Struggling to find winter or mid season boots for your early walker? Maybe they wear a size 3, 4, or 5, and everything seems to start at a size 6. You're not alone. Finding a flexible, waterproof, warm boot that actually stays on a petite foot is a challenge. We've been doing our best to tackle it, but fair warning: the options are still limited.

To kick things off: I'm not a huge fan of boots for early walkers. I know there's pressure to get them into a structured shoe, but they don't need it. They can live their best life in booties, soft-soled winter boots, or slippers. There's no need for structure unless you're working with a therapist who has a specific reason for it. 

One more thing: some winter boot brands fit small. Even if your kid wears a 4, try on the 5 and see. You want room for warmth, wiggling, and socks. If your walker is on the petite side, try the bigger size for laughs, but you might find it ginormous.

But a new walker in Northern BC or somewhere else in Canada - will, at some point, want to stomp through the snowbank at the end of the driveway. A clunky boot will be their bane of your existence - and maybe a boot bag is something you can't wrap your head around.  That's where these three new arrivals from Wheat come in. All three are waterproof, lightweight, and wool or fleece lined. Each one fits a different stage, from "just cruising" to "won't hold my hand anymore." We're hoping that these provide you additional options to consider this year. 

1. Wheat Outerwear Booties: for cruisers and first shuffles

Wheat Outerwear Booties are the closest thing to a boot bag that still lets a baby feel the ground. The sole is soft, so little feet can bend and grip the way they do barefoot. The shell is properly waterproof, rated to 20,000 mm with taped seams, and lined with cozy recycled fleece. These compete with the Reima Anturion in the soft soled winter bootie category, as equally if not waterproof. 

The fit is the part parents will love. Elastic at the ankle and top, plus an adjustable velcro strap, means these actually stay on through a snowsuit wrestling match.

• Best for: babies in the carrier or stroller, cruisers, and first wobbly steps on fresh snow
• Sizes: S (6–12m) and M (12–24m)
• Colours: Dark Charcoal and Grey Moon Flowers
• Price: $59.96
• Good to know: PFC-free water repellent, 100% recycled nylon shell. A soft sole means these are for short snow outings, not icy sidewalks.

2. Wheat Daxi Wool Tex Boots: first real steps outside

The Wheat Daxi Wool Tex Boots are what I'd reach for once a toddler is walking on their own but still a bit wobbly. They're light and flexible, with a rubber sole and a toe cap for the inevitable toe-drag.

Inside, a wool lining keeps feet warm without bulk. A waterproof, breathable Tex membrane at the sole blocks puddles and slush from below. Two velcro straps make them quick to get on, even with a toddler doing the floppy noodle.

• Best for: new walkers, damp fall walks, and early-winter outings
• Sizes: EU 20–24 (inner length 13.4 cm to 16 cm)
• Colour: Cognac
• Price: $119.96
  

 Prolonged exposure to very wet conditions may eventually allow moisture to seep through. Water may enter from above. Impregnation is recommended. For extended time in very wet environments, our winter rubber boots are recommended.

3. Wheat Winterboot Delaney 2.0: for confident walkers in the snow

The Wheat Winterboot Delaney 2.0 is the one for kids who have stopped asking permission to go in the snowbank. It has a fully waterproof rubber outsole, a water-resistant upper, and a warm wool-blend lining.

A single side velcro closure makes daycare drop-offs faster, and it's easy for kids to start doing themselves. The reflective logo is a small but welcome detail when it's dark by 4:30.

• Best for: steady walkers, snowy playgrounds, and winter daycare runs
• Sizes in store: EU 20–24 (US 5–7.5)
• Colour: Dusty Green
• Price: $114.96
• Good to know: GRS-certified recycled nylon outer. Wipe clean and air dry away from direct heat (so not on the boot tray over the vent).

Which one is right for your walker?

Short version: pick by how steady they are on their feet, not by age.

• Still mostly carried or crawling? Outerwear Booties.
• Walking, but falls when a leaf blows by? Daxi.
• Running toward every snowbank? Delaney 2.0.

Sizing tips for early walkers

Toddler feet grow fast, so leave room, but not so much that the boot trips them up.

1. Measure standing up, heel against the wall, ideally later in the day.
2. Add growth room: 1–1.5 cm for the Daxi, 1.5–2 cm for the Delaney 2.0. If you're between Delaney sizes, size up.
3. Measure with the socks they'll actually wear. Wool socks take up space.
4. Outerwear Booties go by age range, and the velcro strap takes care of the in-between.

Not sure? Bring your walker in and we'll fit them. And when they outgrow them (they will, probably by February), bring them back. Outgrown is our favourite size.

FAQ: winter footwear for early walkers

Should early walkers wear boots at all? For babies who aren't walking yet, I still prefer boot bags or soft booties. Once they're walking outside, a light, flexible boot with a thin sole, like the Daxi or Delaney 2.0, lets them move naturally while keeping feet dry.

Are these warm enough for a Prince George January? Wheat doesn't publish temperature ratings for these. All three are insulated with wool or fleece, and wool socks add a lot. I would trust the Outerwear bootie at -25C, but the wool blend footwear should easily be comfortable to -15C, if not above. 

Are they fully waterproof? The Outerwear Booties have a fully waterproof shell with taped seams. The Delaney 2.0 has a waterproof outsole and water-resistant upper. The Daxi is waterproof at the sole, so treat the upper with a water-repellent spray for wet days. 

How do I clean them? Wipe with a damp cloth and air dry away from direct heat. The Outerwear Booties can go in a cold machine wash, but only when needed, since frequent washing can wear down the water repellency.

Come try them on

Winter comes early up here, and first snow with a new walker only happens once. Browse all three in our kids footwear collection, or bring your little one to the shop at 3049 McGill Crescent in College Heights for a fitting. Snacks for bribery are encouraged. I do have lollipops.