http://shoebaby.com.au/

What To Think About When Buying Baby Shoes

The general advice is that babies should be kept barefoot or in socks. Once they start learning

to walk, baby shoes from shoebaby become more of a necessity. When that time comes there

are a number of factors to consider when making a purchase.

The soles of baby shoes should be soft and flexible so that the feet can move freely. Pick the

shoe up and bend it, if it feels stiff move on to a different one. They also need to have some

grip to prevent any unnecessary falls, so rubber soled with ridges is the best way to go.

The material should be lightweight. Babies have a hard enough time finding their balance

without any added weight. The material should also be breathable so they do not get too hot.

Babies' feet are growing and changing all the time so it is important to get the right fit. Many

stores will offer a free fitting service, and some even measure width as well as length for an

even better fit. There will be no obligation to buy.

Feet can swell up throughout the day so shopping is better done in the afternoon to be sure

you get the best fit, otherwise shoes that felt right in the morning may be too tight later in the

day.

Velcro fastenings are easier to use but the child may be able to undo them on their own. While

this can be useful when they are older and you want them to be more independent, if you have

a baby with a tendency to throw things out of the pushchair Velcro may not be a good idea.

Laces are more difficult and can still come undone easily so if you go for this option make sure

there is enough length to tie a double knot.

Open-toed footwear may look pretty, but when children are first learning to walk they will fall a

lot and these will not offer the necessary protection. Better to save those until she is a bit older

and more steady on her feet. For now, toes should remain covered to prevent injury.

Second hand can be a cheaper option but is not recommended. Infant shoes are very flexible

and mould to the shape of the foot over time, so although the right size they may be the wrong

shape. Buying new is much better for your child's feet.

Be sure to check the fit regularly, as feet grow very rapidly at this age. Leaving a child in ill-

fitting footwear could lead to problems with the development of his feet further down the line.

Keep a look out for any red marks on your child's feet that may indicate rubbing.

Some can be very expensive but there are many cheaper alternatives available like shoebaby.

Once you have had her feet measured you are under no obligation to buy from that particular

store. Baby shoes will need to be replaced regularly and the costs can quickly add up, so look

around.

http://shoebaby.com.au/