The first day of school is rapidly approaching, and while you're gathering school supplies, picking up new backpacks and lunchboxes, and generally freaking out that Summer is coming to a close, don't forget one very important essential: a new pair of sneakers! The footwear power player is a must have for every child age 3 and up who's attending school, and we can pretty much guarantee that last year's versions are super snug (even if you haven't noticed yet). We've tracked down 26 pairs of the coolest sneakers around for every kind of kid. Keep reading to shop them all now, because these kicks put the "fun" in functional.
New Balance for Crewcuts' 24/7 Sneakers ($65) have no-tie laces and a cool camo print.
Steve Madden's JWISH Rainbow Slip-On Sneakers ($50) have a glittering rainbow of stripes on the front of a classic slip-on with a denim-like backing.
Available in eight fun designs, Vans's Sk8-Mid Reissue V Sneakers ($35-$42) have a reinforced toe cap for extra durability.
TOMS's Lenny Metallic Glitter Sneakers ($32, originally $49) have a rose-gold, glitter-encrusted finish along with a comfy lace-up design featuring a molded insole and breathable lining.
Target brand Cat & Jack's Weldon High-Top Sneakers ($20, originally $27) have heathered panels, stretchy lace-up closures, and ankle straps.
Geox's Kilwi Slip-On Sneakers ($55-$70) have shimmery metallic details on a classic slip-on sneaker.
Gap's Glitter Hi-Top Sneakers ($25, originally $55) have a faux suede upper with glitter embellishments, lace-up ties, and an easy, pull-on tab at the heel. They're also available in gold.
Converse's classic Chuck Taylor Sneakers ($26, originally $40) are made even cooler with faux-leather uppers and lace-up closures.
Available in three color combos, Nike's Air Max Sequent 3 GS Running Shoes ($70-$80) have great heel cushioning thanks to a U-shaped Max Air unit in the sole, along with a breathable mesh upper and a grooved tread.
Elastic side panels update Treasure & Bond's Scarlett Sneakers ($33, originally $50), a skate sneaker with a classic Chelsea boot style.
Available in six color combos (this rainbow version is my favorite!), Vans's Classic Checker Slip-On ($30-$50) has a retro vibe and classic appeal.
Dolce Vita's Cadin Star Creeper Sneakers ($40, originally $60) have embroidered stars, a glitter trim, and a textured creeper sole.
Gap's Classic Hi-Top Sneakers ($55) have sturdy woven uppers, lace-up ties, padded faux-leather panels, and easy pull-on tabs at the ankles.
Crewcuts' Rainbow Slip-On Sneakers ($60) are skater meets unicorn. What could be cooler?
Classic with a twist, these Adidas Superstar Sneakers ($70) have iridescent signature stripes and heel details.
Gap's Pom Slip-On Sneakers ($40) have a smooth canvas upper, elastic detailing at the sides, and a fun pom at the toe.
Available in four color combos, including solid black, Nike's Huarache Run Drift Sneaker ($42-$68, originally $50-$80) are lightweight, ultra sporty, and easy to slip on and off.
Available in a pink-on-pink or blue-on-white design, Puma's Basket Bow AC Sneakers ($55-$70) have a perfectly tied satin bow at the heel of a classic sneaker with stretchy grosgrain laces.
Target brand Cat & Jack's Wheeler Jogger Sneakers ($19, originally $25) are available in two color combos and have classic lace-up ties.
Old Soles' Metallic Starter Shoes ($74) have a metallic leather upper, slip-resistant rubber outsoles, stretchy laces, and a hook-and-loop closure.
Gap's Astronaut Slip-On Sneakers ($40) have a canvas upper with an allover astronaut print and elasticized panels at the sides.
Target brand Cat & Jack's Gleen Embroidered Sneakers ($16, originally $22) have the word "Inspire" embroidered on the heel in a rainbow of colors.
The Adidas Unisex Edge Lux Knit Lace-Up Sneakers ($70) have a stretch knit upper for a flexible fit, wide ribbon-like laces, and a mesh cage at the sides for additional support.
Available in rose gold, cream, and silver, Keds x Kate Spade's Champion Glitter Sneakers ($55-$60) have allover glitter, ribbon laces, and a sporty rubber sole.
With a sweet all-over polka-dot print, New Balance for Crewcuts' 220 Velcro Sneakers ($55) are easy to fasten and keep on with a double-wide Velcro strap.
Target brand Cat & Jack's Anna Slip-On Quilted Sneakers ($13, originally $18) are embroidered with a star pattern to add some fun to the easy style.