50 Back-to-School Shoes under $50

No one wants to overspend — but it's been proven time and again that you do get what you pay for, so investing in quality really does pay off. When you head out (or whip out the laptop) for back-to-school shopping — a task no one really loves — keep that in mind. There are good finds to be had for less than $50. Here's our survey of what's smart and stylish, practical, and even fun for those boys and girls soon to be back in the classroom. (And yes, you can smile at that thought.)

Prices and availability subject to change.

Related: 25 Best Back-to-School Finds at Costco

Price: $35 to $40 | Buy them from L.L. Bean
These have that athletic look but are designed for everyday wear, with breathable lightweight mesh and synthetic leather uppers. And the lacing style helps keep them secure (and no trailing shoelaces to trip over).

Price: $22 | Buy them from Kmart
This one's all about the combo — looks (metallic detailing and glitter accents) and practicality (thick collar padding to offer ankle support and memory foam cushioning to absorb impact). Win-win.

Price: $30 | Buy them from Modell's Sporting Goods
An understated choice, a sneaker that reads as a tie shoe.

Price: $35 | Buy them from JCPenney
The little girls wearing these — a classic canvas lace-up from a well-respected brand — will be the envy of her gym class.

Price: $40 | Buy them from Macy's
A timeless interpretation from a designer known for quality, with the ease of Velcro at the ankle-strap closures.

Price: $49.99 | Buy them from Famous Footwear
This Deer Stags model will take your young man from science class to the homecoming dance with equal ease.

Price: $40 | Buy them from Modell's Sporting Goods
This model is designed to support running naturally, with a knit upper that allows toes to move and a tightly knit heel to aid support.

Price: $44 | Buy them from Zappos
These ultra-lightweight sneakers are designed so kids can "run longer." The breathable mesh also ensures long-lasting comfort.

Price: $45 | Buy them from Kohl's
Your son will finally think you're cool if you get him these — classics with cachet — and durability.

Price: $44 | Buy them from Saucony
This sweet pair is ideal for young girls, with an easy on/off tab, a lightweight construction and rubberized lugs for grip.

Price: $35 | Buy them from Target
This is a sports-minded choice for that kid who just loves to show off. You know he'll be wearing these for gym and beyond, lighting up his days (and nights).

Price: $45 | Buy them from DSW
These are ideal for the young runner, with padded collar and tongue, whether she's hoping to make the track team or simply enjoy a romp on the playground.

Price: $19 | Buy them from Asos
The chunky sole adds a bit of personality to this traditional pick. And parents can use these as a "teachable moment," explaining that the company works with the Better Cotton Initiative to improve cotton farming globally.

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Price: $45 | Buy them from Saucony
This model's built for the long haul, with a rugged outsole for traction and mesh upper for breathability.

Price: $49.99 | Buy them from Famous Footwear
This is the real deal — leather upper, round toe and highly rated for comfort.

Price: $46 | Buy them from Zappos
This is a sturdy, everyday choice (leather and synthetic upper with elastic goring and breathable mesh lining) elevated into a fashion statement with metallic details.

Price: $30 | Buy them from DSW
The littlest animal lovers will delight in these casual flats designed to keep her comfortable with memory-foam footbed, rubber sole, and round-toe design.

Price: $45 | Buy them from Macy's
These sleek low-tops have a leather look that would easily translate to a special occasion and seem ideal for the no-fuss fella.

Price: $35 | Buy them from Gap
A gal can never have too many pairs of flats … so start the tradition at an early age with these fun and funky velvet ones that have a sturdy heel and charming design.

Price: $35 | Buy them from DSW
Rose-gold metallic and rainbow accents equal funky; fabric lining, 1-inch heel, and inside zipper closure equal smart buy.

Price: $30 | Buy them from Finish Line
These are on-trend picks filled with "heritage style" and ideal for the kid on the go, thanks to the easy pull-on heel tab.

Price: $40 | Buy them from DSW
They're traditional, durable (leather upper, non-marking rubber sole, cushioned footbed) — and certainly add a touch of class to any young man's ensemble.

Price: $20 | Buy them from JCPenney
These shoes have a decidedly retro feel but will provide today's comfort needs with 1.5-inch heel and adjustable ankle strap.

Price: $15 | Buy them from Old Navy
Sometimes a boy just needs a workmanlike pair of sneakers, and these have the look of a go-to in the making.

Price: $11.50 | Buy them from Walmart
Shaquille O'Neal for the masses — with an eye on savings, one reviewer noted these "are not all wide and bulky" like many other inexpensive brands.

Price: $40 | Buy them from Macy's
This is a sleek pair built to be speedy and close to the ground. The low-cut design is billed as ideal for mobility with reinforced stitching for lateral stability.

Price: $15 | Buy them from Peter Glenn
For kids that are on the swim team or participate in nature clubs or hiking, these water shoes will provide versatile protection with a dash of style.

Price: $35 | Buy them from All Volleyball
For the serious athlete-in-training, one who's fallen in love with volleyball, net them this pair — a performance-oriented design ideal for the beginner.

Price: $45 | Buy them from Champs Sports
We're loving the classic '80s style, but know our little guys will appreciate the perforated leather upper, extra cushioning, and durable thick sole.

Price: $40 | Buy them from DSW
Little boys will look like little men with this classic style, complete with perforated brogue detailing.

Price: $40 | Buy them from Nordstrom
This is the classic "penny" loafer revamped for today's youngsters with a lightweight, flexible outsole.

Price: $25 | Buy them from Kohl's
These are basic, functional and affordable, not to mention they add a dapper touch.

Price: $40 | Buy them from Justice
A stellar pick for the young lady who's all about rocking her singular style. The soft faux-leather and glitter laces ensure a statement every time she slips on these flash-pink booties — and that will be often.

Price: $30 | Buy them from Old Navy
With easy on and off, cushioned footbed and, of course, that iridescence, these may have stylish gals wishing for rain.

Price: $40 | Buy them from DSW
This is a no-nonsense pick that will keep him comfortable with plenty of padding and a mid-top design for sturdiness.

Price: $45 | Buy them from Famous Footwear
With the classic elements including a pull-on style, pointed toe, and embroidered detail, these bring the Western look home at a price that leaves coin for the rest of the ranch needs.

Price: $25 | Buy them from Famous Footwear
The suede upper seems to scream autumn, but the style allows summer to live on. The slip-on entry, soft lining, and cork-wrapped midsole elevate this style that seems inspired by the favorite summer staple, the flip-flop.

Price: $27 | Buy them from Macy's
Flower details and faux gems dazzle on this designer pick, but rest assured, comfort is the focus here with cushioned insole and flat, rubber sole.

Price: $20 | Buy them from Kohl's
Ready for a bit of roughhousing, these sandals feature bump-toe protection, a padded footbed and a flexible traction sole. (And 100% of reviewers would recommend these to a friend).

Price: $38 | Buy them from Kohl's
There's total toe coverage, outsole traction, a water-resistant textile upper, and multiple colors that will delight even the pickiest little one.

Price: $45 | Buy them from Clarks
This is a class act, with dark brown leather and sleek styling. Plus, they're lightweight, feature flexible outsole, and riptape fastenings allow for easy on and off.

Price: $40 | Buy them from Famous Footwear
The cut-out styling adds interest to these versatile flats that should work equally well with shorts, jeans or dresses thanks to the d'Orsay-influenced silhouette. Fancy!

Price: $25 | Buy them from Famous Footwear
This is a style designed for the most fashion-forward young ladies, complete with chain-link embellishments, braided straps, and beaded detailing, but again, mom and dad will appreciate the smooth lining, comfort footbed, durable traction outsole, and sturdy back-zipper entry.

Price: $40 | Buy them from Macy's
The name's a mouthful, but sums up the attractions of this style sure to captivate the young ladies. And you just know her friends will be equally dazzled — but you'll appreciate the adjustable stay-put closure and flexible traction outsole.

Price: $20 | Buy them from Kmart
These are an understated, classic choice complete with a contoured footbed for comfort and an adjustable strap for a good fit. A flat heel means he stays grounded, too.

Price: $28 | Buy them from Crocs
These are said to offer lasting comfort and stay-on fit. We think they'll provide the feel of a sneaker but with a polished look.

Price: $20 | Buy them from Kohl's
A small bow accent adds a hint of personality to this classic choice for everyday wear.

Price: $49.95 | Buy them from Zappos
The saddle shoe (yes, we think of Rory Gilmore in her Chilton days) is a perennial uniform pairing — and this one's got a leather upper that laces up for a secure fit.

Price: $20 | Buy them from Old Navy
These bright beauties will find little fashionistas ready to head back to class, at a manageable 1.5-inch heel.

Price: $23 | Buy them from Lands' End
There's a leather footbed with cotton canvas or leather upper, elements designed to last. Bonus: They come in adult sizes so you can do the parent-child match.