Before You Buy Baby's First Shoes

Your baby is walking! Now is the time to shop for some baby walking shoes. Before you buy, though, check out these tips to be sure you get a pair of baby shoes that will help, not hinder, your baby's walking experience.
When Should I Buy Shoes for Baby?
If your baby is starting to take a few steps, it's time. Many parents prefer to let their children walk without shoes, which is fine. A good amount of barefoot time can be helpful to new walkers, who need to figure out how their feet work before having shoes on all day. There are times, though, when it's dangerous or unsanitary for baby to go barefoot, so all babies need a pair of walking shoes to protect those sweet little feet from harm.
What Kind of Baby Shoes Should I Buy?
Baby shoes should be soft and flexible so that baby can use his or her feet properly for balance. The sole should be non-slip and offer traction, but steer clear of extra-thick soles that might trip baby up. High-top baby shoes aren't necessary for ankle support, but if you do choose high-tops, be sure baby can still flex his or her ankles, or the shoes may hinder walking. Look for shoes in a natural, breathable material so baby's feet stay cool and comfy.
How Should Baby Shoes Fit?
Babies should not have to "break in" their shoes. After they've worn the walking shoes around the store for a while, take the shoes off and check baby's feet for irritation. If the shoes rub or seem to make walking more difficult, find another pair. You should be able to put a pencil or your pinky finger in between the heel of the shoe and the baby's foot, and there should be a half- to a quarter-inch (thumb-width) between baby's toes and the end of the shoe.
Laces or Velcro?
Laces do need to be re-tied a lot, which may send parents in search of Velcro baby shoes. It's a matter of personal choice. Lace-up shoes are harder for babies to take off. Velcro is easier to figure out for the young mind, so be prepared for baby to learn to remove Velcro shoes fairly quickly. Try tying the shoe laces a few times in the store. You'll be tying and re-tying these shoes a lot, so be sure the laces are long enough and easy to work with.
When Should I Shop?
Just like adults, babies' feet can swell towards the end of the day, especially when they're practicing new walking skills. Shopping for baby's walking shoes in the afternoon or early evening will ensure the shoes are not too tight when baby's tootsies are tired. Plan your shopping trip for after a nap or at a time when your baby is normally in a good mood. Getting a cranky, tired baby to walk around and model shoes won't make for a pleasant trip.
How Often Should I Buy Shoes?
Check the fit and condition of your baby's shoes at least once a month. All babies grow at different rates, but you can expect to buy new shoes in bigger sizes at least every three to six months. Check for signs of wear on the shoes and be ready to replace them if the bottoms are cracked, there are holes in the top, or any pieces are flapping around. Babies and toddlers will find plenty of things to trip over, so be sure their shoes aren't part of the problem!