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!
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.
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.
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.
Pick n Pay Clothing
R139
This shoe is made from a thinner material so it would probably be better for mild physical exercise.
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.
Style 2: R199,99
This shoe has a firm structure and sole with an overall streamline and sporty look.
Under R300
Woolworths
Style 1: R220
The straps along with the stretchy laces provides additional foot support.
Style 2: R250
These shoes are trendy and has good sole support which is great for running and athletics.
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.
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.
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 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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