Which baby shoes suit your child?
Baby shoes keep little feet warm and, depending on the style, protect them at home or on the go. For babies who aren't walking yet, soft booties and cloth shoes are especially suitable. They should fit comfortably, offer enough room, and not restrict the natural movement of the feet.
Do babies already need firm shoes?
As long as your baby is mainly lying, sitting, or crawling, firm shoes usually aren't necessary. Soft baby shoes, slippers, or warm booties can protect the feet from the cold. For learning to walk, bare feet or non-slip socks on suitable surfaces are usually the best choice. Shoes become important above all once your child walks outside independently and their feet need protection from cold, wet, or uneven ground.
What kinds of baby shoes are there?
Different styles are available for different situations:
Soft baby shoes and booties keep feet warm in the stroller, infant car seat, or baby carrier.
Slippers and house shoes are suitable for home, daycare, or other indoor spaces.
Water shoes protect the feet at the pool, at the beach, or on warm, slippery surfaces.
First shoes with a walking sole come into consideration once your child is already walking outside.
What should you pay attention to when buying?
Baby shoes shouldn't pinch or slip off the feet. Make sure there's enough room in the toe area, that the width fits properly, and, for walking styles, that the sole is flexible. Fasteners like hook-and-loop straps make putting them on easier and help adjust the shoe to the foot.
Since children's feet grow quickly and babies can't yet reliably say if a shoe is too tight, you should check the fit regularly. It's best to measure both feet and also refer to the manufacturer's size and inner-length information. In the toe area, at least about twelve millimeters of extra room is recommended.
How do you find the right shoe size?
The stated shoe size alone is only a guide, since styles can vary. What matters is the actual inner length. Measure your child's longer foot from the back of the heel to the longest toe and compare the result, including the necessary extra room, with the product information.
