Back-to-School Shopping Made Easy Your Ultimate Checklist

Back-to-School Shopping Made Easy Your Ultimate Checklist

Back-to-school season is officially here, and parents want one thing: a simple, stress-free plan to get everything sorted before the madness begins. At Shoes & Sox, we’ve put together the ultimate checklist to make school prep easier, faster, and smarter. From uniforms to socks, fittings to durable school shoes, here’s what parents are adding to cart, plus the top shoe styles leading the way for 2026.

School Shoes That Go the Distance

Parents want shoes that last the whole year, and our best-selling styles are praised for comfort, durability, and all-day support. Here are the pairs families trust most. 

Harrison Daytona

A craftsmanship favourite and a top choice for parents who want long-lasting school shoes.

Why parents love it:

- Premium full-grain leather

- Softens naturally for long-day comfort

- Structured heel support

- Removable innersoles for a custom fit 

- Durable outsole to withstand playground wear 

Ideal for older students needing a reliable, lace-up style that stays supportive week after week.

Harrison Echo

A classic lace-up design built for stability, comfort, and active school days.

Key features include:

- Padded collars for comfort

- Removable innersole

- Reinforced structure for stability 

- Soft leather lining

- Hard-wearing outsole

A great pick for students who need a strong, dependable shoe that feels good all day.

Shop Harrison Echo   

Harrison Brianna

A Mary Jane designed with premium comfort for girls needing a supportive, everyday school shoe. 

Parents rate it for:

- Adjustable self-fastening strap 

- Durable toe cap 

- Breathable leather upper and lining 

- Snug, streamlined heel fit

- Everyday comfort for long school hours 

A blend of tradition, softness, and durability — perfect for junior and senior students.

Asics Contend 

The go-to sport shoe for active kids who love PE days, running, and playground competition. 

Parent-approved features: 

- Padded Collars for comfort 

- Toe Caps for durability 

- Self-fastening strap 

- Breathable and Flexible 

- Durable rubber outsoles 

The perfect PE day companion. 

Uniforms & Socks (Don’t Forget These!) 

In the rush to get ready for the new school year, parents may forget the basic back to school supplies - but these matter almost as much as well-fitting shoes:
- School socks (have at least 5–7 pairs)
- Sports socks
- Hair accessories
- School hats
- Lunch bags & drink bottles
- Spare pair of socks in the school bag
Pro tip: Buy socks early - sizes SELL OUT fast in January. 

Book a Free Fitting Before the Rush 

Did you know 65% of kids are wearing the wrong size shoes? Correct fitting dramatically improves comfort and longevity. 
Our Expert Shoe Crew measures:
- Length
- Width
- Depth
- Growth room
- Gait & activity needs 
Book a free fitting to skip the queue and head over to your local Shoes & Sox store for the expertise of our trained Shoe Crew. 

Your Back-to-School Checklist 

 School shoes (leather + sport) 
 Socks 
 Sports shoes 
 Hat 
 Lunch bag 
 Drink bottle 
 Hair accessories 
 Booklist supplies 
 Labels 
 Book your fitting appointment
Stress-free? Sorted. 
Back-to-school planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With durable shoes, quality uniforms, and expert fitting support, you can get everything sorted in one simple visit. Whether your child needs traditional leather shoes, supportive Mary Janes, or sports-ready sneakers, our 2026 bestseller lineup is parent-approved and Fit Squad certified.
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