Pram shoes are designed with babies’ foot health at the forefront. Designed specifically to allow feet to breathe and move naturally, they are also intended to protect little feet from the elements when out and about.
Understanding the function of pram shoes and the ways in which they can protect feet is important for helping you to make an educated decision regarding the pre-walker shoes you buy for your child.
Pram shoes/pre-walker shoes/booties: Explained
Pram shoes (also known as pre-walker shoes or booties) are stylish footwear designed primarily for wearing whilst your child is in the pushchair, before and during the transition towards first walkers.
They’re not actually designed for outdoor walking, rather for keeping little feet warm outside as well as protecting them from rain and wind. This is why they’re most suitable for younger children who aren’t necessarily competent walkers yet.
Check out our dedicated blog for more information: ‘All About Pre Walker Shoes’.
What are pram shoes made to do?
Pram shoes are made primarily to protect babies’ feet from the elements in the pram whilst acting as an aesthetically preferable alternative to more traditional booties. The following are a few key benefits of pram shoes:
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Warmth - Whilst designed to be breathable, pram shoes can add extra protection against the cold.
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Comfort - They’re designed to be loose-fitting, allowing wiggle-room for little toes. This is why they’re crafted from materials such as suede, leather and cotton, which are soft on delicate skin.
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Aesthetic appeal - Pram shoes are a gorgeous addition to any outfit, which is one of their main points of appeal.
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Shoe familiarisation - Using pram shoes before your child has even taken their first steps can be ideal for helping your child to become accustomed to wearing shoes.
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Support for early movements - Pre-walker shoes aren’t designed for little ones to walk in, but they can be suitable for supporting early shuffles and wobbles. They are flexible enough to allow your child to become used to using their feet to move around, becoming familiar with the sensations of the feet.
Check out our baby boy pram shoes and baby girl pram shoes today!
Can pram shoes protect your babies’ feet?
Understanding the ways pram shoes do (and don’t) protect your child’s feet is important. Pram shoes aren’t designed for walking in, so they’re not built to protect from objects you might find on outdoor surfaces, such as sharp stones or broken glass.
However, they will protect your babies’ feet from cold weather, wind and general wear whilst in the pram.
They’ll also protect and encourage healthy foot development thanks to their non-restrictive build and soft materials, and will be useful for supporting every shuffle and wobble on the journey towards first steps.
Find out whether pram shoes are good for babies’ feet.
Our top pram shoe picks
Our first new pram shoe we’d recommend is the Nova Mushroom Suede Soft Sole Trainer. These shoes are designed with delicate comfort in mind, which is why they’re crafted from soft suede, with a chrome free leather lining.
The adorable mushroom colourway means these pram shoes are perfect for pairing with almost any outfit, and they’ll allow your child’s toes to wiggle freely and develop whilst in the pram.
Next, the Alba Pink Sparkle Suede Soft Sole Bootie is a more playful option thanks to the sparkle pink suede. The pink stitching detail adds an extra touch of class to these soft-soled booties which will have your child’s feet feeling warm, cozy and free.
Removable happy toe zone insoles add extra sizing peace of mind, and sturdy cotton laces allow for an adjustable comfortable fit.
The Zora Rose Gold Metallic Soft Sole T-Bar shoes feature soft leather uppers and lining for durable comfort. These quality pram shoes are soft, protective and stylish, perfect for any little one during their pre-walker stage.