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One of the most common questions parents ask is: Should my toddler wear shoes or go barefoot when learning to walk? The answer may surprise you—going barefoot is often the best choice.
While it was once believed that toddlers needed supportive shoes with thick soles to help their feet develop properly, modern pediatric research has shown the opposite. In fact, shoes that are too structured can limit natural foot development and interfere with muscle growth and balance.
In this post, we’ll explain why barefoot walking is ideal for new walkers, when shoes are appropriate, and how to choose the best shoes for toddlers learning to walk.
Why Barefoot Is Best for New Walkers
When your child is just starting to walk, being barefoot allows their feet to move and grow naturally. Here's why it's so important:
1. Strengthens Foot Muscles
Toddler foot muscles are still developing. Going barefoot helps strengthen the small muscles in the feet and ankles that are essential for walking, balance, and arch development.
2. Encourages Natural Gait and Balance
Walking without shoes helps toddlers learn how to move with a natural gait and improves their balance. Stiff shoes can restrict foot motion and interfere with how they learn to shift their weight.
3. Supports Sensory and Proprioceptive Development
Feeling the ground beneath their feet—whether it’s carpet, hardwood, or grass—helps toddlers understand how their body moves in space. This boosts sensory input and helps develop proprioception (awareness of where their feet are in relation to their body).
When Should Toddlers Wear Shoes?
While barefoot is best indoors and on safe surfaces, shoes are necessary for:
- Outdoor walking
- Cold weather
- Uneven or unsafe surfaces
In these cases, the goal is to protect your toddler’s feet without limiting movement.
Choosing the Best Shoes for Toddlers Learning to Walk
When your child needs shoes, look for ones that support their development, not limit it. Here’s what to look for:
- Flexible Sole: Allows natural foot movement and reduces the risk of tripping.
- Lightweight Materials: Choose shoes made of cloth or soft leather so your toddler’s feet can breathe.
- Non-Slip Bottoms: Help prevent slips, especially if walking on slick surfaces.
- Flat and Close-Fitting: Avoid thick soles or elevated heels. A snug, flat shoe keeps toddlers grounded and balanced.
Can Shoes Affect My Toddler’s Walking?
Yes. Shoes that are too stiff or bulky can:
- Limit muscle development
- Interfere with balance
- Restrict natural walking patterns
That’s why experts recommend keeping new walkers barefoot as much as possible until around age 2, unless they’re walking outside or in cold conditions.
Concerned About Your Toddler’s Walking? We’re Here to Help.
If you notice your toddler walking on their toes, tripping frequently, or not walking by 15–18 months, our Physical Therapy team is here to support you. At North Shore Pediatric Therapy, we help children build the strength and confidence they need to take those important first steps—and beyond.
