Back to school is right around the corner, and that means it’s officially sneaker season! But for sneakerheads, every season is sneaker season! From low tops to high, the most popular styles in 2023 are making bold statements and feature retro silhouettes from heritage brands throwing back their classic old-school vibes – alongside a few modern updates.
To find out what kids are really looking for this year, we asked a few of them between the ages of 7 and 16 to pick their favorite kicks for heading back to school. These are the ones the kiddos love the most, and they all come in sizes, colors and styles for everyone:
— Editors’ Pick —
PUMA Carina 2.0
Get your kid a stylish pair of kicks ready to elevate any wardrobe. These PUMA sneakers are so simple and cute — they’ll go with everything! They are designed with a SoftFoam+ sockliner so they don’t just look good, they feel good. Plus, if you’re shopping for a mermaid fan, check out the sparkly, scaled design that gives this shoe the perfect amount of personality and flair. Right now, shop Rack Room Shoes and get $15 off your purchase of $99+ with code DEAL15.
Nike Dunk Low
Whether your kid is a hooper, a skater, or just loves Nike kicks, the Dunk Low sneaker has been stealing hearts for decades. The durable synthetic leather gives off a classic ’80s feel, while the rubber sole offers grip and traction whether shooting hoops or roaming the hallways.
Air Jordan 1 High OG
The Air Jordan 1 High OG has a timeless design, blurring the lines between basketball heritage and fashionable streetwear. No matter which colorway speaks to your kid most, this iconic sneaker delivers performance with a cushioned midsole and ankle support to keep them looking fly – both on and off the court.
Hoka Clifton 9
With its signature Hoka One One technology, your kid will experience a plush, cloudlike feel under their feet throughout the school day and beyond. The Clifton 9 maximizes comfort with a feather-light feel without sacrificing responsiveness that gives them that extra bounce in their step.
New Balance 550
This throwback to the ’80s basketball era has quickly become a teen-approved fashion favorite with its old-school aesthetics. From the iconic “N” logo on the sides to the pop of personality it adds to any outfit, this thoughtfully designed sneaker is a standout that pays homage to its retro roots.
Chuck Taylor All Star Lift Platform
Inspired by the iconic looks of ’90s girl bands, these platform Chucks elevate your kid’s style — and stature — with a bold, edgy twist to a beloved classic design. This statement sneaker has double-stacked heels that they can rock with jeans, skirts, dresses, or pretty much anything since they add a big helping of coolness and attitude to every step.
Nike Air Force 1
Reigning supreme in the sneaker world, the Air Force 1 (AF1) embodies a balance of style, performance and versatility, making it an essential piece in any sneaker collection. It flaunts a sleek, clean silhouette that comes in a plethora of colors, collaborations and special edition collections that let them express their unique personality.
Nike Air Max 90
Making its debut in 1990, these kicks use visible Air cushioning for superior impact absorption that revolutionized every sneaker that came after. With the perfect blend of style and comfort, the Air Max 90 can’t be missed on the streets, in the gym and everywhere in between.
Nike Cortez
The rich history of the Nike Cortez dates back to 1972, when the first track sneaker made its way into the world. Its classic silhouette and clean lines have pretty much remained unchanged over the years, making it a beloved staple to its legions of fans.
Veja Canary Alveomesh
The Brazilian-made Canary Alveomesh combines a fashion-forward design with eco-conscious sneaker fans. Veja’s innovative Alveomesh comes from a blend of recycled plastic bottles and organic cotton with easy-on stretch laces and a grippy sole to keep your kid grounded.
Adidas Forum 84 Low
Since its debut in 1984, the Forum has evolved into a streetwear icon loved by sneaker enthusiasts and fashion aficionados. With its low-top cut, this sneaker is all about comfort and freedom of movement, making it an easy choice to complement any outfit.
The post Fresh Back-to-School Sneakers Your Kids Will Really Want appeared first on The Real Deal by RetailMeNot.
