodivergent daughter who is notoriously hard to please when it comes to school footwear), but they are also really long-lasting, made well and the brand have done their research – understanding how children move and adapting the sole units of their footwear alongside shoe sizes and widths, making them grow with your developing child – fascinating stuff.
I particularly like the value for money these shoes provide. As I have mentioned, they are hardwearing, and comfortable for the children, making them a great alternative to those high street shoe shops that can be pricey and need replacing quicker. The leather shoes can (and should) be cared for using leather polish, to keep them looking in tip-top condition for even longer!
When it came to choosing shoes for my (very different) children, I was confident I had got it right with Academy for my eldest, who is about to enter year 11, GCSE year, where looking smart and feeling confident is his main concern. Despite looking the part, they are still comfortable and durable. Meanwhile my daughter has Embrace, which are suitably chunky and supportive as Carly tends to be heavy on her feet and walks to and from school each day. The ankle support of this style has definitely come in useful. Finally, Luke (which is the style I went for with Benjamin, my youngest), is built to endure the demands of the playground – perfect for a child who loves running around all over the place and kicking balls during break time. The breathable lining absorbs moisture, meaning even after many days of hectic playtimes, the shoes (and his feet) are still smelling fresh. The rip tape fastening is also great for children who haven’t quite mastered tying laces for school too.
Take a look at the Start-Rite website and find the pair that’s right for your child. Delivery is fast and simple, giving you peace of mind that one thing is ticked off that back to school checklist ahead of the end of August rush… Top tip: use the handy sizing guide on the website as the sizes may differ to your child’s usual shoe size as these are properly fitted shoes (with a shape and style to suit every child). I found the SizeWise digital measuring tool on Start-Rite’s website really useful. The process so much less stressful for me with ADHD than heading to the shoe shops in the height of summer. Although it is worth noting that it is still a good idea to have feet properly measured by a trained professional.
Overall I was really impressed with Start-Rite school shoes, and will be looking to them once the children grow out of these pairs (which I am confident to be the case before they actually need replacing – these shoes are built to last and can see children through the whole year).
This post includes gifted products, however all words and images are my own.
