Best Shoes for Baby to Learn to Walk in: Tips and Recommendations
Babies are precious and delicate beings who require special attention and care, especially when it comes to their feet. Babies are new walkers, thus it is essential to provide them with the right shoes that offer support and protection to their little feet. I know how having a lot of options can make it harder for you to find the best shoes for your little one.
Research has shown that walking on bare feet is the best way for babies to learn to walk. However, this is not always practical or safe, especially when walking outside or on rough surfaces for these tiny feet. That’s why it’s essential to find shoes that mimic the feeling of barefoot walking while still providing adequate protection and support to your baby’s feet.
Let us talk about the best walking shoes for babies to learn to walk in. We will look at the features that make these shoes ideal for little ones, including flexibility, support, and comfort. Whether an experienced or new parent, we will help you with essential insights to find the best baby walking shoes for your baby’s first steps.
When to Buy Shoes for Your Baby
As parents, we naturally want to give our children the best In everything, but it is also important to note that we do not get excited to give them things until they need them. Babies for example will not need shoes until they start walking outside. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), babies can learn to walk without shoes which gives them optimal healthy foot development.
However, once your baby starts taking their first steps and walking outside, it’s time to start thinking about getting baby’s first pair of shoes. The AAP says it is the best thing to do to wait until your baby has been walking for a couple of weeks before buying shoes, as this will give you a chance to observe their walking pattern and ensure that the shoes fit properly.
When buying shoes for your baby, it’s important to choose shoes that are comfortable, provide good support, and right fit. Look for shoes with a bit of room at the toes, heel, and sides, as well as shoes with a higher fit at the ankles to prevent your little one from taking them off. Non-skid or skid-resistant soles are also important to help prevent slips and falls.
It’s also important to remember that babies’ feet grow quickly, so you’ll need to check the fit of their shoes regularly. The AAP recommends checking the fit of your baby’s shoes once a month, and replacing them as soon as they become too small or worn out.
What to Look for in Baby Walking Shoes
Choosing the right shoes for your baby’s first steps is important for their safety and comfort. Let me recommend some things to consider when looking for baby walking shoes:
- Flexibility: Look lightweight and flexible shoe, allowing your baby’s feet to move naturally. Flexible, soft soles are ideal.
- Support: While flexibility is important, your baby’s shoes should still provide some support. Look for shoes with a firm yet flexible heel cup to help stabilize your child’s feet.
- Size: Perfect fit is crucial for your baby’s comfort and safety. Make sure the shoes fit well and aren’t too tight or too loose. It’s a good idea to measure your child’s foot regularly to ensure you’re buying the right size.
- Non-slip soles: Look for shoes with non-slip soles to help prevent slips and falls as your baby learns to walk.
- Breathability: Your baby’s feet can get sweaty, so it’s important to choose shoes made of breathable materials like soft leather or mesh to keep their feet cool and dry.
- Effortless to put on baby’s feet: Babies can be wiggly and difficult to dress, so look for shoes that are easy to put on and take off. Velcro or slip-on styles are often the most convenient.
Keep in mind that your baby’s walking shoes should be comfortable and practical, not just stylish. With these factors in mind, you can choose the best shoes to support your little one as they take their first steps.
Top Features to Consider
When it comes to choosing the best shoes for your baby to learn to walk in, there are several key features you should consider. Keep some of the top features in mind:
- Flexibility: Look for shoes that are flexible and allow for natural foot movement. This will help your baby develop their balance and coordination as they learn to walk.
- Comfort: Shoes should be made of soft, breathable materials like leather or mesh to keep your baby’s feet cool and comfortable. Avoid shoes with rough or scratchy inner linings that could irritate your baby’s delicate skin.
- Support: While you want shoes that are flexible, they should also provide some support to your baby’s feet. Look for shoes with a firm sole and a supportive heel cup to help your baby maintain their balance.
- Traction: Shoes should have a non-slip sole to prevent your baby from slipping and falling. Find shoes with a rubber sole that provides good traction on a variety of surfaces.
- Fit: Make sure the shoes fit your baby properly. Shoes that are too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort, while shoes that are too loose can slip off or cause your baby to trip.
- Easy to Put On Baby’s Feet: Look for shoes that are easy to put on and take off. Velcro strap or slip-on styles are a good option, as they allow you to quickly adjust the fit as your baby’s feet grow.
By considering these features, you should be able to find the best shoes to support your baby as they take their first steps and learn to walk.
Best Shoes for Baby to Learn to Walk In
Choosing the right shoes for your baby’s first steps is important. The shoes should be comfortable, supportive, and have a non-slip sole to prevent slips and falls. Read below some of the best shoes for babies learning to walk:
- Stride Rite Soft Motion Jazzy Sneaker: These shoes have a flexible sole that allows for natural movement and a rounded toe box for added comfort. The adjustable hook-and-loop closure ensures a secure fit.
- Robeez Ro + Me Alex Athletic Sneakers: These shoes have a soft sole that mimics barefoot walking, allowing your baby to feel the ground beneath them. The flexible design allows for natural movement and the adjustable hook-and-loop closure ensures a secure fit.
- Keds Little Kid’s Graham Sneaker: These shoes have a durable rubber sole for added traction and a cushioned footbed for comfort. The adjustable lace-up closure ensures a secure fit.
It’s important to note that babies don’t actually need shoes until they are walking outside or on rough surfaces. When your baby is inside, it’s best to let them go barefoot or wear socks with non-slip soles to help them develop their balance and coordination.
When shopping for toddler shoes, make sure to measure your baby’s feet and choose shoes that fit properly. Shoe that is too tight or loose can affect balance and cause discomfort. It’s also a good idea to choose great shoes that are easy to put on and take off, as well as easy to clean.
Be mindful that every baby is different from uttering their first word to when they start to walk, and what works for one may not work for another. It’s important to choose one that fit your baby’s individual needs and preferences. With the right shoes, your baby will be well on their way to taking those first steps!
Conclusion
Choosing the right shoes for your baby’s first steps is important to ensure their comfort and safety. While soft sole shoes are recommended for babies who are just starting to walk, they may not be suitable for all situations. It’s important to consider the type of surface your baby will be walking on and the level of support their feet need.
Some of the best baby shoes for early walkers include the See Kai Run Stevie II First Walkers, Robeez First Kicks Shoes & Sneakers, and Stride Rite Soft Motion Adrian Sneakers. This footwear is designed to provide the necessary support and flexibility for your baby’s developing feet.
Remember that every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. It’s important to pay attention to your baby’s cues and choose shoes that are comfortable and fit well. And don’t forget to let your baby go barefoot whenever possible, as it allows their toes to grip the ground for balance and steady movement.
Amanda Schmitt
