The School Shoe Test: Are Kickers Really Worth It?

School shoes need to cope with long days, constant walking, and playground wear. They must stay comfortable, meet school rules, and last as long as possible. So are Kickers really worth the higher price, or are they just a familiar name. This guide breaks it down honestly for parents.

Most parents know how frustrating school shoe shopping can be. Shoes that look fine at the start of term can quickly become uncomfortable or worn, leading to complaints and unexpected replacements.

Kickers have been a popular school shoe brand in the UK for decades. They are often seen as a safer option for parents who want reliability rather than the cheapest price. But does that reputation still hold up in real school life.

What Does “Worth It” Really Mean for School Shoes?

When parents ask whether Kickers are worth it, they are rarely talking about price alone. What they usually mean is whether one pair of shoes can last a full school year without discomfort, falling apart, or needing replacement halfway through term.

A cheaper pair that needs replacing after a few months often ends up costing more, not just in money but in time and hassle. Value comes from durability, comfort, and peace of mind.

Kickers sit in that middle ground between budget shoes and premium footwear. They are designed specifically for everyday school wear rather than occasional use.

A Quick Look at Kickers

Kickers was founded in France in 1970 and became well known for durable leather footwear. In the UK, the brand became closely associated with school shoes, trusted by parents for strong materials and practical design.

Over the years, Kickers school shoes have been refined to suit the demands of long school days, active children, and strict uniform policies.

Do Kickers Really Last a Full School Year?

Durability is one of the main reasons parents return to Kickers. School shoes are worn five days a week, often for eight hours or more, and are exposed to playgrounds, corridors, and after-school activities.

Kickers use thick leather uppers that resist cracking and reinforced soles designed to handle daily wear. While no school shoe is indestructible, many parents find Kickers remain wearable and presentable long after cheaper alternatives have worn through.

This durability is especially noticeable for secondary school pupils, where longer days and heavier use quickly expose weaknesses in lower-quality shoes.

Comfort During Long School Days

Comfort plays a huge role in whether a child is happy wearing their school shoes all day. Tight fits, hard soles, or poor support often lead to complaints and reluctance to wear the shoes.

Kickers focus on cushioned insoles and supportive footbeds to reduce pressure during walking and standing. This can make a noticeable difference during long school days, assemblies, and after-school clubs.

Leather uppers also soften over time, allowing the shoe to mould to the foot, which helps reduce rubbing compared to synthetic materials.

Popular Kickers School Shoe Styles

Kickers Kick Lo
A classic lace-up style suitable for both primary and secondary pupils.

Kickers Reasan Strap
Velcro fastening for easy wear, ideal for younger children.

Kickers Reasan Lace
A traditional lace-up option popular with older pupils.

You can explore all available options on our Kickers school shoes page .

How to Measure Your Child’s Feet at Home

Stand your child on a hard floor with their heel against a wall. Mark the longest toe and measure the distance. Always use the larger foot measurement and allow a small amount of growing room.

Kickers School Shoes FAQs

Are Kickers school shoes worth the money?

Many parents feel the comfort and durability justify the higher upfront cost.

Do Kickers last a full school year?

With normal wear, many children comfortably wear them for the full academic year.

Are Kickers suitable for primary school children?

Yes. Velcro and T bar styles are particularly suitable for younger pupils.

Should I size up in Kickers?

A small amount of growing room is recommended, but shoes should still feel secure.

Final Verdict

Kickers are not the cheapest school shoes available, but for many families they prove to be worth it. Comfort, durability, and reliability over the school year make them a strong choice for parents who want fewer problems.

View the full Kickers range at School Wear United