yet another shoe question

[fivi2]

I know that shoes are a common topic and I have read many old threads. After reading them, it seems like everyone has their favorite. So, my question is - for beginning walkers (with tiny feet), if I stick with the most common brands mentioned, do I just choose based on style?

I mean, I hear about See Kai Run, Livie and Luca, pedipeds, preschoolians, pedoodles, Stride Rite, Soft Star Shoes, and probably others, but I can't really tell the difference. They all look really soft and flexible. I have a 15 month old who needs shoes for outside - and she loves to climb. Oh - and she likes to pull socks and shoes off.

I think the Soft Star Shoes look the softest - but, imho, aren't the "cutest". So - when we're talking about these brands is it really just about style preference? Or are there other differences I should consider?
Thanks!

[Wife_and_mommy]

There are definitely degrees of flexibility among the brands you listed. I personally use Preschoolians and highly recommend them.

The Stride Rite shoes aren't flexible past the infant stage. I don't know the names of the styles but the ones with solid bottoms are not nearly as flexible as the other brands you mentioned. Pedoodles are extremely flexible as well so I feel comfortable recommending them to you.

Need to go but I hth. :)


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[Tondi G]

I only have experience with Pedipeds, See Kai Run and Pedoodles. I tried stried rite on my little one and he hated them! He will ONLY wear See Kai run Danny sandals at this point ... I was lucky enough to find a store local that still had them in stock (the new brown sandals are called Evan and have a closed heel). He got his first pair of SKR Danny sandals last summer and has literally worn them to death! I love the flexible soles on the SKR shoes. You can bend/fold them in half and and the leather is really soft!

The pedipeds are a padded leather sole... not rubber and I don't think they are the best for an outside walking/climbing child. when we tried them on my little guy last summer he was slipping on the smooth floor in the shoe store. The pedoodles I've experienced were on my neighbors little girl and they were pretty nice... I think I prefer the SKR's to them though!

I think it's really personal preference.... you can't really go wrong with these brands. Can you find a local store that carries some of them and try some on???

Good Luck

~Tondi
Mommy to Mason 7/01 and Aidan 5/05

[shburks]

I agree with the pp about Pedipeds not being great for full-out walkers/runner and outside play.

SKRs and Pedoodles are both SUPER flexible but plenty sturdy for outside play. Find what type of shoe you're looking for and then choose what best fits your child's clothes, style, etc.

Susan

[fivi2]

Thanks for all of the input. We definitely want them for outside - so no pedipeds.

To the pp - an online store called dandelionbaby.com seems to have the Danny sandals on sale - if you wanted more before they are all gone!