Crib Shoes – Essential or Unnecessary? Tiny and endearing, baby shoes often become a cherished item for expectant parents, serving as a delightful way to share the joyous news with family and friends. Yet, beyond their role as a symbol of the impending joy, crib shoes primarily safeguard those tender little feet from the chill. But is this just a quaint tradition or a real necessity? What should you know before purchasing your baby's first pair?
When Should You Buy Your Baby's First Shoes? Pediatricians and physiotherapists are unanimous in their advice – the longer you can delay putting shoes on your child, the better. A baby's first year is critical for the development of their bones and motor skills. As such, allowing them barefoot time and direct contact with the ground is ideal.
Nonetheless, there are times when going barefoot isn't practical, particularly during the UK's colder months. To protect little feet from the cold, as well as from wet and slushy conditions, crib shoes are a sensible choice.
What Exactly are Crib Shoes? Designed for children from birth to around 12–18 months, just before they start taking their first unsteady steps, crib shoes are essentially a snugger alternative to socks. They primarily function to keep little feet warm in less favourable weather conditions, ideal for older infants who might resist staying cozily wrapped up in a blanket while in their pushchairs.
Parents often select crib shoes for significant occasions like weddings, christenings, birthdays, or family parties. In these scenarios, the shoes not only add a touch of style to an outfit—perhaps a cute dress for a little girl—but they also keep tiny toes warm and clean.
Are Crib Shoes a Must-Have for Little Ones? In the grand scheme of things, crib shoes are not an absolute necessity. They are beneficial during the winter months, but if you’re often indoors, allowing your child to roam barefoot can aid in the natural development of their muscles, bones, and joints. During the summer, letting their feet 'breathe' is equally beneficial.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Baby's First Pair of Crib Shoes It's vital never to buy baby shoes on a whim or without trying them on, since infant feet often have high arches. To accurately gauge size, trace the furthest points of the foot on an A4 sheet of paper and then measure with a ruler. Many UK shoe shops are equipped with precise tools for measuring insole length.
Additionally, always opt for shoes with a little extra room to accommodate rapid growth. Check the fit every three months to ensure the shoes aren’t too snug, maintaining comfort as your baby’s feet grow.
What to Keep in Mind When Selecting Crib Shoes? While the aesthetics of children’s footwear are undeniably important, when looking after your child’s foot health and ensuring proper development, several other factors need consideration.
Material. Opt for crib shoes made from breathable materials. This helps prevent little feet from becoming sweaty and reduces the risk of skin irritations.
Quality of Construction. The design and construction of the footwear play a crucial role in comfort. Inspect the stitching carefully to ensure that there are no hard seams that might press uncomfortably against your baby’s feet or ankles.
Lightness and Flexibility. Crib shoes should feel like a second skin to your child, offering minimal restriction. The more flexible and lightweight they are, the better!
Effective Fastenings. It's essential that the shoes stay securely on without slipping off. Velcro fastenings are highly recommended as they can be easily adjusted to ensure a snug fit.
Size Matters. Although we previously mentioned the need for some growing room, excessively large shoes can also be problematic. For infants who are not yet walking but are kicking and moving their legs actively, oversized shoes can cause abrasions. In toddlers, too large shoes may lead them to curl their toes in an attempt to grip the floor, which can hinder proper foot development.
Crib Shoes at Zoya Fashion. Discover the charming and warm crib shoes for girls in our latest Zoya Fashion collection, designed specifically for winter. These aren’t just functional; they’re stylish too.
Who says winter footwear for children has to be dull? With delightful details such as angel wings and sparkling crowns, these shoes are designed to stand out during your winter strolls. Explore the delightful range now in the GIRL'S SHOES section.