One way that we keep our finger on the pulse of the most buzzed-about content is utilizing Google’s Trends platform, a clever tool that tracks the most-searched topics, from current events to the latest style goods. And, according to our research, online shoppers are very invested in finding the best shoes for back to school.
Nordstrom
In the last 30 to 60 days, several pairs have reached “breakout search” proportions, a Google Trends term that translates to a greater than 5,000% jump in searches over a specific period. So whether you’re a teen who’s heading off to college and needs some new sneakers or a person who just wants a fresh pair of beloved fall boots for their workday commute, keep reading to explore the footwear that apparently everyone’s been searching for.
You’ll find a recognizable checkered classic from Vans, a durable pair of slip-on boots for rain or snow, and an assemblage of comfortable sneakers for every occasion.
1. A suede Ugg clog
Zappos
First launched in the spring of 2024 and enjoying a jump in search interest in July, these comfy clogs have an adjustable and flippable strap to transform from clogs to slides and feature Ugg’s velvety suede uppers, which come in up to six colors. They have a contoured EVA footbed, platform cushioned outsole and are available in sizes for kids, men (7–15) and women (5–12).
Get them from Zappos in men’s for $90.99 (originally $129.95; available in four colors), in women’s for $129.95 (available in five colors) or in kid’s for $64.95 (available in two colors).
4. A bestselling pair of Air Force 1s
Foot Locker
Unsurprisingly, the legendary Nike Air Force 1 ’07s jumped in consumer interest late in July, proving that these truly versatile sneakers will always be popular. The clean design is complemented with an air-cushioned foam midsole and a padded collar. Grab them in men’s (sizes 6–18) and women’s (sizes 7.5–19.5) and up to four basic colors, or customize your own pair on the Nike website.
Get them from Foot Locker for $115.
5. A pair of cushioned-sole Birkenstock clogs
Zappos
Birkenstocks are famed for their highly supportive corked footbeds that mold to the arches of your feet and a neutral heel profile that distributes body weight evenly. If you’re less partial to the brand’s customary stiff footbed, their Boston clog comes with a cushioned soft bed version and in a suede fabric (the specific option that was recently searched for the most, according to Google) that’s less rigid than Birkenstock’s traditional leather uppers. Find them in two widths, gender-neutral sizing (men’s 6–13.5 and women’s 4–12.5) and four colors.
Get them from Zappos for $160 or Urban Outfitters for $160.
7. A platform pair of Nike Air Max 90s
Foot Locker
These adorable and marshmallowy-looking classics from Nike are experiencing steady growth in online interest. Available in tons of fun color combinations and in sizes for both men (6–15) and women (5–12), the Air Max 90s feature a waffle outer sole for traction and the brand’s signature insole cushioning that provides the perfect amount of support.
Get them from Foot Locker for $130 in women’s (available in seven colors) or in men’s (available in ten colors).
9. A classic Adidas Gazelle tennis shoe
Nordstrom
Adidas Gazelles gained a lot of search traffic in early August, proving that these iconic soccer-inspired shoes will always remain trendy. Hailing from the late ’60s, this pair is a reissue of the 1991 Gazelle, with the same suede materials, proportions and textures as the original. They are available in several color combinations and in men’s (4–14) and women’s sizes (5–12).
Get them from Adidas for $120 in men’s or in women’s.
11. A durable classic Chelsea boot by Blundstone
Blundstone
The classic Blundstone brand — and its 550 boot, in particular — saw a breakout increase in search traffic at the beginning of August. The company is known for its versatile footwear and a longstanding reputation for reliability. These rugged and water-resistant leather boots, which are available in eight colors and gender-neutral sizing (men’s 4–14 and women’s 6–11), have a shock-absorbing insole and the brand’s signature lug, and durable construction.
Get them from Blundstone for $209.95.
12. A pair of lace-up Dr. Marten 1460 boots
Dr. Martens
Dr. Martens has a reputation for manufacturing eternally cool shoes, from loafers to Mary Janes, but it’s the brand’s signature lace-up 1460 boots that have gained an extra boost in search traffic as of late. They have a grooved grip outsole and, like most of their shoes, these leather classics have an air-cushioned insole that’s comfortable all day long. They are available in sizes for both men (6–16) and women (5–12) and up to five colors, including this oxblood hue that seemed to generate the most interest.
Get them from Dr. Martens for $170.
13. A pair of women’s waterproof Sorel boots
Zappos
It’s not surprising that online shoppers appear to be preparing for the fall and winter season by searching for rain-friendly footwear, particularly Sorel’s Out and About boots, which jumped in traffic very recently. Available in women’s sizes 5–12 and seven color combinations that range from neutral to bright, these utilitarian ankle booties promise water-friendly construction, a uniquely designed drop-in cushioning midsole that provides stable wear, and a high-traction outsole that’s grippy for slippery conditions.
Get them from Zappos for $67.57 (originally $130).
