Much has been written about the most suitable type of footwear for the early stages of our kids, and we have read it all to summarize the most important information for you about how long should babies wear soft soled shoes?
At birth, babies lose their body heat mainly through the head and limbs. For this reason, newborn babies are often put on a hat and socks and covered with a lullaby, even in summer.
A new baby does not need “shoes”, only protection against heat loss.
When your baby begins to crawl, it is very important that his ankles and the soles of his feet are free to experience any type of bending and torsion since these movements work all the muscles and joints that will later allow him to maintain balance. and the stability to take your first steps.
During this stage, the only need that we must cover is to protect the instep from chafing against the different surfaces on which our babies glide.
Any “Reversible” model in cotton or “Moccs” in leather will protect your insteps without interfering with the free movement of your ankles and the soles of your feet. This type of footwear is held loosely and due to its characteristics, it adapts its shape to that of the foot and not the other way around.
Also Read: Best baby booties for winter
Eventually, our babies begin to experiment with the upright position. First, holding on to all the surfaces within reach and later releasing to keep in balance until you feel safe enough to take your first steps. It is at this stage that we tend to doubt the most. Do you already need a hard sole? Do you need ankle brace? Should I choose a size larger so that it won’t be too tight?
The answer to all these questions is NO. You do not need a hard sole because the sole of your feet informs you (among many other things) of the irregularities of the terrain, which helps you to regulate your position and therefore develop your sense of balance and stability.
You don’t need ankle brace because your muscles and joints must work to get stronger.
You do not need a size more because it must feel comfortable and secure, the footwear must not be tight or loose, it must be of your exact size.
We just need a little help with possible slips.
As I have already mentioned, this type of footwear is held loosely and due to its characteristics, it adapts its shape to that of the foot and not the other way around.
Final words
In the end, it’s like everything: common sense! The development of our little ones is a process that must take place in the most natural and respected way possible.