School Shoes: When’s the Best Time to Buy & Why Fit Matters
When it comes to buying school shoes, many parents face the same questions every summer:
“When should I buy them?”
“Will they still fit in September?”
“Do they really need to be fitted?”
At SoleLution, we’ve helped thousands of families find the perfect kids school shoes, and we can confidently say: the right timing and the right fit make all the difference.
So here’s our expert guide to buying back to school shoes - when to shop, why fit matters, and how to take the stress out of it all.
Why Timing Is Everything: The Best Time to Buy School Shoes
We get it, the school holidays are a whirlwind. Whether you're working, juggling childcare, or trying to squeeze in some summer fun, shoe shopping can feel like just another thing on the list.
But timing matters more than you might think.
Many parents rush to buy children’s school shoes as soon as the holidays begin, often to "get it done." The problem? Children’s feet grow faster than you might expect and summer growth spurts are common, especially after weeks of barefoot and sandal time.
And here’s an interesting observation we’ve made over the years:
When children’s brains aren’t being worked quite so hard, like during school holidays, their bodies seem to focus more on growth. It’s not scientific, but we noticed this a lot during the lockdown periods. With the usual school routines paused, many children shot up in shoe size in just a few weeks. The same often happens over summer.
So when’s the ideal time?
✅ Mid-August: The Sweet Spot
Here’s why we recommend booking your school shoe fitting in mid August:
- It’s close enough to the start of term to reflect their current foot size
- You avoid the last-minute panic and busy queues
- Our full team of expert fitters is available to give your child dedicated attention
- You still have time to exchange if needed (see our backup plan below!)
And don't worry - we keep a close eye on availability, so you won’t miss out on the best school shoes for your child’s needs.
What If They Grow Again Before September?
It’s a common concern and totally understandable.
The good news? You can buy school shoes at any point during the summer holidays. As the new term approaches, we’re always happy to check the fit again, just to be sure everything still feels right.
And if your child has had a summer growth spurt?
✅ No problem. If the shoes are unworn, still in their original box, and you have the receipt, we’re more than happy to exchange them for the correct size.
Our goal is to make back to school shoe shopping as easy and stress-free as possible because growing feet don’t always follow the calendar!
Why Fit Still Matters – Even When They Say They’re "Fine"
Let’s talk about fit.
In a world of fast fashion and supermarket offers, it can be tempting to grab a pair of shoes that are “roughly the right size” and call it a day. But when your child spends more than 1,000 hours a year in their school shoes, the fit is absolutely crucial.
Poorly fitted shoes can cause:
- Blisters and sore spots
- Red marks and rubbing
- Long-term foot and posture issues
- Lack of concentration and discomfort in the classroom
At SoleLution, we don’t just check the length. We consider:
- Width and depth
- Foot shape and arch
- Heel grip and ankle support
- Walking pattern (yes, we watch them walk!)
- Room for growth — but not too much!
We stock trusted brands like Start-Rite, Geox, and Ricosta, known for their quality, support, and durability. And we take time to match the shoe to the foot - not just the size.
Do They Need New School Shoes Every Year?
In most cases, yes and sometimes even more often.
Children’s feet typically grow 1–2 full sizes each year, depending on age and growth patterns. Even if their current pair still look okay, they may not be giving your child the support they need.
Shoes that are too small can lead to:
- Cramped toes and nail issues
- Pain in the arches and ankles
- Changes in the way your child walks or stands
Not sure if they’ve outgrown theirs? Pop in for a free fit check - we’ll always be honest. If they don’t need new ones, we’ll tell you.
Don’t Forget About P.E. Shoes
One often-overlooked part of back to school shoe shopping is P.E. footwear. Your child might need:
- Supportive indoor trainers
- Lightweight outdoor shoes
- Footwear that accommodates orthotics or wide feet
Good P.E. shoes help reduce the risk of injuries, improve balance, and support developing muscles and joints. We offer expert advice and fitting for these too!
Real-Life Tip from a SoleLution Parent
Book Early, Breathe Easy
Appointments for Back to School shoe fittings fill up quickly especially in the second half of August. By booking now, you’ll:
- Secure a convenient time slot
- Get first pick of our full stock
- Avoid the last-minute stress and rush
- Ensure a proper fit and happy feet
Ready to Book?
We offer professional kids shoe fitting in our Portishead store, with experienced staff trained in foot health and development. We also offer virtual consultations and sizing guidance for online shoppers.
🎒 Book your fitting appointment now
📍 Friendly, local service in Portishead, near Bristol
🦶 Backed by years of experience and care
Let’s help your child start the school year in comfort and confidence - one step at a time.
P.S Don't forget to bring their school socks with you when they are fitted for school shoes! AND if you need school socks, we sell a lovely range from PEX
