Buying Kid's Shoes on a Budget

As a parent myself, I know it isn’t always easy finding kid's clothes and shoes on a budget. And when it comes to shoes - kids are fussy! 

Either only the latest styles will do, or finding a comfortable pair is borderline impossible! Fellow parents, don’t despair, I’m sharing my top tips for budget shoe shopping that will still leave the kids with a spring in their step.

Go up a size

Of course, it’s important that kids' shoes fit correctly. Especially those first pairs when tiny feet are developing. However, as kids get older there are some styles that are more forgiving and you can go up a half or even a full size so that they last longer. 

Soft canvas-style shoes (think Converse style) are perfect for this, especially as they lace up. Sandals with Velcro straps that are fully adjustable are an option too. And during the winter months, wellies or boots with an extra pair of socks will do the trick. 

Consider second hand

Toddlers and primary school-age children have feet that grow at the speed of light. There’s a good chance that their shoes are often just lightly worn before they move on to the next pair. So, consider second-hand shoes. Take a look at preloved clothing apps like Vinted, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local NCT selling groups. 

It’s worth noting that new shoes are sold on these apps and sites too. I’ve purchased several pairs of brand-new trainers for my son this way. And I often pick up barely worn football boots for a fraction of the cost too. 

Shop out of season

So you make the kids try on sandals in January, who cares! Shopping out of season is a great way to save on footwear. Shops heavily discount shoes once they are out of season so they can make room for new ranges. It’s not unusual to save up to 80%. 

When you find bargains that are out of season, stock up, why not buy boots for the next 2 winters? Or put some swanky new trainers away for Christmas! 

Sign up for retailer newsletters

Many companies offer a discount when you sign up for their newsletter, or join their club. For example, you can get £5 off your first purchase over £20 when you join the Shoe Zone Club. Other retailers offer up to 20% off your first purchase or free delivery for members. 

You will need to provide your email address when you sign up and be prepared for the influx of spam mail in the future. It’s a good idea to create an email just for this purpose. 

Look for discount codes

Who doesn’t love a discount code? No one is happier than a parent who gets to save money on kid's essentials! Hundreds of retailers offer discount codes to encourage consumers to part with their cash. Make the most of the savings that discount codes provide. 

Decide when quality is important

There are times when paying a little more at the start actually saves money in the long run. In my experience, quality school shoes are a must. School shoes need to withstand all weather, long walks and lunchtime football matches 5 days a week. They also need to be comfortable and look presentable. But you can still make savings on quality shoes, by following some of my previous tips.  

There are plenty of places you can pick up affordable kid's shoes. But I do have some suggestions to get you started… 

M and M Direct 

I have 2 boys that live in trainers. However, trainers, especially branded ones can be costly. I don’t think I’m the only parent who can’t and won’t part with over £100 for a pair. M and M Direct offer trainers at very reduced prices. You can get school shoes too, trainers are where the huge savings will be made. 

There’s up to 50% off Sketchers, up to 60% off New Balance, Nike and Adidas. I’m assuming that these styles are reduced because they are last seasons or end-of-the-line stock.  

Clarks Outlet 

When we think of Clarks I automatically think of kids first shoes and school shoes. However, Clarks have an extensive range from wellies to trainers. The price tag means they are considered purchases for many families, but you can make savings at Clarks Outlet stores. 

On average you can save up to 30% off kids shoes with the potential to save even more during events like Black Friday and bank holidays. If you are shopping out of season you can grab a real bargain, and if you can size up and put shoes away for later in the year, even better! 

Head to Shoe Zone 

Shoe Zone is synonymous with value footwear. You can pick up kid's shoes for as little as £5 in the clearance section. There are brands onboard at Shoe Zone too like Kickers and Sketchers. From sandals to plimsolls for school, there’s a plethora of affordable footwear for kids of all ages.

When you join the Shoe Zone Club you get £5 off your next purchase over £20 along with future discounts. You will need to sign up with your email address to access this discount and any future discounts from the Shoe Zone Club. 

Deichmann 

From toddlers to teens, Deichmann has some good sales. There are sometimes deals like buy one get one-half price too. Deichmann has some big brands on board at great prices too like Sketchers, Crocs and Nike. You can also get 10% off your first order too! 

Sport Direct 

If you are looking for trainers or football boots there are some real bargains up for grabs at Sports Direct, some of the lesser-known sports brands are particularly cheap (great for pre-teens who just want comfortable footwear no matter what the label says). I’ve taken advantage of football boots in the sale, often 50% less than the RRP. 

Head to the supermarkets 

The supermarkets have really nailed value clothing and shoes so don’t forget to check them out while you shop for groceries. And if you are a rewards card holder, you can also use points or vouchers towards your purchase. I really like TU at Sainsbury's and George at Asda, most of the kid's footwear is under twenty quid - bargain.