Do Babies Really Need Shoes Before They Can Walk?

As a new mom, one of the most exciting things to do is shop for baby clothes and accessories. Like many other mothers, I couldn’t wait to dress up my little one in cute outfits, and shoes were part of the plan. But after the initial excitement of having my daughter settled, I started wondering: Do babies really need shoes before they can even walk?

It took me almost six months before I finally bought her a pair, and even then, I felt it was more for appearance than anything practical. Apart from making her tiny feet look cuter, I couldn’t help but wonder if they actually served any purpose.

The True Purpose of Baby Shoes

For babies under one year, shoes serve little to no functional purpose. At this age, they’re just learning to sit up, crawl, or maybe even take a few wobbly steps. Their tiny feet are still developing, and wearing shoes too early can actually interfere with this natural process.

In fact, many pediatricians recommend letting babies go barefoot as much as possible. Here’s why:

• Foot Development: Babies’ feet grow and change quickly in the first year. Being barefoot allows for free movement, which helps strengthen the foot muscles, toes, and arch. Shoes can restrict this natural movement, limiting necessary growth and flexibility.
• Balance and Coordination: When babies are learning to walk, feeling the ground beneath their feet helps improve balance and coordination. Bare feet allow them to better grip surfaces, aiding in their motor skill development. Shoes, especially ones with stiff or hard soles, can make it harder for them to find their balance.
• Sensory Experience: Babies explore the world by touch, and their feet are just as sensitive as their hands. Walking barefoot lets them feel different textures, temperatures, and sensations, which helps their sensory development and understanding of the world.

When Are Shoes Actually Needed?

While shoes may not be necessary for babies under one, there are certain situations where they might be helpful. If you’re going outside on a cold day or need to walk on rough, hot, or cold surfaces, shoes can protect their delicate feet. For these occasions, pick soft, flexible shoes that don’t restrict movement.

What to Look for When It’s Time for Shoes

When your baby starts standing or attempting their first steps, it may be time to get them their first real pair of shoes. Here’s what to look for:

• Soft Soles: Shoes with soft, flexible soles let your baby feel the ground beneath their feet, encouraging natural movement and balance while still offering protection.
• Breathable Material: Look for shoes made from materials like soft leather or cotton. These are gentle on your baby’s skin and help keep their feet comfortable.
• Room to Grow: Make sure the shoes aren’t too tight. There should be enough room for your baby’s toes to wiggle and move, allowing their feet to grow naturally.
• Easy On and Off: You’ll want shoes that are easy to put on but secure enough that your baby can’t easily kick them off.

Are Shoes Necessary for Babies Under One?

In short, no—shoes are not necessary for babies under one year in terms of walking or development. At this stage, shoes are mostly for protection or style. If you’re dressing your baby up for a special event, there’s no harm in adding a cute pair of shoes, but they’re not essential for daily wear.

For most of the time, it’s perfectly okay to let your baby go barefoot or wear soft socks. This allows their feet to develop naturally and supports their early attempts at walking.

 

My Journey as a New Mom

Reflecting on my own experience, I’m glad I waited before buying my daughter shoes. When I finally did put shoes on her, it was purely for show. While they added a touch of cuteness, I knew that for her everyday movements and growth, her bare feet were best.

Being a new mom is a learning journey. Sometimes we feel like our babies need all these extras, but in reality, simplicity is often best. So, if you’re wondering whether or not to buy your little one shoes before their first birthday, remember that it’s okay to wait.