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Shopping for back to school is always a challenge, but something that I always enjoy every year is shopping for new shoes to wear back to campus. Now, I love a good heel as much as the next girl, but when I’m trekking back and forth to class multiple times a day, wearing sneakers is my go-to. You will not catch me in boots with heels when I’m on campus.
As a student, what you may need to get around your campus might vary by region, but I’d argue that sneakers are the universal staple. Whether you’re in Colorado or sunny Florida like me, you have to have at least a couple of pairs of good walking shoes to run into the ground, or get dirty. Some students even have a pair of sneakers just for going out, and honestly? Smart move. Wear and tear on your footwear is no joke.
From Nike to Adidas, so many brands have amazing shoes on sale this year at great rates for a college student, with many sales coming up in the spirit of getting ready for another long academic year. Even Amazon is a great place to look! So, in the spirit of back-to-school shopping, here are 12 pairs of walking sneakers for back-to-college this fall that are a must-add to your wardrobe.
Nike Blazer Mid 77 ($126)
Nike Blazers are my go-to for most of my outfits. For me, they are the most comfortable to walk in and, as a dancer, they are great to use in studios. They come in so many colors, so if you’re not like me and don’t prefer a classic black or white, you definitely have your options!
Nike Dunk High ($81)
This one’s for all my girls who love a little class with their sneakers. I always wear my Dunks when I wear an outfit that is not sweats — usually out to bars, but also on campus when I’m walking about. They are also super comfy, but I will say, not as free-feeling as blazers.
Converse Chuck Taylor High-Top Sneaker ($65)
Converse are fun, and like the Nike Blazers, they go with almost everything (and have so many customizable versions outside of classic black and white). Plus, they’re super great for walking!
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Lift ($80)
If you like Converse but want to give yourself a little more height, I would definitely recommend the platforms. They also come in so many colors and are still easy to walk in thanks to their flat lift.
Nike Court Vision Low ($85)
You can never go wrong with a classic shoe, like these Court Vision Lows. Reminiscent of the all-white Nike Air Forces that dominated teen style during the early 2020s, these have an extra edge with the powder blue hue.
Adidas Campus 00s ($77)
Honestly, most anything by Adidas is perfect for the fashionable sporty girl. They have so many different styles of shoe aside from sneakers, and it’s worth looking through.
New Balance 740 ($70)
If you’re someone who’s looking to pick up a new hobby (like running) and have a shoe devoted specifically to walking, then any sort of New Balance is great! Aside from walking on campus, these are the shoes that would hold up if you had to walk long distances.
Vans Old Skool Stackform Skate Shoe ($85)
If you prefer a pair of sneakers without laces, these Vans are a great option. These are easy to put on and just walk right out of your dorm. Just don’t forget socks!
Under Armor Charged Gemini ($99)
Want shoes devoted specifically to running? These are great, and they are so stylish as well!
Nike Initiators ($85)
These resemble New Balances and are a bit pricier than some NB pairs, but these Nikes are worth the money because they’re incredibly durable.
Adidas Streettalk ($57)
These Adidas shoes are a fashion classic, and a can’t-miss on any campus. Want to spice up your sneaker wardrobe? These are a must-add.
BeeLg Casual Sneakers ($50)
I love a decorative shoe as much as the next girl, and these are no exception. This sneaker is for any coquette lover who loves a mean bow, and probably doesn’t love sneakers.