Walkmates: The perfect fit for tiny feet

Your little one is fast becoming incredibly mobile, constantly toddling through the entire house. You can be proud for having guided them so well through this stage of their development! But when exactly is it time for them to start wearing proper shoes?

Trust your instincts on this one – you probably know best when the time has come. In general, babies and toddlers are encouraged to walk barefoot to allow their feet to develop naturally. Most doctors suggest that when they’ve started to take their first steps and are walking outside, it’s time to get their little feet into shoes.

The trick is to choose shoes that will protect little feet without hindering natural development. This is where our fantastic Walkmates range of shoes makes all the difference. 

  1. Go for comfort

    Always opt for shoes that are made with high quality materials that will promote healthy foot development and have padded footbeds for optimal comfort. Walkmates insoles provide extra cushioning and better shock absorption to protect and pamper little feet. Flexibility is key and allows growing feet the mobility that mimics the bare foot. 

  2. Easy on, easy off

    All Walkmates have adjustable closure solutions. Whether it’s easy on and off velcro, a buckle and strap system or lace-ups, we make sure that the fit will be perfect for each and every foot. 

  3. Don't cramp my style

    Make sure the shoes you pick are wide enough for her feet to rest flat with at least one finger space in front of the big toe and some wiggle room at the back.

  4. Non-slip, lots of grip

    Shoes made with non-slip or grip soles are essential for when your toddler starts walking. Rubber soles should be flexible and easy to bend. Walkmates shoes grip the surface with ridges on the base and keep little feet firmly planted on the ground. 

  5. Mine!

    Never pass on shoes from one child to another. As soon as a child wears a new shoe, it moulds itself to those individual feet. If you pass shoes on to another child, it may hinder the natural development of their unique feet.

  6. High-tech

    It’s a good idea to take a pair of socks along with you when shopping for shoes with your little ones – shoe sizes and fits will vary. All of our Walkmates shoes are tested and approved by the Podiatry Association of South Africa (PASA). 

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