Baby shoes are so tiny and adorable, right? Available in an exciting array of colors, patterns, and styles, they make you want to go on a no-holds-barred shopping spree. But when your tiny tot just starts walking, there are multiple factors to keep in mind before you buy the perfect pair for their tootsies. Size is especially a crucial one. But are you wondering what size shoes do babies wear when they start walking? Then you are in the right place. This handy guide covers how to measure your child’s feet right and what other things to consider when buying shoes that support growth and development, build coordination and balance skills, and are comfy too.    

Measuring Your Baby’s Feet for the First Pair

Babies usually take their first steps between 9 and 18 months. And depending on the footwear brand, they might need a size between 2 and 5. However, accurate measurements are necessary. Now, before buying baby first walking shoes, you might be tempted to just trace your little one’s feet on a piece of paper and measure the same to find the right size. This might not be precise though. So, take your child to a podiatrist for correct measurements of both feet.

Interested to know what size shoes do babies wear when they start walking and you are shopping from Jack & Lily’s collection? When it comes to slip-ons and canvas kicks, size 4 is ideal for children up to 12 months and corresponds to 11.5 cm or 4.5 inches. For babies between 12 and 18 months, size 5 is appropriate and corresponds to 12 cm or 4.7 inches. You can also check the sizing guide for more clarity. If you are shopping for T-straps, boots, or sneakers, sizes are mentioned in terms of age range.

Things to Consider Besides Shoe Size

While it is best for babies to walk barefoot till they are 2 years, this is safe when they are indoors. Outside, you need the right shoes to protect their gentle feet against dust, stones, sticks, sharp edges, and bumps. So, ensure the pair you pick is not just the right size, but also has the following features:

• Roomy Toe Box: The toe box needs to be wide and not pointy or tapered in kids’ walking shoes. Make sure there is a 1 to 1.5 cm gap between the longest toe and the front of the shoe, so that your child can wiggle those tiny toes easily. A spacious toe box will encourage the proper growth of those cute feet too.
• Supportive Heel Cup: The heel cup of those first walking shoes should be flexible yet adequately firm. This is because it will determine how your child positions their feet and develops the correct gait. So, pinch the shoe’s back to see if it is collapsing (too flimsy) or isn’t moving at all (too rigid). If the heel is somewhat compressible but offers resistance, it is just right.
• Flexible and Safe Soles: The best toddler first walking shoes come with flexible soles that allow natural movement and the development of those little bones and muscles. Usually, if you can bend the shoes halfway, they are apt for your child’s feet. Walking in such shoes can help your baby understand how the surface beneath feels and changes with every step. They will learn to balance and coordinate movements easily. At the same time, make sure the soles are thick enough so that sharp objects can’t injure your munchkin’s tootsies. They should be made of rubber and have a grooved design to prevent slips.
• Lightweight: Always go for lightweight shoes that motivate your child to walk around freely and explore their surroundings. You don’t want them to feel uncomfortable, weighed down, or be forced to drag their feet around.
• Healthy Materials: Baby shoes made of soft leather, canvas, or cloth bend and stretch with ease, enabling natural movement and instilling important motor skills. Plus, they allow your little one’s feet to breathe and stay fresh for hours. Stay away from synthetic or plastic shoes that make those cute feet sweaty in no time.
• Velcro Closures: Though you now have an idea about what size shoes do babies wear when they start walking, remember that the shape of their feet will change over time. Hence, opting for shoes with Velcro straps can be a good idea as they are easy to adjust and adapt to change quickly. Moreover, putting the shoes on or taking them off will be a breeze. Even your baby will learn how to do it themselves in no time. When it comes to the first pair, Velcro might be safer than laces, as in the latter case, your toddler might trip and fall if the laces come undone.
• Pull Loop: Simple loops in the back of your baby’s shoes can make it easy to get those chubby feet into the pair.
• Quality: Make sure the first walking shoes are of top-quality, so they are durable, comfortable, and supportive enough. Even if you have to shell out a bit more than expected, it will be worth it.

Also remember that since a baby’s feet are rarely of the same size, you must get shoes that are comfy and supportive enough for the bigger foot.

Make Your Baby’s First Steps Memorable with the Right Shoes

If you thought it is enough to know what size shoes do babies wear when they start walking, this guide must have changed your assumption for good. From soles, heel cups, and materials, to toe box, closures, and weight, there are many factors to be mindful of before buying a pair. Also note that while extra loose shoes can lead to accidents, extra tight ones can hurt your baby’s feet, cause calluses and blisters, and even impact development. So, take your time to decide in an informed manner.  

If you can’t wait to start shopping, explore the charming collection at Jack & Lily for both boys and girls, go through the sizing chart, and take your pick. You can also get in touch with the professionals here for more guidance.