A child's first steps are a special moment. During this time, parents often wonder which shoes are suitable, when they're needed, and what the differences are between the many types of children's shoes. Two terms that are often used are "pre-stepper" and "first step shoe ." They seem very similar, but the difference between the two is crucial for the healthy development of children's feet.
At Maxime Schoenen, we always follow one basic rule: children's shoes for the very youngest are always made of 100% high-quality leather , never fabric or synthetic materials. Leather shoes breathe, conform to the foot, and offer precisely the support young feet need—without weighing them down.
What is a pre-stapper?
A pre-walker is a soft, supple leather shoe for children who cannot yet stand or pull themselves up independently. During this stage, they are primarily crawling, rolling, and exploring, but they are not yet actively putting their weight on their feet. Their foot muscles and joints are developing rapidly during this period and should be given complete freedom to move.
A pre-walker protects the feet while crawling, but doesn't provide support. The heel is soft, without counter-fort, allowing the foot to flex naturally and the muscles to work freely. The sole is very flexible and made of lightweight rubber that flexes with every crawling and sitting movement. Thanks to the breathable leather, the feet also stay dry and comfortable.
When do you choose a pre-stepper?
As long as a child can't stand or pull themselves up independently, they should wear a pre-walker. Some models are ideal for indoor use, similar to a soft slipper, while others have a soft rubber outsole so they can also be worn briefly outdoors.
From the moment a child starts pulling themselves up, taking steps, or moving from piece of furniture to piece of furniture, their needs change. Then it's time for real support: the first walking shoe .
What is a first step shoe?
A first walking shoe is designed for children who are making their first real walking movements. They're practicing their balance, keeping themselves upright, walking with a hand, or taking their first free steps. At this point, stability becomes crucial, as motor skills develop rapidly.
A good first-step shoe has a sturdy heel counter—the reinforced heel piece that keeps the heel straight. This support helps teach proper walking motion and prevents the ankle from rolling inward. The style is often cut slightly higher, reaching around the ankle, for extra stability and to slow down excessive toe-toeing.
Why is the buttress so important?
Under the age of two, a large part of the foot is still made of cartilage. This is soft and malleable, and therefore requires support. A firm heel supports the rolling motion of the foot and helps children develop a natural, stable gait. The sole remains flexible—especially at the toes—so the foot can roll freely as it should. And, as always with Maxime Shoes: the upper and lining are made entirely of breathable, high-quality leather.
Why the difference between the two phases is so important
While the transition from pre-walkers to first-walking shoes may seem small, the difference in the development of children's feet is enormous. During the crawling phase, feet should be able to move freely, unsupervised. But once a child begins to stand and walk, their feet need structure to develop healthy, stable gaits.
A soft model, actually meant for crawling, doesn't offer that support. That's why it's essential that parents switch to first-step shoes at the right time.
How much room does a child need to grow?
For the smallest sizes, there's approximately 12 mm of room for growth. This is just enough to allow the toes to move freely, without the shoe feeling too loose or unstable.
How often do I measure the feet?
Because feet grow rapidly in the first few years of life, it is wise to have them measured every three to four months — in the store or using our sizing guide.
Why choose leather children's shoes?
Leather is the best material for young feet: it breathes, prevents sweaty feet, conforms to the foot, and offers stability without being stiff. Fabric or synthetic shoes don't provide enough support and can feel warm and sweaty. For a child just taking their first steps, a well-formed leather shoe isn't a luxury—it's an absolute necessity.
Conclusion: From crawling to walking — each stage requires its own shoe
Pre-walkers are ideal for babies who are crawling, sitting, and exploring the world without standing on their feet. They protect the feet without providing support. A first-walker shoe, on the other hand, supports the child as they begin to walk, provides stability around the heel and ankle, and helps them learn a healthy walking gait.
Want to be sure you're making the right choice? At Maxime Shoes, we're happy to help with personalized advice and an extensive collection of high-quality leather pre-walkers and first-step shoes, tailored to every foot and every stage of development.
