That tricky transition from socks and booties to proper shoes for newly walking toddlers can be tricky – there are so many different shoes on the market. So we’ve brain stormed and straw polled, and come up with a Babyology toddler shoe go-to guide.

For a great combination of fashion and function, it’s hard to go past See Kai Run. Soft leather which is kind to little feet, and a sturdy sole make for a solid first shoe for toddlers.

The ease of which a shoe can be put onto a toddler, is directly proportional to how happy said child will be immediately following the act of putting on shoes – fact. So a slip on shoe can be a sanity saver! Mooky make some gorgeous moccasin-style shoes, and will fit the older toddler crowd (from about three years old).

Scruffy Dog is a great go-to, Australian-designed brand when you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for. They stock shoes and sandals, and a great range of unisex designs to boot.

Flora and Henri also make some stunning sandals.

If your toddler’s taste in first shoes is a little out there, get your hands on (and their feet in) a pair of Lou’s Shoes. They’re stunning to look at and are soft and supple, making them a perfect first shoe.

Old school style never goes out of fashion in my book, and Vans has it in spades. They make a rather spunky toddler range.

Likewise, Converse have plenty of street cred, and the toddler shoes are the bomb. The lace-up boots can be a little tricky to get on really small feet, but Cons also have some handy side zip, velcro and slip on versions of their classic Chucks.

These handy shoes are among the most popular on the Babyology team. Native shoes are easy to get on, sturdy and look rather dashing.

For some hand-made shoe heaven, check out the collection from Chook Leaf, which make shoes to fit early walkers (nine months).

For a toddler shoe that can take some beating and still look beautiful, browse the Gucio toddler shoe collection. These stunners are handmade in Poland.

Pediped’s range for toddler, Grip ‘n’ Go, are solid all-rounders – ergonomic and supportive.

Handmade and soft leather and two things that work beautifully for toddler shoes. Livie & Luca do this so well with their toddler collection.

If you’re trying to source something a little different for you toddler’s feet, have a look at what Creative Reaction has on offer.

Baby Bloch toddler shoes are beautifully moulded for tiny tootsies, and look adorable.

Velcro straps and leather make Hoof Shoes a no-brainer when it comes to comfortable and child-friendly toddler footwear.

Bobux shoes are a stalwart brand in the toddler and children’s shoe market, and their boots are winners for winter.

A few other brands worthy of a mention are Old Soles and Pablosky, while Tip Toey Joey and Skeanie have been my picks as first shoes for both my boys.

Finally, if you have floorboards or tiles, I can highly recommend a pair of good-soled slippers for new walkers, like these from Wooly Baby, or the Collegien Slipper Socks below.

Now that your head is brimming with possibilities for first toddler shoes, have a look at our guide to buying baby and toddler shoes, for some handy tips on getting the right fit and style of shoe for your child.