Jul 25, 2026
Smart shoppers know that the best back-to-school sneakers aren't necessarily the most hyped or most expensive. Every year, Hibbett welcomes back-to-school shoppers looking for elite value from this year's underrated sleeper hits. This guide peeks at some archive-inspired styles, heritage runners and versatile silhouettes to keep an eye out for in Hibbett's back-to-school sales and in our sought-after new markdowns.
Don't miss out on these underrated sneakers for back to school.
The best back-to-school sneakers combine durability, comfort and style. Throw in the desire to find unique looks at a reasonable price point and choosing the sneakers for school should be considered both an art and a science.
The art is in finding versatile, stylish sneakers. The science is in focusing on staying within budget.
With this approach, the ultimate treasures among the sales and cropped new markdowns are the sleeper hits — sneakers that didn't immediately catch on at launch, but that have subsequently enjoyed a slow-burn rise in popularity. These silhouettes still carry brand prestige, but they are considered off-peak or markdown styles. That means money saved to put toward multi-clothing new markdowns to build fresh, budget-friendly "Toe-to-Head" looks for back-to-school.
If you're looking for shoes with new markdowns in 2026, consider these underrated sneaker picks.
In 2023, Asics launched an updated version of its classic '80s basketball sneaker, the Gel Extreme. It took a minute for people to notice, but the Asics EX89 is a noteworthy heritage silhouette. Combining outstanding traction with durability and throwback style, this sneaker has attracted favorable comparisons to the Nike Dunk Low (some reviewers say the EX89 offers a more cushioned ride at a similar price point) and the New Balance 550.
It's a compact, low-profile classic with a thick rubber outsole and hard-wearing, coated leather upper.
If you're thinking of New Balance, there is a strong chance you're thinking of NB 574s. These hybrid road and trail runners are arguably the archetypal New Balance shoes. They are renowned for a stable, supportive ride, all-day comfort and hard-wearing, quality materials. Suede uppers and a famously durable EVA midsole make for a lightweight, classic silhouette.
Add a typical New Balance variety of neutral colorways and you get a budget-friendly sneaker likely to fit right in with campus dress codes.
For quality and brand prestige, Jordan Brand is a can't-miss pick. The sheer variety and longevity of Jordan series shoes make these sneakers some of the best finds in the markdown section. From Air Jordan 1s to Air Jordan 40s, every iteration of the Air Jordan line has its own character and style. Beyond the core Air Jordans, you'll also find modern favorites like the Luka and Tatum basketball shoe series.
For versatility and old-school cool, Air Jordan 1s are hard to beat — with low, mid and high-profile variations to suit every style preference.
Ultimately, when you're looking through back-to-school sales and markdown sections, it's smart to focus on some core qualities.
Look for high-quality materials:
Consider details like the traction pattern on the outsole — will it give good grip? Will it wear well over time? Consider also how you will keep shoes clean. Leather uppers can be easier to clean than lightweight mesh materials. Lighter colors will scuff and show dirt more readily than darker colorways.
It's also helpful to think about whether or not shoes will require breaking in. Some shoes are made with tumbled leather, effectively already softened and broken in. Others are coated and may initially be quite stiff — though that can also mean they will be more durable.
Finally, comfort is key. If at all possible, try on shoes before buying if you're not familiar with the silhouette.
Shop Hibbett's new markdowns for back-to-school bargains and timeless silhouettes. Find all our latest back-to-school offers and events online or via the Hibbett mobile app. Or stop by your nearest Hibbett store to try before you buy and check out our back-to-school apparel and merchandise.
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