How to Put Shoes on a Baby

Buy new shoes for the baby instead of using hand-me-downs. Second-hand clothing is great for babies since they are always growing. But when it comes to shoes, second-hand shoes can be a real problem. This is because your baby’s feet are growing and developing and they need a supportive shoes. Hand-me-down shoes have already been broken in by another baby and can cause fit and comfort problems for your child.^[1]

Select flexible and nonslip shoes for your baby. Most doctors agree that it’s best for babies to be barefoot, especially as they learn to walk. But when that’s not possible because you are outside or at a gathering where you feel bare feet might not be appropriate, opt for a shoe that is soft and flexible so you don't negatively affect the growth and development your baby's feet.^[2]

• Hard-soled shoes are bad for babies because they are too restrictive on their underdeveloped foot bones, muscles, and ligaments.
• If your baby is walking, still opt for soft and flexible shoes, but choose a style with traction on the bottom to prevent slips and falls.

Have the baby’s foot measured by a professional. Even if you do not buy the shoes from a more expensive shoe store, it’s best to have an employee with the proper training and tools tell you what size shoe is best for your baby. You can go into any shoe store that sells children’s shoes and request for your baby’s foot to be measured.^[3]

• Once you know the size, you can shop around online or in other stores to find a shoe that is more in your price range. But this way, you have peace of mind knowing you went with the correct size.

Choose a shoe that is simple to put on, but difficult to kick off. Adjustable velcro straps are great options for baby shoes because they are easy for you to put on and tighten, but difficult for a small child to loosen or take off. Slip-on shoes will likely be kicked off as soon as you put the baby down or buckle them into a car seat.^[4]

• Always look for shoes that have adjustable straps so you can tighten or loosen them as needed, ensuring a perfect fit.
• High-top laced or buckled shoes are a good idea for babies that are always trying to take off their shoes.^[5]

Opt for breathable material to keep the baby’s feet free from fungus. Plastic shoes are not only too inflexible to allow your baby’s feet to grow properly, but they don’t breathe and can cause athlete’s foot. Look for mesh, cotton, canvas, or leather shoes instead of plastic to keep your baby’s feet in great shape.^[6]

Let older babies take part in choosing their own shoes. If you are buying shoes for an older baby, let them take part in selecting the shoes so they can have a say in the color and style. If you can get the child excited about wearing the shoe, they will be more likely to keep wearing them when you aren’t looking.^[7]