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07/08/2025

First walking shoes: when to buy and what to look for?

When is the best time to buy first walking shoes?

Your little one starts pulling themselves up on furniture and taking their first wobbly steps – a big milestone! But when exactly is the right moment to buy first walking shoes? In this blog, we explain it clearly.

When are first walking shoes needed?

You should buy first walking shoes once your child can pull themselves up to a standing position and begins taking steps along furniture (also called “cruising”). This usually happens between 9 and 15 months, but every child develops at their own pace. From this moment on, they need shoes that protect, support, and help them learn to walk.

Important: Even if your child isn’t walking independently yet, their feet still need support and protection during this stage.

Is your child not cruising yet, but you'd still like to protect their feet? That’s possible!

We offer pre-walkers or training shoes. These are extra flexible and do not provide support (no reinforced heel or counter), as your child isn’t standing on their own yet. They protect the feet and help your little one get used to wearing shoes.

Why is timing so important?

Children’s feet are still developing: the bones are soft and the muscles are still growing.
Good first walking shoes make sure that:

1. The feet are properly supported without limiting movement
2. Muscles and balance can develop optimally
3. Feet are protected from hard, rough, or cold surfaces

What are the features of good first walking shoes?

When choosing first walking shoes, look for:

• Flexible, bendable sole: to allow natural foot movement
• Firm heel support: for extra stability while learning to balance
• Lightweight: heavy shoes make learning to walk harder
• Breathable materials: like soft, natural leather to keep feet cool and healthy
• Proper fastening: laces are ideal as they ensure a snug fit around the foot
• And don’t forget: the right size! Children’s feet grow very quickly, so make sure to have them professionally measured every 3 to 4 months during this stage.

What are the best brands for first walking shoes?

At Junior Steps, we offer top-quality brands that meet all the key requirements for first walking shoes: flexibility, good support, and breathable materials. These brands are the perfect choice for your child:

• Rondinella
• Zecchino D’oro
• Ocra
• Romagnoli
• Naturino
• Stones and Bones
• And many more!

View the entire collection of first walking shoes