Posted on: 25.09.2026.
Author: petra
A child’s foot has 26 bones, along with many muscles, tendons, and ligaments that are still developing. Together, they help the foot move, adapt to different surfaces, and maintain balance. During the first few years of life, the foot develops and changes rapidly. That is why it is important to give it enough freedom to develop naturally.
Why is going barefoot important? When should a child get their first shoes? And what should you look for when choosing them? We'll share the answers in collaboration with Marija Juko, a licensed physiotherapist.
Humans have always protected their feet with footwear. At first, shoes were simple, soft, and sturdy. But as mass production grew, a wide range of footwear became available, often with very stiff soles and narrow toe boxes.
Have you ever noticed how much your baby moves their toes compared to how much you move yours? A child’s foot is highly mobile and sensitive to different stimuli.
Narrow shoes restrict natural toe movement and push toes together, while stiff soles limit movement in the rest of the foot. As a result, some of that movement shifts to the ankle, while the foot muscles become less active.
Over time, this can affect the natural function of the foot. We may also feel the effects later in life, for example, as pain in the feet, hips, or back.
Remember that children’s feet are still developing and need enough freedom for natural movement and arch development.
Experts recommend that children spend as much time barefoot as possible, as walking barefoot supports foot development and overall physical development.
When we are barefoot, our feet are exposed to different sensory stimuli, from pebbles and grass to different types of surfaces. Sensory receptors in the feet detect these stimuli and send information to the nervous system.
This gives children information about the surface beneath their feet, the position of their feet, and how they are moving. It helps them adjust their movements and maintain balance.
Moving barefoot on different surfaces gives children a range of sensory experiences. This information plays an important role in learning movement, maintaining balance, and developing motor skills. When a child is barefoot, their feet can better sense the surface beneath them and naturally adapt to it.
Although walking barefoot is best for children’s feet, it is not possible in every situation. At kindergarten, in the park, or on the street, children need appropriate footwear. But what should their first shoes be like?
Before learning how to choose your baby’s first shoes, it is important to know when the right time to buy them is.
Is it when your child first starts standing? Or only when they take their first steps?
Since children should spend as much time barefoot as possible, there is no need to buy shoes as soon as they start pulling themselves up. Once your child can stand independently and starts walking outside, it is time for their first shoes. They should protect their feet from the cold, dirt, and other elements.
Choosing the right shoes for your child matters. That’s why we’ve put together some of the most common mistakes parents make when choosing their child’s first shoes.
When choosing your baby’s first shoes, consider several things.
We’ve already established that walking barefoot is best for a baby’s feet. That’s why it is important to choose shoes that allow natural foot movement.
These are shoes that can be easily bent in all directions. It is not enough for the sole to bend in the middle. Ideally, you should be able to fold the shoe into a shape similar to a snail shell. The shoe should also be flexible lengthwise.
A wide toe box is important to give the toes enough room to move freely and naturally. Instead of narrowing towards the toes, the shoe should follow the natural shape of the foot and provide enough space in the front.
Shoes like these allow the foot to develop as naturally as possible inside the shoe. They can also help reduce the negative impact footwear can have on foot development throughout childhood and into adulthood.
First steps are an important stage in a child’s development, which is why choosing the right footwear matters. Below, we highlight Froddo models that are suitable for first steps and those first days of independent walking.
A soft shoe designed for first steps indoors or for little ones who are still in a stroller.
For the Autumn/Winter 2026/27 season, it comes in two versions: with a leather lining and with a sheepskin lining. An ideal model for medium-width to wide feet.
Available in sizes 18–24.
One of our best-selling models for the youngest children and a first choice for many parents. Two hook-and-loop straps make the shoes easy to put on and take off.
Each season, the model comes in new colours and patterns. It adapts to most foot shapes and is available in sizes 20–35.
The newest model from the Autumn/Winter 2026/27 collection. A sporty-looking shoe, ideal for transitional weather and first steps.
It is designed for feet where the toes are almost the same length. Available in two versions: with two Velcro straps or laces, in sizes 20–26.
A low-cut sneaker or ankle boot designed for little ones with narrow to medium-width feet. Available in sizes 20–35.
A slightly higher shoe compared to the Zeru model. It is also designed for little ones with narrow to medium-width feet. Available in sizes 20–35.
All of the models listed above are part of our Barefoot collections and feature:
Choosing your child’s first shoes does not have to be complicated. The most important thing is to give their feet enough space and freedom to move naturally.
Let them go barefoot whenever possible, and when they need shoes, choose a pair that protects their feet without restricting their movement.
Marija Juko is a qualified physiotherapist specializing in working with children and babies, with 15 years of experience in a children’s hospital and private practices. She provides Maes and Bobath therapy for children with brain injuries and similar neurodevelopmental challenges, as well as preventive care aimed at reducing the risk of neurodevelopmental difficulties.
She currently lives in Zagreb, where she runs her own private practice. For more information, visit: @babyfitness.hr_fizio_za_djecu.
