Shoes

For typically developing children, we recommend starting with soft, flexible-soled shoes during the first year (or more) of walking. These types of shoes allow the foot to move naturally, help strengthen the muscles of the feet and ankles, and support balance and coordination.

Great soft-soled options include:

• Robeez
• Stonz Cruiser Original
• Nike Swoosh 1

If you’re looking for a more structured shoe that still supports healthy development, these brands offer excellent options:

• Geox
• Stride Rite
• PediPed
• See Kai Run (look for their First Walkers line)
• Tsukihoshi
• Plae
• Merrell
• Keens

For children who are delayed in their gross motor development, have hypermobility, or differences in muscle tone, please speak directly with your physiotherapist. These kiddos may benefit from specific footwear features such as extra stability, more structure, or orthotic compatibility depending on their needs. And of course, every child’s foot is different! Foot size and width will play a big role in which shoes are the best fit.

When in doubt, we’re always happy to help guide your selection based on your child’s development and comfort.

Check out our Shoe Highlight at the top of our Instagram Page for informative reels about shoes, boots and everything in between