Grookz Baby Shoes: Best Baby Shoes for New Walkers

Grookz Baby Shoes is passionate about ensuring your baby’s foot development is optimal. Our team at Grookz, in collaboration with Babylist editors, has curated this guide, aimed at helping parents choose the best shoes for their budding walkers. Whenever you shop through links on our site, a commission may be earned which aids us in continuing our mission.

Best Baby Shoes for New Walkers with Grookz

The market is saturated with choices when it comes to baby shoes, ranging from soft-soled to hard-soled and everything in between, including stylish sandals and sneakers. However, for those little feet that have just started their walking journey, Grookz Baby Shoes stand out as a top choice for promoting healthy foot development.

With fewer brick-and-mortar baby stores in the US, determining the right shoe size and style for your baby has become a bit challenging. Not to worry, as we’ve consolidated expert advice to help you make informed decisions. We also offer a downloadable chart to measure your baby’s shoe size, especially handy for online shopping.

Disclaimer: This article caters to babies and toddlers without physical developmental delays or mobility aids. If your child has unique needs, always consult their pediatrician.

When Should Babies Start Wearing Shoes?

As soon as they start walking, typically around their first birthday. While learning to walk, it's actually recommended for babies to be barefoot, as quoted by Dr. Tracey Agnese, a pediatrician and mother. Shoes are only necessary to shield their tiny feet when outdoors. So, before they start walking, avoid confining their feet in shoes unless it’s for photo sessions!

For non-walkers, if you're concerned about chilly feet, booties, like Grookz’s cozy line, are perfect. They’re super comfortable and ensure the feet develop naturally.

Choosing the Right Baby Walking Shoes with Grookz

When opting for baby shoes, look for:

• Comfort (ensure the right fit)
• Nonskid rubber sole
• Soft and flexible sole (should bend easily)
• Velcro straps
• Sturdy yet flexible heel cup
• Wide toe box
• Slight toe rise
• Pull loop at the back

The American Academy of Pediatrics stresses the importance of comfort and nonskid rubber soles. And remember, while shoes like Grookz offer the protection your baby needs, being barefoot is the natural choice for them.

Soft-soled vs. Hard-soled Shoes

Grookz recommends soft-soled shoes for new walkers. They’re light, flexible, and support foot positioning. Don’t mistake these for moccasins; walking-friendly soft-soled shoes come with thick enough soles to protect from rough surfaces.

Hard-soled shoes, being more rigid, are best avoided for new walkers. They’re ideal for toddlers who are more active.

Measuring Baby Shoe Sizes with Grookz

Ensuring the right fit is paramount. Here’s how Grookz helps you measure:

1. Download our shoe size chart.
2. Place the chart on a flat surface. Make your child stand on it, ensuring their feet are aligned properly.
3. Mark where the longest toe ends. Measure against the inches to determine the size.
4. Once you have Grookz shoes, ensure the fit is right. An ideal gap is about half an inch between the big toe and shoe front.

Remember, kids’ feet grow fast, so make it a habit to check the fit regularly with Grookz’s recommended monthly checks.