11 best baby walking shoes for those exciting first steps

Finding the right fit for your baby’s foot can be tricky, but few brands make it easier than Ten Little. Their Fit Finder Quiz and printable Fit Finder take out all the guesswork and help you choose the perfect size right at home. What’s more, their styles are all designed with the input of an award-winning podiatrist and pediatrician. From the foot-shaped toe box that supports natural feet development to the lightweight construction and flat, flexible soles, they’re thoughtfully crafted from heel to toe. But our favorite feature? The cute little characters printed inside that ensure they’re always on the right feet. (Who knew getting that right could be such a challenge?)

This super comfy slip-on slipper has a sole made of leather and rubber for proper gripping and flexible support. Also, not only are all of the design options adorable, but also, the fabrics used are antiperspirant, which means baby’s little feet can breathe while they’re doing all that work. With additional features like elasticity at the ankle that keeps the shoe on, as well as the use of chemical-free dyes, there’s no surprise that everyone loves these booties from Baby on the Go.

The Jake Crib Shoe from Pediped is made from 100% leather, including the sole and inner lining, allowing for maximum flexibility, comfort, and durability. This shoe is also accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting healthy foot development—so clearly this one is a winner.

Stride Rite has been parents’ go-to trustworthy shoe brand for generations. And their First Walker Soft Motion line is no different. From adorable Mary Janes like this one to Russell Boots to the Sonny Sneaker Sandal, there’s something for every wobbly new walker on the list. Available in medium, wide, and extra wide, Stride Rite’s first walker shoes are also 100% machine washable—which we know is your top priority.

MOMObaby is a top contender for favorite baby shoes brand among moms, and this leather sneaker is one of their best sellers. Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association, this cute sneaker has a leather insole and rubber sole as well as a fan-shaped toe box that resembles the child’s foot, allowing the big and small toe to move freely.

Looking for a bootie style first walker shoe? Robeez has got you covered. Another super popular brand among the parenting circuit, Robeez offers soft-soled slip-ons, first kicks for when baby is ready for sneakers, snap booties like this adorable seer-sucker pair, and even water shoes! Whatever you need for baby’s tiny feet, they have it.

The Emily Sneaker is the perfect choice for a child just starting out in the world of walkers who needs a strong, supportive sole beneath their feet. Also, these shoes have an easy to maneuver hook & loop enclosure that makes putting them on and taking them off a breeze. That’s a bonus considering how much toddlers hate sitting still!

This shoe just screams “Bye, Mom! I’m off and running!” doesn’t it? For active little legs who have places to go, Sperry’s Spinnaker Crib Jr. shoe offers the ever popular hook & loop velcro closure, a cushy memory foam footbed for ultimate comfort and vulcanized rubber outsole for support and flexibility. Lots to love with this option!

The Stevie II First Walker Sneaker by See Kai Run comes in 11 bright and fun colors, including this blue tie dye option, which we love. This first walker shoe comes with a rubberized toe, providing extra protection for little ones just starting out on their feet. The Stevie II also has a hook and loop strap and a large toe box which aids in foot development.

The stretchy fly knitting of the First Walkers Slip-On Sneaker from montaas provides ultimate breathability for baby’s feet. Other features include lightweight rubber soft spikes that help prevent falls for early walkers and a 1/3 bending design in the sole that promotes foot development. Add in the stretchy knit collar that hugs the ankle and keeps these easy-to-slip-on shoes in place, and you can see why this one is on the list.

These Non-Slip First Walkers are said to be “sock-like”—so comfortable is the name of the game here. In addition, this shoe has a pillowy-soft cushion to support baby’s feet as well as rubber soft spikes and sensory pods under the outsoles that help prevent slipping and help baby balance as their toes grip the ground. Also, the fabric is super breathable to keep feet cool and dry.