First Walkers: What Every Parent Should Know 💛

Your guide to baby’s very first shoes

Your little one has taken their first wobbly steps an exciting milestone filled with pride, giggles, and (let’s be honest) a bit of nerves. Choosing their first pair of shoes is a special moment, but it can also be a little overwhelming.

At Little Lily & Co, we’re here to take the guesswork out of first walkers and help you find the perfect fit for those tiny, growing feet.

👶 When Does Your Baby Need Their First Shoes?

Many parents assume shoes are needed the moment baby starts cruising or standing but not just yet!

👣 Before they’re walking confidently outside, bare feet are best. Barefoot walking helps develop balance, grip, and coordination as they explore the world at their own pace.

So, when is it time for shoes?

• When your child begins confident, unaided walking outdoors

• When protection is needed from rough, cold, or uneven surfaces

🧦 What Makes a Good First Walker Shoe?

Babies’ feet are soft, squishy, and still developing bones and muscles. That’s why their first shoes need to be designed with support and flexibility in mind not just style.

Here’s what to look for:

✅ Soft, flexible soles
Encourage natural movement and toe gripping

✅ Lightweight materials
Don’t weigh their little legs down

✅ Secure fastenings
Like Velcro or soft straps to keep shoes snug (but not tight!)

✅ Rounded toe box
Leaves room for wiggly toes and natural spreading

✅ Firm heel cup
Gives gentle support and stability

📏 The Fit Really Matters

Babies' feet grow rapidly and often unevenly! That’s why we recommend:

• Measuring feet professionally before buying

• Checking the fit every 6–8 weeks

• Leaving about a thumb’s width of growing room in the shoe

At Little Lily & Co, we offer foot measuring and expert fittings. It’s part of our mission to support your little one’s healthy development—one step at a time.

🧸 What About Pre-Walker Shoes?

Before outdoor steps begin, you might want soft shoes for warmth or special occasions. Look for:

• Soft suede or leather soles

• Breathable natural materials

• Flexible structure that doesn’t restrict movement

Our curated collection of pre-walkers includes stylish, podiatrist-approved designs perfect for those early milestones.

🛍️ Popular First Walker Brands at Little Lily & Co

We stock hand-picked brands trusted by parents and professionals, including:

• Start-Rite First Shoes

• Pepino By Ricosta

• Geox

All carefully chosen for growing feet and stylish little steps. You can shop pre-walkers and first shoes here - click on the link 

💬 Final Tip from Our Fitters:

“The right shoes supports natural development—not just now, but for how they’ll walk in the future. Start with quality, fit, and flexibility first—and the cute style is a bonus!”

👟 Ready to buy your baby’s first shoes?

Pop in for a free fitting, or browse our First Walkers Collection online. We’re always happy to help with sizing advice, returns, and support.

Because every journey begins with the right first steps—let’s make them count 💛

📍 We are located in the Victoria Shopping Centre in Llandudno North Wales - Click here for directions