Children undergo a phase of rapid development in the initial few years of their life, and so do their feet. They learn to crawl and stand while taking support from any nearby object. Slowly they start walking on their tiny little feet.

Walking barefoot in the safe, comfortable environment of your home is alright. However, your kids’ feet will need protection with good-quality shoes on uneven surfaces outside your home. The footwear for babies also ensures that they remain warm and comfortable.

However, choosing shoes for infants can be a daunting task. You will be inclined to buy something completely based on its color and cute design. However, that is not enough when it comes to your baby’s feet.

You need to ensure that you buy the right shoes for your child’s comfort and proper growth. Here are a few tips that can help you choose the best infant shoes for their first steps.

1. Right fit

When choosing shoes for infants it is essential to pay adequate attention to their fit. Measure the length and width of your baby’s feet carefully to ensure a comfortable fit.

The shoes should allow some growing space for your little one’s feet. However, they should not be loose enough to fall off their feet. A distance of 12 mm to 15 mm is advisable between the big toes and the front of the shoes.

Shoes that are too tight can make your kids uncomfortable. Also, the pain may cause negative feedback when walking and can demotivate them. The baby may bend its feet while walking to avoid pain. This can result in improper growth of their bones.

The nerve endings in a baby’s foot are not completely developed. So, your baby may not feel an uncomfortable pain at all or may find it difficult to communicate it. Hence, the responsibility of choosing the best fit for the footwear falls on your shoulder.

An improper fit can also increase the risk of falls and injury. Hence, it is essential to choose the right shoes for infants.

2. Material

The material of the shoe plays a critical role. You should choose a breathable inner lining to ensure comfort and avoid infections. Avoid choosing synthetic material for your child’s shoes. Leather with micro holes and canvas can be a suitable alternative for the outer part of the shoes.

Soft material follows the natural contour of your child’s feet and ensures comfort and easy movement. The soles should be anti-skid and should ensure a nice grip while walking.

3. Regular refitting

The children’s feet are growing at a fast pace up to the age of two years. Hence, it is essential to check the shoes for regular refitting once every six weeks.

Try to feel your baby’s toes when they have the shoes on. If you feel that the shoes do not have enough wiggle room, you should start looking for a new pair.

4. Shoe design

The shoes for infants should be lightweight and should provide them with comfort, support, and flexibility. However, there is no need for any arch supports for your baby’s feet.

Most babies have flat feet and develop the arch slowly as they start walking. You should also avoid high ankle shoes as they can increase the chances of injury.

5. Fastener

Shoes for infants come with different fastenings like Velcro, buckle, and laces. The fastening should ensure a secure foot position in the shoes. Also, they should be adjustable to create a perfect fit. Children are known for their impatience. Hence the fastener should allow the shoes to be put on and taken off easily.

Velcro is one of the most convenient options for kids’ shoes. However, this also means that your child can easily unfasten the footwear. If your baby prefers being barefoot, they may wriggle out of the shoes or kick them off.

In such a case, a buckle strap or lace could be a suitable alternative.

These are some essential factors you must consider when choosing the best infant shoes for their first steps.