How To Pick Baby’s First Footwear

Baby shoes can be a challenge to navigate; here are some quick tips from Katie, our Chiropodist, to help you find the right fit.

Newborns – no need for shoes – but if you must, make sure they are breathable, long enough for baby’s feet and pass the crinkle test – they should be flexible enough to be crinkled up in your hands.

Crawlers – on safe surfaces, barefoot is best to provide feedback as baby explores, if they need shoes for protection, stick with highly flexible shoes, a wide toe box to let those toes wiggle, and adjustable strapping / or stretch elastic to help secure them.

Cruisers / Early Walkers – like crawlers – flexible, wide and secure. Fit is the most important thing – make sure there is room to grow, and room to wiggle toes. Barefoot is still great on safe surfaces.

Toddlers – some flexibility, wide and secure – soft soled shoes are fine if the child is sturdy and they feel comfortable, if there is difficulty with walking, stability, or quick fatigue, stiffer soled shoes can help sturdy them and aid propulsion (and confidence!).

Overall, fit and fastening are paramount. If the insole of the shoe can come out, remove it and hold it up to your child’s foot. Make sure the width is appropriate, and there is about a finger’s width of space past the toes for growth. Check them regularly, and don’t delay moving up a size when needed. Adjustable strapping like Velcro is best for a secure fit. For further tips, book an appointment with Katie our Chiropodist – she loves baby feet

Katheryn Blundell
Registered Chiropodist, Urban Health Group