The first shoes of a child are one of the most important and emotional milestones in their life. They represent the beginning of a new chapter, when the child starts to explore the world in a different way and take their first steps.
The first pair of shoes is usually made from soft and comfortable materials to provide maximum support without restricting the child’s movement. Choosing the right shoe is especially important for the development of their feet, as children’s feet are still very sensitive, and the right shoe helps support healthy growth.
For parents, the first pair of shoes carries emotional significance. It marks the first step towards the child’s independence, and many parents see it as a moment of pride and joy. Watching your child walk for the first time in their own shoes is an unforgettable moment that remains forever etched in memory.
The process of buying the first pair of shoes is often accompanied by anxiety about whether the shoe fits properly, if it is comfortable, and whether the child will be able to walk easily. While shoes are largely symbolic, they are also a practical tool that will accompany the child with every step, helping them grow and build confidence during their first adventures in the world.
Ultimately, this moment is a celebration of growth, change, and discovery, and the first pair of shoes becomes part of the child’s first big story—a story filled with joy, pride, and excitement for all that is to come.
Choosing a child’s first pair of shoes is an especially important process, as the first steps and the proper development of the feet are critical to the child’s future mobility. Here are some important criteria to consider:
1. Comfort and Flexibility
The first shoe should be comfortable and offer enough flexibility to allow the child to move naturally. The first months or years are when a child’s feet grow and form, so the shoe should have a soft sole and be flexible enough to allow the foot to bend and move freely.
2. Proper Size
Size is the most important criterion. Shoes should be neither too big nor too small. They should leave enough room for the child’s toes but should not be loose. A good way to check the size is to leave about 1–1.5 centimeters between the toes and the front of the shoe. Also, it’s a good idea to measure the child’s feet every 2–3 months, as children grow quickly.
3. Arch and Ankle Support
It is very important that the shoe provides good support to the arch and ankle. Proper support helps the foot develop correctly and prevents future problems. Look for shoes with a lightweight but firm sole that supports the foot without restricting movement.
4. Materials and Breathability
The materials from which the shoe is made are equally important. First walking shoes should be made from natural and breathable materials, such as genuine leather or high-quality fabrics, to allow the foot to “breathe” and to avoid sweating or irritation.
5. Safety
The child’s safety is just as important. The shoe should have a non-slip sole to reduce the risk of falls. An easy way to check this is to look at the surface of the sole: if it has grooves or patterns that provide good grip, then it is safer for those first steps.
6. Ease of Wearing
Since children don’t always have the patience or ability to tie or fasten shoes, the first pair should be easy to put on. This could mean Velcro straps or elastic bands that keep the foot secure without the need for complicated fastening.
7. Aesthetics and Preferences
Although the first shoes should primarily be functional and comfortable, it’s also nice to choose designs and colors that the child likes or that match their personality. This can make the process of wearing shoes more enjoyable for the little one.
8. Suitable for the Intended Use
If the child is just beginning to walk and spends more time indoors, you may prefer shoes that are suited for indoor use (e.g., soft-soled shoes). For outdoor use and more intense activity, the shoes should be more reinforced.