Barefoot shoes for school – from trainers and wellies to slippers

The start of the school year is all about choosing barefoot shoes – trainers, indoor shoes, wellies and shoes for the school run. We’ll make it easier with our tips.

School is knocking at the door. The first bell, the kids can’t wait to see their classmates, and mums are anxiously working out what else still needs buying. Over the summer, children’s legs and arms mysteriously shoot up – and, surprisingly, so do their feet. The familiar back-to-school carousel returns with iron regularity: indoor shoes, PE shoes, outdoor shoes, plus all the missing school supplies. The adrenaline-fuelled adventure called “shoe shopping” can begin. Did you know barefoot footwear offers a comfortable and healthy option for every occasion?

You need proper trainers

Trainers are a staple in every wardrobe – for adults and children alike. They’re the go-to shoes for fair weather and foul, you just need to choose the right pair. Barefoot trainers with a perfectly anatomical toe shape, plenty of room for toes and a thin sole – so little feet feel like they’re walking on clouds.

That’s exactly what the brand RAYVE offers (starting from size 23 for the tiniest cuties who’ve only just learned to toddle). The leather trainers can handle a light shower, while the synthetic ones will please all vegans. You’ll find quality materials and a stitched sole for longer life in both.

Joma also has barefoot trainers in its range, ideal for everyday wear to school. This sport-focused brand offers lightweight, breathable options that children can use not only at school, but also for PE or after-school activities.

The trainers from Croatian brand FRODDO are bursting with colour too. It’s a trusted brand with a long tradition. You’ll find shoes for the tiniest feet right through to school-age children. They’re known for a raised front part of the sole that partly wraps over the toe, which is very practical because the shoes don’t scuff so easily.

With autumn comes the time for shoes known as all-year shoes. As the name suggests, they can be worn all year round. They’re leather, versatile, and they’ll save the day whether the kids are heading to school, the theatre, or just out and about.

For everyday wear, leather barefoot trainers from RAYVE are a great choice. With some versions, you’ll especially appreciate the practical Velcro fastening, which makes them easy to put on and helps you adjust the fit nicely.

Bobux offers all-year barefoot shoes suitable for everyday wear and for all sorts of activities. This brand tends to suit narrower to average feet. You’ll also find higher-cut models that protect the ankle better and work well in cooler weather.

Winter boots for chilly days

With RAYVE, you’ll find several options for children’s winter barefoot boots – from insulated leather models for everyday winter wear to proper snow boots. RAYVE is a Czech brand and is very popular with our customers thanks to its great fit and workmanship. Some models have a water-repellent upper, while others are finished with warm sheep’s wool.

Froddo offers several types of children’s winter barefoot boots to keep little feet warm and comfortable all winter long. You’ll find different fits for narrower and medium-width feet, with cosy sheep’s wool lining. Some versions also have a membrane that helps protect against moisture. Another interesting option is models made from high-quality smooth leather with a water-repellent finish.

Wellies – a must for every puddle lover

Autumn also brings a favourite activity for all little rascals: jumping in puddles. Let’s take a look at shoes that can definitely handle even the biggest watery adventures. You’ll be pleased to know there are also barefoot wellies and they meet the same foot-friendly parameters as regular barefoot footwear.

We’ve grown fond of RAYVE, which offers several versions of children’s barefoot wellies for rainy weather. You’ll find lower ankle wellies that are easy to slip on, as well as taller options suitable for rain, puddles and wet ground. You might also find this article helpful: How to choose the right healthy wellies for our little ones.

Barefoot for PE and sports clubs

Choosing the right shoes for PE can be a bit of a challenge. They should be breathable, no black soles – and above all: they mustn’t be slippery. Even though most schools have unfortunately replaced shiny gym parquet with recommended non-slip surfaces, it’s always better to be safe. Ideally, you want lightweight mesh trainers with a firm heel – sounds perfect.

That’s exactly what RAYVE offers: durable trainers with a modern look, suitable for active children too. Lightweight sporty barefoot shoes are also available from JOMA, and you’ll find ultra-flexible models with a thin sole from LEGUANO.

Barefoot even in indoor shoes

There’s a reason people say slippers feel like a duvet for your feet. Barefoot slippers offer comfort, cosiness and a sense of security. In fact, any breathable trainers or light textile shoes can work brilliantly as indoor shoes for school. But don’t worry – we also have classic Velcro slippers for little school starters.

For school, nursery and home, the barefoot indoor shoes RAYVE Slippers are also a great fit. They’re lightweight, flexible, easy to slip on, and thanks to the thin sole they support natural foot movement. New in the range is the JOY model with a durable toe bumper and a cup-shaped sole. What’s more, RAYVE offers loads of sizes and cheerful patterns to suit even the pickiest kids – from animals and princesses to lorries.

We dedicated a big part of our BAREFOOT magazine to choosing the right shoes for children – you can find it online.

Backpack on, and off you go

Kids choose with their eyes, so even something as practical as a backpack or lunch box has to match – and the more imaginative and cheerful it is, the better. Finding a practical backpack with all the ergonomic features for healthy backs can be tricky, but we’ve cracked it. The brand BAAGL has perfectly cheerful, imaginative children’s backpacks in playful designs for school, as well as for nursery. Plus, they come with all the handy features you need, such as an adjustable chest strap, ergonomically shaped padded back, reflective elements and practical pockets for all sorts of little treasures.

When starting school, it’s also practical to get a drawstring bag, for example for slippers, PE kit or equipment for different clubs. And guess what – we’ve got those too. The brand BAAGL offers not only backpacks and drawstring bags, but also practical tritan water bottles, lunch boxes and other accessories in beautifully coordinated designs.

Not sure what to choose? Read our new in-depth article School backpack: How to choose the right one so it doesn’t strain children’s backs, where we discussed the selection in detail with physiotherapist Lucie Ternová.

Measuring, trying on, choosing: You’ve got this

Choosing children’s shoes definitely isn’t just about the brand. Measuring and trying on are what matter most. Here are our tips to make it easier:

When choosing shoes, it’s important to measure your child’s foot while standing, both length and width. Ideally, measure in the evening, when the foot is naturally a bit more spread after a full day of activity. Take a look at our complete guide to measuring children’s feet.

Don’t forget to allow for growing room. For children’s shoes, it should be roughly 9–12 mm. With sports shoes, remember to factor in space for socks too, as they can affect how the size feels.

It’s a good idea to have a separate pair of shoes intended only for PE. This helps them last longer and also meets the school’s hygiene and practical requirements.

If you’re not sure, pop into our shop. We’ll be happy to help you with measuring and choosing the right model for your child’s foot shape and needs.

Where will your next steps take you?

• Lucie Ternová: the pelvic floor affects overall fitness
• How to enjoy a trip with children: when you’re prepared, nothing catches you out
• RAYVE SLIPPERS REVIEW: Indoor shoes recommended by a physiotherapist
• How to handle starting nursery without unnecessary stress