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Sole searching: Kids' white tekkies for school

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Why white tekkies?

Many schools enforce the white tekkies rule for physical education (PE) and while it can be argued that it brings uniformity, it seems like much more trouble than it's worth.

We know how expensive it is to have to purchase new white tekkies every few terms, and how cleaning them is a nightmare.

The problem is, the more affordable tekkies will often not last very long considering how much primary school children love kicking about, literally.

The more pricey options can be, well, more pricey and while they are more durable, children's feet generally do grow quite quickly.

I visited many major department and sporting stores in order to see what the children's white sneaker situation was like. Most of the stores had them in stock but not all of them were exactly the best for sporting. Some stores had trainers but they were not white. Based on my odds, it shouldn't be a challenge to find white sneakers, but naturally, the quality will differ for each store.

I'm no sneaker connoisseur, so the call is yours, but here are some of the white sneaker options I've found. Hopefully you'll find the perfect one that works for your child and your budget!

  • Also see: WATCH: An easy way to teach your child the basics of fractions if they're a visual learner                                                                   
  • Under R100

    Pep

    R75,99

    While this isn't exactly a trainer, more of a casual shoe, it is affordable and gets the job done. You may need to purchase more than one pair throughout the schooling year though. Some schools may not allow the pattern.

    children's white trainers

    Under R200

    Ackermans

    R139,95

    This shoe is affordable and lightweight, which is perfect for the summer, but may not be the best option if you're looking for durability. It has a pop of colour with the pink sole, so it is not fully white.

    children's white trainers

    Edgars

    R199

    These trainers are great for sports and they're quite sturdy so they should last longer than the ones made from thinner material.

    children's white trainers

    Pick n Pay Clothing

    R139

    This shoe is made from a thinner material so it would probably be better for mild physical exercise.

    children's white trainers

    Mr Price Sport

    Style 1: R199,99

    The Velcro straps are perfect for younger kiddies and this shoe is quite durable for any type of sport. 

    children's white trainers

    Style 2: R199,99

    This shoe has a firm structure and sole with an overall streamline and sporty look.

    children's white trainers

    Under R300

    Woolworths

    Style 1: R220

    The straps along with the stretchy laces provides additional foot support.

    children's white trainers

    Style 2: R250

    These shoes are trendy and has good sole support which is great for running and athletics.

    Reebok

    Style 1: R799

    This shoe makes running super comfortable.

    children's white trainers

    Style 2: R799,99

    This shoe can be used as a trainer and be worn casually as well.

    children's white trainers

    Online: you could also check out these Reebok Classic Joggers or Reebok Run Supreme 3.0

    Nike 

    In store: R499

    This shoe is a classic. It is also super on trend so your child will probably make sure to keep these all squeaky clean. It doesn't come cheap, though.

    children's white trainers

    Online: check out the white sneakers on the Nike Website.

    Converse 

    In store: R720

    This shoe is a classic and is super durable for a canvas shoe! They also look cooler when they are a little messy – bonus. Keep them clean for school, though.

    children's white trainers

    Online: Check out the Kids' Converse online. 

    Adidas

    In store:

    Style 1: R549,00

    This type of shoe will leave you feeling like you're walking on a cloud.

    children's white trainers

    Style 2: R549

    Great for running.

    children's white trainers

    Online: Adidas AltaSport kids trainers

    You could also try checking out New Balance and Puma online.

    Sneaker cleaner

    Around R250

    This shoe care kit which can be found at Sportscene stores has all the essentials to keep your kids' (and your own) shoes looking good. It includes sneaker cleaner, freshening spray, a scrubbing brush and more.  

    sneaker cleaner

    Sneaker cleaning hacks:

    Not keen on getting sneaker cleaner? Check out the white sneaker cleaning hack below.


    What are your thoughts on schools making white sneakers for learners compulsory? Let us know by emailing us at chatback@Parent24.com and we could publish your comments.

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