August Round up: Heatwaves, Holidays, School Shoes and New Looks

August always goes by too fast. We are just getting into summer holiday mode when, bam - we have to start preparing for September.

This year's been particularly summery. Much of the UK has continued to bask in high temperatures and sunny weather, with only short spurts of rain to relieve it. There's been little opportunity for jumpers and stout shoes, so asking the kids to try on their uniform feels particularly strange.

Here at HLS HQ, we've seen all the usual signs that autumn is slowly creeping closer. The barefoot sandals are still flying off the shelves, but we've already seen an upturn in welly orders like these from Bundgaard.

Kids Wellies | Warm & Waterproof Wellingtons for Children

The Annual School Shoe Reality Check

Feet have an uncanny ability to grow over the summer holidays. Maybe it's the sunshine. Maybe it's the ice cream, or the fact that they have spent six weeks stretching and flexing as they run and climb and jump. Whatever the reason, August always brings a few surprises that necessitate a last-minute runaround with the measuring tape or devices like this, and last-minute shoe ordering.

No, it's not too late to order school shoes, although you are cutting it fine! Our extended 60-day returns offer runs until the end of August, giving you a little extra flexibility when ordering. After that, you'll still be covered by our usual 30-day free returns policy.

Froddo | Froddo Barefoot Shoes, Boots, Sandals & Canvas

What are the Kids Wearing in 2026?

Young Soles Pele | Comfortable Kids Black Leather Sneakers

While trainer-style shoes like Sole Runner 'Puck 2' and Young Soles 'Pele' (above) still rule the playground, we've seen a real rise in the popularity of Chelsea boots for both boys and girls this year. Froddo, Bobux, Old Soles, and Vivobarefoot all have cute boots that are packed with character and give plenty of coverage for those inevitable autumn showers.

Young Soles Chelsea Boots | Logan Black Leather Kids Boots

For younger children, Paperkrane and Common Tread continue to be favourites thanks to their incredibly soft construction, lightweight feel, and roomy fit. 

Common Tread Lace-Up | Wide-Fit Handcrafted School Shoes

Older children and teens are increasingly leaning towards more grown-up styles. Loafers and moccasins like these from Be Lenka, ballet flats from Angles, and smart casual lace-ups like Groundies Trento and Peerko Classic all strike that sweet spot between school-appropriate and main character energy.

Be Lenka Divella | Black Barefoot Leather Loafers

Angles Calisto Black | Women's Stylish Leather Shoes

Groundies Trento Shoes | Black Barefoot Dress Shoes

In Other Shoes News

If you've been scrolling Instagram this summer, you'll have noticed that footwear trends have been having their moment.  From the absurd - Chanel's Barefoot Heel to the sublime -  Xero's Genesis sandals featured in Vogue's 10 Summer Shoe Styles. It all goes to prove the barefoot concept is reaching far and wide.

Xero Men's Genesis Huarache Black | Barefoot Sandals

Metallics are Everywhere

Silver trainers have gone from niche fashion choice to surprisingly wearable everyday staple. Once reserved for those brave enough to embrace the future disco aesthetic, metallic finishes are now popping up everywhere from city breaks to the school run.

Groundies Adults Zen Trainers - Metallic Silver | Barefoot Trainers

The good news for barefoot wearers is that brands including Be Lenka, Groundies, Shapen, and Peerko have been building their collections for some time, proving that foot-shaped shoes can be fashion forward too.

The Rise of the Sneakerina

Vivobarefoot Motus Studio Ballet Sand | Barefoot Ballet Flats

This hybrid has exploded this year, with sporty soles paired with feminine shapes becoming one of the biggest footwear stories of 2026. For those of us who live in the barefoot world, this trend feels comfortably familiar. We've long appreciated shoes that prioritise comfort without sacrificing style, and we are delighted that the rest of the fashion world seems to be catching up!

Queen Mary Jane Continues Her Reign

Origo Two Strap Mary Jane | Black Patent Barefoot Shoes

Speaking of feminine shapes, the gorgeous Mary Jane style shoe shows no sign of being sidelined. Chunky, sporty, traditional or minimalist, if it has a strap (or better, two), we are wearing it. Origo, Shapen, Be Lenka, and Xero are all giving us that minimalist shoe look this year. 

Shapen Coco Mary Jane Black | Elegant Barefoot Flats

Leopard Print is on the Prowl

Mukishoes Lyra Leo | Leopard Barefoot Trainers

It may be an indication of the times, but every few years leopard print becomes more of a need than a want. Whether it's trainers, ballet flats, or loafers, animal prints remain one of the easiest ways to add a little drama to an outfit. Fashion magazines like to call it a trend, but we believe leopard print qualifies as a wardrobe staple.

Origo Single Strap Mary Jane Leopard | Barefoot Leather Shoes

And What About the Men?

Be Lenka Amadeus Moccasins | Black & White Barefoot

It's refreshing to see loafers are becoming the go-to choice for men looking to elevate their look without feeling too formal. Soft suede loafers and moccasins give such a refined look. Brands like Be Lenka and Shapen are leading the way. Sole Runner's Aponi Moccasin is a butter-soft classic that is made to mould to your foot.

Sole Runner Aponi 3 Cognac | Handcrafted Leather Shoes

Men's footwear looks are finally growing up and becoming more sophisticated. The era of wearing gym shoes for absolutely everything is out, replaced by clean, minimalist footwear that works just as well in the office as it does at the weekend.

Origo Everyday Men's Leather Black | Men’s Barefoot Sneakers

And that's August done.

After a month of sunshine, sandals and toe freedom, we're beginning to turn our attention towards autumn.

September has a subtle shift. The barefoot sandals that have carried us through summer start sharing space with sturdier footwear. Before long, we'll be thinking of cosy socks, fleecy linings, and slippers to ease us comfortably into the chillier months.

Peerko Pulse Boots Lapis | Stylish Barefoot Leather Boots

Behind the scenes, it's one of the busiest times of the year for new arrivals too. Our shelves are being refreshed almost daily as autumn and winter collections continue to land, bringing new colours, new styles, and plenty to get excited about for the season ahead. No spoilers, but there are some gorgeous new shoes incoming alongside lots more winter-ready barefoot footwear for the cooler, wetter days.

If you love being first in the know, make sure you get our newsletter for early access to launches, restocks, and seasonal updates. You'll also get 10% off your next order when you sign up, so it's well worth it. And if you're curious about what's just arrived, our New Stock page is always the best place to keep an eye on what's due in.

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