Best Walking Shoes for Babies

Nothing can be more satisfying for parents than seeing their baby taking their first steps. As the child learns to walk, it is obvious that it will not wish to stay in one place.

Therefore, the parent’s responsibility is to ensure that their child has a fun, colorful, and comfortable pair of shoes to help them master their talents and skills.

As babies progress in walking, they will need the best shoes for babies with a more extensive grip.


Considerations Before Buying Baby’s Shoes

While looks and appearances certainly matter a lot when buying shoes, the most important factors that must be considered are comfort and safety.

  • Safety – Safety is paramount because wearing shoes is new for babies, and they could take the time to walk and get used to it.
  • Weather – However, at the same time, it is important to ensure that the shoes protect the feet of the child from the weather, insect bites, and hard surfaces.
  • Fit – A baby learning to walk needs a shoe that fits comfortably, is the correct size, and will not slip off.
  • Grip – A good grip is essential as babies are not steady and need extra protection, particularly on slippery floor surfaces.

Adjustability Features

Choosing a shoe with proper closures, such as an adjustable Velcro strap, is vital, as babies tend to take off their shoes easily. Shoes that offer an adjustable fit also compensate for the natural growth of a baby’s foot, as babies’ feet grow quickly.

This fact also makes it important to regularly check the fit of a shoe for a baby, ensuring that they have not outgrown their shoes.


Features of a Good Shoe for Starting-to-Walk Babies

  • Fit – Ensure that the shoe fits comfortably and snugly on the baby’s foot and is not too loose or tight. A comfortable and snugly fitting heel to prevent chafing.
  • Uppers – Soft and comfortable uppers and inners that will not irritate your baby’s feet and cause chafing or blisters. Adjustable closures for a more customized fit that caters to the natural growth of a baby’s foot.
  • Cushioning – A comfortable and cushioned insole, footbed, or sock liner that provides cushioned support for delicate feet.
  • Outsole – A durable rubber outsole with the best grip and balance properties.
  • Durability – A stable and robust shoe that can tackle any terrain an adventurous baby or toddler may venture into. Durable and comfortable overall construction.
  • Designs – A fun and colorful design that will match the baby’s outfit for aesthetic purposes.

Key Specs

No.ShoeTypeClosureWidth optionsDrop / Cushion
1Stride Rite Soft MotionWalking–––
2Vans WhiteWalking–––
3Keen Child ChandlerWalkingLace-upMedium–
4Puma INFWalkingHook-and-loop––
5Carters DevinWalkingHook-and-loop––
6Adidas BaselineWalking–––
7iEvolve WalkersWalking–––
8Juicy Bumbles Soft SoleWalking–––
9Reebok ClassicWalking––EVA
10Josmo WalkerWalking–––
11Stride Rite EvelynWalking–––
12Babelvit PreWalkerWalkingLace-up––

– = not stated by the maker. Specs as stated by the maker, not tested by us.

Reviews: The Best Walking Shoes for Babies

Here are a few excellent options to consider when choosing the perfect walking shoe for your baby;


1

Stride Rite® Baby's Soft Motion Walking Shoe

Currently unavailable

This is certainly a gift of love to the little one taking the first baby steps.

  • It is made from high-quality leather, and the rubber soles offer a good grip and are long-lasting.
  • The leather upper, in particular, is incredibly supple and offers 100% comfort for the baby.
  • The outsole is very lightweight and does not put any pressure on the tender feet.
  • The leather lining certainly provides lots of breathability to the feet of the child.
  • This is from the house of Stride Rite, which has pervasive experience in this field.
  • Available colors for these baby shoes are White, Blue, and Pink


2

Vans® Baby's White Walking Shoe

Currently unavailable

This is a full canvas shoe with the finest quality rubber sole.
  • The famous Vans Footwear Classics manufactures it.
  • It is exquisite-looking, very trendy, and sophisticated.
  • The insoles are thick and well-cushioned for support and protection against bruises and punctures.
  • The rubber soles are also worth mentioning because of their quality and durability.
  • On the whole, it certainly is a good value for money.


3

Keen® Baby's Child Chandler Colorfull Walking Sneaker

Currently unavailable

This is one of the best shoes for babies, made from mesh and synthetic material.

  • This shoe is available both as imported variants and as made-in-the-USA models.
  • The quality of the rubber sole is the hallmark of this shoe.
  • It has a well-thought-out design that combines comfort, looks, and appearances.
  • The shoe has the best vulcanized construction, which goes a long way in helping free movement of air and provides the baby’s right grip.
  • It is an easy-to-wear sneaker with a strap that is easily adjustable with the best hook and loop facilities.


4

Puma® Baby's INF Comfortable Walking Shoe

Currently unavailable

Undoubtedly, PUMA is well known for bringing out the best of shoes for children.

  • This particular model caters well to infants, toddlers, and grown-up children.
  • The shoe is the best that money can buy as far as looks and comfort are concerned.
  • A feature-rich shoe that comes with a padded tongue, a collar contrasting logo, and lining overlays.
  • It also has a nice cushioning sock liner.
  • The sole is made from quality rubber.


5

Carters® Baby's Devin Stage 3 Boys and Girls Walking Shoe

Currently unavailable

Carter’s features a fun range of walking shoes specially made for a baby or toddler’s specific needs in their different walking stages; the Carter Alex is available in various color designs for boys and girls.
  • A classic fold-over style for a better fit.
  • The molded outsole ensures the best possible grip.
  • Sensory pods at the heel and forefoot provide enhanced balance.
  • The roomy and velcro-adjusting fit allows a more comfortable fit and feet to develop naturally.
  • Designed to stand and walk to ensure the best balance and grip a baby requires.


6

Adidas® Baby's Baseline Baby Sneakers for Walking

Currently unavailable

These are super cute Adidas sneakers for infants with superb support and a secure velcro closure to keep little feet comfy.

  • Durable rubber sole that offers slip resistance.
  • Comfortable closure straps for an adaptable fit.
  • Soft suede leather uppers with the Adidas logo stripes.
  • A soft and comfortable textile interior lining.
  • Comfortably cushioned footbed for little feet.


7

iEvolve® Baby's Walkers Baby Learn To Walk Shoes

Currently unavailable

For infants just starting to learn to walk, these shoes are perfect.

  • Genuine leather uppers with a soft and fluffy interior lining.
  • Lightweight and breathable design.
  • leather sole for babies just starting to walk.
  • Available in many colors with fun prints and designs for girls and boys.
  • Available in baby sizes from 6 months up.


8

Juicy Bumbles® Baby's Soft Sole Soft Sole Baby Walking Shoes

Currently unavailable

Gorgeous and fun design baby boy and girl shoes with a soft sole for babies just starting to walk.

  • The Pediatrician recommended a design promoting good walking habits and balance.
  • Soft leather uppers and soles for small and fragile feet.
  • Available in many colorful and fun prints and designs for boys and girls.
  • Durable construction with a soft, seamless interior.


9

Reebok® Baby's Classic Walking Shoe for Baby

Currently unavailable

  • The uppers are genuine, durable leather,
  • The rubber sole offers ample grip and traction.
  • There are black and white color options available.
  • The design is a low cut with an EVA midsole for cushioning.


10

Josmo® Baby's Walker Walking Shoe for Baby

Currently unavailable

  • The uppers are genuine leather, and neutral colors are available.
  • The shoes have a high-cut design and are constructed for walking.
  • The sole is a durable rubber for traction.
  • There is a cushioned insole and midsole for comfort.


11

Stride Rite® Baby's Evelyn Walking Shoe for Toddler Baby

Currently unavailable

  • The shoes are synthetic with a durable high-grip sole.
  • It is comfortable and flexible, allowing easy movement.
  • The oversized opening hook and loop closure are effortless on and off.
  • More color options are available.


12

Babelvit® Baby's PreWalker Walking Shoe for Baby

Currently unavailable

  • Comfortable suede boots for infants that are skin-friendly.
  • They are easy to wear with a drawstring adjustable closure,
  • The sole is cushioned and soft for the baby.
  • The sole also has a durable rubber for protection and grip.


Safe Walking for Your Baby

As you can see from our selection, a good quality, comfortable, and safe shoe is vital for your child’s development and walking safety.

Make sure that the shoe fits snugly and is not too loose or tight. Durability is also a factor as babies tend to tread in all kinds of terrain.


Index Table: TopRated Walking Shoes for Babies

No.ShoeImageFeaturesBrand
1Stride Rite Baby's Soft Motion - Walking Shoe
Stride Rite Soft Motion Freddie Bootie (Infant/Toddler),White,3.5 M US Toddler
  • Rubber Outsole
  • Lightweight
  • Color Variety
Stride Rite
2Vans Baby's White - Walking Shoe
Vans Baby Boys Old Skool V-K, Black, 10 Infant
  • Rubber Outsole
  • Comfort Insole
Vans
3Keen Baby's Child Chandler - Colorfull Walking Sneaker
KEEN Kids Chandler CNX Sneaker, Drizzle/Dubarry, 4 US Unisex Toddler
  • Rubber Outsole
  • Adjustable Strap
  • Comfort Insole
Keen
4Puma Baby's INF - Comfortable Walking Shoe
PUMA Unisex-Baby Suede Classic Hook and Loop Sneaker, Peacoat-Blazing Yellow, 4 M US Toddler
  • Cushioned Socliner
  • Adjustable Straps
Puma
5Carters Baby's Devin - Stage 3 Boys and Girls Walking Shoe
Carter's Boy's Devin Sneaker, White, 5 Wide Toddler
  • Sensory Pods
  • Good Grip
  • Adjustable Fit
Carters
6Adidas Baby's Baseline - Baby Sneakers for Walking
adidas Performance Baby Baseline Sneaker, White/Black/White, 7.5K M US Toddler
  • Soft and Comfortable
  • Velcro Closure
Adidas
7iEvolve Baby's Walkers - Baby Learn To Walk Shoes
iEvolve Baby Shoes Baby Toddler Soft Sole Prewalker Baby First Walking Shoes Crib Shoes Baby Moccasins(Lightblue Owl, 12-18 Months)
  • Lightweight
  • Flexible
  • Soft
iEvolve
8Juicy Bumbles Baby's Soft Sole - Soft Sole Baby Walking Shoes
Soft Leather Baby Shoes - Crib Shoes with Suede Soles
  • Soft Sole
  • Flexible
  • Comfortable Design
Juicy Bumbles
9Reebok Baby's Classic - Walking Shoe for Baby
Reebok Unisex-Baby Classic Leather Sneaker, White/Gum, 3 M US Toddler
  • Leather
  • Rubber Sole
  • EVA Midsole
Reebok
10Josmo Baby's Walker - Walking Shoe for Baby
Josmo Baby Unisex Walking Shoes First Walker, Burgundy, 2 Medium US Infant
  • Leather
  • Bootie Fit
  • Rubber Sole
Josmo
11Stride Rite Baby's Evelyn - Walking Shoe for Toddler Baby
Stride Rite 360 baby girls Evelyn Sneaker, Navy, 4 Toddler US
  • Flexible
  • Comfortable
  • Easy To Clean
Stride Rite
12Babelvit Baby's PreWalker - Walking Shoe for Baby
Babelvit Baby Boy Girl Lace Up Sneakers First Walking Shoes Soft Rubber Sole Infant Boots Unisex Ankle Strap Toddler Newborn Prewalker Outdoor Sporty Crib Shoes
  • Suede Leather
  • Bootie Cut
  • Easy Wearing
Babelvit

Sources


Update History

  • Oct 2026: Removed Stride Rite Soft Motion, Keen Child Chandler, Puma INF, Carters Devin, Adidas Baseline, iEvolve Walkers, Juicy Bumbles Soft Sole, Reebok Classic, Josmo Walker, Stride Rite Evelyn and Babelvit PreWalker (unavailable)
  • Oct 2026: Added a Key Specs table and a Sources section; checked availability of every product
  • Jun 2015: Published


About the Author

Eliza Ward

Eliza Ward is a writer, nature lover and full-time mother of three, based in South Africa. She wrote Best Walking Shoes 4 Men's guides to walking shoes and to choosing footwear for common foot concerns such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, overpronation and diabetic feet, researching products from manufacturer specifications and guidance from health authorities and citing her sources. She is not a medical professional and did not test products hands-on.