Moccasin shoes, or "mocs" for short, are soft, flexible shoes for babies designed to support natural foot development. They have flat, thin soles that allow a full range of motion. The uppers are made of soft leather or suede that wraps around the foot for maximum comfort.
Moccasins help promote proper foot development in infants by allowing full foot flexion and toe spreading. The flexible soles let babies grip the floor while the soft materials prevent irritation.
Shoes For Baby First Steps | Moccasin Shoes
Benefits of baby moccasins
Flexible sole
The thin, flexible sole of baby moccasins lets infants walk and explore naturally. This helps strengthen foot muscles and ligaments that are important for balance and stability. The barefoot-like feel also enhances sensory feedback.
Room to grow
Quality baby mocs have uppers made from stretchy materials like leather and suede. This gives growing feet plenty of room without being too loose. Many also have adjustable closures across the ankle for a secure, customizable fit.
Things to consider when buying baby moccasins
Sole thickness
Look for mocs with soles between 1-3mm thick. Any thicker and they may inhibit foot flexibility. Check that the sole bends easily across the ball of the foot.
Ankle support
Choose mocs that close securely around the ankle. Elasticized ankles with Velcro closures are ideal for adjusting sizing over time.
Materials
High-quality leather or suede uppers will be soft and durable. Make sure any seams are clean and tucked away from friction points. Soles should be flexible natural rubber or leather.
Top moccasin brands for babies
Freshly Picked
Known for their soft leather mocs with cute patterns and fringe details. They have elastic ankle bands for adjustability.
Robeez
Offers a huge selection of leather and suede mocs in lots of colors and styles. From dinosaurs to polka dots, they have endless themes and designs.
Mom 2 Mom boutique
Specializes in handmade leather baby shoes with custom embroidery options. They also make mocs from vegan materials.
Styles of baby moccasins
Soft sole
Flexible, thin outsole made of leather or rubber. Best for indoor, barefoot-like wear.
Hard sole
Has a thicker crepe or rubber outer sole while keeping a soft upper. Provides more durability for outdoor wear.
Booties
Comes up higher on the ankle and may have coordinating outerwear. Keeps ankles warm and protected.
Getting the right fit
Measuring baby’s feet
Use a Brannock device, soft measuring tape, or piece of paper to measure feet length and width. Compare to size charts, allowing at least a thumb width of growing room in the longer foot.
Allowing room to grow
Look for mocs made with stretchy leathers that will accommodate slightly wider feet over time without being loose initially. Adjustable closures across the instep also help achieve a perfect custom fit.
First steps wearing tips
Around the house
Let babies get used to crawling and cruising around in moccasins first. The flexible sole and soft materials help promote balance and foot development.
Outdoors
Choose a style with tougher exterior soles or pair them with soft booties for taking those important first trips outside. This protects little feet while still allowing natural motion.
Conclusion
Baby moccasins promote healthy foot development thanks to their flat, flexible soles and soft, breathable materials. Consider ankle support, materials, and sole thickness when choosing the perfect pair. Custom-fit your mocs to your infant’s feet, leaving growing room. Finally, start indoor trips before heading out to get them comfortable as they start walking. Protecting growing feet is important, and mocs allow that natural baby motion needed in those momentous first steps!
FAQs
What age should babies start wearing moccasin shoes?
As soon as babies start crawling and cruising, they can begin wearing flexible sole moccasins around age 6-12 months old. This helps strengthen key foot and leg muscles.
Can baby moccasins be worn outside?
Choose a style made for outdoors with tougher sole and snug ankle support. Or pair soft indoor mocs with coordinating booties for light outdoor wear.
How often should I replace baby moccasins?
Plan to get new moccasins every 2-3 months as baby’s feet grow rapidly in the first year. Consider upping a half or full size at each replacement.
What socks work best with moccasins?
For the true moccasin experience, skip the socks! The soft leather and seams are designed to be sock-free against baby’s skin. Adding socks can compromise the fit.
Are moccasins OK for winter weather?
For cold temps, opt for moccasin booties that provide extra ankle coverage and warmth. Avoid styles with fabric linings, which diminish breathability in leather and suede.