Shoes for learning to walk

A variety of substrates is a sensual stimulator for a toddler and is a source of many important information about the environment. However, there comes a time when the child is ready to travel the world on his own in real footwear. Here is a guide on what first shoes to choose?

Baby's first shoes

When choosing shoes for learning to walk, it is worth paying attention to many issues such as the softness of the sole, properly profiled insole, the material used in the production, as well as the weight of the shoe and whether the foot fits in it in the right way.

The first shoes are a new experience for the child. He only learns to use them and tames the fact of a new way of moving. Therefore, they cannot be too stiff, heavy and embarrassing the foot, because it will affect the consolidation of incorrect walking patterns.

What shoes for the child?

When getting ready to buy, we should check the length of the child's foot, because this is the key information when choosing the right size. A shoe that is too tight will cause abrasions and curls to the toes, while shoes that are too loose will distort your gait and prevent you from moving efficiently.

The first shoes for babies must also ensure proper air circulation - a breathable membrane or delicate, soft leather will guarantee hygienic movement without overheating small feet. It is worth paying attention to the inner insulation material used in winter boots. It should not be artificial and sweating. Wool works best, as long as the child is not allergic to it.

What to consider when buying walking shoes?

Velcro or laces? The first walking shoes are a real challenge for children and parents, so you need to pay attention to every detail so that the choice we make satisfies the toddler during hiking trips.

When deciding on shoelaces, remember that toddlers like to pull all strings, pendants and threads - so there is a high probability that the laces will remain without a chance, and we will be responsible for tying them multiple times. What distinguishes the lace-up first walking shoes is the precise fit of the shoe to the foot - provided that we skillfully and accurately tighten the laces along the entire length, and not only at the ankle height.

Velcro-fastened shoes for a yearling are definitely a comfortable solution for parents, they do not affect the quality of footwear and do not threaten the child's proper way of walking. However, remember to fasten with great accuracy.

High quality and workmanship

When choosing the first shoes, their visual qualities are not enough, although they are important from an aesthetic point of view. The sole must bend 1/3 of its length, and the heel counter should fit snugly to the heel, but it is important that it does not cause abrasions and restrict movement. So let's make sure it's not too stiff.

Avoid the once frequently bought orthopedic shoes. Nowadays, they are used only as a last resort after prior consultation with a specialist doctor. Rehabilitation of the foot and care for its proper development is not synonymous with immobilization. Freedom of movement is essential.

It was once believed that the higher the upper, the healthier and more stable a child's gait is. It turns out, however, that it is completely different. Shoes for learning to walk should be "imperceptible" to small feet, so the upper in front of the ankle is the most appropriate solution. If we want to protect ourselves against severe frost in winter, let's make sure that the first baby shoes have a very flexible upper that will not cause the effect of a leg in plaster.

Healthy development of a child's feet

Squeezed and constricted in their movements, the fingers will not cooperate properly when taking the first steps, performing complex figures and maintaining balance. When trying on the first walking shoes with your child, make sure that the noses are not narrow, let alone pointed. The rounded shape is the most optimal and comfortable. Let's pay attention to this especially when buying the first sandals for a child. Too narrow at the front may cause the big toe to stick out and chafe the skin.

Walking shoes - what to avoid?

Taking care of small feet, we want them to develop as well as possible. After all, they have a huge impact on our entire posture and a healthy way of moving as well as keeping balance. What to definitely avoid when buying baby shoes for learning to walk?

The so-called "non-lethals" - they look beautiful in the pictures, but as the name suggests, they do not qualify for shoes and will not help you take your first steps. Slippers - let's give them up. This is not their time yet. The case is the same when we want to buy slippers for learning to walk - in this case we also cross the slippers from the list. In a home environment, the bare foot feels best. However, if we have cool floors or we need footwear for a nursery, let's opt for properly fitted, stable, stiffened slippers on the heel, in which the leg will not twist.

Used or new?

Apart from exceptional situations in which someone gives us back or resells unworn baby walking shoes (and we are sure that they are actually dusty in the wardrobe and no one has used them), do not buy used shoes. Each foot is different and works in a unique way, leaving tangible traces of use.

The shape of the foot and children's shoes

When choosing shoes for learning to walk, let's take into account individual aspects in the anatomy, i.e. the height of the instep, width and length of the foot. The same cut will not be good for every toddler. It is therefore worth measuring several different variants to compare the child's freedom of movement and how little feet fit in the shoes. Then we will be sure that we have chosen the right solution, and the child will start the adventure of walking not only in a good style, but also healthy and stable.