15 Best Baby Walking Shoes in 2023

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Celebrate baby's first steps with a new pair of kicks that will have them walking in style and comfort.

A baby's first steps are a momentous occasion in the life of new parents. And it happens quickly. One moment you have a crawling baby, and the next, they pull themselves up and in the blink of an eye, they take their first steps. Make sure your little one's feet are protected with our picks for the best baby walking shoes. From moccasins and sandals to sneakers and Mary Janes, these are the cutest, most comfortable baby shoes that will keep tiny feet supported with every step.

If you're a parent looking for a pair of shoes for your first-time walker, you're likely aware that there are many choices for baby shoes — and all of them a swoon-worthy. But you want to be sure you are buying the right pair to give your new walker the support they need for their newfound skill (in addition to the adorable aesthetics, of course). The same goes for godparents or other loved ones searching for baby gift ideas. Whether you're shopping for a baby boy, a baby girl, or looking for a unisex baby gift, there's a pair of kicks on this list that will work for you.

Read on for all of our top picks for the best walking shoes for babies in 2023, as well as what to look for and answers to frequently asked questions.

These adorable shoes are specifically made for early walkers and come in 16 different styles. Sizes 0-5 months feature a soft suede sole, while sizes six and up have a split rubber sole for added traction and support.

Pink rabbit Mary Janes! Bunny ears give this shoe a whimsical feel, while rubber soles offer traction for outdoor walking. Does it get any cuter than this?

Thanks to a squeak pad right under the baby's heel, you always know where your new walker is going. Don't worry. There's an off button. The breathable fabric keeps feet cool, and the velcro strap makes for a roomy feel.

Wear this fashionable pair of sandals with or without socks for a fresh, breathable fit. Tiny tootsies are protected with a rounded, covered toe. Front and back velcro make for a secure fit that is easy to put on and take off.

The classic Converse style is pared down for tiny feet. The sturdy canvas wipes clean, and the striped pull tabs help get the shoes onto wiggly feet.

Soft leather moccasins are perfect for new walkers. The lightweight yet durable sole makes it easy for feet to feel the ground beneath them, making steps feel more natural. Many parents suggest using this shoe as a transition from crawler to walker. The soft shoe protects the top of the baby's feet while crawling and offers protection once walking starts.

Think of these as socks but with protective soles. The unique soles are made from memory foam, so they shape to baby's feet, creating a comfortable walking experience. Plus, they are machine washable.

The flexible, non-skid sole is great for little ones who are constantly on the go — no matter the weather or occasion. The breathable mesh outer material keeps feet cool and dry.

An oversized opening makes on and off easy for wide baby feet, and the memory foam footbed adds extra cushion. The cradle-like construction hugs the foot for added support.

This all-occasion sneaker has reinforced toe caps, a no-slip tongue, and non-skid soles, perfect for every day, from party to play.

This animal-themed shoe is made from ventilated, soft premium-grade leather, providing a breathable space that keeps your baby's foot cool and dry. An elastic ankle ensures that the shoes stay securely on the feet.

Baby Nikes? Yes, they do exist. These Air Force One's are not only adorable but offer the same support and traction as the adult versions.

The interior of these shoes offers extra padding, so little feet are totally protected. The bright canvas is fade-resistant and machine-washable. The elastic laces provide a secure fit.

Flexible structure and secure lacing make this the perfect shoe for beginning walkers. The patented Geox sole offers superior breathability, no matter how active your little walker is planning to be.

Merino wool makes this shoe a comfy, cozy choice for tiny feet. Added cushioning absorbs impact and distributes weight for consistent, buoyant comfort under each step.

✔️ Wide toe box: Make sure that the shoe you choose has a wide toe box, which gives tiny toes room to spread out and most closely mimics barefoot walking.

✔️ Comfortable fit: A shoe should neither be too big nor too small. But, if your child is between sizes, you should size up. A too-tight shoe can cause blisters, chaffing, and overall discomfort.

✔️ Flexibility: Flexible shoes are essential because they more closely mimic the natural movements of a baby's foot. Flexible shoes are also lightweight, meaning they won't weigh your baby's feet down, making it easier to take step after step.

Christina Montoya Fiedler is a Los Angeles-based freelancer with over 15 years of experience writing for online publications. Her work can be seen in Good Housekeeping and Woman's Day, where she covers everything from gift guides to personal essays. She holds a B.A. in English from Chapman University and is working toward her Early Childhood Education teaching credentials.

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