Shopping for a baby’s first shoes can be difficult. Since your child can’t speak yet to tell you what’s comfortable and what’s not, gauging fit and size may be tricky. And on top of all that, sizing can vary from brand to brand. That said, once you have a better understanding of size — we recommend first measuring your baby’s foot and using that as a guide when viewing sizing charts — there are a few other factors to consider. You’ll want to look for options with anti-slip components, breathable fabrics, and accommodating widths. While shoes that are easy to take on and off your baby are also key, at the same time, you’ll also want to make sure they don’t come off too easily. Below, find our recommendations for babies that are starting to stand, crawl, and even walk.
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1. Toms Cuna Bootie
These toffee-colored microfiber booties feature a faux fur lining and soft suede-covered soles with rubber details to prevent slippage.
Pros: They’re also equipped with a lightly cushioned footbed. An adjustable hook-and-loop strap with an elastic v-gore provides a comfortable, secure fit.
Cons: They might not be suitable for wider feet.
2. Robeez Soft Soles Crib Shoe
Made entirely of leather, this style is ultra-soft and flexible for growing feet. There’s a design on the front and a bow at the back.
Pros: They come in multiple colors and feature non-slip suede soles with optimal grip. An elasticized ankle makes them easy to put on and stay on.
Cons: They run a tad big.
3. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Cribster
These miniature Converse kicks have a breathable canvas upper, extra-soft lining and EVA foam cushioning underfoot.
Pros: They’re incredibly easy to put on and remove with a velcro hook and loop closure. They come in five colors: pink, white, navy, gray and black.
Cons: They might be too big for some.
4. Adidas Originals Stan Smith Baby Shoes
This pair features a soft, flexible white leather upper that moves with little feet and woven outsoles with an anti-slip rubber print.
Pros: OrthoLite insoles move sweat away from the skin. An iridescent heel patch add a touch of shine. Elastic laces make these easy to get on and off.
Cons: These also may run slightly big.
5. Felix & Flora Baby Shoes
These ballet slippers have a soft, durable microfiber leather upper, a breathable interior and a stretchy elastic strap to secure little feet.
Pros: The toe is adorned with a girly bow. The flexible soles feature grippy rubber to keep little ones steady. They come in multiple colors.
Cons: They may run on the smaller side.
6. BirdRock Baby Moccasins
These moccasins are also constructed from genuine leather that’s soft and durable. They stay on due to an elastic band around the ankle.
Pros: They’re offered in over 30 styles to consider, including solid colors and prints. The soft soles promote natural foot movement and development.
Cons: These also may run small.
7. Rvrovic Canvas Sneakers
This pair is made of breathable, washable canvas that’s very lightweight. An elastic ankle band makes them easy to put on and take off.
Pros: They’re available in a wide variety of colors and feature anti-slip soles and a soft cotton lining. Pull tabs at the back make them easy to slip on.
Cons: They might lack some support.
