Types of Soft-Sole Shoes

There are several types of soft-sole shoes available. They all facilitate foot development and walking, but differ in terms of sole construction and materials, and specific benefits. Foosies is the only company to offer seven different sole compositions.

For shoe uppers, medical experts recommend only pliable, breathable materials such as soft leather, suede, sheepskin, UItrasuede, etc. Plastic, vinyl and imitation leather should be avoided because they will make young feet perspire excessively. For soft soles, available choices include:

Cotton/Fleece: Loose-fitting, 100% cotton or fleece; ideal for newborns and the crib. (Crochet Booties, Quilted Booties, Easy Booties)

Suede Leather: The softest type of sole. Offer the most "grip-ability" for young toes, and maximum sensory input for the feet. Top grade cowhide offers excellent slip-resistance on hardwood floors, tile, etc. (Avoid pigskin leather because it's not slip-resistant.) (Bobux)

Double-Layer Suede: This offers the same benefits as listed above, but a double layer sole for added protection and warmth. (Moss Feet)

Toughtek®: A material that's thin and flexible as suede, but nearly impenetrable by sharp objects or debris, broken glass, rocks or nails. (Search-and-Rescue dogs wear booties made of Toughtek®.) (IsaBooties)

Double Layer Flexible Leather: This makes for a slightly thicker sole, but it's still extremely flexible and offers more protection. Top-grade cowhide is also skid-resistant. (PediPed)

Micro-Rubber: Higher degree of protection is offerd by this material plus excellent skid-resistance; it is slightly less flexible. (Pedoodles, Bical Aqua Socks)

Thin Rubber: Even more protection. Great for toddlers, running and jumping. Excellent skid-resistance. (Squeaky Shoes, Bical Sandals)

Foosies is the only company in the U.S. to offer all of these sole types, plus narrow and wide sizes, for infants, toddlers and young children.