The Best Shoes for Babies Learning to Walk, Tested by Parents

Oct 14, 2024

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We tested the cutest (and most functional) shoes on our own new walkers.

In This Article

Parents

Once your child starts learning how to walk, it’s time to start investing in some shoes for them. While shoes actually aren’t necessary all the time (you want your little one to use the ground for natural and healthy foot development), they are an essential way to protect tiny feet from rough surfaces and all of the outdoor elements. The best baby and toddler shoes will help promote natural development, feel comfortable, and, of course, look absolutely adorable. Since there are so many options to consider, we tested out most of the shoes below at home with our own kids to see exactly how well they stood up to regular wear and how much our kids seemed to enjoy wearing them.

You’ll need to put some thought into shopping for your baby’s first shoes because you really want them to fit correctly so they can learn those motor skills without falls or blisters. Flexible, soft soles are recommended for little ones, but you also want them to be able to withstand all of their inevitable rough-and-tumble play. Since getting shoes on small feet isn’t easy, you want low-maintenance options that can be put on in a flash (a.k.a. shoes with no laces to tie). Functional features like water-resistant materials, the ability to throw them in the washing machine, and removable inserts are also great.

Baby and toddler shoes can actually cost more than you think, unfortunately, especially considering that little feet grow so quickly and shoes will need to be replaced often. A typical price range is about $30 to $40, with some costing between $50 and $60. We tested and researched shoes for fit, durability, comfort, and function to find the best kicks for your new walkers.

Why We Like It: The double velcro straps make these a breeze to put on and also allow for easy adjustability.

But Take Note: They can only be spot-cleaned.

For babies who are just learning how to walk, these Ten Little sneakers are easy to use and nice to look at. Super lightweight and flexible, these offer just enough support without ever feeling too stiff or rigid. The foot-shaped toe box and flat soles promote natural development and won’t get in the way of their ability to learn how to move around. One of our favorite things about them is the double Velcro straps. “These shoes are a dream to slide on a wiggly toddler’s foot,” our tester raved. The straps also make it easy to pull these open wide, allowing for adjustability depending on how thick your baby’s socks are.

Made of 100% cotton, these are breathable and surprisingly light, and we never noticed any sweaty feet after wear. They offer some nice traction and didn’t lead to any unnecessary slipping during testing. We also appreciate the gender-neutral shades they come in and how simple the design is, so they can be worn with pretty much anything. While the 18-month-old testing them couldn’t verbalize how much she liked them, her parent did note that these were the shoes she reached to wear every single morning. The only downside? They can only be spot-cleaned, so washing them isn’t as easy as some other options.

The Details:

Why We Like It: These are really breathable and look good as new even after being worn every day.

But Take Note: They are on the pricier side and can only be spot-cleaned.

For active toddlers, a classic sneaker like this pair is a solid choice for everyday shoes. These Stride Rite sneakers come in pretty basic colors and have a cute and sporty design that makes them work with pretty much anything. They have flexible and slip-resistant soles that promote natural development and balance, as well as a memory foam footbed that makes them extra comfortable. They are also made with “anti-stink” mesh linings, which help reduce odor and keep feet cool. Our tester noted that they never noticed any smell or sweat, even though their toddler tends to run hot.

We found these very easy to put on and adjust thanks to the single Velcro strap, which holds in place and makes these shoes feel more flexible. While they can only be spot cleaned, our tester did note that even after being worn outside nearly every single day, they still looked almost as good as new, so they are definitely a durable option. They’re also on the pricier side, but due to their comfort, style, and overall functionality, they’re worth the extra money.

The Details:

Why We Like It: These sneakers are easy to clean, simple to get on and off, and have a removable insole that allows them to grow with your child.

But Take Note: They’re more expensive than some might want.

Made with vegan materials and mesh lining, these are designed for kids who are always on the move. They are super lightweight and flexible, but they offer enough traction to ensure your little one won’t slip (even when they’re running around like crazy). One unique thing about the Flex line from Pedipeds is that they come with two sizes of insoles: one set you insert for a snug fit (they can reduce the shoe size by almost half a size), and a second pair to switch in when your child’s foot grows. That means you’ll likely get even more wear and use out of them. They have a rubber toe box that makes them feel more durable and protects a little one’s foot more.

We tested these on a 3-year-old experienced walker and were thoroughly impressed with their quality after daily wear and tear. There was no tripping or slipping, and the single Velcro strap made it easy to get the shoes on and off. The strap allows you to really pull the shoe open wide to get your kid’s foot in there faster. We also love how breathable they are. “It’s like the company designed the shoes with kids in mind, not style (even though they are super cute and colorful),” our tester parent said. There was no sweating or overheating involved. And speaking of how cute they are: The design is fun and vibrant, with several different color options and cute details. The downside here is the price, but they are often on sale.

The Details:

Why We Like It: These are extremely lightweight and flexible, making them a comfy option.

But Take Note: They don’t come in half-sizes and don’t exactly discourage toe-walking if your little one already does that.

Made with a mesh and synthetic upper, these sneakers are incredibly light, soft, and bendable. We tested them on a 4-year-old who said they felt like slippers, which is pretty impressive for a pair of sneakers. The wide Velcro strap makes them easy to pull open so that it’s simple and fast to get their foot in and out. We like the square-shaped toe-cap, which offers ample space for toes (especially for wide feet). We felt these had great traction as well.

These are also really breathable (in fact, our tester noted they were a little chilly in colder weather) thanks to that mesh upper. They also have a removable sock liner to keep feet fresh, and they’re machine washable for super easy cleaning. They’re available in several different colorways and have a classic, sporty look to them that makes them very versatile. While we wish they had half sizes (which makes us particularly nervous about ordering them online), we found the fit was pretty perfect overall. One note: The toddler testing these tends to walk on her toes, and we found that these shoes were so lightweight that they made it much easier for her to do that.

The Details:

Why We Like It: These sneakers offer excellent stability and comfort and come in wide and extra wide sizes.

But Take Note: We found that, over time, the Velcro straps get dirty and don’t stick closed as well.

Thanks to their memory foam insoles, these Stride Rite sneakers seem incredibly comfortable. While the 2-year-old testing them couldn’t exactly express how much they loved them, these were the sneakers that he requested to wear several times a week. We appreciate that they are available in regular, wide, and extra-wide sizes, since many toddlers have chunkier feet that require extra room. Our tester parent felt there was plenty of space in the toe bed for her son and found that these offered a great fit. They offer great traction and feel very stable.

WIth just one Velcro strap, these are very easy to get on and off. Three elastic bands help keep the shoes secure and snug enough, but you only have to worry about doing one strap, which is convenient. However, our tester did note that after a few months of use, the Velcro strap started getting dirty and as dirt built up, the strap didn’t stay stuck closed as well. If these are being worn often, that could be a concern. Overall, though, we loved the comfort and stability, as well as the stylish look these shoes have.

The Details:

Why We Like It: These are easy to clean and great for walking on the beach or by the pool, with a lot of breathability.

But Take Note: They are on the clunkier side, so they wouldn’t be ideal for wear during sporty activities, and sizing can be confusing to figure out.

Whether your kids are always outside or you plan on spending a lot of time at the beach, these Crocs are a must-have for little ones. Since these are clogs, they couldn’t be easier to slip on and off. You can opt to place the strap up for a slide, or keep the strap down around the ankle for extra stability if needed. One of the best things about these Crocs is how well they stand up to elements like water and sand. It’s no big deal if they get wet, so they’re perfect for the beach, pool, or just spending a lot of time outside. Our tester had their 3-year-old wear these on a beach vacation and they were pleasantly surprised at how well the shoes handled in the sand. Their naturally wide fit makes it easier for toddlers to get around at the beach.

Thanks to the holes throughout, Crocs are extremely breathable, especially when worn without socks. They couldn’t be easier to clean: Just wipe them down, or throw them in a delicate cycle in the washing machine. They’re also very supportive. We tested these on a child who is a bit pigeon-toed, and our testers found that they were super stable, noting the child didn’t fall once while wearing them. However, since they’re on the clunkier side, they aren’t ideal for sports or similar activities. Some reviewers have also noted that it can be confusing to figure out the sizing. It’s also worth noting that while Crocs are customizable (you can add fun charms to the holes), the charms can be a bit pricey.

The Details:

Why We Like It: The stretchy elastic feel on these shoes makes them easy to put on and take off, even for a toddler doing it themselves.

But Take Note: They are not adjustable at all.

Slip-on shoes can be a convenient option, since you don’t have to worry about any straps or laces. However, some can be really difficult to get on and off. That’s not the case with these Nike sneakers. Thanks to the elastic around the heel and above the tongue, we found that these were very simple to put on and take off. In fact, that the 3-year-old testing them out was able to do all on his own. “They’re the easiest shoes for him to put on and take off by himself,” his parent noted. Our tester also found that these stayed on well even when their toddler was running around and being super active. They only started to slip off a bit when he was climbing uphill.

Another advantage of these shoes is how lightweight and breathable they are. Mesh fabric along the upper allows a lot of air to circulate, and our tester never noticed any funky smells coming from them. The leather on the sides gives them a stable and supportive feel, and the bootie-like design doesn’t seem restricting at all. They come in a wide range of colors and are extremely cute, which is another plus. As with any slip-on shoe, these are not adjustable at all, and if your little one has wider feet, they may be difficult to use.

The Details:

Why We Like It: The removable sock insole allows for an adjustable wider fit if needed.

But Take Note: We wish they had more color options.

It’s not uncommon for babies and toddlers to have wider feet, and if your little one does, then you know that it can be a struggle to find shoes that fit them. My 18-month-old has pretty wide feet, and I often have to return shoes I’ve bought because I can’t comfortably and easily get them on her feet. I personally love these Stride Rite sneakers, which fit her better than any other shoe she has and are actually incredibly easy to get on. They have a removable sock insole that allows for a wider fit, making these adjustable (and even if your little one doesn’t have very wide feet, this is a great feature for thicker socks). The hook-and-loop strap is easy to use and stays closed well, and the tongue and strap opens very wide to make it super easy to get a wide foot in and out.

These are very lightweight and flexible, so they work well for babies just learning how to walk. They have an anti-stink liner and seem really comfortable on my little one. They do get dirty pretty quickly, but since they’re machine washable, they’re easy to clean. One thing to note is that they really only come in white, pink, black, and brown, and we wish they had more color choices.

The Details:

Why We Like It: Oversized handles on the sides make these pretty easy to put on and take off.

But Take Note: Some reviewers note that they seem to run small, making the sizing a little confusing.

Rain boots are a necessity for toddlers, especially those who love jumping in puddles after a storm, but they’re also kind of annoying. They’re generally difficult to get on and off, especially with a very wiggly little one. These Crocs stand out thanks to the oversized handles on either side of the leg. Those handles allow you to get a really good grip on the boots, whether you’re pulling them on or off, and make them feel a bit more stable. We also love the reflective heels, the bright colors, and the fact that they’re waterproof.

These are super easy to clean and don’t stay very dirty, since they’re waterproof, and they’re also surprisingly lightweight. However, the sizing may be confusing: While Crocs recommends sizing down, some parents felt they ran small and recommended sizing up.

The Details:

Why We Like It: Faux shearling keeps them cozy, while extra grip helps them walk in snow, sleet, or rain.

But Take Note: The faux shearling is only around the ankles.

For cold winter weather, you really want boots that offer great traction and also keep feet warm, dry, and comfortable. Though we have not yet been able to test these boots at home, we’re longtime fans of Merrell’s for kids and grown-ups. These toddler shoes have a soft and cozy shearling-like material around the ankle, with a tough leather upper to protect from the elements. The memory foam footbed should offer a cushy feel, and the anti-stink lining should help reduce odors when kids get sweaty after playing in the snow or going into heated spaces.

The boots have extra flex grooves on the outsole that give them a lot of traction and make them grip really well, which parents want for slippery conditions. The fixed laces are cute and adjustable, while the Velcro straps let you open the boots wide to get feet in and out. Some parents have noted they wish the faux shearling lined the whole foot, not just the ankle, but since that would probably affect the fit, they’re better off without it.

The Details:

Why We Like It: Rubber outsoles make these really stable and with great traction, and the wide hook-and-loop strap keeps them snug.

But Take Note: They’re on the more expensive side and don’t come in that many colorways.

Sporty and cute, these New Balance sneakers are a versatile option that offers a lot of comfort and stability. We tested these with a 2-year-old, who wore them nearly every day, and found that they stood up to all of their activities. Our testing parent’s favorite feature was the hook-and-loop closure: one wide strap that makes them so easy to put on and take off. That strap also allows for a very adjustable fit, so that they never feel too tight but stay snugly in place. It’s also not so easy that toddlers will be taking them off on their own in random places.

The rubber outsole gives these sneakers great traction, and our testers didn’t notice any tripping or falling when these shoes were on. Despite being worn every day, they looked and felt great, and the toddler wearing them seemed to like them. We do wish that they came in more colorways, and it’s worth noting that they are on the more expensive side. That said, our tester felt they were worth it, saying, “The quality is definitely noticeable.”

The Details:

Why We Like It: These are stylish enough to wear to events and functional enough to play in.

But Take Note: The heavy soles of these shoes mean they have a break-in period, and the Velcro straps can be a little frustrating to use sometimes.

Athletic sneakers are great for running around at the park, but sometimes you want your little ones to wear something more stylish. These Ten Little shoes have a chic look to them that makes them perfect for dressy events, like family outings and parties. They’re still kid-friendly, though: The toddler wearing these was able to run around and play like normal (although our tester felt they were a little too nice-looking to be worn to the park). We love the trendy look of the vegan leather and the pop of color against the Velcro, which makes these stand out. Even cuter? The insides have the print of a leopard in them that kids will love as it helps teach them left and right. The box also comes with stickers that kids or grownups can use to customize the shoes.

These shoes are also comfortable too, with two hook-and-loop straps that make them adjustable and pretty easy to put on and take off. Our tester did note that the straps loop into the shoe, which can make it hard for the tongue to pop out completely. And if a strap comes out of the loop, you have to rethread it, which can be hard with a wiggly toddler or baby. Another thing to keep in mind is that the soles of these are very durable and sturdy, almost to the point of being clunky and hard. Our tester found there was a break-in period with their toddler where he tripped a few times over the soles when first wearing them.

The Details:

Why We Like It: Versatile, functional, easy to put on and take off, and easy to clean, these stand up to wear and tear.

But Take Note: These are on the expensive side, and we wish they came in more colors.

If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that work at daycare, outside, and special occasion events, these are a good option. These Pediped sneakers have a stylish look to them but are still comfortable and sturdy enough to be worn when running around and playing. The double Velcro straps have room for adjustments (especially since you can make one strap tighter or looser). Our tester said that their toddler was able to take them on and off himself. “I think he liked them so much because of how comfortable they were to wear,” his parent added.

We found these to be extremely breathable—the toddler testing them wore them both in the winter and in the Florida heat, and there was no noticeable stinkiness or sweatiness in either setting. The sole is flexible and there’s great traction, and they looked good as new even after being worn regularly. They’re also super easy to clean, either by wiping them off or sticking them in the machine. We do wish they came in more colorways, but overall, we felt that even for the higher price point, these were worth it. Our tester said they would “buy them again, even at that price.”

The Details:

Parents

Why We Like It: These gorgeous shoes are flexible and soft, making them comfortable and easy to use for babies just learning to stand and walk.

But Take Note: These definitely show signs of wear and tear, and since they aren’t adjustable, you may need to replace them fairly quickly.

These shoes aren’t just pretty. For babies who are just learning to stand or walk, these Robeez First Kicks can be a great, comfortable option. They are super flexible and soft, with a sole that flexes and bends with movement to help promote natural foot development. The 0-3 months and 3-6 months sizes have soles made of soft suede, so they aren’t restrictive at all. Larger sizes have a split rubber sole that grips the floor and offers more traction for early walkers starting to move around.

These shoes slip on and off, which can be a pro and a con. Since there are no straps, they can be easy to get on (as long as you select the correct size). That also means that they are not adjustable, so as soon as your child’s foot starts to grow, they will need to be replaced. They are super breathable, and we like that they look nice enough for special occasions but feel functional enough for playtime. However, it’s worth noting that our tester pointed out that these showed a lot of wear and tear her 16-month-old wore them for a month, saying that the lacing started to come undone and the sides looked worn.

The Details:

Why We Like It: The hook and loop strap makes these easy to adjust as needed and they are designed to accommodate orthotics.

But Take Note: These were a bit bulky, especially around the ankle, and might be difficult for crawlers to wear.

The standout feature of these See Kai Run shoes is the extra-long hook and loop straps, ideal for fitting orthotics and other custom insoles. Being able to tighten or loosen the straps individually or together makes these super easy to adjust, and to put on and take off. (If you don't need them that long, you can also trim the straps.) Our tester also noted that the tongue opens very wide, offering a lot of room and space.

These sneakers come up higher on the ankle than many other options. While that can be great for kids who need more support around the ankle, our tester found that it made the shoes feel a bit bulky. The toddler testing them was just learning to walk and was still crawling a bit, and these shoes seemed to be too bulky for crawling. However, our tester did note that they had a good grip and otherwise seemed comfortable. They’re also machine-washable!

The Details:

Why We Like It: These are super lightweight and breathable, leading to minimal stink.

But Take Note: They didn’t feel very durable, and some of the stitching was loose upon arrival.

Made of a leather and mesh upper, these Saucony sneakers offer plenty of opportunity for air to circulate to your little one’s feet. This makes them very breathable and easy to wear, and our tester, who had a 2-year-old toddler wearing them on a regular basis, noticed “minimal stink.” Even though they’re so lightweight, they still feel pretty sturdy and offer a good grip. Our tester didn’t notice any excessive tripping or falling when these were worn.

These shoes are also really easy to adjust thanks to the Velcro strap. While they do have laces, they are more for show than anything else. Our tester noted that the laces were difficult to adjust the first time, but then after that they really didn’t touch them and only used the Velcro strap. We also feel that they are a great option for wider feet since even the medium width seems wide. That said, these didn’t seem super durable, especially for the price. “They don’t feel like they’d hold up for very long,” our tester said, noting that some of the stitching had already come loose when they arrived.

The Details:

Why We Like It: The traction offers excellent grip for running, jumping, and playing.

But Take Note: It feels a bit heavy and not as flexible as other athletic shoes, and the suede is difficult to keep clean.

With a vintage vibe, these Puma sneakers are stylish and have a cool aesthetic. The non-marking rubber outsole gives these really great traction and makes them ideal for active little ones. Our tester also noted that the tongue opens really wide, so there’s a lot of space and room to get a wiggly foot in and out.

That said, our tester noted that the sole feels very heavy and a little clunky, and the shoes are not as flexible as some other athletic pairs they have tried. We loved the overall look of these, but our tester also pointed out that they do show wear and tear pretty quickly. “There are already a few scuffs on the suede just from climbing in and out of the car and car seat,” our tester said.

The Details:

Why We Like It: Rugged and easy to clean, these are great for outdoor use, and they come with a 30-day free trial.

But Take Note: These are very sporty looking, so they might not be as versatile.

These Keen sandals are ideal for kids who are constantly on-the-go outside. Durable and rugged, they are water-resistant and protective, with a tough material that keeps feet enclosed but also offers breathability. They are strong for being as lightweight as they are, and they have an EVA insole that offers great arch support. The quick-dry lining means that they won’t be uncomfortable or rub feet raw after they’re wet. They are also machine washable, so they’re easy to take care of.

Parents call these classics the perfect outdoor shoe and love how easy they are to put on and off. They have a hook-and-loop closure and open fairly wide, and many say they’re great for wide feet too. They have natural odor control and won’t keep feet too sweaty. That said, these are clearly a sporty sandal, so they may not be as versatile of a pick as some other options.

The Details:

Why We Like It: Made of water-resistant materials with a textured insole, these have the traction kids need for safe play when they’re wet.

But Take Note: We wish they came in more colorways.

These Ten Little shoes are our top pick for sandals because of their thoughtful construction. It makes sense to have sandals that can stand up to getting wet, but you’d be surprised by how many just can’t. These sandals, however, are made of a water-resistant material and are pretty easy to wipe clean. One of our favorite features is the textured insoles, which are meant to be much less slippery if you’re putting them onto already wet feet after the beach or the pool. They keep feet in place on the inside and offer great traction on the outside when little ones are running around. These are also quick-dry, so they won’t be sloshing around or getting blisters after their watery adventures.

While we didn’t test these out at home, we can also say that with all of the cutouts, they seem super breathable, which is ideal for hot weather. They have a Velcro strap that makes them easy to put on and take off, and these are super flexible for comfort. While negative reviews are scarce, we do wish these came in even more colors.

The Details:

To find the best baby and toddler shoes out there, we had real parents test these shoes out with their little ones of various ages. We also received insight from Diana Levin Valencia, D.P.M., a podiatrist in private practice in New York, to get an idea of exactly what to look for in supportive and comfortable shoes.

During testing, parents had their kids wear the shoes every day for at least two weeks. Parents checked the fit on their feet when their toddlers were standing up and ensured that they could fit the tip of their finger between the child’s toe and the front of the shoe. We had parents observe their children wearing the shoes as they did everything kids do best: run everywhere, jump up and down, and walk all over the place. Parents noted if their children were able to easily walk and run in the shoes, how well the traction seemed to work by watching for slips and falls, how rigid or flexible the soles were, and how easy the shoes were to put on and take off. Parents took note on the fit, adjustability, stability, breathability, design, and overall value of the shoes, noting what they liked and didn’t like about them. And although we didn’t get to test every shoe on this list, we did test most of them and got insight from real parents when possible.

When shopping for baby and toddler shoes, you want to keep their comfort in mind, but you also want something that is going to help them learn how to walk and run properly. “Shoes should be lightweight and flexible to support natural foot movement with a stable base of support,” says Shannon Godsil, M.D., a pediatrician at Children’s Physicians in Omaha, Nebraska. While these are the most important factors to note, you’ll also want to think about the overall design, like how the shoes look aesthetically and how convenient they are to put on and take off. Also, note that some shoes have an APMA seal, which refers to approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association. “It’s not pay for play,” Dr. Valencia says. “It means the podiatrists in the APMA recommend that shoe. It does mean something. Pick ones with the seal.”

A Good Fit: The most important step in finding a pair of shoes? Making sure they fit properly. “Correctly fitted shoes provide children with the grip and stability they need to help further develop their walking shoes,” Dr. Godsil says.

Sole Flexibility and Traction: You might hear conflicting advice on the flexibility and rigidity of shoes for babies and toddlers. As Dr. Khoury points out, it was once common for experts to recommend rigid shoes with inflexible soles, but he recommends the opposite. “Soft and minimally supportive is best,” he says. “The foot was designed to work best barefoot. The only purpose of shoes is to protect the foot from injury or from the weather. The shoe you select should not interfere with the foot’s natural abilities. It should have a soft upper, stay below the ankle, thinner sole, and be easy to twist and bend in the middle.”

In terms of traction, you want something that isn’t slippery. Look for non-skid or skid-resistant options. “Shoes should have rubber soles for traction to prevent slipping or sliding,” says Dr. Godsil. However, Dr. Khoury doesn’t advise getting anything too sticky, saying parents should avoid “gummy rubber soles,” because toddlers are already unstable and any shoe that “sticks” to the ground might make them more likely to trip and fall.

Support: You want your toddler’s shoes to be supportive, but Dr. Khoury advises against getting shoes that are too rigid. “My professional opinion is that rigid, inflexible shoes prevent the foot from doing what it is designed to do during walking, which is to feel the stability of the ground and pivot through the heel and middle of the foot to accommodate for irregularities in the walking surface,” he says. “When the foot is locked into rigid footwear, it cannot do this. I recommend shoes that are minimally supportive and soft for both toddlers and young children,” he says. “The shoes should not contain the ankle or be difficult to bend or twist along the middle.”

Shoes that are too rigid not only make it harder for them to learn how to walk, but can also affect their feet. “Stiff and compressive footwear may cause deformity, weakness, and loss of mobility,” warns Dr. Godsil.

Materials: Pay attention to the materials used for baby and toddler shoes. While you want something that looks nice, you also want something that is practical and functional. Breathable materials that feel lightweight are ideal for keeping their feet at the right temperature and not too warm. “Shoes should be made of leather or mesh to allow your baby’s feet to breathe correctly,” Dr. Godsil says. Since little ones have a penchant for running through any muddy puddle they see, you’ll also want a material that is easy to wipe clean or can be thrown in the washing machine when necessary. Something waterproof or water-resistant is also ideal. Dr. Valencia recommends memory foam as well. “The lightweight material gently cushions the foot to encourage frequent, natural movements without throwing off your child’s coordination,” she says.

Durability: Little kids are rough on their shoes. You really want to opt for something that will stand up against all sorts of running around outside in various conditions. Look for shoes that feel strong and are made of materials that won’t easily fall apart, rip, or break down.

Design: Choose a shoe that aesthetically matches your child’s style and how they play. You may get more for your money with something casual and easy to run around in than a fancy shoe. And if you get something that is easy to put on and take off, you’ll thank yourself later. Babies and toddlers are notorious for trying to squirm away as you put their shoes on, so don’t bother with tiny laces or things like that. Look for easy, slip-on designs. “There’s no need to struggle with finicky elements that simply get in the way and constrict their ability to move,” Dr. Valencia says. “Openings should be wide and adjustable to ensure the best possible fit.”

Cost: Baby and toddler shoes can run anywhere from $20 to over $60. When looking at prices, remember that, depending on how fast your little one is growing, the shoes may need to be replaced after just a few months. Keep in mind how functional the shoes are: For something they’ll wear every day, you may be able to justify a higher price point. For a fancy shoe for one event, or something like a rain boot that they won’t wear often, you may want to spend less. Pick a price that works with your lifestyle and budget.

Newborns and crawlers do not need shoes. As Dr. Godsil notes, babies can start wearing shoes once they are taking steps with your help or learning how to walk independently. That said, babies don’t necessarily need shoes. “A natural part of infant development is for babies to explore the world with their hands and feet,” Dr. Khoury says. “As they explore their bodies and the world around them, it is best if their feet are free from shoes to touch, move, and taste. Also, as they first start pulling up and standing, they can grip the floor better with their toes and get feedback from the floor, which helps them develop stability, allowing them to later feel more comfortable taking their first steps.” He recommends shoes for babies only if they will be going outside in order to protect their feet from injury.

Babies actually don’t need shoes to learn how to walk. “They get feedback from the floor/ground and can grip the floor with their toes, which gives them more confidence and stability,” Dr. Khoury says. Dr. Godsil agrees, saying that when your little one is home, you should leave them barefoot to promote natural foot development. However, to keep their feet protected from potential injuries, shoes are a good idea when outside.

All the experts we spoke to emphasized the importance of correctly fitted shoes. Properly fitted shoes help with walking development. Since their feet can grow so rapidly, it’s tempting to size up to get more wear out of a pair of shoes, but this isn’t recommended. The shoes should always fit accurately. “If the shoe is too big, the foot can slide around in the shoe, which makes toddlers even more unstable and likely to fall,” Dr. Khoury says. “Ill-fitting shoes can also cause blisters and bruising because of the excessive motion.”

Jessica Booth is a freelance writer who covers parenting, shopping, wellness, entertainment, and wedding content. She has been freelance writing since 2017 and before that, worked as an editor at an online publication for seven years. She has written for sites such as Brides, People, Insider, Bustle, Romper, Refinery 29, Cosmopolitan, Delish, The Daily Beast, Reviewed, She Knows, Scary Mommy, The Knot, and What to Expect. She also has two young daughters and has gone through many, many pairs of baby and toddler shoes with them.