The baby days, although exhausting, also seem to go by in a blur, don’t they? One day you’re laying them down in their baby play mat for the first time, and the next, they are taking those first few steps—teetering toward you, hearing you cheer them on. And you realize your baby is suddenly turning into a toddler right before your eyes—a toddler who needs their first pair of walking shoes so they’ll keep on walking (and soon take off running!) You might feel overwhelmed with the myriad of choices out there—what makes a good pair of walking shoes? How often should your baby wear them? Well, we’ve got the answers you’re looking for. And don’t worry—just like shopping for adorable baby clothes brings you immeasurable joy, so will baby shoe shopping.
How often should baby wear shoes when learning to walk?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents let baby walk barefoot whenever possible to ensure proper development. “A person’s lifelong gait (walking pattern) begins with their first steps. Babies learn to walk by gripping the ground with their toes and using their heels for stability,” AAP explains. (Plus, is there anything more adorable than chunky naked baby feet?!) But we also know that newly minted walkers love to explore the world outside too, and for that, they’ll need shoes that protect their soles and tiny toes.
Related: 15 kids shoes that will help you get out the door faster
How to choose the best baby walking shoes
What should a parent look for in a baby’s first pair of walking shoes? They should be flexible, breathable, made of natural materials (not plastic) and provide plenty of traction to keep tumbles to a minimum. And as much as you’re excited to dress up your little one in glittery sandals this summer, the best first walker shoes are closed-toe, comfortable, and have a non-skid sole.
According to an article on healthychildren.org, it’s important that baby’s first walking shoes allow their feet room to grow (because they grow fast!) “Sneakers are a great choice. Your child does not need wedges, inserts, high backs, reinforced heels, special arches, or other features designed to shape and support feet. These have no proven benefit for the average child and may actually make it harder to walk,” the article adds.
Related: 12-month-old baby milestones
Tips on buying the best baby walking shoes
The American Podiatric Medical Association offers a few helpful tips for parents as they search for the best first walker shoes for their child. APMA says that feet often swell as the day goes on, so try shoes on your baby at the end of the day to see if they fit. Also, avoid shoes that need to be “broken in.” Baby’s first walking shoes should be flexible and comfortable from day 1. Often children have feet different in size, so buy shoes that fit the larger size. And finally, APMA says it’s important to try on shoes with socks and/or tights if your child is likely to be wearing them with the shoes to ensure proper fit.
Thankfully, there are endless options for super cute baby walking shoes that meet all this criteria—soft, flexible, breathable materials, non-skid soles, and closed-toe. Now you just have to choose among all the cute patterns, colors and styles out there!
Motherly’s picks for best first walker shoes
Ten Little
• $36
Finding the right fit for your baby’s foot can be tricky, but few brands make it easier than Ten Little. Their Fit Finder Quiz and printable Fit Finder take out all the guesswork and help you choose the perfect size right at home. What’s more, their styles are all designed with the input of an award-winning podiatrist and pediatrician. From the foot-shaped toe box that supports natural feet development to the lightweight construction and flat, flexible soles, they’re thoughtfully crafted from heel to toe. But our favorite feature? The cute little characters printed inside that ensure they’re always on the right feet. (Who knew getting that right could be such a challenge?)
Baby On The Go
• $42
This super comfy slip-on slipper has a sole made of leather and rubber for proper gripping and flexible support. Also, not only are all of the design options adorable, but also, the fabrics used are antiperspirant, which means baby’s little feet can breathe while they’re doing all that work. With additional features like elasticity at the ankle that keeps the shoe on, as well as the use of chemical-free dyes, there’s no surprise that everyone loves these booties from Baby on the Go.
Pediped
• $39.95
The Jake Crib Shoe from Pediped is made from 100% leather, including the sole and inner lining, allowing for maximum flexibility, comfort, and durability. This shoe is also accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting healthy foot development—so clearly this one is a winner.
Stride Rite
• $50
Stride Rite has been parents’ go-to trustworthy shoe brand for generations. And their First Walker Soft Motion line is no different. From adorable Mary Janes like this one to Russell Boots to the Sonny Sneaker Sandal, there’s something for every wobbly new walker on the list. Available in medium, wide, and extra wide, Stride Rite’s first walker shoes are also 100% machine washable—which we know is your top priority.
MOMObaby
• $9.99
MOMObaby is a top contender for favorite baby shoes brand among moms, and this leather sneaker is one of their best sellers. Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association, this cute sneaker has a leather insole and rubber sole as well as a fan-shaped toe box that resembles the child’s foot, allowing the big and small toe to move freely.
Robeez
• $19.50
Looking for a bootie style first walker shoe? Robeez has got you covered. Another super popular brand among the parenting circuit, Robeez offers soft-soled slip-ons, first kicks for when baby is ready for sneakers, snap booties like this adorable seer-sucker pair, and even water shoes! Whatever you need for baby’s tiny feet, they have it.
Carter's Just One You
• $18.99
The Emily Sneaker is the perfect choice for a child just starting out in the world of walkers who needs a strong, supportive sole beneath their feet. Also, these shoes have an easy to maneuver hook & loop enclosure that makes putting them on and taking them off a breeze. That’s a bonus considering how much toddlers hate sitting still!
Sperry Kids
• $35.95
This shoe just screams “Bye, Mom! I’m off and running!” doesn’t it? For active little legs who have places to go, Sperry’s Spinnaker Crib Jr. shoe offers the ever popular hook & loop velcro closure, a cushy memory foam footbed for ultimate comfort and vulcanized rubber outsole for support and flexibility. Lots to love with this option!
See Kai Run
• $38.39
The Stevie II First Walker Sneaker by See Kai Run comes in 11 bright and fun colors, including this blue tie dye option, which we love. This first walker shoe comes with a rubberized toe, providing extra protection for little ones just starting out on their feet. The Stevie II also has a hook and loop strap and a large toe box which aids in foot development.
montaas
• $19.99
The stretchy fly knitting of the First Walkers Slip-On Sneaker from montaas provides ultimate breathability for baby’s feet. Other features include lightweight rubber soft spikes that help prevent falls for early walkers and a 1/3 bending design in the sole that promotes foot development. Add in the stretchy knit collar that hugs the ankle and keeps these easy-to-slip-on shoes in place, and you can see why this one is on the list.
BMCiTYBM
• $26.99
These Non-Slip First Walkers are said to be “sock-like”—so comfortable is the name of the game here. In addition, this shoe has a pillowy-soft cushion to support baby’s feet as well as rubber soft spikes and sensory pods under the outsoles that help prevent slipping and help baby balance as their toes grip the ground. Also, the fabric is super breathable to keep feet cool and dry.
A version of this article was originally published August 18, 2020. It has been updated.
