Should a baby who is learning to walk wear hard-soled shoes?

Babies learning to walk should remain barefoot indoors to promote proper balance and foot development. For outdoor protection, choose soft-soled shoes that allow her feet to flex, and save the hard-soled shoes for when she is confidently walking on rough surfaces.

How do I know if my baby's shoes are getting too small?

Check the fit by having your baby stand up and pressing your thumb against the front of the shoe; you should feel a thumb's width of space before her toes. If the shoes leave red indentations on her feet when you take them off, it is time to buy the next size up.

Why do some baby socks have rubber dots on the bottom?

The rubber dots provide essential traction on slippery surfaces like tile and hardwood. Plain cotton socks cause crawling or cruising babies to slip and fall, so grippy socks are the safest option if you want to keep her shoeless indoors.

What are crib shoes and when should my baby wear them?

Crib shoes are soft, lightweight fabric booties meant purely for aesthetics and warmth. They offer no support or traction, so they are perfect for keeping a newborn's feet warm in the stroller, but should not be used once your baby starts trying to walk.

Do babies need to wear socks with their shoes?

Yes, babies should always wear socks with their shoes to prevent painful friction blisters on their delicate skin. Socks also absorb sweat and prevent foot odor, so choose a soft, breathable cotton pair that won't make the shoe feel too tight.