Special: First-Step Shoes

Imperceptible on the Foot

Going barefoot is ideal for the healthy development of children’s feet and this is a fact known and propagated by the shoe sector. However, even with their first steps their little feet also need protection against the wet and cold and injury and this protection is offered by first-step shoes.

So what makes a good first-step shoe? "The best first-step shoe is imperceptible on the children’s foot," say the Shoe Institute in Offenbach. Consequently, first-step shoes should guarantee the greatest freedom of movement through great flexibility in the sole and around the heel and they should be able to follow any movement of the fore and back part of the foot and heel.

This can only work if the shoe fits perfectly. The Shoe Institute recommends using the WMS width measurement system. This system measures the relevant shoe’s inner length and takes into account extra room for manoeuvre and growth at the toe. At the same time, the system also ascertains the right width – wide, medium or narrow – ensuring a perfect fit over the instep and preventing squashing of the toes. Important additional information for parents: socks and tights should also leave great freedom of movement for the toes.