Flexible: Babies typically have soft, flat feet with no arch. So for first-time sneakers, the soles should be very bendable, yet slip-resistant. Breathable: At this age, the muscles in the feet are still developing, so feet and toes need room to move around. Supportive: That being said, little feet should not be able to slip in and out, so make sure the sneakers are fastened with velcro straps or ties to adjust to your baby's foot size. Proper support around the heel and ankles is also important to help babies keep their balance. Lightweight: It's tough enough for early walkers to find their balance barefoot without any extra weight on their feet. Skip the heavy shoes and choose ones made of lightweight canvas, leather or other fabrics. These lighter weight fabrics also help to keep sweat at bay.