How Often Should School Shoes Be Replaced for Primary Kids?
School shoes are one of the hardest-working items in a child’s wardrobe. They’re worn for hours every day, across classrooms, playgrounds, sports courts and school grounds, so knowing when to replace them is essential for your child’s comfort and foot health.
If you’re unsure how long school shoes should last or when it’s time for a new pair, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
How Often Should School Shoes Be Replaced?
For most primary school children, school shoes need to be replaced every 6–12 months. However, this can vary based on:
- Growth spurts
- How active your child is
- The quality and construction of the shoe
- How well the shoe fits to begin with
Younger kids typically grow faster, meaning they may outgrow their shoes sooner, while older primary kids may get closer to a full school year per pair.
Growth Spurts: The Biggest Factor
Primary-aged children can experience rapid and unexpected growth, especially between ages 5 and 10. Many kids jump up 1–2 shoe sizes per year, which impacts how long shoes can be worn comfortably.
Your child may need new shoes earlier if you notice
- Their toes reaching the end of the shoe
- Complaints of tightness or rubbing
- Difficulty putting the shoes on
- Socks wearing unusually quickly at the toes
View our Size Guide to measure and check their fit at home.
Key Signs It’s Time to Replace School Shoes
Even if the shoe still technically fits, wear and tear can affect comfort, stability and support. Replace the shoes if you notice:
- Worn-down Outsoles
Look for smooth patches, uneven wear or loss of grip - all signs the shoe is no longer supporting their gait.
- Creasing or Cracking Leather
Leather that is excessively soft, split or creased may no longer stabilise the foot.
- Heel Slipping
If the heel no longer stays secure, your child may be at risk of blisters or poor alignment.
- Stretched Straps or Frayed Laces
Closure systems that don’t hold properly impact fit and stability.
- Complaints of Soreness
Pain, fatigue or blisters are clear signals the shoes no longer meet your child’s needs.
Do Higher-Quality Shoes Last Longer?
Absolutely! Premium school shoes from trusted brands like Harrison, Clarks, Pablosky and ASICS are made with:
- High-grade leather
- Reinforced stitching
- Sturdy outsoles
- Quality midsoles
- Better heel counters
These features help them withstand daily wear and provide more extended support for growing feet.
Explore our best selling school shoes
How to Make School Shoes Last Longer
Parents can extend the life of school shoes by:
- Rotating between school shoes and sports shoes
- Using a shoehorn to prevent heel damage
- Cleaning and conditioning leather regularly
- Allowing shoes to dry naturally (never near a heater!)
- Ensuring proper fit from the start
A well-fitted shoe lasts significantly longer than one bought “with extra room to grow.”
When to Get Fitted
Our expert fitters recommend getting your child fitted:
- Before Term 1 (get in early in December to beat the back to school rush)
- Mid-year (Terms 2 or 3) during growth spurts
- Any time your child complains of discomfort
We check length, width, depth, and overall comfort to ensure the right fit every time.
Final Thoughts
Most primary school kids need new school shoes every 6–12 months, but the most important thing is to watch for changes in growth, fit and wear. Replacing school shoes at the right time helps support healthy development, confident movement and happy school days.
At Shoes & Sox, we’re here to help you choose the best pair with expert fitters and dependable brands designed for growing feet.
