The most important feature of anything that covers a baby’s feet is the size. Pre walking footwear requires particular attention. Before a child can walk the bones in the foot are very soft and prone to changing shape if restrictive footwear is placed around them.

Knitted footwear is great for keeping feet warm, but size and closeness of knit should be checked. Loose knits can wrap around toes and potentially reduce circulation. The advantage of knitwear is that it is soft and depending on the tightness of knit can be less restrictive than other materials.

When choosing baby grows always check the size of the foot part compared to baby’s foot, cramped toes are a not the way to go for a developing foot. A common mistake is to not check if baby grows have changed their size after they have been washed or dried in the drier. Always have a quick check of the foot section after every laundry.

Footwear for pre walkers should only be used to keep feet warm, as baby doesn’t need any protection if they aren’t walking. Shoes may be worn for special occasions, but as they are difficult to size, time of wear should be kept to an absolute minimum.

The main message is to ensure that any shoes placed on baby’s feet leave plenty of room for those growing feet and make sure that this is checked every time they are put on. Baby’s feet grow so quickly and they have a lot of work to do when the child starts walking. Make sure you give them the best start they can have!