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27/09/2025
The popularity of barefoot shoes for children has increased in recent years. These shoes are promoted as ideal for healthy foot development – but is that really the case? In this blog post, we want to inform you about what barefoot shoes are, why they are such a hype, why they are not always suitable for children, what experts say about them, and which shoes are suitable for children.
Barefoot shoes, also known as “minimalist shoes,” are specially designed to mimic the experience of walking barefoot as closely as possible. They are usually lightweight, extremely flexible, and have a thin, flat sole that provides little cushioning. Unlike traditional children’s shoes, barefoot shoes hardly support the foot: there is little to no support for the heel, arch, or instep.
In recent years, barefoot shoes have become very popular among parents who want to stimulate the natural foot development of their children. The idea is that these shoes allow children to move their feet in a natural way, keeping foot muscles and joints active, and allowing the feet to form freely, just like when walking barefoot. Proponents claim that this improves balance, coordination, and foot strength, and may help prevent foot problems later in life. Online, this trend is amplified: social media and blogs consistently present barefoot shoes as a modern and healthy alternative to traditional children’s shoes.
But is this really true? Research and the experiences of pediatric orthopedists and podiatrists show that these benefits are often exaggerated and that barefoot shoes are certainly not the best choice for all situations and children.
Barefoot shoes are often promoted as healthy and natural for children, but research and practical experience show that in many situations they are unsuitable and can even be harmful to children’s feet and joints.
Barefoot shoes have thin, flexible soles that hardly absorb shocks. However, children spend most of their day walking on hard surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, or tiles. With minimal cushioning, the impact of every step is directly transferred to the feet, ankles, and knees. For children, whose bones, joints, and muscles are still developing, this can lead to overuse, pain, and changes in foot structure. Research shows that the lack of cushioning and support in barefoot shoes increases the risk of injuries, especially during prolonged walking or running on hard surfaces. [Source: PMC]
Because barefoot shoes have thin, flexible soles, they provide little protection against environmental risks. Children therefore have an increased risk of cuts and puncture wounds from sharp objects such as glass or stones. In short: barefoot shoes are less safe outdoors because they do not adequately protect children’s feet.
During growth and development, all children need sufficient support to develop healthy feet and proper posture. This means that shoes should provide firm support for the heel and ankle while walking, so that the correct posture is learned from the beginning. Good support also ensures that joints are properly loaded and can grow healthily, since children’s bones and joints are still flexible and developing.
Barefoot shoes provide no structural support for the heel, arch, or instep. As a result, the feet lack guidance during walking, which can lead to overuse of muscles, tendons, and joints. The lack of support can also cause toe misalignment, heel pain, and even knee or back problems due to improper weight distribution. [Source: PMC]
Because barefoot shoes provide no cushioning or support, the foot and calf muscles have to work much harder to stabilize the body. For children, whose bones, joints, and tendons are still developing, this can lead to muscle fatigue, pain, and inflammation. Research shows that minimalist shoes significantly increase the load on the Achilles tendon and calf muscles, raising the risk of overuse, small tears, or tendon problems. [Source: Health Oregon State; PMC]
Barefoot shoes are only suitable for short periods on soft ground or indoors. Prolonged use, especially on hard surfaces, can cause fatigue, injuries, and chronic foot problems. Research shows that even children with naturally healthy feet face an increased risk of complaints, as the shoes provide no support or protection. This can result in overloading muscles and joints, pain, and the development of problems such as toe misalignment or knee pain.
For healthy foot development, it is essential that children wear shoes that provide adequate support, cushioning, and protection. At Junior Steps, you’ll find an extensive collection of high-quality leather children’s shoes designed specifically to support children’s feet as they grow.
The Junior Steps collection offers shoes for every foot type, with over 400 models per size, ensuring that every child gets the right fit and support. These shoes provide strong heel and ankle support, a proper fit, and sturdy soles that guide the foot correctly with every step. They protect feet from sharp objects, hard surfaces, and other environmental risks, while still being comfortable and flexible enough to allow natural movement.
With Junior Steps, you can be sure of shoes that are safe, durable, and orthopedically responsible, so children can grow and play healthily.
Barefoot shoes are not a good choice for children outdoors. In 95% of situations, they walk on hard, concrete surfaces (streets, playgrounds, school yards, …). Barefoot shoes simply offer too little protection: minimal cushioning, no shock absorption, and insufficient support for the heel and ankle. This increases the risk of overuse injuries, joint pain, flat feet, and posture problems.
What is ideal? Walking barefoot indoors or wearing a soft barefoot-style slipper. Children spend surprisingly many hours inside, and that’s exactly where barefoot walking helps strengthen foot muscles, improve balance, and support natural development — without the risks of overload or sharp surfaces. This way, they get the best of both worlds: maximum freedom indoors, proper protection outdoors.
For high-quality and supportive children’s shoes, Junior Steps is the right place to go. With a wide collection of leather shoes for every foot type and over 400 models per size, you’ll always find the perfect fit and support for your child.
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