Finding the right school shoes for your child in Kenya used to mean braving crowded shops, dealing with limited stock, and spending hours looking for the perfect fit. Today, thanks to online shopping, parents in Kenya have a convenient and efficient way to shop for school shoes from the comfort of their homes. This guide will help you navigate the process of buying school shoes online in Kenya, ensuring you find durable, comfortable, and affordable options for your children.
Why Shop for School Shoes Online in Kenya?
Online shopping offers several advantages when it comes to buying school shoes:
Convenience: You can shop anytime, anywhere, without worrying about store hours or traffic. This is a big plus for busy parents.
Wider Selection: Online stores often have a larger inventory than physical shops, giving you more choices in terms of brands, styles, and sizes.
Price Comparison: It’s easier to compare prices from different retailers online, helping you find the best deals and save money.
Customer Reviews: You can read reviews from other parents, which provides valuable insights into the quality, fit, and durability of specific shoe models.
Delivery to Your Doorstep: Your order arrives at your home, saving you a trip to the store.
Key Considerations When Buying School Shoes Online
Before you click “add to cart,” keep these points in mind to make an informed purchase:
1. Measure Your Child’s Feet Accurately
This is the most crucial step when buying shoes online. Children’s feet grow quickly, so you need current measurements.
When to Measure: Measure your child’s feet in the afternoon or evening, as feet tend to swell slightly throughout the day.
How to Measure:
Have your child stand on a piece of paper with their heel against a wall.
Trace the outline of both feet.
Measure the length from the heel to the longest toe.
Measure the widest part of the foot.
Compare these measurements to the sizing charts provided by online retailers.
Growth Room: Allow about 1-1.5 cm of space at the toe for growth. However, do not buy shoes that are too large, as this can cause discomfort and tripping.
2. Understand Sizing Charts
Shoe sizes can vary between brands and countries. Always refer to the specific sizing chart provided by the online store or brand you are considering. Many Kenyan online retailers will provide EU, UK, and US sizing conversions.
3. Prioritize Comfort and Support
Your child will wear these shoes for many hours each day. Comfort and proper support are paramount for healthy foot development.
Materials: Look for genuine leather uppers. Leather is durable, breathable, and molds to the foot over time. Some brands also use high-quality synthetic materials that offer similar benefits.
Soles: The sole should be flexible at the ball of the foot but offer good support through the arch. Look for shock-absorbing midsoles, especially if your child is active.
Closure Type:
Velcro: Easy for younger children to fasten themselves, promoting independence.
Buckles: Also good for younger children, providing a secure fit.
Laces: Offer a more adjustable and secure fit, better for older children who can tie them reliably. Consider no-tie elastic laces for convenience.
Ankle Support: The shoe should hold the heel comfortably without slipping.
4. Durability for Active Kids
School shoes in Kenya endure a lot of wear and tear, from daily commutes to playtime.
Reinforced Stitching: This indicates a more robust construction.
Sturdy Soles: Ensure the soles are not flimsy and can withstand running, jumping, and various surfaces.
Quality Construction: Look for shoes where the sole is stitched to the upper, rather than just glued, for better longevity.
5. Check School Dress Code
Before buying, confirm your school’s specific requirements for school shoes. Some schools have strict rules regarding color (often black), material, and style.
6. Read Product Descriptions and Reviews
Thoroughly read the product description for details on materials, features, and care instructions. Pay close attention to customer reviews, especially those from parents who have purchased the same shoes for their children. They often provide practical insights into the fit, durability, and overall satisfaction.
7. Returns and Exchange Policy
Before completing your purchase, understand the online store’s return and exchange policy. This is important in case the shoes do not fit correctly or have any defects upon arrival.
Popular Online Stores to Shop for School Shoes in Kenya
Several online platforms in Kenya offer a range of school shoes. Here are some options:
Jumia Kenya: A large e-commerce platform with a wide selection of school shoes from various local and international sellers. You can find competitive prices and frequent sales.
Kilimall: Another significant online marketplace in Kenya, Kilimall also features a diverse range of school shoes, often with attractive discounts.
SAWA FIT Shoes: This online store specializes in school and office shoes, focusing on quality leather footwear. They emphasize comfort, durability, and affordability, with countrywide delivery.
Tots Shoppe Kenya: For younger children, Tots Shoppe offers various footwear options, including school shoes, from different brands.
Josef Seibel Africa (ShuShu Range): They produce high-quality, lightweight school shoes made in Kenya with German design influence. Their ShuShu range focuses on comfort and durability.
Rikeys: This online store also lists various school shoes, including leather options for girls.
Carrefour Online Kenya: While primarily a supermarket, Carrefour’s online platform sometimes carries school uniform items, including shoes.
Tips for a Smooth Online Shopping Experience
Create an Account: If you plan to shop regularly, create an account on your preferred platforms. This saves your details for faster checkout and helps track orders.
Use Filters: Most online stores allow you to filter products by size, gender, brand, price range, and color. Use these filters to narrow down your search.
Look for Deals: Keep an eye out for “back-to-school” sales, seasonal discounts, and flash sales.
Compare Shipping Costs and Times: Factor in delivery charges and estimated delivery times when comparing prices from different sellers.
Payment Options: Check the available payment methods. Many online stores in Kenya accept M-Pesa, card payments, and sometimes cash on delivery.
Common School Shoe Styles and Features
Black Leather Shoes: These are the most common and often required style. Look for genuine leather for breathability and longevity.
Lace-up Shoes: Offer a secure and adjustable fit.
Velcro Strap Shoes: Convenient for younger children who are still learning to tie laces.
Buckle Shoes: A classic style, often seen on girls’ school shoes, providing a good fit.
Slip-on Loafers: Some schools permit these for older students; they offer easy wear.
Padded Collars: Add comfort around the ankle.
Antimicrobial Linings: Help keep feet fresh and reduce odor.
Non-slip Soles: Important for safety on various surfaces.
Shopping for school shoes online in Kenya simplifies a task that can often be stressful. By taking accurate measurements, prioritizing comfort and durability, checking reviews, and understanding return policies, you can confidently find the perfect pair for your child, saving time and effort. This modern approach to back-to-school shopping allows you to focus on other preparations, knowing your child’s feet are well-equipped for the academic year ahead.
