The 15 Best Baby Walking Shoes for Their First Steps, Tested by Verywell Family
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Baby shoes should fit snuggly at the heel and have room to wiggle their toes
Verywell Family / Kristin Kempa
Medically reviewed by Tyra Tennyson Francis, MDFact checked by Rich Scherr
While the best thing for a baby learning to walk is to be barefoot, that’s not always the safest option. Because of potential dangers like broken glass, sharp rocks, and unfriendly insects, pediatricians and podiatrists recommend using baby walking shoes when stepping outside most—if not all—of the time. Plus, many daycares and preschools require shoes, so your little one needs to grow accustomed to them for that reason, too.
Though grabbing the cutest pair of shoes you see on the shelves may be tempting, not all baby walking shoes are created equal. Beginning walkers need shoes with plenty of flexibility and toe room for healthy foot development; a sole that’s too rigid can impede that process. Most babies should start out with a soft-soled option and then graduate to a firmer sole (one that’s still very flexible), but our experts recommend checking with your pediatrician if you have questions.
To find the best baby walking shoes to protect those tiny toes and support foot development, we put 21 pairs of top-rated baby shoes to the test, sending them home with our editors to use with their little ones. After making sure the shoes fit the kids properly, we asked them to have the kids wear the shoes daily for two weeks—for a total of 5,280 hours of shoe testing. During this period, we observed the effectiveness of the shoes’ traction, how easily our kids could walk and cruise in them, how flexible or rigid the soles were, and the ease of putting them on and taking them off. We also considered the shoes’ design, looking primarily at function but also at style.
Best Overall: Ten Little First Walker Shoes
Pros
Slide on easily
Soft and flexible
Two Velcro straps
Cons
Toe box scuffs easily
Soft, flexible, and a breeze to slip on, the Ten Little First Walkers earned our top spot, impressing us across the board. One editor’s 18-month-old is excited to put her shoes on every morning, and this is the pair she prefers to grab for daycare and trips to the park. Though the rubber soles technically make this a hard-soled shoe, the soles are super flexible and provide great traction. Plus, the cotton and polyester upper is breathable and comfy.
We appreciate how much the tongues of the shoes expand to slide the baby’s foot in, which is particularly useful if you’re also wrangling a squirmy little one. The double Velcro straps keep the shoes fitting snugly and securely all day, and they also allow you to adjust the fit depending on the thickness of the socks your baby’s wearing. Plus, the shoes are breathable: We didn’t notice sweaty little feet at the end of the day. While we appreciate that the white foot-shaped toe box protects your baby’s tiny digits, it does scuff easily.
Available in heather gray, navy, sage green, rose pink, and ocean blue, there’s a pair to match just about any outfit. And with a price tag of $39, the lightweight and flexible Ten Little First Walkers are one of our more budget-friendly picks.
Price at time of publication: $39
Key Specs:
Size Range: 3 to 6 | Material: Cotton and polyester upper, cotton lining | Sole Type: Hard (rubber) | Care Instructions: Spot clean with mild soap
Best for Wide Feet: Stride Rite Soft Motion Artie Shoe
Pros
Stylish
Comes in multiple widths
Great traction
Cons
Velcro can become loose over time with dirty buildup
If your little one has wider feet or just prefers more room at the toe, the Soft Motion Artie Shoes from Stride Rite are available in three widths: medium, wide, and extra-wide. This allows you to find their best fit so their little feet aren't cramped or uncomfortable as they explore the walking waters. Plus, the spacious toe box gives their toes plenty of space to wiggle around.
Cushiony memory foam insoles with deep grooves are designed to move along with your kiddo's feet, and the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)-certified shoes feel sturdy and stable overall. The flexible rounded soles, in particular, provide top-notch traction, even across wet pavement. The shoes stay on well with three elastic bands and a Velcro strap, though over time, the Velcro does tend to get dirty and lose some of its stick.
The Arties also stand out because of their style. These leather sneakers come in white, navy, tan, gray, and mushroom brown, and we love that the cool kicks pair well with any outfit. As with other Stride Rite shoes, you can use the brand's useful size calculator to find the right size for your kiddo. Though $52 is at the higher end of our picks' price range, you're paying for high-quality, stylish shoes that fit many foot sizes and are approved by the APMA, so you know they're designed for healthy foot development.
Price at time of publication: $52
Key Specs:
Size Range: 3 to 6 | Material: Genuine leather upper, memory foam insole | Sole Type: Hard | Care Instructions: Not listed
Best Sandals: L’Amour Angel Baby Mack Leather Fisherman Sandal
Pros
Available in small sizes
Classic look
Velcro closure
Cons
Runs big
Limited color options
A breathable pair of sandals is a must-have for summer, and who can resist these tiny fisherman sandals? They feature a leather upper and lining and a rubber sole, and the airy construction helps little feet breathe in the warm weather. Plus, a handy Velcro strap allows you to adjust the fit.
We appreciate that the heel has extra padding for comfort and blister prevention. Available in navy and white, the Mack Leather Fisherman Sandals do tend to run big, so we recommend checking the brand’s size chart before ordering. The shoes’ classic look means they’ll pair well with just about any outfit, and the $40 price tag is reasonable for the leather material and versatility.
Price at time of publication: $38
Key Specs:
Size Range: 1 to 7 | Material: Leather upper and lining, rubber sole | Sole Type: Hard (rubber) | Care Instructions: Wipe with a damp cloth
Related: The 16 Best Toddler Shoes of 2023 for Small Feet on the Move, Tested and Reviewed
Best Budget: Joinfree Kids Shoes
Pros
Breathable mesh
Lots of colors and patterns
Machine washable
Cons
Not very structured
Kids tend to outgrow their shoes quickly, and replacements can be expensive, so we recommend the Joinfree Kids Shoes if you’re in the market for a super budget-friendly option (they’re under $20!). These stretchy shoes are made from breathable mesh to reduce odors, and the flexible sole is great for newer walkers. We appreciate the padded liner and the non-slip sole, too.
These walking shoes, which can also double as water shoes, come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, from dinosaurs to unicorns to tie-dye. They have a helpful loop on the heel so little ones can try to pull them on by themselves, and the Velcro closure keeps the shoes on securely. Kids will also love that in some of the patterns, the strap’s pull tab coordinates with the design. (For the mermaid print, the tab is shaped like a mermaid’s tail, for instance.) Plus, they cost under $20, so you replace them when your kiddo outgrows them without spending a fortune.
Price at time of publication: $19
Key Specs:
Size Range: 0-6 months to 2.5-3 years | Material: Mesh upper, non-EVA outsole | Sole Type: Hard (EVA) | Care Instructions: Machine washable
Related: The Best Toddler Sandals for Happy Little Feet
Best Baby Boots: Robeez Rockies Lace-Up Soft Sole Boots
Pros
Flexible suede soles
Roomy sizing
Warm faux shearling lining
Cons
Not waterproof or snowproof
Whether you live in a chillier climate or are gearing up for winter, your little one will need a good pair of warm shoes. We love the Robeez Rockies Lace-Up boots, which feature soft suede soles designed for newer walkers. The spacious sizing provides room to grow, and the soft sole bends as your little one moves their feet, giving them a full range of motion.
The sole comes in two appealing neutral colorways—tan and gray—and the upper is made from soft faux shearling. There’s a handy pull tab on the heel for sliding them on, and the laces on the front can be adjusted so you can find the right fit. The brand recommends using these APMA-approved boots for indoor use and light outdoor use. With room to grow and a developmentally friendly soft sole, these $40 boots are our top pick for cozy winter fun.
Price at time of publication: $40
Key Specs:
Size Range: 0/1 to 4/5 | Material: Suede, faux shearling | Sole Type: Soft | Care Instructions: Spot clean with a mild detergent and damp cloth
Related: The Best Snow Boots for Kids Will Keep Their Feet Warm and Dry This Winter
Best Slippers: UGG Bixbee Ankle Boot
Pros
Machine washable
Cute style
Cozy
Cons
May be too warm for some climates
Babies can lounge in style with the UGG Bixbee Ankle Boots. The upper, made from 100% terry cloth, is fluffy and soft to the touch, and the polyester fleece lining keeps little feet warm. Plus, the silicone tread helps new walkers balance and stay stable. To keep the booties on your baby’s feet, there’s a Velcro closure featuring the brand’s logo.
These adorable boots come in several colors, including bubblegum pink and chestnut, as well as a few different materials: One is more fuzzy, while another is more fluffy. We also like that these booties are machine washable for easy cleaning and that the bottoms have an “L” and an “R” to help distinguish between left and right. Priced at $40, you’re paying for the quality that comes with the UGG brand.
Price at time of publication: $40
Key Specs:
Size Range: 0/1 to 4/5 | Material: Polyester/terry-cloth upper | Sole Type: Soft | Care Instructions: Machine washable
Related: The 20 Best Kids’ Slippers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best With Velcro Strap: New Balance New-B Hook & Loop
Pros
Strap keeps shoe on securely
Adjustable
Grippy sole
Cons
Not the most breathable option
If your little one is newer to wearing shoes, they may try and pull them off during the day, so it’s important to find a pair that fits comfortably and securely. The New Balance 574 New-B Hook & Loop shoes feature a strap with a Velcro closure (in the shape of the brand’s N) that keeps them firmly on your baby’s feet while also allowing you to adjust how tightly they fit. They also have a grippy rubber sole that provides excellent traction—we noticed that our kids stayed stable and didn’t trip or fall with them on—and they’re flexible enough for kiddos to wear to daycare all day without complaining about them, even during naptime.
The New-B sneakers have a roomy toe box so little toes aren’t crumpled, and they’re easy to slide on and off. We appreciate that the shoes are available in three widths—standard, wide, and X-wide—and a range of sizes. They also come in four different colorways, and the synthetic upper is made from 50% or more recycled materials. We do wish that they were a bit more breathable, though (one editor found that her baby’s feet were a little warm and stinky at the end of the day, but she’s noticed that when he wears other shoes, too).
Though you’re paying $55 for the New Balance name, you’re also paying for the brand’s quality. These APMA-approved shoes feel sturdy and nice to the touch, while the Velcro strap adjusts to help little feet slip in and out while keeping them on securely throughout the day.
Price at time of publication: $55
Key Specs:
Size Range: 2 to 9 | Material: Textile and synthetic upper | Sole Type: Hard (rubber) | Care Instructions: Not listed
Best Ankle Support: See Kai Run Dean Adapt Shoes
Pros
Accommodate orthotics if needed
Machine washable
Hightop design
Cons
Size range starts a little big
Only one color option
For kiddos who need extra ankle support, the See Kai Run Dean Adapts have a hightop design to keep their ankles in place. The shoes can also accommodate orthotics, including AFOs (ankle-foot orthotics), SMOs (supra malleolar orthosis), and custom insoles, and if your little one needs more space, the included insoles are removable, which also means they can grow along with your toddler. However, since they are hightops, these are best for kiddos who are consistently walking, since the high ankle may limit their movement as they crawl.
The grip on the soles provides good traction—our editor’s 1-year-old didn’t slip or fall while wearing them—and they slide on and off easily with the large mouth and adjustable straps. (The two Velcro straps are extra long to help when inserting orthotics.) And since kiddos can be rough on their shoes, we appreciate that these are machine washable.
They only come in one colorway—black, white, and blue with lightning bolts on the straps—so they don’t match a ton of outfits, but they’re great for playing at the park or taking family walks. Plus, the mesh upper is quite breathable, and at $38, these See Kai Run sneakers are a bit more budget-friendly than some of our other favorite picks.
Price at time of publication: $38
Key Specs:
Size Range: 4 to 13 | Material: Mesh upper and lining | Sole Type: Hard | Care Instructions: Machine wash cold on gentle cycle with mild detergent, air dry.
Related: The 10 Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2023
Best for Little Runners: Stride Rite Soft Motion Zips Runner Sneaker
Pros
Don’t get dirty easily
Classic design
Breathable memory foam footbed prevents sweaty feet
Cons
Few color options
For your little walker that's ready to take off running, the Stride Rite Soft Motion Zips Runner Sneakers have a cushioned memory foam footbed to support their feet and flexible, slip-resistant soles to help them balance. During our test, we found that they have excellent traction, even in the rain, and they’ve become a staple for one editor’s son’s trips to the playground and daycare. Their family used the Stride Rite size calculator when ordering, and they fit him just right. They also come in two widths: medium and wide.
The sneakers slip right on and can be tightened with the adjustable Velcro strap that’s easy for toddlers to do themselves. Though our editor’s son tends to run hot, his feet don’t sweat in these breathable shoes, which also have a handy odor-reducing mesh lining. Their seamless construction aims to cradle the foot’s natural shape, and we appreciate that the sneakers are APMA-certified and made with recycled materials.
Cleaning a little one’s dirty shoes can be tough, so we’re impressed that these hold up well come rain, snow, mud, or shine. Plus, these shoes are just adorable—they have a little lightning bolt on the sides, faux elastic laces, and come in a few colors: blue, gray, and two shades of pink. Stride Rite is a big name in children’s shoes for their durability and quality, meriting the $50 price tag. Plus, the brand’s handy size guide page includes a printable guide and instructions to measure your baby’s feet to help you find the right fit.
Price at time of publication: $50
Key Specs:
Size Range: 3 to 6 | Material: Leather and textile upper | Sole Type: Hard (rubber) | Care Instructions: Not listed
Best Dressy: Stride Rite Soft Motion Lucianne Mary Jane Shoes
Pros
Adorable look
Two width options
Roomy, round toe box
Cons
Velcro often comes undone
These Mary Janes from Stride Rite are the best of both worlds: They’re super stylish, but they’re also functional to support healthy foot development. The shoes are designed to keep little feet stable and supported with the soft, flexible memory foam footbed, while the sweet perforated accents elevate the look. We love that the cute buckle detail is actually just for show: The shoe is really secured by a strip of Velcro.
One editor’s 16-month-old daughter, who’s a beginner walker, wears these primarily as “party shoes” but sometimes sports them at the playground. The white patent leather is super easy to wipe off, and we appreciate the roomy, round toe box and how easy the shoes are to slide on and off with the wide opening. We did notice that the Velcro tends to come undone more frequently than we’d like, though this could be due to the 16-month-old’s wider feet. Regardless, the straps could benefit from being longer—as they are, the shoes aren’t very adjustable.
The APMA-approved shoes are light and breathable, which is great for warm weather. However, they don’t have much coverage, so they aren’t the best pick for colder months. (We recommend the Robeez Rockies Lace-Ups Soft Sole Boots for cooler temperatures.)
Price at time of publication: $50
Key Specs:
Size Range: 3 to 6 | Material: Patent leather upper | Sole Type: Hard | Care Instructions: Not listed
Best for Stylish Babies: Robeez Aria First Kicks
Pros
Bow detail
Different sole types for different sizes to support development
Flexible and breathable
Cons
Not adjustable
Some wear and tear
The Robeez Aria First Kicks is an adorable pick for your baby’s first pair of walking shoes, but they’re also very practical. The 0-3 month and 3-6 month sizes have a soft suede sole to keep little feet comfortable and stylish, while the larger sizes have a split rubber sole—one pad is on the ball of the foot, while the other’s on the heel—to support more developed foot muscles. We love the sweet bow detail, which garnered lots of compliments for an editor’s 16-month-old. The shoes also come in four colors, including two metallic options.
Since these shoes are slip-ons, they’re not adjustable, so you’ll want to consult the sizing chart closely. We like the cushioned insoles and grippy soles, but we did notice that some of the stitching came undone after a few wears and the sides look a little worn (which could be due to a combination of crawling and walking, though).
On the other hand, the round toe boxes fit nicely, and the stylish shoes are great for lots of occasions, from playdates to family pictures to first-day-of-daycare outfits. For a pair of shoes that is both adorable and APMA-certified for healthy foot development, $40 is a reasonable investment, and we particularly appreciate that Robeez has picked the best type of soles for each walking stage.
Price at time of publication: $40
Key Specs:
Size Range: 1 to 6 | Material: Upper not listed | Sole Type: Soft with non-slip pads (rubber and suede) | Care Instructions: Spot clean with a mild detergent and damp cloth
Related: The 12 Best Places to Buy Mommy and Me Outfits for Adorable Matching Moments
Best for Toddlers: Ten Little Everyday Original
Pros
Handy pull tab on heel
Stylish
Come with fun extras for your kid
Cons
Requires some breaking in
Adjusting takes effort
For toddlers who have already been cruising around for a while, we recommend the Ten Little Everyday Originals. The thick rubber sole makes them better suited for toddlers than babies just starting to walk, mainly because they require a break-in period. After one editor’s 3-year-old broke them in—he enjoyed running, jumping, and walking in the shoes—though it’s worth noting that the soles make a louder walking noise.
The vegan leather upper didn’t cause any sweating or odors, and a handy pull tab on the shoe’s heel helps guide it onto your kid’s foot. The foot-shaped toe box has room for little ones to wiggle their toes without being too big or clunky. While we appreciate the double Velcro straps, they are threaded through metal loops, which prevents the tongue from popping out. You’ll need to pull the straps out of the loops a bit to adjust the fit, which isn’t difficult but may be annoying if you’re running late. Your little one will appreciate the cute animal character on the removable insoles, which looks like it’s jumping from shoe to shoe, helping your kiddo distinguish left from right.
Though our editor opted for the mocha brown color with pops of teal, the shoes come in a variety of colors, including candy pink and metallic silver. They’re available in quite a few sizes, and the brand has a useful fit finder quiz if you’re unsure about which size to buy. At $44, the Ten Little Everyday Originals are reasonably priced for a high-quality pair of shoes your toddler can wear to family outings, events, or even daycare.
Price at time of publication: $44
Key Specs:
Size Range: 4 to 13 | Material: Vegan leather upper, cotton lining | Sole Type: Hard (natural rubber) | Care Instructions: Not listed
Best Sneakers: Nike Flex Runner 2
Pros
Soft, lightweight material
Solid traction
Pull tabs make it easier to put them on
Cons
Hard sole
Not adjustable
These tiny Nike sneakers are built for active little ones. One editor’s toddler can slide them on and off by himself, largely thanks to the stretchy elastic around the heel and above the tongue, though there are two handy pull tabs, too. The slip-ons do sometimes fall off when he climbs a steep hill at the park, but they stay on while he walks, runs, jumps, and climbs up rope ladders. Plus, the solid traction lets him traverse rubber turf, grass, and concrete at the playground.
We also like that the toe box is fairly wide with enough room to wiggle his toes without feeling constrictive and that the toes are reinforced to help toe draggers and reduce scuffing. Though kiddos’ feet might get a little bit warm in these shoes, we found that they still weren’t sweaty or overheated after a full day of wear. (The lightweight mesh fabric helps with breathability.)
The soles on these tiny Nike sneakers are made from a flexible foam with grooves to make walking feel more natural. Additionally, they come in a wide variety of colors, from black to pink to lime green, and they’re available in sizes 2 through 10, so if your little one really likes them, there are sizes to grow with them for several years. If you have an active kiddo, $40 is a reasonable investment in high-quality sneakers that can accompany them from home to the park to daycare. We also appreciate Nike’s size guide so you can make sure the pair you pick will fit and be worth the money.
Price at time of publication: $40
Key Specs:
Size Range: 2 to 10 | Material: Not listed | Sole Type: Hard (foam) | Care Instructions: Not listed
Related: The Best No-Tie Sneakers for Kids Who Want to Race Out the Door
Best Splurge: Bobux i-Walk Grass Court
Pros
Stable on hardwood and tile
Wide, adjustable opening
Classic look available in lots of colors
Cons
Pricier than other options
The Bobux i-Walk Grass Court shoes are adorable and sleek, and they’re a great pick for new walkers. Made from premium leather, they’re padded with a soft cotton knit lining and have perforations on the side for breathability. The shoes also have a flexible sole with anti-slip grooves.
We particularly like that the Grass Courts have adjustable straps to keep the shoes on securely and a tongue to help guide the shoes on and off a wiggly baby’s feet. The Velcro closures stayed put and haven’t frayed at all during the testing period. They’ve held up well as an editor’s beginner walker has worn them around the apartment—he stays upright and stable on hardwood and tile—and to daycare.
The leather shoes come in a wide variety of colors, from classic neutrals to bright hues. Note that they are listed in European sizes, but the brand has a handy size guide with U.S. and U.K. conversions. And if your kiddo gets attached to these shoes, they come in big kid sizes, too. Though $60 is a little steep for a pair of beginner shoes, supporting your little one’s feet during this important developmental stage is crucial. This pair is amply padded and flexible, and it also has a classy, understated look, so they can be worn to preschool or dressed up for dinner out.
Price at time of publication: $71
Key Specs:
Size Range: 3 to 6 | Material: Genuine leather upper, cotton lining | Sole Type: Hard (rubber) | Care Instructions: Polish every two weeks to keep in the best condition, air dry away from direct sunlight
Related: The Best Water Shoes for Toddlers Who Love to Splash Around
Best Machine Washable: Saucony Jazz Lite 2.0 Sneakers
Pros
Breathable mesh upper
Can be tossed in the washing machine
Two width options
Cons
Not the most versatile shoe
Made with a leather and mesh upper, the Saucony Jazz Lite 2.0 Sneakers can be tossed in the washing machine if they get dirty from an exciting day on the playground. They also come in two widths (and run a little wide), so they’re ideal for kids with wider feet. Caregivers will particularly appreciate that the mesh upper is breathable and that the anti-stink lining helps reduce odor; plus, the lining is made from recycled materials.
Grooved soles keep little ones stable as they toddle around, and the shoes are springy enough to give one editor’s kiddo some air when he jumps. Additionally, the toe box is reinforced to protect their feet. We like that there are two options to secure the shoes on little feet—laces and a Velcro strap—and that the shoes have smiley faces inside to help distinguish left from right.
These APMA-certified sneakers are great for trips to the park or stomping around outside, but since they do look like regular athletic sneakers, they don’t pull double duty as dress shoes, like the Bobux i-Walk Grass Courts and the Ten Little Everyday Originals. However, for the convenience of tossing dirty shoes into the washing machine, we think $44 is worth it, especially if your kiddo tends to get messy.
Price at time of publication: $44
Key Specs:
Size Range: 4 to 10 | Material: Leather and mesh upper, recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) lining | Sole Type: Hard (rubber)| Care Instructions: Machine washable
How We Rated Baby Walking Shoes
4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best baby walking shoes we tested. We recommend them without reservation.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These baby walking shoes are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them.
4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great baby walking shoes, but others are better.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These baby walking shoes are just average.
3.4 and below: We don't recommend baby walking shoes with this rating. You won't find any on our list.
Baby Walking Shoes We Also Tested
Ikiki Fox Squeaky Toddler Shoes: Despite the name, these shoes come as small as a size 2, and we love the many cute designs the brand offers, like the fox ones we tested. However, these shoes squeak, which one kid’s daycare teachers and parents found grating. While the brand claims you can turn the squeak off, we weren’t able to. And though they’re easy to get on, the shoes felt unstable and we were not impressed by the mediocre traction and ankle support.
Pediped Flex Force: These shoes are flexible, lightweight, and, due to the mesh lining and upper, super breathable. However, the smaller sizes are designed to best fit toddlers, rather than babies, so we only recommend them for the older set.
How We Tested Baby Walking Shoes
To find the best baby shoes for beginning walkers, we started our research by talking to experts and combing through dozens of top-rated shoes available on the market before narrowing our list down to 21 pairs that met our criteria. We then sent those shoes home with our parenting editors to test with their little ones. Collectively, we spent over 5,280 hours testing these baby walking shoes in our homes. Once we determined that we had the right fit and our babies could move in the shoes comfortably, we had them wear the walking shoes every day for two weeks during their normal activities, whether that was daycare, a trip to the park, or hanging around at home.
Our editors observed the shoes’ traction—kiddos shouldn’t slip or fall because of their shoes—and took note of how easily their little ones could crawl, walk, and run in them. We also assessed the soles, which should be flexible enough that the foot doesn’t feel constrained or cramped, but not so flexible that babies walk on their toes. Plus, with wiggly kids, you want shoes that are easy to put on and take off, whether they just slip on or use Velcro straps. Though the function of baby walking shoes is more important than making a fashion statement, a cute and well-made pair is always a plus, so we noted the shoes’ look and design, too.
We also spoke with several experts to discuss healthy foot development in babies, milestones, how to find a pair of baby walking shoes that fit, and more. We consulted with Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist in private practice in New York; Amanda Stovall, MD, a pediatrician at Springfield Clinic in Peoria, Illinois; Gina Posner, MD, a pediatrician at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California; Daniel Ganjian, MD, a pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California; and Mona Amin, DO, a board-certified pediatrician in private practice in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
What to Look for in Baby Walking Shoes
Fit
A pair of shoes that fit your baby doesn’t simply mean that you are physically able to squeeze their feet into the shoes. When shopping for baby footwear, “fit” takes into account finding the right size and width, making sure there aren’t any gaps that could cause their feet to slide around, and paying attention to areas that might be a bit too snug.
So how do you make sure the (baby walking) shoe fits? One option is to take your baby to a local shoe store, where professionals can measure their feet. If that’s not feasible for your family, you can print out a free child shoe sizing guide online, suggests Dr. Amin. Some brands have their own guides specific to their shoes: For example, Stride Rite has its own printable shoe size guides, and Ten Little has a fit finder quiz.
Once you’ve found a pair that could work, check the fit of a shoe when your baby tries it on. “The heel of the foot should be snug with the back of the shoe, and the toes should have some wiggle room,” Dr. Ganjian tells Verywell Family. And since kids’ feet grow quickly, Dr. Amin recommends measuring them every two to three months or when you see signs of a poor fit, like blisters or repetitive ingrown nails from the shoe’s pressure on the nail bed. Every kid’s feet grow at a different rate, so some may outgrow their shoes faster, notes Dr. Stovall, who advises asking your pediatrician if you have questions about how your kid’s shoes are fitting.
Material and Design
Dr. Stovall recommends that babies first learn to walk barefoot, since “being able to feel the ground beneath them with their feet helps with balance, learning to walk on different surfaces, and improve agility.” However, when you’re out and about with your new walker, you’ll want a pair of shoes. She recommends starting out with soft-soled shoes that have a wide toe box, good grip, and a sturdy heel cup for ankle support. Finding shoes that are made from a breathable material is an important factor too, adds Dr. Amin.
As far as specific materials, it’s best to stay away from anything too rigid on the upper part of the shoe. Instead, opt for something soft and flexible—ideally with a little give or stretch—like soft leather, mesh, suede, or canvas. And sadly, sometimes those adorable shoes you had your eye on aren’t going to be a good fit for your baby: Just like for adults, function is more important than fashion, says Dr. Amin. However, several of our top picks are super cute and practical, like the Robeez Aria First Kicks, which sport a precious bow; the spiffy leather Ten Little Everyday Originals; and, for a dressier option, the Stride Rite Lucianne Mary Janes.
Flexibility
As a newly minted shoe-wearer, your baby is likely more accustomed to walking around barefoot. To help ease them into the process, opt for walking shoes with a flexible sole. Dr. Stovall advises first picking a soft-soled pair—we recommend the Robeez Rockies Lace-Up Soft Sole Boots—which give babies more room to move their feet. Then, as they grow more accustomed to wearing shoes or if they need something sturdier, a hard but flexible sole, like the Ten Little First Walkers, is a smart choice.
To tell if a shoe is flexible enough for your new walker, see if it is able to bend from the toe to the heel—if the answer is yes, it’s considered a flexible sole, which is ideal for those just starting to toddle around, says Dr. Stovall. While many kids will do well with soft soles, some will do better with firmer ones that are still flexible enough for newer walkers, notes Dr. Ganjian, who recommends consulting with your pediatrician if you are unsure or have questions about which type of sole is best for your child.
You want to find shoes with soles that are not only flexible but also provide some grip. A non-slip sole helps prevent falls and wobbling, and it also supports your baby’s overall foot health, says Dr. Posner. A firmer sole adds extra safety if your little one is playing in an area where they need more protection, such as outside, adds Dr. Stovall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do babies need shoes to walk?
All of the pediatricians we spoke to agree that babies do not need shoes to walk; in fact, many of them recommend that babies learn to walk while barefoot. This helps them “fine-tune their foot coordination better,” explains Dr. Ganjian. Plus, walking barefoot in the home can be beneficial from a germ-exposure perspective, adds Dr. Amin.
So what are baby walking shoes for, exactly? Primarily, shoes are most important for preventing babies from stepping on things that could hurt their feet, says Dr. Posner. This especially comes into play if your family is spending time outside or if your little one is going to daycare, where there may be a mandatory shoe policy. And if you’re concerned about slippery surfaces in your home, like tiles or marble, and it’s too cold for them to go barefoot, Dr. Ganjian suggests using non-skid socks to give them a bit of traction.
How do I know my baby’s shoes fit?
For a proper fit, you want your kid to have some wiggle room for their toes, and their heel should be snug with the back of the shoe, says Dr. Ganjian.
To test the fit of a shoe, have your little one stand (if they can) and press down on the front of the shoe. If they fit correctly, you should be able to fit your fingertip between the front of the shoe and your kiddo’s toes.
If your little one stumbles—beyond the usual teetering of a beginner walker—or otherwise moves unnaturally when walking in the shoes, those are other signs that the shoes aren’t the best fit. Blisters or recurring ingrown nails can also signify that it’s time to size up, says Dr. Amin.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Phoebe Sklansky is Verywell Family’s Associate Commerce Editor. As a commerce writer and avid shopper herself, she enjoys helping readers find the best products for their unique needs. She’s researched hundreds of baby products and has tested dozens in our lab, from strollers to baby swings to diaper bags. For this story, Verywell Family discussed healthy foot development, walking milestones, and what to look for in a high-quality baby shoe with Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, a podiatrist in private practice in New York; Amanda Stovall, MD, a pediatrician at Springfield Clinic in Peoria, Illinois; Gina Posner, MD, a pediatrician at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California; Daniel Ganjian, MD, a pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California; and Mona Amin, DO, a board-certified pediatrician in private practice in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
