Winner:GOLD - Best First Walker Footwear Collection
Who:Angulus
What:Butterfly Sandal
Why:
Judges were wowed by these sweet first walker sandals from Angulus. The brand’s focus on foot health and anatomical support without compromising on aesthetics really impressed the panel, who felt the design was a perfect balance of playful, tasteful and supportive. The panel especially loved the butterfly detail and agreed that the colourways felt elevated and easily wearable for every day adventures as well as any special occasions. A beautiful and practical start to any little shoe collection.
"What an incredibly special shoe. It’s very rare that practicality and ergonomic support are considered in the world of beautiful footwear, but these butterfly sandals are the marriage of aesthetics and comfort. With that tasteful European design, these shoes are gently feminine and whimsical whilst the soft suede upper and rubber sole make it a genuinely appealing choice for busy toddler toes. Adore!"
"A stylish Scandi aesthetic softened with sweet details to appeal to little ones. And thoughtfully designed to support healthy foot development for first walkers."
"Great commercial colour combinations with a unique butterfly detail that makes the shoes stand apart from others. The metallic and suede combination is different and elevates the shoe in a way that is interesting for this age."
Winner:JOINT SILVER - Best First Walker Footwear Collection
Who:Bundgaard
What: First Walkers
Why:
Bundgaard’s first walkers were a total hit with our judges, who were impressed by the brand’s focus on supporting little feet as well as their timeless designs. These little shoes are super lightweight and soft, with flexible soles and wide toe boxes allowing for plenty of natural movement, which our panel loved. The perfect first shoes for every kind of adventure.
"Really gorgeous shoes that allow kids to still be kids. Practicality first with a lovely eye for design."
"I think Bundgaard has one of the strongest First Walker collections on the market! Stylish and timeless without feeling too formal - ready for adventures."
"Lovely details and stitching, good design. Comfortable. Especially like the striped laces. Great brand."
Winner:JOINT SILVER - Best First Walker Footwear Collection
Who:Start-Rite Shoes
What:First Shoes SS26 Collection
Why:
The practical shoes with major kid appeal. Our panel agreed that children would genuinely be excited to wear these shoes thanks to the playful styles available, from sweet strawberries to cool dinos. While barefoot shoes are growing in popularity, Start-Rite is already ten steps ahead, having championed the barefoot philosophy for years. The judges were impressed with how soft these shoes are, and loved that they could be versatile enough to suit any occasion while always keeping little toes comfortable!
"Great versatility in product and design, keeping kids at the forefront with added details such as bears, tigers and dinosaurs on the straps in a tasteful way. The colours & prints also appeal to dressing up or down making it a great first shoe for all occasions."
"Start-rite are a classic for a reason. Sturdy, trustworthy and easily available. A failsafe!"
