Outdoor-ready kids’ trainers: new spring pairs from Clarks for everyday adventures

While the weather might not quite feel like spring yet, brighter days and longer afternoons are here - bringing with them park trips, outdoor after-school activities and, with the Easter holidays, the next round of back-to-school shopping.

And that’s often when you realise your child’s trainers are either a size too small or looking like they’ve done one too many laps of the playground.

At this time of year, a reliable, durable pair of kids’ trainers quickly becomes the shoes your child wears for almost everything, from school mornings and sports activities to weekend walks, and those inevitable “just five more minutes” moments at the park.

The challenge, of course, is finding great-value kids’ trainers that work for both of you. Your child might be drawn to colour and comfort, while you’re more likely thinking about support and whether they’ll last longer than the next growth spurt.

Kids’ trainers that keep up with every adventure

The good news is that Clarks’ latest kids’ trainer collection is designed with this balancing act in mind. Launching in time for the Easter holidays and back-to-school shopping, the expanded range offers more choice and value than ever before, with styles starting from just £25. Mumsnet readers can also enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on full-price items in the Clarks kids' collection after booking and attending an in-store fitting appointment, making it even easier to stock up ahead of the new term.

From practical triple-black trainers that pass most school uniform policies to retro-inspired silhouettes and sportier designs for weekends, the collection offers great value by covering the many roles trainers need to play in children’s everyday lives. Each pair is built with durability, comfort and foot health in mind, combining breathable materials, flexible soles and supportive construction designed to keep up with active days. 

With that in mind, here are three standout kids’ trainers from Clarks’ new collection.

Crafton Move

RRP: From £25 | Colours available: Black or white | Buy now

What we like

•  Lightweight synthetic and textile upper that keeps feet cool on busy days

• Elastic laces and riptape straps for quick, fuss-free on and off

• Soft padding around the collar and tongue for all-day comfort

• Breathable mesh lining made with 50% recycled materials

•  Designed to support natural movement as kids run, jump and play

• A flexible sole that moves easily with every step

Best for: Everyday wear - from school days to weekend park trips.

For kids who are constantly on the go, the Crafton Move is designed to keep up with everyday activity without feeling heavy or restrictive.

A breathable lining and flexible sole allow the lightweight design to move naturally with the foot, helping keep children comfortable all day. Padded collars and tongues add extra cushioning, while elastic laces paired with riptape straps make getting them on and off refreshingly straightforward - particularly helpful during rushed school mornings.

Available in classic black or white, it’s a versatile style that works just as well for the classroom as it does for playground adventures.

Deyes Dash Kid

RRP: From £25 | Colours available: Triple black, grey, pink, blue, red or purple | Buy now

What we like

• Textile and synthetic upper designed to stay light and airy

• Elastic laces and riptape straps for quick, easy fastening

• Soft padding around the collar and tongue for extra comfort

• Protective toe bumper to help guard against everyday scuffs

• Microban® odour control lining to keep trainers feeling fresher

• Durable, flexible sole built to handle busy days

Best for: PE lessons, sports and active parties.

Kids’ PE lessons and after-school sports can be surprisingly tough on a pair of trainers. Between sprints, drills and the occasional last-minute game of football, shoes need to keep up, and the Deyes Dash Kid is built to do just that. Lightweight and breathable, these trainers support energetic play while staying comfortable all day.

Cypress Step

RRP: From £30 | Colours available: White/blue, navy combi, burgundy, silver glitter, pink combi, light pink | Buy now

What we like

•  Durable suede and fabric upper built for everyday wear

•  Elasticated laces and riptape straps for quick, secure fastening

• Soft padding around the ankle for all-day comfort

• Slim, flexible sole that bends with little feet

• Designed around growing feet to support natural movement

Best for: Weekend adventures and casual days out.

For kids who like a trainer that’s a little more fashion-forward, the Cypress Step delivers a sporty, retro-inspired look without sacrificing comfort or practicality.

The combination of a durable suede upper and a flexible sole keeps feet supported and moving naturally, while soft ankle padding adds extra cushioning for longer days on the go. Elasticated laces and riptape straps make getting them on and off easy, so even the most impatient child can manage it themselves. With a range of colours - from classic navy and burgundy to glittery silver and soft pink - they’re ideal for casual weekends, park trips, and active play.

Why Clarks remains a go-to for kids’ trainers

Choosing the right kids’ trainers for growing feet isn’t always straightforward, which is why many parents return to brands they trust. Clarks has long been a family favourite, combining thoughtfully designed shoes with durable materials built to withstand the everyday demands of active children.

As one Mumsnet user, Spacecowboys, puts it: “Clarks are a better fit, more comfortable and last longer (in our experience).” Another, sanityisamyth, adds: “I always bought [my son] Clarks shoes as they were actually designed to fit children's feet. A huge amount of research went into ergonomics. I still buy him Clarks now - school shoes and trainers aged 10 - as he says supermarket ones are uncomfortable.”

Clarks’ kids’ trainers offer everything families need in a single pair:

• Accessible pricing - with many styles starting from just £25, these are some of the best value we’ve seen for kids’ trainers

• Comfort-focused construction designed for growing feet

• Durable materials built to handle daily wear

• Practical design details, such as protective toe bumpers

• Easy fastening options, including riptape straps and stretch laces

• Flexible soles that allow natural movement

• A wide range of colours and styles for school and weekends

Frequently asked questions about Clarks on Mumsnet

Are Clarks kids’ trainers true to size?

Yes. Clarks designs its children’s shoes around the natural shape of growing feet, so most styles fit true to size. It’s still a good idea to check your child’s measurements every few months, especially during growth spurts, to make sure there’s enough room for comfort and movement.

For a perfect fit, Clarks makes it easy to measure your child’s feet at home. If you can’t make it to a store, their online Measure & Fit tool is the next best thing. It guides you step by step, checking both length and width so you can choose the right size with confidence. It’s especially handy during growth spurts or when buying trainers as a gift, helping ensure they fit from the first try.

Are Clarks kids’ trainers easy to clean?

Most of the trainers use practical synthetic or textile uppers that can be wiped down with a damp cloth. A quick clean usually takes care of everyday marks and playground scuffs, keeping shoes looking presentable without any fuss.

Riptape (Velcro) or laces: which works best for kids?

It depends on your child’s age and confidence. Riptape straps are quick and easy for younger children to manage themselves, while elastic laces paired with straps give a secure fit without the hassle of tying. Both are designed for independence and practicality.

How do you know if kids’ trainers fit properly?

According to Clarks Shoe Size and Fitting Guide, a good fit should feel snug without being tight. There should be a little room at the front for toes to move comfortably, while the heel should stay secure when walking or running. If shoes feel tight, cause rubbing or leave marks on the skin, it may be time to size up.

How often should kids’ trainers be replaced?

Because children’s feet grow quickly, trainers often need replacing every few months, so choosing a durable, good-value pair like Clarks kids’ trainers can make a real difference. It’s a good idea to check the fit regularly and look out for signs of wear in the sole or upper that could affect comfort and support.

About Clarks

Clarks, based in Somerset, England, has been at the forefront of innovative shoemaking since its foundation in 1825, when brothers Cyrus and James Clark made a slipper from sheepskin cut-offs. At the time it was groundbreaking: a combination of invention and craftsmanship that’s remained at the heart of what the brand does now. 

In the Clarks archive of more than 22,000 pairs are shoes that have sparked revolutions and defined generations. From the original Clarks Desert Boot, first designed by Nathan Clark and launched in 1950, to the iconic Wallabee, each design has an instantly recognisable signature that makes it unmistakably Clarks. Clarks is a global business operating retail, wholesale, franchise, and online channels in over 100 markets.