Shopping for back-to-school shoes means finding the perfect balance between style, comfort and durability. The best school shoes for 2025 showcase exciting options that keep students looking fresh while providing all-day support for busy school days. From high school hallways to university campuses, comfortable sneakers for going back to school have never been more stylish.

This fall, top brands like adidas, Nike, HOKA, New Balance, On and PUMA are delivering innovative designs that cater to style-conscious students. Athletic shoes continue to dominate classrooms, but exciting fashion trends continue to emerge for both men and women. Think classic low-top silhouettes, eye-catching colour combinations and comfort-focused features that make choosing the right shoes easier than ever. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your sneakers for the first day back in class or shopping stylish back-to-school shoes for teens and young adults, the latest collections offer something special for everyone.

Back-to-School Footwear Trends for 2025

Triple Black: Sleek and Versatile

The triple black trend remains a powerhouse for back-to-school shoes season after season. This monochromatic approach offers incredible versatility, making it easy to pair with any outfit while maintaining a polished, put-together look.

The New Balance 574 brings a trend-forward vibe to the triple black aesthetic. The premium suede upper with breathable knit mesh underlays is great for students who want to stand out while keeping their style refined. The all-black colourway ensures it works with everything from jeans to school uniforms.

For everyday comfort with ’90s skate inspiration, the Vans Knu Skool is one of the best back-to-school shoes you can find. With an all-black design and oversized details, this Vans shoe is a cool twist on a classic skateboard shoe. The legendary Vans rubber waffle outsole delivers reliable traction for busy students rushing between classes.

The adidas Samba rounds out this category with its timeless soccer-inspired design. This classic silhouette paints a modern picture in an easy-to-style triple black combo, making it an ideal sneaker to stay on trend from the first day back at school.

Gum Rubber Soles: Retro Revival

Gum rubber soles are making a major comeback, bringing vintage basketball and skateboarding aesthetics to modern school footwear. This trend combines nostalgic appeal with practical benefits, as gum rubber provides excellent traction and durability.

The New Balance 550 captures the essence of vintage basketball style with its clean lines and classic gum sole. This retro-inspired design has gained massive popularity among students who appreciate both heritage styling and modern comfort features.

The adidas Handball Spezial offers another take on the gum sole trend, drawing inspiration from classic European handball shoes. The premium suede upper and distinctive gum outsole create a sophisticated look that works perfectly for stylish back-to-school shoes.

The New Balance RC42 presents a contemporary interpretation of running heritage with its striking gum rubber sole. This gender-neutral design appeals to students seeking something unique while maintaining the comfort and quality New Balance is known for.

T-Toe Design: Classic with a Twist

The T-toe trend brings structured footwear details to casual shoe style, offering a refined alternative to traditional sneaker designs. These shoes work exceptionally well for high school and university students who need versatile options that transition seamlessly from classroom to social settings.

One thing is for certain, adidas reigns supreme when it comes to the T-toe. The adidas Sambae elevates the classic Samba design with enhanced proportions and premium materials. This feminine take on the iconic silhouette offers the same comfort and durability while providing a fresh, contemporary aesthetic.

For a more traditional approach, the adidas Gazelle, Samba and Spezial thrive as timeless sneaker styles. The premium materials and iconic three stripes make these styles all winners when it comes to durable shoes for going back to school. Their classic design ensures these popular adidas shoes never go out of style.

The Gola Elan Sneaker completes this category with its refined suede construction and vintage-style design. Inspired by retro sports footwear, this shoe is a lifestyle fashion staple that perfectly balances comfort and style.

Pops of Colour: Express Your Personality

Bold colour accents are transforming back-to-school footwear, allowing students to express their individuality while maintaining versatility. These designs prove that choosing the right shoes doesn’t mean sacrificing personal style.

The Saucony Ride Millennium presents retro running aesthetics with vibrant colour blocking. This sneaker’s comfortable construction and eye-catching design make it perfect for students who want their footwear to make a statement while providing all-day comfort.

The PUMA Speedcat OG Sneaker brings motorsport-inspired design to student wardrobes. The sleek profile and bold colour combinations appeal to those seeking something different from traditional athletic footwear, while maintaining the comfort needed for busy school days.

The New Balance 327 offers a perfect blend of vintage running aesthetics and contemporary colour combinations. This New Balance shoe’s on-tredn design elements and comfortable fit make it an excellent choice for students who appreciate both heritage styling and modern appeal.

Sports Excellence: Performance Meets Style

Athletic shoes for back to school continue to evolve, offering advanced technologies that support active students throughout their day. These performance-driven footwear options don’t compromise on style. From gym class to casual wear, these stylish kicks are ready for it all.

The On Cloudnova X Shoe represents the pinnacle of comfortable shoes for going back to school. The CloudTec technology provides exceptional cushioning and energy return, while the modern design appeals to style-conscious students. The lightweight construction makes these cloud-like On sneakers a great choice for long days on campus.

Step up your style with the ASICS GEL-Cumulus 27, offering superior shock absorption and breathability. This running shoe excels for students involved in sports or those who simply want maximum comfort during extended wear. The updated design maintains the classic running aesthetic while incorporating the latest performance innovations.

The HOKA Rincon 4 Running Shoe brings maximum cushioning in a surprisingly lightweight package. Known for their exceptional comfort, HOKA shoes have become increasingly popular among students who prioritize all-day wearability without sacrificing performance capabilities.

Head off to Class in the Best School Shoes of the Season

The hottest back-to-school footwear trends for 2025 prove that students no longer need to choose between style and comfort. From triple black monochrome to vintage-inspired fashion statements, this season’s offerings cater to every personality and lifestyle. Whether shopping for high school students or prepping your university wardrobe, these durable shoes for teens and young adults going back to school ensure everyone starts the year on the right foot.

Ready to find the perfect pair? Shop a wide selection of men’s footwear and women’s shoes at Sporting Life, where sport meets style for students from coast to coast.