Kids

Last minute back to school essentials

There’s no doubt about it September will be here before we know it and with that, the kids will be back to school. Being organised and getting all the essentials, will ensure that you have no last-minute rush or pressure on your bank account.

Listing the essentials your little ones will need, top-recommended brands and everything you need to know on size, styles and fit, here’s our complete back-to-school guide.

back to school

The Shoes

Kids really do seem to get through shoes quickly, constant growth spurts and playground wear and tear. You want to invest in a pair that is good quality, supports their growth and fits perfectly. Also not to mention, they don’t mind wearing them. Here are the best kid’s school shoe brands…

#1 Clarks Kids School Shoes

Clarks is a heritage kid’s school shoe brand that specialises in healthy and happy feet. They create smart, comfortable kids’ shoes for girls and boys.

Clarks Size Chart

Their range is from size 1 to 14 UK kids.

Clarks Kids Size Charts

Clarks School Shoe Styles

The Clarks girl’s range has leather and patient leather styles, with buckle and velcro fastenings or slip-on styles. Depending on their age there are styles to suit every age bracket with loafer so shimmery designs for younger years.

The Clarks boys range has leather lace-up and velcro fastenings with smart brogue styles or smarter, appropriate trainer styles. Made from real leather they will soften, last for longer and can easily be smartened up with some polish if they get scuffed.

#2 Kickers Kids School Shoes

The household brand Kickers which are known for its trademark durable rubber soles. Making the perfect kid’s school shoes, these leather styles are finished with triple stitching and are classic but cool style.

back to school

Popular styles

Kicker’s leather boots have always been one of their best sellers. Providing a lot of support, they are built to a sturdier and more durable option. They have thick rubber soles and scruff-resistant leather that has made them popular with parents.

Sizing / Fit

Kickers are true to size, although it is always dependent on each foot. If you are struggling to decide which size, use the kid’s Kickers size chart to help.

UK	EUR	Foot Length (cm)
5	22	13.7
6	23	14.5
7	24	14.9
8	25	15.6
8.5	26	16.3
9	27	16.8
10	28	17.5
11	29	18.1
12	30	18.7
12.5	31	19.4
13	32	19.9
1	33	20.6
2	34	21.2
2.5	35	21.9

#3 Vans Kids School Shoes

As your kids get older, the school uniform becomes less about practicality and more about what you can agree on. They care more about what their friends wear and what is ‘cool’ or not, with that Vans has always been a brand that is a great middle ground.

Popular for their timeless skater-style shoes, the low-top vans in black are a popular option for school shoes, especially for boys. They are comfortable and well made with a thick, durable sole. Their classic style is canvas, which is a great hybrid between a trainer and a smart shoe, but you can find leather options.

Kids Size Guide

Vans Kids Size Charts

back to school

Running through the rest of the back-to-school checklists, here are the other essentials you need,

Lunch Boxes

Depending on what you are looking for there is something for everyone. If you want an airtight Tupperware box that will fit in their back or you looking for a fun, graphic zip-up style. Sunnylife, LEGO and Joseph Joseph are all popular lunchbox brands with kids, but if you want sustainable options look at scandi brands such as Liewood and Haps Nordic.

Rucksacks

If you are looking for rucksacks which are a good size and comfortable to carry, have a look at the range from Herschel and Eastpack. The classic styles in black, grey, and navy will last them through their school years and beyond.

Kids Coats

As we head into autumn and the weather starts to turn it is worth thinking ahead about a coat that will last. For lightweight jackets that are waterproof and great as we transition into next season look at Joules and The North Face. If you want a lightweight more padded option that will be warmer throughout the year then Barbour and Guess have quilted, hooded and colourful options.