Tips for buying your baby's first shoes

Buying your baby’s first pair of shoes is a big step. There are lots on offer and it can feel tricky to find exactly what you are looking for. Your baby’s feet need good support and shoes that are suitable for them and their needs. Here are a few tips to help. 

Where to buy 

Where possible, visit a specialist shoe shop where there are trained staff who can advise you about the best of type of shoe for your baby and properly measure your baby's feet by length and width.

When to go 

It’s good to go in the afternoon as our feet sizes fluctuate through the day, and usually peak in the afternoon when they swell a little from walking and moving around. So shoes fitted in the afternoon can be a comfier fit.  

Plan and prepare 

Shoe fitting can sometimes involve a bit of waiting around. Bring things along to keep your baby entertained, such as a book or favourite toy, as well as a snack and a drink. It’s also a good idea to plan your trip around your baby’s naps, so they aren’t too tired.  

Choosing a type of shoe 

Pre-walkers are likely to be the best shoes for your baby if they are crawling or cruising. These shoes are softer, more flexible and offer protection for their feet if they want to walk outside.  

When to wear shoes 

Your baby will benefit from as much barefoot walking as possible, so should be safe enough to walk indoors without shoes. However, when they're walking outside or in public places, they will most likely need shoes on to protect their feet if the surfaces are dirty or dangerous.