Choosing the correct saddle shoes for infants and younger children is not an easy task. Babies who not crawling or walking, do not need shoes, and it is always advised by the doctors to let them keep their feet free so they can move and develop naturally. Wearing a pair of soft knitted baby booties is the best, to keep their feet warm when the temperature is cooler. If while going out, whenever it is felt that the bay must wear shoes, then one must opt for a very soft breathable material and make sure that the shoe is plenty big enough to allow for natural movement of the foot and toes.

While crawling, they rub the top of their foot on the floor, so it is always advisable to get a soft pair of shoes for some protection when the terrain is a bit rough. Although very delicate, yet babies feet are also tough, and can withstand the chaffing caused by crawling.

Once the baby has taken a few first steps, it is time to buy their first pair of saddle shoes. During walking, it is always preferred walking bare foot, as it helps the baby to figure out how their feet work and also helps the foot develop naturally. There come some occasions when going bare foot is not practical or it is unsanitary, so one needs a good pair of saddle shoes to protect their feet from harm.
           
Such saddle shoes must be selected, that must be soft and flexible and have a non slip sole. Check that the sole is not thick so that baby can feel the floor beneath them. Also, be sure that the material is soft and breathable to keep their feet cool and comfortable.

Look at the size of the saddle shoe. It must fit the baby's feet.  The size should be such that one should be able to fit the little finger between the heel of the baby's foot and the back of the shoe, also there should be a thumbs width gap between the big toe and the front of the shoe.

The saddle shoes must be tried on, before purchasing it. Let the baby have a little walk around the shop with them on and watch to see if the shoes hinder their walking, then remove the shoes and check for any signs of pressure from the shoes on the babies' feet.

While choosing either Velcro or lace ups. One must remember that the shoes will be taken on and off a lot, so many people opt for Velcro for convenience. If laced shoes are chosen, then do not over tighten the laces or just as importantly do not tie them too loose.