Children and babies have different needs, concerning the anatomy and characteristics of their footwear, in comparison to adults, mostly because their feet are still developing and growing. Additionally, childrens shoes have a size range that differs greatly from that of adult shoes. For these reasons childrens shoes are considered in a separate category.
The different types of children shoes are categorized firstly in respect to the age of the child or baby destined to wear the shoe:
Baby shoes: These shoes are for babies that are not yet walking (crawlers) and for this reason are often referred to as "pre-walkers". Baby shoes do not restrict the foots movements. They are flexible and not supportive, and conform to the shape of the foot.
Toddler shoes: The first "real" shoes that are used when the child first starts to walk unaided. This usually occurs around the ages of 9 to 28 months.
Boys/Girls shoes: These are shoes worn by children over 2 years old, and before turning 15-16 years old.
Besides the age of the child wearing the shoe, childrens shoes can also be separated into different categories on account of their style.
High-tops: Shoes that cover the ankle. Usually with laces, but frequently found with velcro or buckles, especially when concerning younger age groups where the children usually do not yet know hoe to tie their shoelaces unassisted.
Mary-Janes: Shoes without laces that include a strap or elastics over the top of the foot to keep the shoe in place. This type of shoe is a girl's shoe, while Mary-Janes are also found as a female shoe. The difference between Mary-Janes for women and those for children is that the later never have heels, are usually made from softer, more flexible materials and have a greater ease of fastening.
Oxfords: Shoes that are similar to moccasins and loafers, usually with laces. It should be noted that mens Balmoral shoes are also referred to as Oxfords.
Anklets: Shoes for a girl or a woman that fastens with a strap around the ankle. The difference between female and girls anklets is that the later do not have heels, are usually made from softer, more flexible, materials, and have easier fastening mechanisms.
Booties: Shoes usually for babies and crawlers. They cover the ankle and may resemble a sock, since they are frequently made from soft fabric without laces.
