Back to School Shoes

Anatomical insole: how it works

A Birkenstock sandal doesn't rest on a flat sole. Its anatomical insole made of cork and latex replicates the shape of a foot on the ground: a deep bowl at the heel, which stabilises it, marked support under the arch of the foot, a bar under the toes that encourages them to grip, and a raised edge at the front that protects the toes. The cork insulates from both heat and cold and absorbs shocks, while the suede insole absorbs moisture.

This insole feels firm at first, then molds to the foot as it heats up and compresses. It's better to wear it for a few hours a day before a long day. The visible cork on the side should be protected with a specific sealant, to be applied when it loses its shiny appearance, to prevent it from drying out and cracking. Versions lined with lambskin, like the Arizona Lammfell, extend the season into autumn.

Vulcanised canvas and retro sneakers

Victoria sneakers carry on a craft that began in 1915 in La Rioja, Spain, where the brand specialised in canvas shoes. Its vulcanised rubber sole, baked to bond with the upper, is flexible and grippy, and the brand's iconic model, the Inglesa, has accompanied generations of Spanish children. The Velcro versions of the sandals and children's sneakers make them easier for young ones to put on.

Retro sneakers inspired by running provide more cushioning. The Asics GEL-NYC combines an upper inspired by a running model from the early 2000s with a sole featuring gel inserts, the Nike V5 RNR reflects the lines of runners from the same era, and the Skechers Uno is recognisable by its visible air bubble under the heel.

Choosing the right shoe size for back to school

The shoe size should be checked at the end of the day, when the foot has slightly swollen, and on both feet, which don’t always match in size. For sneakers, about a centimetre of space in front of the toes is suitable for a growing child, while half a centimetre is enough for an adult. For sandals, the heel should rest at the bottom of the bowl without overflowing at the back.

Birkenstock comes in normal and narrow widths, indicated by the imprint printed on the sole, and the brand generally sizes large. Canvas sneakers, on the other hand, don't stretch much: it's better not to buy them too tight hoping they will loosen up.

Types of shoes in the selection

The back-to-school selection is organised by type of footwear:

• sneakers, from canvas shoes to retro running-inspired models.
• espadrilles, with a rope sole, for the last warm days.
• sandals, including models with straps and anatomical soles.
• flip-flops, for the beach and pool.
• slides, easy to slip on after a shower or from the locker room.
• mules, open at the back, like the Arizona with a large buckle.
• heels, for dressier outfits.

The rest of the back to school

The selection continues with backpacks for school and study, the lifestyle junior for rain jackets, fleece and kids' boots, and sportswear for everyday use.

The training equipment supports the return to club sports, and the customisable textiles allow personalising belongings. The complete operation is on the Back To School page.

Frequently asked questions

Is a Birkenstock suitable for walking all day?

Yes, its cork and latex sole replicates the shape of the foot, with a bowl at the heel and support under the arch. Once moulded to the foot, it can handle long days, as long as the straps are well adjusted.

Why are canvas sneakers so flexible?

Canvas sneakers, like Victoria, rest on a vulcanised sole, baked to bond with the upper. Thin and flexible, it offers good ground feel, but cushions less than a thick sole.

How much room should be allowed in a child's shoes?

Allow about a centimetre between the tips of the toes and the front of the shoe, measured while standing. Less, the child will soon feel cramped; more, they risk stumbling and the shoe won't hold the foot well.

Sandals or sneakers for back to school?

Sandals are suitable for the first warm days of September, but closed sneakers better protect the feet during recess and sports. For PE, closed and well-laced shoes are essential.

How to clean white canvas sneakers?

First, brush off any dust dry, then scrub with soapy water and a soft brush. On the rubber sole, an eraser or some bicarbonate will restore shine. Let air dry, keeping out of direct sunlight.