Should Babies Wear Shoes When Learning How to Walk?
Barefoot or shod? Discover the surprising truth about whether shoes help or hinder your baby’s first wobbly steps!
Published April 23, 2025.
When babies start taking their first steps, parents often wonder: Should they wear shoes? The decision can impact foot development, balance, and confidence. Choosing the right footwear—or none at all—during this stage is key to supporting healthy growth and natural movement.
» Help your baby's feet develop properly by getting them orthopedic shoes
Should Babies Wear Shoes When Learning to Walk?
Shoes aren't necessary for babies learning to walk indoors or in safe environments. Barefoot walking promotes optimal foot development, sensory integration, and balance.
In my physiotherapy practice, I recommend barefoot time as the default, with minimalist shoes used situationally for safety.
» Find out when your baby can wear hard-soled shoes
Why Wearing Shoes Isn’t the Way to Go
Going barefoot in early childhood (9-18 months) builds strong foot muscles and promotes a natural walking style. It improves balance and body awareness, which can lead to healthier feet as an adult.
For example, kids who walk barefoot often develop better coordination, reducing strain on their feet over time.
Safe environments for barefoot walking include:
- Indoor floors (clean, temperature-controlled).
- Soft outdoor surfaces like grass, sand, or rubber playgrounds.
Barefoot walking in childhood can also lower the risk of adult foot issues like arch pain or plantar fasciitis. Have your kid walk barefoot at home for a few minutes daily on safe surfaces to strengthen their feet and ease discomfort.
» Check out all of the developmental milestones your baby will go through
When Should Your Baby Wear Shoes?
Your little one should wear shoes in outdoor areas with hard objects, rough surfaces, or extreme temperatures. Public spaces like stores or clinics are also a concern for hygiene, so having your baby wear shoes is going to protect their feet from infections.
The shoes your child wears in challenging environments as a child can influence foot pain today. For example, toddlers with feet rolling inward can see improvement with slightly supportive shoes, which can prevent similar issues in adulthood.
For young walkers, shoes should be flexible, lightweight, and have roomy toe areas to mimic barefoot movement while offering protection. These features support natural foot development and can reduce the risk of adult foot issues like arch pain or overpronation.
A great option to consider is the range from First Walkers, like their orthopedic sandals or sneakers, which are designed with lightweight materials, adjustable straps for a snug fit, and ample toe space to support growing feet comfortably.
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