Every parent imagines the moment when their precious baby will take those first toddling steps. It’s a moment you’ll always remember. But what about all the steps that come after? Those sweet baby feet are going to need some shoes to protect them as they head out into the world.
Your baby’s first shoes are among the most important you’ll buy. Babies who are just starting to walk have special needs when it comes to shoes, and the wrong shoe can make it difficult for babies to practice walking. I’ll give you the information you need to choose the best baby boy shoes.
The Best Shoes for Baby Boys in 2021
With two preschool-aged boys, I’ve bought my fair share of baby boy shoes. I’ve put together a list of some of my favorites to help you choose the best baby boy shoes for your son.
My overall best baby boy shoe is the BirdRock Baby Fringeless Moccasins. I love these shoes because they have a soft sole, making it easy for babies to practice walking while still protecting their feet. The soles are made of leather, so they’re not only flexible but will also get a good grip on any surface.
These moccasins have elastic to keep them on your baby’s feet. The insides are soft, so you don’t have to worry about blisters or other irritations. They come in a variety of colors, so you’re sure to be able to find a pair to match every outfit.
BirdRock is committed to customer service. They have a 100% satisfaction guaranteed policy and will give you a refund if you’re not happy with their shoes, no questions asked. They also donate enough money to feed a child for a day with every pair of shoes sold.
If you have a little boy who’s always on the go, I recommend the Nike Flex Runners. These shoes have the support and quality you’d expect from Nike, making them the ideal shoes for those kids who skip the walking stage and go straight to running.
These Nikes have leather bottoms and leather supports on the side to give your child the flexibility and stability he needs while running, stopping on a dime, and taking sharp turns. The insides are lined with extra cushioning, adding to the support. Mesh on the top keeps your baby’s feet cool.
The Flex Runners are stylish with a classic Nike style. They come in a variety of colors, from basic black or gray to brighter colors like orange and turquoise. An elastic strap on the front and back adds to the style and makes the shoes easy to get on and off of a wiggly little one.
Robeez is a popular name in baby shoes, and for a good reason. These shoes are designed to give your child an experience as close to barefoot as possible while still protecting their feet while outside. These are great shoes for early walkers, as they allow them to walk naturally.
These shoes have a brushed leather bottom to give your child some extra grip while walking on slippery surfaces. The uppers contain leather, and some mesh or canvas, depending on the style you choose. These shoes are very flexible and have cushioning inside for added support and protection.
One thing I love about these shoes is that they’re easy to get on and off. Many babies don’t wear shoes until they begin walking, and it is not easy to put shoes on wiggly baby feet. Putting on Robeez is as easy as putting on a sock. They fit snugly, so you won’t have to worry about them falling off.
Nothing is cuter than a pair of high tops on a little boy. My choice for best baby boy shoes in high tops are the KaKaKiKi sneakers. They come in a variety of styles and colors. Some have a strap for easy off and on, while others have laces if you’re going for a laced-up look.
The upper part of these shoes is made of durable cotton or canvas, making them great for babies who aren’t yet walking or who are just taking their first few steps. The bottoms have some grips to help keep your child from slipping.
These shoes are more about style and are probably a better option for indoor use or for outings that don’t require a lot of walking. The sizes only go up to age 18 months, so they’re not designed for active toddlers. The shoes are affordable, so you can pick up a few pairs to match with different outfits.
One of the most frustrating things about baby shoes is keeping them on your baby’s feet. Many shoes pop right off, which can get annoying if you’re away from home and you don’t notice until it’s too late. I like Gerber’s Double Strap Joggers because they’re designed to stay on even the wiggliest little feet.
These shoes come in two different styles. One has the classic double strap closure seen on many baby shoes. The other style has one strap and stretchy laces (no tying required). Both styles are secure on your child’s foot.
These shoes have a durable rubber sole and a leather and mesh upper. They’re perfect for rough and tumble boys but are also extraordinarily light. They have a toe cap, which is great for toddlers who tend to be clumsy. They come in a range of colors and are both cute and functional for new walkers.
Crocs are back in fashion in a big way, especially with the younger set. I love Crocs for baby boys because they’re so easy to get on and off, and they’re cute. These Crocs for toddlers come in some fun prints that your little boy will love, such as sharks, rockets, and hamburgers/hotdogs.
Crocs are one of the best baby boy shoes because they can be worn almost anywhere. They have wide soles, making them a solid choice for kids who aren’t steady on their feet just yet. They grip well enough to be worn while playing outside and at the playground. They’re also made to get wet, so that you can wear them to the pool or beach.
I love Crocs for the summertime. They’re lightweight, making them a good choice for hot days. They’re also ventilated for added coolness. They won’t hold water and they’re easy to wash off after a day outside. Just hose them off and go.
Native has grown in popularity for babies and toddlers in recent years. I love that the Native Shoes Jefferson is adorable with a swimsuit or with a dressy outfit, and this baby version is too cute. These shoes are ideal for active little boys who are just beginning to walk.
The upper of these shoes is similar to a sock with a 3D knit to make it durable. The sole is made of TPR and has a toe cap to protect your little boy’s toes when he inevitably runs into something. There’s one fixed lace, so the Jefferson is easy to get on and off but also offers a snug fit.
These shoes come in several fun colors. If they get dirty, you can throw them in the washing machine. They’re also incredibly lightweight, making them a good choice for outdoor play or a day at the beach. Native strives to use environmentally friendly products and minimize waste.
How to Choose the Best Shoes for Baby Boys
Buying shoes for baby boys, especially beginning walkers, is a tough decision. It’s more than just picking the pair of shoes you think is the cutest. Consider how the shoes are made and what materials are used to make sure you’re getting shoes that won’t cause problems for your new walker. You’ll also want to look for shoes that are easy to get on and off but also fit snugly.
Baby feet are different from adult feet. The bones aren’t fully formed, so it’s important to choose shoes that fit properly and let your baby go barefoot most of the time.
Look for shoes with a flexible sole and not too much grip, as it makes your baby walk awkwardly. Opt for natural materials that allow your baby’s foot to breathe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shoes for Baby Boys
Q: When should babies start wearing shoes?
A: Babies don’t need shoes until they’re beginning to walk, and once walking, they only need them outside. It’s best to walk barefoot as much as possible.
Q: What kind of shoes should babies wear?
A: New walkers need flexible shoes that allow their feet to move as if barefoot.
Q: Is it bad for babies to wear shoes?
A: There’s no harm in occasionally putting your baby in a pair of shoes when he isn’t walking and as long as it fits properly.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Shoes for Baby Boys
When choosing the best baby boy shoes, it’s important to choose a shoe that’s flexible enough for your child when he’s in the early stages of walking. Look for a sole with just the right amount of grip and stick with natural materials.
I like the BirdRock Baby Fringeless Moccasins because it has everything your baby needs. It’s lightweight and flexible. It’s made of natural materials and has elastic to make it fit snugly. It’s a great choice for your baby boy.
