NBC Selected independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. Learn more.
Getting ready to go back to school typically comes with a long list of things to buy, and shoes are one of the most important things to check off — they’re often the priciest item on that list, too. Growing feet, active school days, and a hundred activities in between mean a good pair (or two) is necessary — for both you and the kiddos.
The good news: I found a bunch of popular styles from top brands like New Balance, Crocs, Nike, and more on sale for up to 55 percent off, so you can get picks that look good and hold up well without blowing your budget.
The Crocs Baya Clog is a lightweight unisex clog made from the brand’s signature foam. It offers ventilated, quick-drying breathability, pivoting heel straps for a secure fit and a customizable design with Jibbitz charm holes. They’re great for wearing to class (we see you college students), heading to sports practice and every day errands.
These cushioned, wide-based gym shoes were built for stability. The breathable mesh upper and a high-traction rubber outsole help them deliver a secure, comfortable fit — perfect for all-day wear. Plus, the fun pink color gives them a pop of style (black and light grey colors are also on sale).
These sneakers pair a plush midsole with a broad, stable base for a smooth, supported ride mile after mile. A rocker-shaped heel helps propel you forward and a mesh upper makes these shoes breathable and keep your feet cool. Though these particular sneakers are for women, the same style for men are also on sale for 31 percent off.
The New Balance 204L marries ‘70s running silhouettes with a premium suede texture for a stylish vibe. They have a sleek, low-profile design look good with jeans, dresses and more.
You can’t go wrong with a pair of Dunks. The classic silhouette and iconic color blocking are instantly recognizable. But these shoes don’t just look good — they have a lightweight foam midsole for comfort and rubber outsole for traction. You can get an extra 25% off by using the code DAYONE at checkout.
The Nike Air Monarch IV has a cool, chunkier silhouette and what the brand calls an Air-Sole unit in the midsole to provide lightweight cushioning. The solid rubber outsole delivers reliable traction for year-round stability — helpful if you’re rushing to class in the rain or moving around a sleek gym floor.
This is the fourth generation of Hoka’s Rincon sneaker, which is known for having an impressive cushion-to-weight ratio, meaning it’s both lightweight and highly cushioned. The upper is made from breathable jacquard and has a snug fit to minimize rubbing and friction as you run.
Want more from NBC Selected? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.
I’m a commerce editor at NBC Selected who covers various topics, including lifestyle, home and wellness. I’ve covered sales and major shopping events like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday for more than a decade.
Bethany Heitman is a commerce editor at NBC Selected.