Shoes for the little ones? The 5 best tips for buying!

Finally, the big moment has come: Your baby takes his first independent steps! As soon as it goes outside for the little explorer, the right children's shoes must be selected. From wobbly walking attempts to romping on the playground: the little ones are always on the move. That's why it's all the more important to make sure your baby wears the right children's shoes. With our 5 buying tips, you're sure to find the right foot wear for your little treasure.

Why are good shoes for babies so important?

Most babies are born with healthy feet. But already in infancy the tide often turns: the first foot deformities appear. What is the reason for this? Definitely due to cramped children's feet! And yet - especially in the beginning - the right shoes are incredibly important for the offspring.

The feet of the little ones still have to develop - at the time of birth they are far from mature. They are much softer than adult feet and can therefore be easily deformed. If baby's shoes are now too small or too tight, this can have long-term consequences for his foot health and later posture.

Baby feet can therefore only grow up healthily if they are allowed to spread out in the right shoes. In this way, the little ones are supported in their walking and correct posture is encouraged at an early age. In addition, the right children's shoes help the tiny bones and muscles to develop. When buying shoes, there are a few things you should pay attention to - for your baby's sake.

#1 The right size

First things first: baby shoes have to be the right size. But it's not so easy, especially with the smallest ones, to know whether the shoes really fit. Their foot nerves are not yet fully developed. That's why they can't tell for themselves whether the shoe pinches and is therefore too small.

The tried-and-tested "thumb test" is not a reliable way of assessing size - babies reflexively retract their toes as soon as you apply slight pressure to them. But don't worry: There is a good alternative! It's best to use the following sizing guide to determine your baby's correct shoe size.

#2 Non-slip and flexible sole

As soft and flexible as your baby's little feet are, his shoes should be. For the first steps in the big wide world, baby walkers with soft soles are worthwhile. Only a flexible sole allows the feet to roll properly. The little ones still have to practice the individual foot movements before they become real walking champions.

So before you decide on a pair of children's shoes, you should first test whether the sole is soft enough. It should be possible to bend the front third upwards by about 90 degrees. Is that possible? Then it's off to the shopping cart!

For the best grip, the sole of the shoe must of course be slip-resistant - after all, you want your baby to be able to romp around carefree. Soles made of rubber, natural rubber and suede are highly recommended. These materials prevent your baby from falling and are extremely soft at the same time.

#3 The right closure

Not only the sole of the shoe is responsible for a secure hold and a comfortable wearing feeling, but also the closure. With laces, buckles or Velcro, you can adjust the cute little shoes even better to your baby's feet. Slip-on shoes, on the other hand, are unsuitable - the little ones will only lose them.

How baby's footwear can be fastened is actually of secondary importance. However, laces generally come off more easily and can become a real tripping hazard. That's why Velcro and zippers are probably more recommended for the little explorers.

#4 Breathable upper

As tiny as baby feet may be: the smallest ones sweat on their feet at least as much as adults. However, there are some tips to combat little stinky feet. Breathable upper materials for baby shoes are an absolute must. The right footwear should therefore not only absorb moisture well, but also protect against heat loss.

Natural materials that are free of any harmful substances ensure a particularly pleasant foot climate. For example, shoes made of cowhide or nappa leather are suitable - in winter, shoes with lambswool are worthwhile for an extra portion of warmth.

#5 Great looks

Not only the comfort must be right with the cute footwear for the little ones. Also the optics may not come too briefly. After all, your little one should love wearing his shoes so that walking on his own two little legs is really fun.

The shoes have long been available in many great colors and with fun motifs. Whether with colorful flowers, sparkling stars or sweet hearts: The footwear for the little ones is available in all variations and certainly meets every taste! Baby feet are a little miracle - that's exactly why they deserve only the best shoes. When your little darling is walking on his own two little legs, you should take care of his little shoes. Our 5 buying tips will help you choose the right footwear for your little one.