Going bare foot is best for baby but not always practical. Sometimes baby needs a little protection from the elements too. Experts say soft soled shoes promote healthy foot development in infants and we agree.  SHUBOPS Soft sole leather shoes are the next best thing to going bare foot, here’s why:

• SHUBOPS allow baby’s to wiggle their toes, feel and grip the ground underneath them, promoting good toe-gripping and muscular development
• SHUBOPS promote normal foot function, providing protection without restriction during your baby’s rapid growth stage before 24 months
• SHUBOPS are constructed of 100% ‘Friendly’ soft natural leather, letting the skin breathe
• Non-slip suede soles prevent slipping on smooth floors, promoting confidence in those precious first steps
• SHUBOPS are gently elasticated at the ankles so they slip on and stay on!

  Dr Sears.com ‘What to look for in a baby shoe’

 “The Sole:  As a general guide, the earlier the stage of walking, the thinner and more flexible the sole should be….Avoid stiff soles for young feet….Stick with natural materials – leather or canvas – that breathe”

The American Podiatric Medical Association:

 “Barefeet is best for growing feet but they also need protection and warmth too.  When selecting shoes, there are a number of things to look for to ensure healthy development:

• Thin soles – allow feet to feel the ground allowing better grip and promotes natural muscle development
• Stays in place – moves with your child
• Flexibility – your shoes should bend at the metatarsal joint, the spot underneath the ball of your foot
• Lightweight – stiff soles can trip baby ”

All SHUBOPS shoes are made with environmentally friendly leather, using non-toxic dyes, and are AZO free.