Experts say

Most babies are born with normal and healthy feet. Good care during their growing years will help keep them that way in the years to come.

When babies begin to crawl, foot wear is not required except for outdoors or in cold weather.

Most babies will walk anywhere between nine and 18 months, and the main function of shoes is to protect their feet from surfaces.

Walking barefoot allows sensory stimulation and helps exercise small muscles of the feet and toes. Therefore, shoes should be soft and pliable, fit securely, but, allow room for movement. It is important shoes fit properly. Poor fitting can lead to foot deformities later. Ensuring a good fit will help keep little feet in good condition.

The overall features of soft soles allow the child's foot to develop in a normal fashion. The shoe is flexible enough that it does not inhibit the ability of the child's foot muscles to function properly and to develop properly. The materials allow the child's skin to breathe and do not restrict the normal perspiration which occurs. The materials will be instrumental in protecting the child's foot from any stray foreign objects, which might otherwise injure the child's foot.