The Nine Best Affordable Shoes for Back-to-School

As the school year kicks off, it is time to grab some fresh kicks. If you like me and have to budget between clothes, supplies, and fees, then spending a small fortune on shoes is not high on the list. Here is a curated list of affordable back-to-school shoes. These shoes are stylish, durable, and comfortable. Let’s get into the list.

Nike Dunk Low

• Colorway: Photon Dust/Astronomy Blue/Volt/Total Orange
• Style Code: HJ9223-005
• Retail: $85
• Retailer: Nike

Starting off the list is the versatile Nike Dunk Low. I like the Dunk for its durability and how easy they are to clean. They work great with shorts and pants. They also offer so many different colorways, and the options are endless.

This model boasts light grey hues with bright blue underlays. The blue underlays feature a splatter finish, complemented by a matching outsole. The bright orange textured Swoosh adds a pop of color. Available in big kids’ sizes, you can pick up a pair for $85 at Nike.com or on the app.

Reebok Zig n Glow

• Colorway: Black/Neon Cherry/Bold Cyan/Alway Yellow
• Style Code: 100201748
• Retail: $60 ($49.97)
• Retailer: Reebok

This list will cover a broad range considering I have a high-school-aged daughter, a son in middle school, and a toddler. It never fails that they all need shoes or clothes at the same time. My toddler is one year from kindergarten and wears little kid’s sizes.

For those active days on the playground, the Reebok Zig n Glow is a fantastic choice. It features a breathable mesh upper and a light-up LED midsole activated by movement, these shoes are both fun and functional. The elastic laces make them easy to slip on and off. At the time of writing, they are on sale for $49.97 in little kids’ sizes at Reebok.com.

Adidas Samba OG

• Colorway: White/Purple Burst/Gum
• Style Code: IH2873
• Retail: $80
• Retailer: Adidas

As the father of a soccer player, the Samba is a staple in my daughter’s rotation. The classic Adidas Samba OG has made a strong comeback this year. Available in a white leather upper with purple accents on the three stripes and ankle collar, this shoe is both stylish and comfortable.

Grey suede wraps around the toe, with a rubber gum finish completing the look. With a 4.8-star rating from around 350 reviews, it’s clear that the Samba offers both comfort and a timeless aesthetic. Pick up a pair in big kids’ sizes for $85 at Adidas.com.

Adidas Kaptir 3.0

• Colorway: Night Cargo/Iron Metallic/Silver Pebble
• Style Code: JI1249
• Retail: $90 ($68)
• Retailer: Adidas

Next up is another Adidas. Although my middle oldest son is in sixth grade, he wears men’s sizes. The Kaptir is a good durable choice for a kid who likes to play football every day at recess.

The Adidas Kaptir 3.0 features a two-tone knit upper for breathability and comfort. The Cloudfoam midsole ensures cushioning with every step, and the shoe is made of at least 20% recycled materials. Available in men’s sizing, this model is perfect for the eco-conscious student. At the time of writing, it’s on sale for $68 on Adidas.com.

Jordan 1 High OG ‘Heritage‘

• Colorway: White/University Red/Black
• Style Code: 555088-161
• Retail: $170
• Retailer: Stockx

The Jordan 1 High OG ‘Heritage’ is a standout with its smooth red and white leather upper. Black leather covers the collar, while the Swoosh is adorned in red. Originally released in 2022 for $170, you can now find it on StockX for $100 or less, depending on the size.

New Balance 2002R

• Colorway: Black/White
• Style Code: GC2002BK
• Retail: $100
• Retailer: Footlocker

This list would not be complete if I did not add a New Balance. For a long time, Newbies have been considered a dad shoe. Over the last few years, that outlook has changed.

A reliable silhouette from New Balance, the 2002R features an N-ergy midsole for shock absorption, making it perfect for active playtime. The upper is made of premium suede with tonal mesh underlays for breathability. This versatile model is available in several colorways, but the black version is especially versatile. Find it in big kids’ sizes at Footlocker for $100.

Nike Omni Multi-Court

• Colorway: Black/White
• Style Code: DM9026-002
• Retail: $57 ($48.97)
• Retailer: Nike

ility is key with the Nike Omni Multi-Court, featuring synthetic leather that wraps around the heel and eyelets. The side and toe areas are made of breathable black mesh. This model includes a hook-and-loop strap for added security. Available in little kids’ sizes, it’s currently on sale for $48.97 with an extra 20% off at Nike.com.

Air Max 1 ‘Big Bubble‘

• Colorway: White/University Red/Light Neutral Grey
• Style Code: DO9844-100
• Retail: $150
• Retailer: Goat

A nod to the original 80’s design by Tinker Hatfield, the Air Max 1 ‘Big Bubble’ features a grey suede upper with red suede wrapping from toe to heel. The visible air cushion under a white midsole provides comfort, while the lugged outsole adds traction. Available in women’s sizes on Goat, they are perfect for students with smaller feet (a women’s size 6 fits a youth 4.5Y) for around $70.

Saucony Courageous

• Colorway: Light Green/Tam
• Style Code: S70847-6
• Retail: $100
• Retailer: Saucony

The Saucony Courageous combines leather and suede materials for a stylish and durable shoe. Tan leather covers portions of the upper, while tan suede wraps around the toe and heel. Mint green mesh adds a pop of color. This unisex shoe is available in adult sizes, making it versatile for both men and women. Check out Saucony.com to grab a pair for $100.

These nine picks cover a range of styles and functionalities to suit any student’s needs as they head back to school. Whether you’re looking for classic designs or modern features, there’s something on this list for everyone. Check out our weekly sneaker release guide for more options.