8 Best Shoes for 1-Year-Olds: From Playdates to Tiny Walks
Navigating the exciting world of first steps? Discover the best shoes for 1-year-olds, ensuring comfort, safety, and the perfect fit for every developmental stage
Published January 7, 2025.
As your little one begins to explore the world around them, selecting the right footwear becomes a crucial part of your role as a parent. Your toddler's feet are undergoing significant changes, and their shoes can support or hinder their healthy development.
Let's consider the essentials for choosing the best shoes to support your child's growing needs.
» Give your little 1-year-old the best start with supportive and comfy shoes
Our Pick: 8 Best Shoes for 1-Year-Olds
- Best lightweight shoes for everyday play: Andy Blue
- Best shoes for first-time walkers: Riley Safari
- Best breathable shoes for hot weather: Fiona the Fairy
- Best for toddlers with flat feet: Nick B. Hardy
- Best insulated shoes for cold weather: Louis Grim
- Best shoes for toddlers with high arches: Gwen Shine
- Best waterproof shoes for rainy days: Zippy Joe
- Best shoes for toddlers with wide feet: Lexington Drive
Andy Blue Sandals
Light as a cloud but tough as nails—these sandals are ready for any adventure!
Adjustable Velcro closure
Two buckle straps
Anti-bacterial insoles
Riley Safari Sneakers
The perfect partner for your little explorer's first walking adventures.
Anti-bacterial insoles
Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
High built-in arch support
Fiona the Fairy Sandals
Keep those tiny toes cool as a breeze in these magical summer companions.
Adjustable Velcro closure
Air valves for moisture reduction
Thomas heel
Show more
Understanding Your Toddler's Developing Feet
Around their first birthday, your child's feet are undergoing critical physiological changes that will shape their future development. The arch is still forming, and you might notice what appears to be flat feet. This is entirely normal and is caused by a protective layer of fat.
Meanwhile, their bones are gradually hardening from cartilage, and their muscles are strengthening as they learn to balance and walk. These natural developments need the right environment to progress correctly.
Think of your toddler's shoes as protective gear that should work with, not against, their foot development. The goal is to protect while allowing their feet to develop naturally and strengthen independently.
» Read our parents' guide to helping your little one to walk
Essential Features to Look for in Toddler Shoes
Certain features are non-negotiable for healthy foot development when shopping for your toddler's shoes. Here are the key elements that every good toddler shoe should have:
- Flexible Soles: The sole should bend easily at the ball of the foot. This flexibility is crucial as it allows your toddler's feet to move naturally and develop strength. When you hold the shoe, you should be able to bend it with minimal effort.
- Breathable Materials: Look for shoes made from leather or mesh that allow air circulation. This feature is essential for preventing sweaty feet, which can lead to discomfort and potential fungal infections.
- Non-Slip Soles: Your toddler needs good traction as they explore different surfaces. The sole should have enough grip to prevent slips but shouldn't be so thick that it prevents your child from feeling the ground beneath them.
- Roomy Toe Box: The front of the shoe should be wide and rounded, giving your toddler's toes plenty of space to spread out naturally. This space is crucial for balance and proper bone alignment.
- Lightweight Design: Heavy shoes can tire out little legs quickly and interfere with natural walking patterns. Choose shoes that feel light when you pick them up.
» Keep your child's feet happy with breathable summer shoes
8 Best Shoes for 1-Year-Olds
1
Andy Blue Sandals
Light as a cloud but tough as nails—these sandals are ready for any adventure!
Price
$172.00 AUD
Material
Nubuck Leather
Type
Sandals
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Two buckle straps
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Andy Blue Sandals are a top pick for everyday play because they nail the perfect balance between freedom and support. The lightweight design lets little feet move naturally, while the shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles cushion every step.
What really makes them shine is their versatility—the two buckle straps and Velcro fastening ensure a secure fit whether your toddler is crawling or taking their first steps. Plus, the antibacterial insoles with built-in arch support promote healthy foot development.
2
Riley Safari Sneakers
The perfect partner for your little explorer's first walking adventures
Price
$186.00 AUD
Material
Leather
Type
High-Top Sneakers
Features
- Shoelaces + Zipper
- Extended ankle support
- Removable insole
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
What makes Riley Safari Sneakers stand out for first-time walkers is their comprehensive support system. The combination of high ankle support and shock-absorbing thermoplastic outsoles creates a secure foundation for wobbly first steps.
The clever design includes shoelaces and a zipper closure, ensuring a custom fit that stays put during those inevitable stumbles and tumbles.
The leather construction strikes the perfect balance between durability and breathability, making these shoes reliable companions for those precious early walking moments.
3
Fiona the Fairy Sandals
Keep those tiny toes cool as a breeze in these magical summer companions.
Price
$172.00 AUD
Material
Leather
Type
Sandals
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Fiona the Fairy earn their spot as the best breathable option by thoughtfully combining protection and airflow. The closed-toe design keeps little feet safe while maintaining exceptional ventilation—crucial for those hot summer days.
What parents particularly love is the lightweight construction that doesn't compromise on support, featuring an integrated arch support system that keeps developing feet healthy.
The adjustable Velcro closure makes quick changes a breeze, perfect for squirmy toddlers during those warm weather outfit changes.
4
Nick B. Hardy Sandals
These sandals help little feet find their perfect path.
Price
$172.00 AUD
Material
Leather
Type
Sandals
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Two buckle straps
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
The twin adjustable straps on Nick B. Hardy aren't just for show—they're strategically placed to hold feet in the optimal position. Meanwhile, the antibacterial inserts and built-in arch support help correct alignment issues.
Parents love that these stability-focused features are wrapped in a practical package that works for everything from daycare adventures to playground explorations.
5
Louis Grim Vintage Boots
Rich walnut boots that will always stay on trend. Manufactured from high-quality calfskin.
Price
$186 AUD
Material
Leather
Type
High-Top Boots
Features
- Two adjustable Velcro straps
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
These vintage-inspired boots earn their winter-warrior status through thoughtful cold-weather features. The calfskin leather construction keeps tiny feet toasty while still allowing enough breathability to prevent sweaty situations.
What makes Louis Grim truly special is how they combine cold-weather protection with developmental support. The high-top design and adjustable Velcro straps provide crucial ankle stability for growing feet, while the shock-absorbing outsoles ensure confident steps even on slippery winter surfaces.
6
Gwen Shine
Supporting little feet to shine their brightest every day!
Price
$172.00 AUD
Material
Leather
Type
Sandals
Features
- Adjustable Velcro closure
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
These sandals stand out as the go-to choice for high-arched feet by offering exceptional support without sacrificing comfort. They're thoughtfully engineered with cushioned insoles that cradle high arches perfectly, while maintaining enough flexibility for natural movement.
The soft leather construction and strategic ventilation make Gwen Shine a dream for narrow feet that need extra attention. Plus the non-slip soles ensure steady steps for confident explorers.
7
Zippy Joe Boots
Splash, play, and stay dry—these boots make rainy days the best days.
Price
$186.00 AUD
Material
Nubuck Leather
Type
Boots
Features
- Shoelaces + Zipper
- Extended ankle support
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
- Air valves for moisture reduction
- Thomas heel
Why it's a top pick
Zippy Joe Boots earn their rainy-day reputation by combining serious waterproofing with smart design features. The nubuck leather construction keeps water out while letting feet breathe.
The innovative combo of shoelaces and zipper means they're easy to put on but won't budge during puddle-jumping adventures.
8
Lexington Drive Sneakers
Multicoloured sneakers specifically designed for putting on and taking off shoes, hassle-free!
Price
$172.00 AUD
Material
Leather + Nubuck Leather
Type
Sneakers
Features
- Three adjustable Velcro straps
- Anti-bacterial insoles
- Anti-scratch/scuffs toe cap protector
- Shock-absorbent thermoplastic outsoles
- High built-in arch support
Why it's a top pick
These colorful kicks, with their three-strap Velcro system, offer customisable width adjustments that grow with your child. What makes them extra special is how they combine arch support and antibacterial insoles with kid-friendly features like bright colors and easy-to-use closures.
Lexington Drive's ability to handle both indoor and outdoor adventures while maintaining comfort for wider feet makes it a standout choice for active toddlers.
Impact on Motor Development
The right shoes play a crucial role in your toddler's physical development. Poor footwear choices can lead to several developmental challenges:
- Balance Issues: Inappropriate shoes can create an unstable foundation, leading to frequent falls and decreased confidence in walking.
- Coordination Problems: Restricted foot movement can interfere with developing essential coordination skills.
- Muscle Development Concerns: When shoes limit natural foot movement, leg and foot muscles may not develop properly, potentially leading to long-term issues.
- Altered Walking Patterns: Uncomfortable shoes might cause your toddler to develop unusual walking patterns to compensate for discomfort.
» Understand how choosing the right footwear helps prevent injuries
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to look for. These are the warning signs that should make you put a pair of shoes back on the shelf:
- Stiff Construction: Any shoe that doesn't bend easily could restrict your child's natural foot movement and muscle development.
- Poor Fit: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause blisters and affect walking patterns. Ensure there's enough room for growth but not so much that the shoe slips off.
- Non-Breathable Materials: Synthetic materials that don't allow airflow can create a humid environment perfect for fungal growth.
- Elevated Heels: Even slight heel elevation can affect your toddler's balance and posture. For proper development, stick to flat soles.
» Check out why orthopaedic shoes are a game-changer for kids
Nurturing Healthy Foot Development
Witnessing your child's first steps is an unforgettable moment. These precious milestones deserve the right foundation, and choosing the right footwear is crucial.
First Walkers understands this, with shoes designed specifically for growing feet. Features like arch support and cushioned heel cups promote proper foot development, ensuring a strong and healthy foundation for future activities. Convenient closure options, from Velcro to zippers, make getting your little one ready for their adventures easy.
Beyond providing essential support, First Walkers shoes are designed to be both comfortable and stylish. With various adorable designs, you can find the perfect pair to match your child's unique personality. Let them explore the world with confidence and style, knowing their feet are receiving the best possible care.
» Prioritise comfort and support with shoes designed for 1-year-olds
Disclaimer: First Walkers' information is intended for educational and informational purposes related to toddler footwear and feet. We encourage you to consider individual circumstances and consult qualified orthopaedists about specific conditions.
