Soft Sole Shoes for Babies – The Best Shoes for Your Baby That is Learning How to Walk!
One of the most common questions I get at the children’s shoe store is: Should babies learning to walk wear soft sole or hard sole shoes? My answer is always soft soles—at least until your baby is confidently walking. Soft sole shoes for babies support natural foot development, allowing babies to feel the ground and improve balance as they learn to walk. Not all baby shoes are created equal, and the right soft sole shoes can make a big difference in helping your baby walk with confidence.
Do Most Babies Have Wide Feet?
Many parents wonder if their baby has wide feet and if they need special shoes to accommodate this. In reality, babies’ feet come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and understanding your baby’s unique foot shape can help in selecting the right footwear. Based on years of fitting babies for their first walking shoes, I’ve found that most little ones have wide feet—something many parents don’t realize until it’s time to buy shoes!
Soft Sole Shoes VS Hard Sole Shoes – Which One to Choose?
There’s an ongoing debate about whether babies learning to walk should wear soft sole or hard sole shoes. Based on my experience fitting hundreds of early walkers, soft sole shoes are a clear choice.
Soft sole shoes let babies feel the ground, improve balance, and encourage natural muscle development. In contrast, structured, heavy shoes can limit movement and prevent babies from building strength in their feet and ankles—slowing their walking progress.
When Should Babies Start Wearing Shoes?
Your baby should wear their first pair of shoes when walking outdoors on uneven, hot, cold, or rough surfaces—for protection, not support. For early walkers, flexible soft sole shoes are best. Hard sole shoes can hinder walking development, as babies lack the strength to bend stiff soles, making it harder to balance and move naturally.
What Features Should Soft Sole Shoes Provide?
When selecting soft sole shoes for your baby, there are certain features to look for to ensure you’re making the best choice for your child’s developing feet.
Feature One: A lightweight and flexible design is vital. Shoes that mimic barefoot walking allow your baby to strengthen their feet and develop a natural gait without restriction. The lightweight nature of these shoes means that your baby can lift their feet easily, reducing the risk of tripping and helping them move more confidently.
Feature Two: Comfort is key for little feet. Look for shoes with extra padding and cushioning to prevent blisters. These features help protect delicate skin and ensure your baby enjoys every step without discomfort.
Feature Three: Sensory pods are a modern addition to baby shoes that provide valuable feedback to your child as they walk. This feature is particularly beneficial for babies learning to navigate various surfaces, as it aids in balance and stability. The pods help your baby feel the ground beneath them, which is crucial for developing an accurate sense of balance.
While these features are essential, they won’t matter if your baby’s shoes don’t fit properly. The wrong shoe size can cancel out all the benefits and even lead to painful issues like blisters, calluses, and corns. A proper fit is key to keeping your baby’s feet healthy and comfortable.
How to Retrieve Your Baby’s Exact Foot Length and Shape
Determining the correct shoe size for your baby is essential for comfort and support. My virtual shoe fitting service is designed to help you find your baby’s foot shape and shoe size with ease.
With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the best shoes for your baby. Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Best Soft Sole Shoes for Babies Who Are Learning How to Walk
As a shoe fitter with years of experience, I’ve curated a list of my top soft sole shoe recommendations for 2025. These shoes combine quality, comfort, and style to support your baby’s first steps, offering the best in design and functionality.
1. Shoe Style Stevie II by See Kai Run
These See Kai Run soft sole baby shoes for walking are a popular choice among parents for their wide toe boxes and adjustable straps.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Stevie II by See Kai Run on Amazon or Zappos
- Not available in wide or extra wide widths but fits naturally wide
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- Durable cotton drill upper, comfy leather insole, and recycled mesh lining keep feet fresh
- Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
2. Shoe Style Thompson by Stride Rite
These baby first walking shoes feature a flexible sole and a rounded toe design to support natural movement, making them a favorite among parents and podiatrists alike.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Thompson Sneaker on Amazon
- Available in wide widths
- Awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- Padded tongue and collar for added comfort
- Breathable textile lining and cushioned insole
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
3. Shoe Style Artie and Adalyn by Stride Rite
These Stride Rite baby walking shoes provide excellent width options (wide and extra wide) and a comfortable fit. Their design includes flexible outsoles and cushioned insoles, which are essential for active babies.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Artie and Adalyn by Stride Rite on Amazon or Zappos
- Rounded edges to decrease stumbles and falls
- Available in wide and extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size
4. Shoe style Archie and Kiki by Stride Rite
These baby soft sole sandals are made of breathable materials, provide a secure fit, and have the flexibility needed for a growing child.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Archie and Kiki on Amazon or Zappos
- Available in wide and extra wide widths
- Leather upper
- Foam padding placed around the ankle collar and under the tongue for a comfortable fit
- I suggest that you get this shoe a half size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
5. Shoe Style Martin by Stride Rite
These Stride Rite baby booties feature double Velcro straps for easy on and off and plush cushioning, making them perfect for everyday wear.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Martin by Stride Rite on Zappos
- Available in wide and extra wide widths
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your toddler’s current foot size
6. Shoe style Gaia by Stride Rite
These Stride Rite soft sole shoes feature double Velcro straps for a secure fit and fuss-free wear.
Key Features
- Order the shoe Gaia by Stride Rite on Zappos or Amazon
- Available in medium and wide widths (fits high insteps)
- APMA approved
- Round-toe design
- I suggest that you get this shoe a whole size larger than your baby’s current foot size
Get a Personalized Shoe Suggestion
Every baby is unique, and their shoe needs can vary. If you’re unsure about which shoes are best for your baby, don’t hesitate to reach out for personalized shoe recommendations. As a passionate shoe fitter, I’m here to help you find the perfect fit for your little one’s first steps. Personalized consultations can provide insights into your child’s specific foot structure and growth patterns, ensuring you make informed choices that support their development.
What Are the Best Socks for Babies?
Choosing the right socks is also important for your baby’s foot health. Look for socks made from breathable materials with a bit of stretch to stay snugly in place. Avoid socks that are too tight, as they can impede circulation and cause discomfort. Breathable socks help maintain the natural temperature of your baby’s feet, reducing the risk of overheating.
- Order these socks made by Zaples on Amazon
- Strong grips at the bottom cover the whole foot from heel to toe
- The pull tabs behind the ankle help the mom to put on and take off the socks very easily
- Order these socks made by Epeius on Amazon
- 76% combed cotton, 21% polyester and 3% spandex
- Seamless cable/ribbed knit knee high socks for babies
- Breathable
- Machine wash
- Order these socks made by SilkyToes on Amazon
- 80% Rayon from Bamboo, 10% Polyester, 5% Nylon, 5% Spandex
- Cushioned sole to keep your child’s feet comfortable
- Machine wash
- Order these socks made by Jefferies on Amazon
- Smooth toe seam provides less irritation and bulk for sensitive toes and feet
- Made with premium ultra soft cotton
- Quarter ribbed stay-up top is extra comfortable around the ankles
Hard sole shoes are best for children already walking and running, as they offer added structure, support, and protection—especially outdoors. For babies just learning to walk, soft sole shoes are ideal for promoting natural movement and balance. Once walking is steady, switch to hard soles to absorb impact and guard against rough surfaces.
