According to the Robeez site, “The human foot is one of the most complicated parts of the body. At birth, feet contain only 22 partially formed bones. Over time those bones will grow and harden. In the first year, your child’s feet will reach almost half their adult size. By the age of 18, their feet will have 26 bones, 19 muscles, over 100 ligaments, and thousands of nerve endings. That’s a lot of change for something so tiny and precious. And that’s why it’s so important to select shoes that support healthy development.” Medical experts recommend a soft, flexible-soled shoe for infants and children to support healthy development. Here are three soft soled brands that we own…
Rileyroos
Rileyroos have leather uppers that are incredibly stylish and soles with rubber pads that provide support for walking development. I adore these shoes for their style and durability. The rubber padded soles make these shoes last longer than Robeez and they are actually feasible to wear in the rain and snow. Several retailers carry these shoes and I’ve found them on-line for half price. Just google “Rileyroos” with the name of the style you want and see who has the best price. My only complaint is that they stopped making these at the 24 month size.
Sizes: 6-12, 12-18, 18-24
My summer favorite: Chessie in chocolate $28
My winter favorite: Sportie in butterscotch $28
Robeez are the most well known soft soled shoe. They are made with an elasticized ankle that are made of natural, breathable leather. They are a cinch to get on and off. I do not like how I can’t put them on my son in bad weather, though. The soles end up soaked in rain and snow. The soles also scuff up easily on the sidewalk.
Sizes: 0-6, 6-12, 12-18, 18-24, 2-3 years, 3-4 years
My rear round favorite: Robeez trainer Royal $27.95
Jack and Lily
Specially designed to encourage a baby’s development, Jack and Lily state that their “beautifully appointed, soft-soled shoes invite babies to discover, touch and smile.” These shoes are a lot like Robeez. Actually, I’m not really sure of their differences, having owned both. Just like Robeez, rhese shoes cannot be worn out in the rain or snow without getting wet on the soles.
Sizes: 0-6, 6-12, 12-18, 18-24, 2-3 years, 3-4 years
Winter favorite: Cream/brown trainer $26
Summer favorite: chocolate sandal $30
