Back-to-school sneakers

Retro runners Asics and Nike: everyday cushioning

Running-inspired sneakers are the most comfortable for a long day on your feet. Asics launched its GEL technology in 1986: gel inserts placed in the heel and forefoot absorb shocks. The GEL-1130, released in 2008 as an entry-level running shoe, and the GEL-NYC, introduced in 2023 by mixing elements from several runners of the early 2000s, have become urban sneakers, available in kids' GS sizes.

At Nike, the V5 RNR and the Initiator take on the bold lines of running shoes from twenty years ago, while the Air Monarch, a thick-leather training silhouette, focuses on sturdiness. The Court Vision Low Next Nature includes some recycled materials in its production.

Vulcanized canvas and skate: Victoria, Gola, DC Shoes

Canvas sneakers remain the lightest. Victoria, a Spanish brand founded in 1915, built its reputation on canvas mounted on vulcanized rubber soles, and its Anglaise model, notably laceless, is available for both adults and children. Gola, established in Leicester in 1905 to produce football shoes, offers the Daytona, a retro sneaker that comes in children's sizes.

Skate sneakers, like the DC Shoes Court Graffik, feature a flat, grippy sole, padded tongue and collar, and a reinforced upper where the board rubs: qualities that also withstand the most active playtimes. DC Shoes was founded in 1994 in California, at the heart of skate culture.

Breathable soles and comfort: Geox and Ecco

For warm feet, the Geox sole provides a patented solution: its founder, Mario Moretti Polegato, came up with the idea of perforating rubber soles during a walk under the Nevada sun, then developed a micro-perforated sole lined with a membrane in Montebelluna, Italy, that lets out sweat vapor without letting in water. The Aerantis applies this principle to a city sneaker.

At Ecco, the Exostride features a thick, contoured sole that supports the natural movement of the foot, designed for long walks. These models suit adults who spend the day on their feet as well as teens who walk to school.

Platform soles and dressy sneakers: Buffalo, Steve Madden, Tamaris

The platform sole elevates the silhouette while keeping the comfort of a sneaker. Buffalo, which became iconic in the 1990s, has made it its signature with models like the Cerbo or the CLD Chai, while Steve Madden offers more refined platform options with the Possession or the Mistica. Their thick, stiffer, heavier sole is tested by walking: the front of the foot should flex naturally without the heel lifting.

Tamaris sneakers, a German women's shoe brand, go for a more dressed-up style, using leather or finer materials, suitable for both work and weekends. Their soft inner sole aims for comfort throughout the day.

Shoe size and care for back-to-school sneakers

Feet often grow during the summer: a child's shoe size should be checked before each new school year, measured standing at the end of the day, with about a centimetre of space in front of the longest toe. For an adult, half a centimetre is enough. Width also matters: a wider foot feels better in a flexible canvas or mesh upper than in stiff leather.

As for care, leather can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap, canvas with soapy water and a soft brush, and white soles regain their shine with an eraser or some bicarbonate. All should air dry, filled with newspaper, away from radiators, which can lift the soles and harden the leather.

Frequently asked questions

What sneakers should I wear with a dress?

A fine canvas sneaker, like a Victoria, lightens a summer dress, while a white platform adds character to a longer dress. The key is to keep a clean line and a neutral colour to avoid overwhelming the silhouette.

Can you wear sneakers with a suit?

Yes, as long as you choose a simple pair in smooth leather, white or black, without too prominent logos or overly thick soles. A dressed-up city sneaker, clean and well-maintained, goes well with a tailored suit worn without a tie.

How can you keep white sneakers clean for longer?

Apply a protective spray as soon as you buy them, and renew it regularly: it limits stain absorption. Wipe off marks as soon as you get home and alternate with another pair to let the leather rest.

How many pairs of sneakers should a child have for school?

Two pairs are ideal: one for school, one for sports or rainy days, which allows each pair to dry between two days. Soles wear down less quickly, and the child never puts on shoes that are still damp.

Velcro or laces for a young child?

Before six or seven years old, Velcro or elastic laces let the child put on their shoes independently, both at school and in leisure centres. Classic laces take over when they can tie their knots, providing a more precise fit.