It’s fine to let your baby practice walking at home without shoes. It might even be easier for them to figure out how to balance out those first wobbly steps when they are barefoot. It may be dangerous for your baby to go barefoot outside. Never let your baby walk barefoot in parks, on pavement, or on rocky ground where their feet might get scratched or cut.
Look for shoes made from soft leather, canvas, or another breathable material. Soft leather or cloth is best. Avoid shoes made from stiff leather. Shoes that are too stiff can hinder the development of your baby’s feet. If you choose high-tops or boots, make sure that they are still flexible around the ankles. You don’t want the shoes to restrict movement. Avoid synthetic materials. While they may be light, they aren’t breathable.
Your baby’s toes should be close to the end of the shoes but they shouldn’t be crowded at the end. When your baby stands up, there should be a tiny bit of room between your baby’s heel and the heel of the shoe. There should be a thumbs-width between your baby’s big toe and the front of the shoe.
