As a new parent, you want the best for your baby—especially when they start exploring the world on their tiny feet. But with so much conflicting advice, how do you know when it’s the right time to buy their first shoes?

The wrong choice could lead to discomfort, balance issues, or even long-term foot problems. And let’s face it—no one wants to waste money on shoes that will only be outgrown in weeks!

The good news? You don’t have to guess. By understanding key milestones, foot development, and expert recommendations, you can confidently choose the perfect moment to introduce shoes—ensuring your little one steps into the world safely and comfortably.

Let’s walk through the signs that your baby is truly ready for their first pair!

» Find your baby's first shoes: Browse our sneaker collection

When Do Babies Need Shoes?

Babies typically start walking between 9 and 18 months of age, and that's when their shoes become a big part of their day-to-day. Here are some key milestones in their walking development:

• Pushing Up: 2-5 months

• Rolling Over: 3-6 months

• Sitting With Support: 4-7 months

• Sitting Without Support: 6-9 months

• Scooting: 7-10 months

• Pulling Up to Stand: 8-12 months

• Crawling: 8-12 months (some skip this phase)

• Walking With a Very Wide Stance: 9-14 months

• Walking With Support: 10-14 months

• Walking Alone: 11-15 months

» Check out the telltale signs that your baby will start walking soon

When Do Babies Need Shoes?

Before taking their first steps, babies often exhibit pre-walking skills such as:

• Pulling Up to Stand: Around 7 to 10 months.

• Cruising: Walking along furniture for support, typically between 9 and 13 months.

• Standing Unassisted: Babies usually stand without support between 10 and 16 months.

Your little one should go barefoot as much as possible while learning to walk, as this helps with sensory feedback and foot growth. To protect their feet, have them wear shoes only when going outside.

» Learn to detect if your baby is walking correctly

5 Features of Best First Walking Shoes (Pediatrician-Approved)

A few important features are necessary for first-walking shoes if you want your child's feet to grow healthy.

Here are five key features of pediatrician-approved first walking shoes:

• Flexible Soles: This feature helps your little one feel the ground and move their feet naturally, which is crucial for developing balance and walking skills.
• Breathable Materials: This feature keeps your kid's feet cool and dry, reducing discomfort and potential skin issues. Choose shoe fabrics like combed cotton and cotton mesh for ventilation.
• Wide Toe Box: This feature helps your baby's toes spread naturally, promoting healthy foot development. Prioritise features with wide toe boxes.
• Adjustable Straps: Shoes with velcro straps make it easy for your child to put on and take off their shoes, promoting independence. Since babies' feet grow rapidly, check their shoes regularly. If you notice red marks, difficulty putting them on, or your baby frequently removing them, it may be time to size up. On average, babies need new shoes every 2 to 6 months.
• Stable Heel Cup: This feature supports your kid without restricting movement, preventing slipping. Choose shoes with a stable heel cup to support their developing ankle muscles.

» Discover the best shoes for babies learning to walk

How to Choose Your Baby's First Shoes

When choosing your baby's first shoes, there are a few factors to keep in mind. Baby shoes should be:

• Breathable: Soft, flexible leather is a good choice for breathability. Cotton or canvas are also suitable options.
• Comfortable: Ensure there's room for your baby's toes and that their feet can move. Check for a small gap between the heel of the shoe and your baby's heel and a thumb's width between their big toe and the front of the shoe.
• Safe: Look for non-slip soles, preferably with a rubber grip, to ensure safety and prevent slipping.
• Lightweight: Walking is enough of an effort for babies, so lightweight shoes can make it easier for them to learn.

When choosing your baby's first shoes, it's important to get the right size.

Start by measuring your baby’s feet—place their foot on a piece of paper, mark the heel and longest toe, and measure the distance. Then, check a baby shoe size chart to find the best fit.

Make sure there's about a thumb’s width of space between the toes and the front of the shoe to allow for growth. Babies' feet grow quickly, so you may need to size up every 2 to 6 months.

» Learn how to measure your child's feet for shoes

Soft Sole vs. Hard Sole Baby Shoes Comparison

When choosing a shoe for your baby, you might wonder if soft or hard soles are best for their foot development. Below is a comparison that can help you decide, depending on your priorities.

» Check out the best shoes that stabilise your kid's ankles

The Right Shoes for Your Baby

Choosing the right shoes becomes crucial as your baby starts taking those first wobbly steps. That's where First Walkers comes in.

Their wide range of shoes has all the above qualities, making them the perfect pair for your baby's growing feet.

» Is your baby learning to walk? Browse our collection first walker shoes