As babies transition from infancy to toddlerhood and their mobility increases, every parent has to broach the footwear dilemma. I actually feel kind of ridiculous making that statement, you know, because they are babies and worrying about what to put on their feet definitely feels like a first-world problem, but it's a problem that my mommy friends and I have been trying to figure out for a couple of months now. My son isn't quite walking yet, so most of the time I can still get away with bare feet or socks when we go out, but as he moves closer and closer to the one-year mark it's starting to feel less and less socially acceptable.
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Plus, the weather is getting warmer and we're spending a lot of time playing in our yard and at the park, and since he is standing and cruising and taking a few steps here and there, concrete, sticks, and rocks are posing more and more of a threat to his tiny tootsies.
Most experts suggest that keeping baby bare foot is best when they are first learning to walk, but I've done some research on which shoes are ideal for those times baby needs a little more protection (or you just want safe shoes to complete an adorable ensemble). Here are my five favorite shoe choices for pre- and early walkers.
Robeez Soft Sole
My absolute favorite type of shoe for my son has been soft-sole leather shoes like these Robeez. If he's not barefoot or in socks, he is in this type of shoe. The suede sole allows him to feel the floor and establish stability so that he can get around in them easily, while still offering a layer of protection. Plus, they are super-cute and are available in designs to suit nearly every personality. Robeez Alien Soft Soles, $25
Converse Kids Chuck Taylor Crib Shoe
These Converse crib shoes are perfect for babies learning how to stand and cruise. They are made from soft, light-weight canvas that's comfortable and easy to move around in, and the soles feature soft rubber nubs that provide traction, which will help still-wobbly tots stay on their feet. Of course, they are also available in a huge range of colors so you can pretty much choose one or two pairs that you can mix and match with everything in your baby's wardrobe. Converse Kids Chuck Taylor Crib Shoe, $22
See Kai Run
As your baby becomes more proficient at walking, you may want to splurge for a good quality all-around shoe. I like this loafer by See Kai Run. It is made of supple leather and has a thin, flexible rubber sole that allows kids to feel the floor beneath them while still providing sturdy support. It also features a wide toe box so your baby's toes have plenty of room to spread out when he's running around. Kyle by See Kai Run, $48
Stride Rite SRT Soft Motion Artie
The name Stride Rite has been ubiquitous with kids' shoes for decades, and despite the seemingly endless variety of baby shoes available today, moms all across the U.S. are likely to name the brand as one of their favorites. Because they are comfortable, supportive and durable, sneakers are a great option for early walkers and Stride Rite offers many different styles, like the SRT Soft Motion Artie–a lightweight slip-on with a soft, leather lining that is available in both medium and wide widths. Stride Rite SRT Soft Motion Artie, $39.90
Skidders
Skidders are an awesome budget-friendly option for new walkers and the next baby shoe on my personal shopping list. The upper is like a super-soft stretchy, breathable sock and the sole is a flexible rubber covered in little nubs that creat a non-slip walking surface. They even have an antimicrobial insert to reduce smelliness and they come in tons of bright colors and patterns. Skidders, $12.95
