First steps – how to support your child's foot development the right way
When your child takes their first steps, a lot happens to their feet in a short time. Baby feet are soft, flat and full of cartilage – and they need space and freedom to develop naturally. Here is a guide to what happens to your child's foot in the first years of life, and how best to support it.
Why is barefoot walking important for babies?
Being barefoot is actually the best starting point for foot development. When a child walks barefoot on soft surfaces, they actively use their toes for balance, and the muscles in the foot are strengthened naturally. That is why first shoes should not be too stiff or too supportive – the foot still needs to do the work itself.
When does a baby need shoes?
Indoors on soft surfaces, barefoot is always best. Shoes become relevant when the child starts moving on hard surfaces and outdoors, typically from around 9–14 months, when the first unsteady steps are taken with help. Here, shoes provide protection without compromising natural movement.
What should you look for in your child's first shoes?
First shoes should support – not take over. Look for:
- A soft, flexible sole - so the foot can bend and work naturally
- A firm heel counter - supports the ankle without restricting movement
- A wide toe box - gives the toes room to spread
- Easy fastening - velcro is practical for busy days
- Growing room of 1–1.5 cm - baby feet grow fast
How to find the right shoe size for your child
Baby feet grow quickly, especially in the first year of life. It is important to check the size regularly, as shoes that are too small can hinder foot development.
How often should you check the size?
• In the first year: check the size every 6 to 8 weeks
• From 1 to 3 years: check the size every 2 to 3 months
• From 3 years and up: check the size every 3 to 4 months
How to measure your child's foot at home
1. Place a piece of paper on a hard floor.
2. Place your child's foot flat on the paper and make sure the heel is against a wall or a firm edge.
3. Mark the longest toe with a pencil.
4. Measure the distance from the edge to the mark in centimetres.
5. Add 1 to 1.5 cm for growing room. This is the inner sole length you should look for.
If you're unsure, our size guide helps you find the right size based on measurements in centimetres.
Prewalker or first walker: what's the difference?
Many parents are unsure about the difference between prewalkers and first walkers. Both are designed for first steps, but they suit slightly different stages of a child's development.
Prewalker
A prewalker is for a child who is not yet walking independently. It is extremely soft and flexible, almost like a thick sock with a sole, and provides minimal support. The purpose is to protect the foot from cold and hard surfaces while the child crawls and pulls up to stand, without restricting natural movement.
• For children from approx. 9 to 14 months who are not yet walking independently
• Extremely soft and flexible sole
• Protects against cold and hard surfaces
• Does not restrict movement while crawling and pulling up
First walker
A first walker is for a child who has taken their first independent steps. It has a slightly firmer sole than a prewalker but is still very flexible compared to a regular children's shoe. The firm heel counter supports the ankle while the child finds their balance.
• For children from approx. 12 to 18 months who walk independently
• Flexible sole that still lets the foot work naturally
• Firm heel counter provides ankle support without restricting movement
• Wide toe box gives the toes room to spread
What does Wheat prioritise when developing shoes for first steps?
At Wheat, the starting point is always the child's natural foot development. That means:
• Barefoot fit that mimics barefoot walking as closely as possible
• Wide toe box that gives the toes room to spread freely
• Flexible sole that lets the foot bend and work naturally
• Firm heel counter that supports the ankle without taking over
• LWG-certified leather that is soft, breathable and gentle on sensitive baby skin. Read more about LWG certification.
When barefoot isn't possible: good indoor alternatives
Barefoot walking is the ideal starting point for foot development, but it isn't always possible. In nurseries and day care, floors can be cold, and many places require children to wear something on their feet. Here are the best alternatives:
Non-slip booties and soft slippers
Booties and soft slippers are soft, sock-like shoes with a thin non-slip sole. They are the closest you get to barefoot walking indoors. They provide a little warmth and protection against cold floors but still let the foot work freely.
• Soft and flexible like a sock
• Non-slip sole helps prevent falls on slippery floors
• Gives the foot freedom to move naturally
• Easy to take on and off for both child and staff
Slippers
Slippers for little ones should be light and have a soft, flexible sole. Avoid slippers with a hard sole or supportive structure for children under 3, as the foot is still developing and needs to work on its own.
Wool tights and thick socks
On really cold floors, wool tights or thick socks with a non-slip sole can be a good choice. They keep feet warm and provide a little grip on slippery tiles, while the child still moves their foot freely.
What is a barefoot fit?
A barefoot fit means the shoe is designed to mimic barefoot walking as closely as possible. Flat profile, wide toe box and flexible sole. It promotes natural foot development and is especially important in the first years, when the foot is still developing.
When is a child ready for the next step?
When the child walks independently and confidently, typically from around 15–18 months, they can switch to a sturdier shoe or sneaker. At that point, the foot is stronger and needs more durability for everyday use rather than the soft flexibility of the very first steps.
Find the right shoes for your child's first steps At Wheat, you'll find prewalkers and first walkers from size 19 – made in LWG-certified leather with a barefoot fit and wide toe box, so your child can develop healthily from the very first steps. See our selection and find the right size for your child.
Frequently asked questions about first steps and children's shoes
When should my child get their first shoes?
Indoors on soft surfaces, barefoot is always best. Shoes become relevant when the child starts moving on hard surfaces and outdoors, typically from around 9 to 14 months, when the first unsteady steps are taken.
What is the difference between a prewalker and a first walker?
A prewalker is for a child who is not yet walking independently. It is extremely soft and flexible and protects the foot without restricting movement. A first walker is for a child who has taken their first independent steps. It has a slightly firmer sole and a firm heel counter for ankle support.
What is a barefoot fit?
A barefoot fit means the shoe is designed to mimic barefoot walking as closely as possible. This involves a flat profile, wide toe box and flexible sole that lets the foot work naturally.
Should first shoes be high or low?
Low shoes are fine for most children. High shoes with ankle support are not necessary and can actually restrict the ankle's natural movement. A firm heel counter in a low shoe provides sufficient support for first steps.
How often should I check my child's shoe size?
In the first year, you should check the size every 6 to 8 weeks, as feet grow very quickly. From 1 to 3 years, checking every 2 to 3 months is enough.
How do I measure my child's foot at home?
Place your child's foot on a piece of paper and mark the longest toe. Measure the distance in centimetres and add 1 to 1.5 cm for growing room. This is the inner sole length you should look for.
What is LWG-certified leather?
LWG stands for Leather Working Group and is an international certification for responsible and environmentally friendly leather production. Wheat's prewalkers and first walkers are made in LWG-certified leather. Read more about LWG certification.
What is Wheat's return policy?
Wheat offers a 30-day full right of return on items bought in the webshop. The return period starts on the day you receive the item. You pay the return shipping yourself, which is deducted from your refund. Create your return via the returns portal. Please note that the right of withdrawal lapses if the item has been used or damaged. Items bought from retailers must be returned to the retailer.
Does Wheat offer exchanges?
Wheat does not offer exchanges. If you would like a different item, please place a new order. Read all terms and conditions here.