At school, shoes are way more than just something you wear on your feet; they’re a big part of how people show off their personality.

Whether it is about comfort, style, or how well they hold up walking between classes, everyone seems to have their own opinion about what makes the perfect pair. From colorful sneakers to fluffy boots, the hallways are like a mini runway for teenage footwear fashion.

Sophomore Ethan Glenn talked about how much he values the look of his shoes. He tends to wear Air Jordans and work boots.

“I really like the style of my shoes,” Glenn said. “Function’s also pretty important.”

For him, shoes don’t just finish an outfit, they make the outfit.

“They’re very important,” he said. “I’d say like an 8 out of 10. I always need some good shoes.”

Glenn admitted he’s noticed some trends around the school. Saying, “A lot of people like them,” referring to certain popular brands and styles such as Nike and Adidas. Still, he sticks with what he loves.

“It hasn’t changed a thing,” he said. “I love these shoes. I will not stop wearing them.”

Sneakers are his first choice most days, though he’ll sometimes switch it up.

“The sneakers are,” he said when asked his go-to. “Sometimes boots.”

While Glenn focuses on style, sophomore Seth Maryo takes the opposite approach of comfort first, always.

“I like comfort,” he said.

Unlike some students who rotate through multiple pairs, Maryo keeps things simple.

“I just wear the same shoes,” he said.

But that doesn’t mean he’s not paying attention to what others wear.

“A lot of people wear, like, those ugly boots that are furry,” he said.

Even though those might be popular, Maryo’s not easily influenced feeling trends don’t impact his style. Maryo prefers to wear slides. For Maryo, shoes don’t have to be fancy, they just have to feel right, referring to his Nike sneakers.

Then there’s sophomore Jonathan Schaffner, who finds a balance between comfort and coordination. Schaffner prefers comfort over style and picks shoes that are neutral in color so they coordinate with outfits. .

“Sometimes I like to wear a lot of black and gray,” he said. “My shoes really match—it’s black and gray,” Schaffner said.

Schaffner has noticed some bold fashion choices at school, too.

“I’ve seen one person wear the big red boots,” he said, shaking his head. “It kind of made me mad.”

While sneakers are still popular, Schaffner prefers to mix things up, often sporting Hey Dudes.

From stylish sneakers to comfy slides and even the occasional pair of boots, it is clear that everyone walks their own way when it comes to shoes. Some chase the latest trends, while others stick to what feels good or looks just right. But no matter what they choose, one thing is obvious; every pair tells a story.