While we know plimsolls might not sit at the very top of most people’s curiosity list, at Start-Rite Shoes we pride ourselves on being endlessly curious about footwear. After all, it’s what we do best. So, if you’ve ever paused to wonder why a plimsoll is called a plimsoll, or what makes it such a fixture in school PE kits, you’re in the right place.
A plimsoll is one of those wonderfully straightforward shoes: a canvas upper paired with a rubber sole, designed for ease and practicality. Unlike trainers, which can be bulkier with heavy treads and added features for specialist sports, plimsolls keep things simple and focus on the essentials. Their lightweight design makes them perfect for PE lessons, indoors or out, where comfort and agility matter most.
It’s no surprise that many schools specify black plimsolls as part of the uniform. Their slip-on style means no fiddly laces - something teachers appreciate for saving time and parents value for simplicity. More importantly, children can put them on and take them off by themselves, giving younger ones a welcome boost of confidence and independence.
Plimsolls also win points for practicality beyond the classroom. Because they’re less bulky and lighter than trainers, they tuck neatly into PE bags without hogging space. A less cumbersome bag is easier to carry, and parents know that every little bit of convenience counts on busy school mornings.
And if you’ve ever wondered why plimsolls are called plimsolls, there’s a charming little backstory. The shoe itself first appeared in the 1830s, created by the Liverpool Rubber Company as a simple canvas shoe with a rubber sole - a practical alternative to heavy leather footwear of the time. A few decades later, in the 1870s, the nickname ‘plimsoll’ caught on when people noticed the neat line running around the sole looked just like the Plimsoll line on ships - the mark showing how much cargo a vessel could safely carry. The name stuck, and ever since these lightweight canvas shoes have proudly carried their seafaring title.
Plimsolls should always be worn with socks. Socks provide a barrier that helps absorb moisture, reduces friction and keeps little feet fresh and healthy during activity. Without them, the canvas lining can rub against the skin, leading to irritation and discomfort.
For PE lessons, lightweight cotton or sports socks are ideal. Cotton offers breathability, while sports socks often include cushioned panels and moisture-wicking fibres, making them perfect for running around.
Whichever option you choose, one golden rule remains: always swap out used socks for a clean pair after periods of high activity. Yes, it might mean rummaging through the depths of a PE kit to find where those pesky socks have disappeared to, but it’s worth the effort. Fresh socks aren’t just about comfort - they’re vital for hygiene, too. Damp, worn socks can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria, which in turn can lead to unpleasant odours, skin irritation or even infections.
Encouraging children to get into the habit of changing socks regularly is a small but important step in building healthy routines. It helps them to understand that good foot hygiene is just as vital as brushing teeth or washing hands. And once those habits are established early, they’ll carry them confidently into later life.
Parents often ask whether ankle socks or longer styles are better. The answer depends on preference and activity. Ankle socks are discreet and comfortable, while crew-length socks provide extra coverage and can help prevent rubbing at the heel. Both pair perfectly with plimsolls, so having a mix ready for the school week is a smart move.
Our Skip black school plimsolls continue to be a popular choice and are a brilliant example of why plimsolls remain a trusted choice for PE kits. Available in sizes from S7 through to L4.5, they’re designed to suit a wide age range, making them ideal for both younger children just starting school and older pupils who need reliable sports footwear for PE. Key features include a lightweight canvas upper, a flexible sole with grip grooves and a cushioned insole for comfort during activity. Enhanced toe and heel protection add durability, while the simple rip-tape fastening ensures a secure fit that children of any age can manage independently.
If you’re looking for sporty footwear for school beyond plimsolls, our trainer-style school shoes offer a supportive alternative for more demanding activities.
So, whether you’re preparing for the start of a new school term, or refreshing your child’s PE kit, explore our full collection of plimsolls and sports shoes.
Author: Click, published 22-01-2026.
