If your kid’s shoes are slipping, rubbing or feeling flat halfway through sport, it’s usually not “they’ll be right”. It’s a fit or support mismatch.

Kids running shoes: how to choose the right pair for school sport

Whether it’s school athletics, cross country, weekend parkrun with the family, or just a lot of running at lunchtime, a proper kids running shoe can make sport more comfortable and help the shoe last longer.

Road, trail, or mostly school sport?

Start with the surface. It’s the easiest way to narrow down the options.

• Concrete, courts and footpaths: A road-style kids running shoe is the safest all-round choice. Look for a durable outsole and enough cushioning for hard ground.
• Grass, dirt and park tracks: A kids trail running shoe can give better grip and a bit more toe protection. You do not need aggressive lugs for most local tracks, but a trail tread helps when it’s damp.

If your child does a mix, pick the surface they run on most. Trail soles can feel a bit clunky on smooth concrete, and road soles can slip on wet grass.

How should kids running shoes fit?

Fit is the make-or-break. Kids often say “it’s fine” even when the shoe is slightly short or rubbing. Here’s the quick check we use in-store.

• Toe room: Aim for roughly a thumb-width between the longest toe and the end of the shoe.
• Heel hold: The heel should feel secure when they walk and jog on the spot. If it lifts, blisters usually follow.
• Width: No pinching across the forefoot and no little toe pushing into the sidewall.
• Comfort now: A kids running shoe should feel good straight away. Do not rely on “breaking them in” to fix pressure points.

Try shoes with the socks they actually wear for sport. Thick school socks can change the fit more than you’d expect.

Do they need “support”, or just a stable shoe?

A common question we hear is “what’s the most supportive shoe for kids?” In most cases, you’re better off aiming for stable and secure rather than heavy or overly stiff.

• Cushioning helps comfort on hard surfaces, especially for kids doing repeated laps on concrete.
• Stability comes from a shoe that feels steady side-to-side and holds the midfoot well.
• Upper fit matters. A well-fitting upper can stop sliding and rubbing without needing to crank the laces.

If you’re unsure, start with a neutral kids running shoe that fits properly, then adjust based on what you see: heel slip, toe rubbing, or uneven wear are all good clues.

PS vs GS kids sizes: what do they mean?

You’ll often see PS (Primary School) and GS (Grade School) labels on kids running shoes. It’s mostly a sizing category, but the feel can differ.

• PS covers smaller kids sizes and often feels lighter and simpler.
• GS covers bigger kids sizes and can feel more substantial underfoot.

The label is less important than the fit. If a PS model fits your child’s foot shape better than a GS model in the same brand, go with the fit.

Quick at-home sizing check (before you come in)

If you’re ordering online or your child hates trying shoes on, a quick check at home helps you get closer on the first go.

• Measure both feet: Kids often have one foot slightly bigger. Fit the larger foot.
• Check length standing up: Have them stand with weight on the foot, then check that thumb-width at the toe. Sitting measurements can be misleading.
• Look for hot spots: After a short walk, ask where it feels tight. “It’s fine” is not an answer. Toes, heel and the sides tell you a lot.
• Re-check laces: If the shoe only feels secure when the laces are painfully tight, it’s usually the wrong shape, not a “lace issue”.

Common mistakes we see with kids running shoes

• Buying too big “to last the year”: Extra length usually means sliding, tripping, and faster wear. Re-check fit mid-year instead.
• Ignoring heel slip: If the heel is moving, the shoe is the wrong size or shape.
• Using one shoe for every sport: Running shoes are great for running. If your child plays lots of court sport, a dedicated court shoe will feel more stable.

Popular right now at Sportsmart

• Kids running shoes collection – a quick way to compare shapes and cushioning styles.
• ASICS Contend 9 GS (kids) – a practical everyday option for school sport and light running.
• ASICS GT-1000 14 GS (kids) – worth comparing if your child likes a more structured, secure feel.
• ASICS GT-2000 14 GS (kids) – a step up for kids doing more regular running.
• ASICS Gel-Venture 11 GS (kids) – a good match for mixed surfaces and park tracks.
• New Balance Rebel v5 GS (kids) – lighter on-foot for kids who want a quicker feel.
• New Balance DynaSoft Nitrel v6 GS (kids) – a trail-style option for extra grip on grass and dirt.

FAQ

How much growing room should kids have in running shoes?
Aim for roughly a thumb-width at the toe. More than that usually feels sloppy and can cause rubbing on stops and hills.

Do kids need a different shoe for cross country?
If it’s mostly wet grass and dirt, a trail-style outsole can help with grip. If it’s a mix of paths and grass, a regular kids running shoe is usually fine if it fits well.

How tight should the laces be?
Snug through the midfoot, without crushing the top of the foot. If you have to pull the laces very tight to stop heel slip, the shoe shape is probably wrong for them.

Can my child wear running shoes for basketball or netball at school?
For a bit of PE, yes. For regular court sport, a proper court shoe is steadier side-to-side and usually lasts longer.

Kids grow quickly. Check fit every season and size up when the shoe gets tight.

Still deciding? Drop into our Moorabbin, Kilsyth or Preston stores to try a few options on, or shop online and reach out if you want help narrowing it down.