8 Best High-Top Baby Shoes for Walking: Optimal Support & Comfort
Protect those precious little feet with our high-top baby shoes, designed to provide superior ankle support and cushioning for confident walkers
Published October 11, 2024.
When your little one starts taking those exciting first steps, it's a moment of joy for any parent! It's also a sign that it's time to consider proper footwear. High-top baby shoes have gained popularity among parents because they provide extra support and stability during those wobbly early walking stages.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll discuss the benefits of high-top baby shoes, key features to look for, and how to choose the perfect pair for your budding walker.
» Ready to help your baby take their first steps? Explore our collection of high-top baby shoes
Our Pick: Best High-Top Baby Shoes for Walking
- Best high-top baby shoes for wide feet: Arianna Florets
- Best high-top baby shoes for breathability: Flopsy Rosy
- Best high-top baby shoes for flat feet: Alva Gigi
- Best high-top baby shoes for winter: Taylor Warms
- Best water-resistant high-top baby shoes: Zippy Joe
- Best lightweight high-top baby shoes: Niña Florets
- Best high-top baby shoes for durability: Cap Levi
- Best high-top baby shoes for stylish occasions: Crimson Lynton
Why Choose High-Top Shoes for Your Baby?
High-top shoes have several distinct advantages that make them particularly well-suited for supporting early walking stages:
- Superior Ankle Support: The extended design creates a protective cradle around the ankle, offering stability without restricting natural movement. The added support acts as a gentle guide, preventing unnecessary rolling and twisting while letting the ankle develop strength and mobility.
- Temperature Regulation: This feature becomes particularly important as active babies generate more heat during movement. Proper temperature control prevents excessive sweating, reduces the risk of blisters, and maintains comfort throughout the day.
- Enhanced Balance: The added height provides a sense of security and stability, which helps babies start taking independent steps. This stability doesn't just prevent falls; it builds confidence, encouraging little ones to explore more freely and safely.
- Protection: Bumps and scrapes are inevitable as babies learn to coordinate their movements. The extended coverage of high-tops acts as a protective barrier, shielding sensitive ankles from potential injuries that might otherwise discourage a baby from continuing to practice and refine their walking skills.
- Sensory Development: The consistent contact between the high-top shoe and the ankle area provides proprioceptive feedback to the developing nervous system. This helps babies better understand their foot position in space, improving their coordination and movement patterns over time.
» Check out what to look for in orthopaedic shoes
8 Best High-Top Baby Shoes for Walking
1
Arianna Florets Sandals
Yet another version of high-top girl's sandals in white, blue, lilac, and purple
Price
$178.00 AUD
Style
High-Top Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Three adjustable Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
The spacious design truly sets Ariana Florets apart. With an open toe box that encourages natural toe spreading and three adjustable Velcro straps, these shoes accommodate growing feet without compromising support.
The Thomas heel is a standout feature, promoting correct foot placement while the premium leather construction ensures longevity and comfort
2
Flopsy Rosy Sandals
Light as air, strong as love, with the breathing space growing feet deserve
Price
$186.00 AUD
Style
High-Top Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Four Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
What makes Flopsy Rosy exceptional is their innovative ventilation system. Crafted with breathable leather and featuring strategic air valves, they keep tiny feet cool and dry even during active play.
Multi-layered shock-absorbent soles provide cushioning, while the Thomas heel supports proper gait development.
3
Alva Gigi Sandals
Four straps of confidence, infinite steps of proper support
Price
$178.00 AUD
Style
High-Top Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Four Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Alva Gigi excel in providing orthopedic support. Adjustable Velcro straps offer customizable fitting, while the high integrated arch support and Thomas heel work together to correct flat feet.
The extended ankle support provides stability without restricting movement, making them ideal for developing proper walking patterns.
4
Taylor Warms Fur High-Top Boots
Leather boots with sheepskin inside have a very sturdy outsole, so, little feet will be kept dry & warm
Price
$198.00 AUD
Style
Autumn/Winter Boots
Material
Leather + High density sheepskin
Features
- Two adjustable Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- High built-in arch support
- Autumn/Winter sole
- Removable insoles
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Built for cold weather, Taylor Warms shine with their high-density sheepskin lining and water-resistant exterior. The Autumn/Winter sole provides superior traction on slippery surfaces, while removable antibacterial insoles ensure hygiene in wet conditions.
5
Zippy Joe Boots
From digging a hole in the backyard to following paper boats, these shoes can do it all
Price
$186.00 AUD
Style
Boots
Material
Nubuck Leather
Features
- Shoelaces + Zipper
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Featuring nubuck leather construction, Zippy Joe stand out for their durability in wet conditions. The combination of shoelaces and zipper ensures a secure yet adjustable fit, while air valves and anti-bacterial insoles maintain foot hygiene. The shock-absorbing outsoles provide stability on slippery surfaces.
6
Niña Florets Sandals
A vintage classic with a hint of sass with its flowerets and dotted accents in hot pink
Price
$178.00 AUD
Style
High-Top Sandals
Material
Leather
Features
- Three adjustable Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Niña Florets have a feather-light construction without compromising support. Three Velcro straps offer easy adjustability, while the shock-absorbing thermoplastic outsoles provide cushioning for delicate feet.
The premium leather gradually molds to the foot shape, ensuring personalized comfort.
7
Cap Levi Sneakers
Give your little rogue a pair of comfortable, bright and rugged sneakers
Price
$186.00 AUD
Style
High-Top Sneakers
Material
Nubuck Leather
Features
- Two adjustable Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
Constructed with high-quality nubuck leather, Cap Levi are built to last. Two Velcro straps provide a secure fit, while the extended ankle support offers stability for wobbly walkers.
The shock-absorbing thermoplastic outsoles ensure comfort during active play.
8
Crimson Lynton Boots
Beautiful red colour with an articulate bright red bow and black velvet laces, a fashion statement
Price
$186.00 AUD
Style
Boots
Material
Leather
Features
- Shoelaces + Zipper
- Extended ankle support
- Removable insole
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Crimson Lynton blend fashion and function. The combination of shoelaces and zipper provides both a customizable fit and easy wear, while the premium leather construction ensures durability.
High integrated arch support and extended ankle stability make these boots as practical as they are stylish.
When Do Babies Need High-Top Shoes?
Switching to high-top shoes often coincides with specific developmental stages and circumstances.
Developmental Stages
As babies show signs of readiness for walking, like pulling themselves up to stand or cruising along furniture, high-top shoes can provide the necessary support for building confidence and stability.
Proper footwear can significantly improve a child's walking development at this time. The right shoes reassure you and your baby, creating a supportive environment for mastering new mobility skills.
Other indicators include:
- Consistent Standing: When babies can hold a standing position without support for several seconds
- Increased Mobility: As crawling becomes more advanced and babies try to move while standing
- Weight-Bearing Readiness: When kids show the ability to bear weight on their legs consistently
» Discover how to pick shoes for different stages of your kid's development
Medical Considerations
For babies with specific foot conditions, high-top shoes can be particularly beneficial:
- Flat Feet: Children with flat feet gain extra stability from the enhanced structure, which can help promote proper arch development.
- Hypermobile Joints: Those with hypermobile joints receive ankle reinforcement, preventing excessive movement.
- Toe Walking: High-tops can discourage toe walking by supporting the heel and encouraging a more natural gait.
- In-Toeing: The structured support can help guide feet into proper alignment during walking.
- Delayed Walking: Some babies who show hesitation in walking may benefit from the added security of high-top support
» Do kids with flat feet need support? Find out here
Environmental Factors
The environment in which a baby is learning to walk also plays a crucial role in the decision to use high-top shoes:
- Climate Considerations: High tops give warmth and protection in cooler climates, shielding little feet from the cold and damp. Water-resistant options ensure dry and comfortable feet in wet environments.
- Terrain Challenges: For uneven terrain, high-tops help with ankle stability and prevent injuries by shielding little feet from potential hazards. The non-slip soles provide traction on various flooring types, ensuring stability on different surfaces.
- Activity Level: They're ideal for active babies, offering superior ankle stability and durability. They're perfect for kids in daycare or playgroups, providing added protection and support for outdoor play.
» Learn about how high tops prevent injuries in kids
Supporting Every Step
Beyond practicality, choosing the perfect high-top shoes for your baby is about embracing a significant milestone in their development. These carefully designed shoes provide a sturdy foundation, cushioning tumbles and supporting wobbly ankles.
As your little one transitions from crawling to walking, take comfort in knowing that with the right high tops, you've equipped them for a journey filled with adventure and growth.
» Give your little one the best start with our supportive and stylish high-top shoes
