Frequently asked questions.
Answers to what our customers ask most about Babysteps — Swedish ergonomic barefoot shoes for children aged 1–5. Sizes, measuring, care, shipping and exchanges.
Size & measuring
How do I know which size to choose?
Measure your child's foot length in centimetres and choose a shoe whose inner length is 0.5–1 cm longer than the foot — that leaves room for the toes and room to grow. The easiest way is our size finder: enter the foot length on the product page or in the size guide and get the right size instantly.
How do I measure my child's foot?
Let your child stand with the heel against a wall, on a piece of paper. Mark the paper at the tip of the longest toe and measure from the edge of the paper to the mark — that is the foot length. Measure both feet and go by the longer one.
What do double sizes like 18/19 mean?
Upptäckaren and Drömmaren are made in double sizes — one shoe covers two EU sizes, for example 18/19 or 20/21. That gives generous growing room and makes the shoes fit for longer. The size chart shows exactly which foot length each double size covers.
Which sizes and ages do Babysteps fit?
Babysteps come in EU sizes 18/19 to 29, roughly ages 1–5. Upptäckaren and Drömmaren run 18/19–25, Skaparen and TabiSteps 19–28, and the winter boot SnowySteps 22–29.
Barefoot shoes & ergonomics
What are barefoot shoes?
Barefoot shoes are built to mimic barefoot walking: a thin, flexible sole that lets the foot feel the ground, a wide toe box that lets the toes splay, and zero drop — heel and forefoot at the same height. The shoe protects against sharp objects and cold without steering the foot's natural movement.
How do Babysteps differ from regular children's shoes?
Regular children's shoes often have stiff soles, narrow toe boxes and built-up heels. Babysteps are built the other way around: a roomy toe box for feel and balance, a thin flexible sole with close ground contact, a neutral foot position with no height difference between heel and toe, steady rubber grip on any surface — and easy on and off, so your child soon manages alone.
Are barefoot shoes good for children learning to walk?
A child's foot needs no correction — it needs freedom. When the foot feels the ground, balance, grip and the foot's own muscles train with every step. That is why we advocate barefoot whenever possible, and a barefoot shoe with a thin sole and wide toe box when the foot needs protection — outdoors, on gravel or in the cold. Under References you'll find the research we lean on.
Can barefoot shoes be used in winter?
Yes. SnowySteps is our winter boot with barefoot function: water-repellent material, a warm plush lining and a flexible sole that shuts out the cold while keeping the barefoot feel — with good grip on slippery surfaces. Available in sizes 22–29.
Materials & care
Can the shoes be machine washed?
Yes — all models except TabiSteps can be machine washed at max 30 °C. TabiSteps has a leather upper and should instead be wiped with a damp cloth and kept away from prolonged contact with water. For everyday care, rubbing off dirt with a cloth is usually enough.
Do the shoes work both indoors and outdoors?
Yes, all our models work inside and out. We advocate natural barefoot whenever possible — which is why many families use their Babysteps mainly outdoors, where the foot needs extra protection and grip.
Shipping, exchanges & discounts
What does shipping cost and how fast is delivery?
Shipping is free on all orders over 699 kr. Delivery within Sweden takes 1–4 working days.
Can I exchange or return if the size is wrong?
Yes. We offer free exchanges if the size doesn't fit, and you can return your purchase within 14 days of receiving it. Measure the foot with the size guide before buying and it usually comes out right the first time.
Do I get a discount when buying several pairs?
Yes — buy 2 pairs and get 10 % off, 3 pairs give 20 % off. Free shipping is included in both cases.