Every tiny step matters, and at Start-Rite, we understand that comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for your baby's and toddler's developing feet.
From first wobbly steps to confident toddler adventures, our wide fit range ensures that growing feet have the space and support they need to develop naturally. We recognise that every child's feet are unique, and our collection reflects this understanding with carefully crafted designs that accommodate wider foot shapes while supporting critical developmental milestones.
Choosing wide fit shoes for babies and toddlers
Choosing shoes for your baby or toddler is about so more than looking great – it's about supporting their first steps and foot development. Every child's feet are unique, and finding the right fit means looking beyond just shoe length to understand the width and shape that will keep little feet comfortable and happy.
Young children are still discovering the world, and are quite literally finding their feet. Unlike adults, babies and toddlers might not be able to communicate when something doesn't feel right so being proactive about shoe fitting, paying attention to how shoes feel and move with your child's feet is super important.
The correct fit supports the entire developmental journey of your child's feet. By providing adequate space and support, wide fit shoes allow natural toe splay, promote balanced weight distribution, and prevent potential long-term foot development issues. Each pair is designed to move with your child, offering protection without restricting the natural movements crucial to muscle and skeletal growth.
Often the primary focus on shoe fitting is the length, however width is just as critical. A shoe that's too narrow can cause discomfort, restrict natural foot movement, and potentially lead to long-term foot health issues. Our wide fit range ensures that each pair adapts to your child's unique foot shape, providing a comfortable, secure fit that supports their walking journey.
Our wide fit range recognises that children's feet come in all shapes and sizes. We understand that width plays a crucial role in comfort and foot development, which is why the majority of our collection is available in wide G fitting, with various styles also available in an extra wide H fit, ensuring there's a perfect match for every little pair of feet.
The right shoe does more than just protect feet – it supports your child's natural movement and development. Flexible soles that mimic barefoot walking, breathable materials, and carefully designed fastenings all contribute to a shoe that moves with your child, not against them. Each pair is a tiny support system, designed to complement the incredible journey of growth and discovery.
Features that matter
Our baby and toddler wide fit shoes are engineered with multiple features that prioritise foot health and comfort. Soft, flexible soles, allow natural foot movement and muscle development as well as providing just enough protection while maintaining the sensory feedback crucial for balance and coordination.
We use high-quality, lightweight materials that allow air circulation, preventing moisture build-up and reducing the risk of skin irritation. Padded collars and cushioned insoles provide additional comfort.
Secure, adjustable fastenings are another critical feature. Rip-tape straps allow for easy wearing and precise fit adjustment for a snug fit. These fastenings also make it simple for parents to put shoes on and take them off.
Protective toe bumpers minimises scuffs and tumbles during exploration, while robust materials withstand the wear and tear of active babies and toddlers. From pretty and smart, to trainer-inspired and sporty, each pair is constructed to maintain its shape and support through months of adventures, from crawling to first steps and beyond.
Caring for little feet
In the earliest stages of foot development, baby pre-walkers are primarily about protection and warmth. As babies transition to walking, our wide fit babies shoes provide minimal interference, allowing natural foot movement and muscle strengthening. Our wide fit toddler first shoes range is designed with these developmental stages in mind, offering protection without restriction, a unique foot-shaped design to mimic the natural shape of children’s feet.
Regular fit checks are crucial during these rapid growth years. We recommend measuring your child's feet every 6-8 weeks, as babies and toddlers can experience significant growth spurts.