Understanding when to transition your child from pre-walker shoes to first walker shoes is vitally important for their healthy foot development and growth.
In order to get this timing just right, you need to know the difference between the shoe types, and the changes that your child goes through as they begin to walk.
In this blog post, we’ll answer all of your questions, helping you find the right time to transition your child to first walker footwear and support their growth journey.
The difference between pre walkers and first walkers
Pre walker shoes (or pram shoes) and first walkers differ mainly in their purposes. Pram shoes are designed to protect your child's small and fragile feet from damage and weather, all whilst placing emphasis on style and fashion.
First walker shoes, on the other hand, maintain these style benefits, but are also podiatrist-approved for supporting and protecting kid’s feet as they begin to walk (whilst not restricting growth, movement or development).
In essence, pre-walker shoes are highly important for physical protection, but not as optimised for walking in. On the other hand, first walkers integrate different features such as cushioned ankle collars and toe guards to promote natural walking patterns whilst providing protection.
The changes in children from pre-walking to walking
The transition in children from pre-walking to walking is significant. This period of change includes the improvement, and refinement, of many motor skills. This may begin with initial waddles, often referred to as ‘first steps’, at which point the child’s gait (manner of walking) usually involves feet placed wider apart, and arms up for balance.
From this point onwards, your child will begin to refine their movement and develop a natural gait with their feet closer together, and with larger steps.
At the same time, the foot arch will begin to become more defined, and bones are fusing together. As well as this, foot muscles and ligaments are strengthening, especially when allowed to with soft and flexible first walker shoes. Finding well-fitting shoes is the key at this point.
When to switch from pre-walker shoes
The switch from pre-walker shoes is ideally made a few weeks after your child takes their first steps, because pre-walkers are more suited for protection during the ‘cruising’ stage.
It’s at this point that you should begin to mix barefoot walking with first-walker shoes. If your child is beginning to walk around the house, allow them to be barefoot as much as you can. Though, keep them in their pre-walker shoes if they’re in the pram whilst out and about and you know they won’t be walking around outside.
Essentially, pre-walkers are for use in the pram, or where necessary whilst ‘cruising’. First-walker shoes should be introduced as your child is ready to start walking around outdoors, even if in limited spells.
How to know when your child is ready for first walker shoes
You’ll know your child is ready for first walker shoes when they’re beginning to showcase confident solo walking, and at the point when you’re ready for them to walk around outside.
Whilst introducing first walker shoes is important, it’s equally important not to rush them into the shoes as soon as they take their first steps, so they have enough fully barefoot time around the house to strengthen their feet and ankles.
You may want to introduce first walker shoes for wearing in the house initially, just so your child can become used to, and comfortable with, wearing shoes.
What shoes to buy when transitioning from pre-walker to first walker
An adorable boy's first walker shoe is the rocket tan leather first walker trainer. Constructed from leather and thermoplastic rubber, these shoes are built for durability, comfort and style. With these shoes, your child will be wearing podiatrist-approved footwear which looks and feels good, and promotes natural gait and healthy development. The toe guard protects against bumps, helps toes and the shoes themselves
If you’re looking at girl’s first walkers, check out the Atlas Rose Gold Metallic First Walker Shoe. Featuring soft leather uppers and a t-bar fastening design, these adorable and stylish shoes are perfect for girls who are becoming more confident on their own two feet.
Try the Rocket Charcoal Suede First Walker Trainers for a slightly different option for boys. The suede gives a mix of class and casual in terms of style, and the charcoal colour is one of our more reserved options. These trainers are designed to support walking after they’ve taken their first steps. If the colour scheme isn’t for you, there are multiple other colours available too!
Finally, the Orion Purple Suede Boots are an option for girls and boys alike, with double hook and loop straps for an adjustable and comfortable fit. They’re also very soft and flexible, perfect for growing feet which need to move freely and healthily.