Baby’s First Shoes: Finding the Perfect Fit for Early Walkers

Shopping for your baby’s first pair of shoes is an exciting milestone that we are seeing embraced with new parents! We know that choosing the right shoes for early walkers can feel overwhelming, and full of uncertainty. So today we'll share a few things we know to help you decide what you want to do.

Do Babies Need Shoes for Their First Steps?

Traditionally, many parents celebrated the milestone of a baby’s first official pair of shoes - for some this may have been ceremonial in nature and resulted in an official fitting. Now days, we've taken a more casual approach. 

Advice from professionals now suggests that barefoot is best for learning to walk. When babies go barefoot, they develop strength, balance, and coordination naturally. But as they begin walking outside or on rough surfaces, the right shoes provide protection while still supporting natural foot development.

This means for many of the earliest walkers, who need a 'first walker shoe' we are going to look at something like a bootie or soft sole shoe. Mostly because it is best for foot health and usually handles their chunky chubby feet. Once they outgrow soft sole shoes, then I like to talk about structured shoes. But we're getting ahead of our selves. 

The Jan & Jul Stay Put Cozy booties are an example of one of these best sellers. Many families also know Robeez as a popular early walker choice - we don't carry that brand specifically, but you will often find them in our preloved shoe collection. 

Soft-Soled vs. Structured Shoes: Two Approaches

Parents today generally follow two schools of thought when it comes to baby’s first shoes:

Soft-Soled Shoes

Soft-soled shoes mimic the barefoot experience and are recommended for early walkers.

• Flexible & Lightweight – Allows babies to feel the ground beneath them, aiding balance.

• Comfortable Fit – Ideal for chubby feet that need room to develop their natural shape.

• Breathable & Non-Restrictive – Made with soft materials that move with your baby’s feet.

• Great for Indoors & Smooth Surfaces – Best suited for indoor play and light outdoor use.

Structured Shoes

Some parents prefer transitioning to a more structured shoe earlier.

• Added Support – Some babies may benefit from more ankle or arch support.

• Durability & Protection – Provides coverage and sturdiness for outdoor adventures.

• Grippy Soles – Helps prevent slips on different surfaces.

The Barefoot Shoe Compromise

If you’re unsure whether to go soft or structured, barefoot-style shoes offer a middle ground. Brands like Jan & Jul and Reima provide lightweight, flexible shoes that allow natural movement while offering protection for outdoor play. At the very least, look for a wide toe box that allows a good toe splay.

We look forward to exploring and expanding our collection of barefoot shoes for Prince George, BC. 

Tips for Finding the Right Fit

The best way to ensure a perfect fit is to bring your little one in to try shoes in person. Babies’ feet grow quickly, so checking the fit regularly is important!

Here are a few tips for finding the right size:

• Measure at Home – Trace their foot on a piece of paper and measure from heel to toe.

• Check Width & Toe Room – Ensure there’s enough space for toes to wiggle without being too loose.

• Pull Out the Insole – If possible, remove the shoe’s insole and have your child stand on it to see if the fit is right.

• Test Walking – Let them take a few steps to see how they move in the shoes.

Shop First Walker Shoes at Nest & Sprout

At Nest & Sprout, we carry a thoughtfully curated collection of baby shoes designed for early walkers. This colelction is changing and growing based on your needs and with each season. Whether you prefer soft-soled, barefoot-style, or structured shoes, we have options to support your little one’s first steps with confidence.

Visit us in Prince George, BC, or browse our selection online to find the best shoes for your growing explorer! Don't forget to check the preloved section because at that age so many shoes go unworn...