We made it through the first week back! The backpacks are unbagged, the morning routines are (mostly) restored, and the summer chaos is finally settling into a rhythm.

Now that the kids have spent a full week running, jumping, and sitting through classes, it’s time to ask: How are those school shoes actually working out?

Did the first week reveal any tight toes, rigid soles, or morning complaints? If you’re needing to revise your choice—or if you’ve been waiting to see how the season started before buying—I’ve rounded up my absolute top Be Lenka recommendations for every kind of school dress code.

Freedom of Choice: Playful & Matching Styles

Unlike some strict uniform rules, most schools across Europe don’t require plain black leather shoes. If your kids have freedom of choice, why not make the mornings fun?

Be Lenka has launched incredible vibrant options that let kids express themselves while keeping their feet naturally supported. My personal favorite idea? Parent-child matching styles! Don’t forget to use code Barefootbrit15 to get your discount!

Image courtesy of Be Lenka
Image courtesy of Be Lenka

Check out all the playful designs in the full range of Be Lenka fun styles to find a pair that brings some joy to the school run.

Tried, Tested & Loved in Our House

When it comes to real-world durability, these are the pairs getting maximum wear in our family right now:

  • Luppo Kids: Sylvester has practically lived in the blue & aqua model of these all summer long. They are flexible, effortless to pop on, and hold up amazingly to non-stop playground wear
Image courtesy of Be Lenka
  • Energise Kids: The White & Iridescent style is one of Olympia’s absolute top favorites! They give just enough pop of shine while staying completely functional for active days, and are also available in the classic black, or even brown and multi-coloured options.
Be Lenka Energise Kids

Need Classic Black? Be Lenka Has You Covered

If your school stick to a strict uniform policy requiring traditional black footwear, you don’t have to compromise on healthy foot development. Be Lenka offers sleek, polished black options that keep school administrators happy and little feet zero-drop and wide-toe-box comfortable.

  • Olympia’s Top Pick: The Tinkee Black—a beautifully designed Mary-Jane style that looks smart for uniform days while providing total barefoot flexibility. Also available in beautiful pink and white options too!

Image courtesy of Be Lenka
  • Classic Black Sneakers: Sleek, low-profile black leather and canvas options that blend seamlessly into any uniform code, and are also great for the PE kit too.
Image courtesy of Be Lenka

Whether you need bold colors or classic black, giving growing feet room to splay and move naturally makes all the difference for energy levels through the school day.

Remember to use code Barefootbrit15 to get your discount!