JD Sports Has Everything You Need for Back to School Sneakers
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The brutal heatwaves we’ve experienced across the globe should be coming to an end soon, and as we inch closer to the fall, that also means we’re approaching the start of a new school year. This applies to all grades from Kindergarten to college seniors, with all of them needing to get some fresh clothing and kicks before they head back to school.
We’re heading to JD, the top destination for back-to-school shopping this year, to help you find the best back-to-school sneakers for 2026. Check out our picks and shop all of these sneakers and more from JD Sports.
Men’s
Asics Gel-1130 White Cloud Grey
An affordable sneaker that is stylish and brings all-day comfort? That’s a major win for the school year, and the Asics Gel-1130 checks all of those boxes. The Gel cushioning supporting the breathable mesh upper is perfect for hot summer days, and will continue to provide comfort throughout the coming months.
Vans Knu Skool Black White
Vans are not strictly for skateboarders, even if models like the Knu Skool come with plenty of skate-friendly features. These updated classics translate well off the board, as the puffy tongue and cushioned insole are comfortable first period to Field Day.
Saucony ProGrid Guide 7
Mesh runners remain a popular style choice these days, and Saucony is at the top of its class. The ProGrid Guide 7 comes in at a cool $135 and will be great to rock all throughout the calendar year, especially in this clean white colorway.
Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Low Black
Now, the Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Low is not going to win any comfort contests, but it’s still a staple over 100 years later for a reason. They go with virtually every outfit, and they’re the most affordable option on this list.
Asics Gel-NYC Cream Oyster Grey
Another Asics sneaker on the list, and for good reason. The Gel-NYC has a strong tech runner vibe, and the Gel-cushioned sole unit makes it great for all-day wear. Of course, with this neutral color scheme in Cream and Oyster Grey, you won’t have to plan your outfit too hard.
Women’s
New Balance 9060 Linen Timberwolf
Even though low-profile shoes have wedged their way into the market, chunky is still in. A staple in this category is the New Balance 9060, which not only looks great in color schemes like this Linen Timberwolf pair, but remains at the top of the comfort department thanks to the foam sole unit.
Puma Speedcat Red
The opposite of the NB 9060 is the Puma Speedcat, which was originally developed as a shoe for racecar drivers. The low-profile and tire tread-inspired sole unit leans heavily into the motorsport aesthetic, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a comfortable shoe to wear.
Nike P-6000 White Peony
Retro running tech still holds up today, and the archival look is also at the forefront of fashion trends. But instead of just giving us a straight-up retro of the Nike Pegasus 2006, The Swoosh introduced the P-6000, a remixed version of the shoe. It’s been popular ever since it dropped in 2019, and this White Peony colorway is a great way to stand out in the hallways this semester.
New Balance 530 White Natural Indigo
If you want to have that retro tech runner look but blend in a bit more, maybe go for the New Balance 530 White Natural Indigo. This specific colorway is all over TikTok For You pages, if that helps you narrow things down. It’s comfortable, looks clean, and will go with pretty much any fit you want to wear. Slay.
Birkenstock Boston Sandal
Without a doubt, you’ll be seeing hallways full of people wearing the Birkenstock Boston Sandal once that first bell rings in August. The German brand ensures each sandal fits your feet for a 1-of-1 fit, so you’ll quickly realize why they’re so popular once you break them in. Pair that soft footbed with the suede upper, and you’ll never want to take them off.
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com
