Buy first shoes when your baby starts taking steps outdoors, not before. Indoors, bare feet are best for balance. For outside, choose a light shoe with a soft, flexible, non-slip sole and a wide toe box, with about a thumb's width of space in front of the longest toe.
When does my baby need first shoes?
Most babies take their first steps somewhere between 9 and 18 months. Until they walk outdoors, socks or bare feet are fine at home. Once they start walking on pavements, playgrounds or mall floors, they need shoes for protection and grip.
Still cruising along furniture? Start with soft soles and pre-walkers.
What makes a good first walker shoe?
- Flexible sole. You should be able to bend it easily at the ball of the foot.
- Non-slip rubber grip. For shiny mall floors and wet playgrounds.
- Wide toe box. Toes need room to spread for balance. Tip Toey Joey's FreetoGrow wide toe box is designed for this.
- Light weight. Heavy shoes make little legs tired quickly.
- Easy fastening. Velcro or elastic means quick on, quick off.
How do I check the fit at home?
- Fit shoes later in the day, when feet are slightly bigger.
- Stand your baby up. Press the front of the shoe: you should feel about a thumb's width (around 1 cm) in front of the longest toe.
- Slide your little finger behind the heel. It should fit snugly, not loosely.
- Take the shoe off after 10 minutes of walking and check for red marks.
- Re-check every 2 to 3 months. Toddler feet grow fast.
Which first walkers do you recommend?
Our best-selling first walkers are from Tip Toey Joey, in EU20 to EU23:
- Boaty Loafers, S$79. Easy slip-ons for everyday wear, with room for natural foot movement.
- Dolly Mary Janes and Roundy Shoes, S$69. Soft, flexible non-slip rubber soles.
Browse all Tip Toey Joey First Walkers or every brand in First Walkers.
Are first shoes a good first birthday gift?
Yes, they are one of the most useful. If you are unsure of the size, a store gift voucher lets parents come in for a fitting. See First Birthday Gifts.
Can I get my child's feet measured?
Yes. Visit our One Holland Village store and our team will help you find your child's shoe size.
