How to Choose Shoes for a Baby

Choosing shoes for your little one when she first starts walking (generally between 9 and 18 months) can be an exciting milestone in your baby's life. Remember, the name of the game for first shoes is comfort and fit to make sure that those little feet stay safe and healthy. You̵7;ll soon be an expert at choosing the right shoes for your baby, considering how quickly youngsters outgrow footwear and how often they need new shoes.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask a professional salesperson to measure your baby̵7;s feet for the best fit. You may need to help with this process to make sure your baby cooperates.

    • 2

      Select from shoes made of leather, canvas or mesh fabric with absorbent material for the insole, advises the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society. Children tend to have sweaty feet, so breathable materials are essential. Choose a flat shoe that has a flexible and smooth outer sole for optimal walking safety. A high-top shoe with ties or straps may stay on your little one̵7;s feet better and fit more comfortably across the instep. Shoes with a rounded toe box can ensure ample room for your baby̵7;s toes.

    • 3

      Compare the shape of the sole of a shoe with your child̵7;s foot from the outside before trying it on. Place the bottom of the shoe onto your child̵7;s bare foot to see if the shapes of the shoe and the foot match. As long as the edges of the shoe extend from your child̵7;s foot on all sides, the shoe should be wide and long enough. If your baby̵7;s foot extends wider or longer than the shoe sole, choose another shoe.

    • 4

      Place shoes on your baby̵7;s feet and assess for fit and comfort. While your baby stands, you should have one finger's width from the edge of his toes to the end of the shoe, states the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Squeeze the sides of the shoes to ensure that they are not too tight against the sides of your baby̵7;s feet. Check the fit of the heel to make sure the shoe doesn̵7;t shift when your little one moves and takes steps.

    • 5

      Encourage your baby to move around and walk in the shoes for a few minutes. After your baby wears the shoes for a short time in the store, take off the shoes and look at her feet. If you see any redness or irritation from the shoes, especially around the pinky toes, big toes and heels, try a different pair. These key points could become sources of irritation and friction for your baby due to ill-fitting shoes. Your baby shouldn̵7;t need to break in shoes for comfort; they should be comfortable from the start.

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