Typically, it’s tough for me not to love anything that comes trimmed with fabulous ribbon, but IsaBooties soft-soled baby shoes are truly praise worthy. IsaBooties come in a delicious palette of colors and coordinating trims for boys and girls ages 3 - 18 months (shown, Chocolate Fleurs, $24), and we give these 100% animal-product free kicks top marks over their leather soft-soled counterparts.

Why? IsaBooties are machine-washable and dryable, but unlike leather shoes, the buttery soft suede uppers won’t fade, shrink, or crack, and the material is durable, breathable, and resistant to scuffs and stains. The soles are constructed from a patented durable grip material that is non-slip in wet, dry, warm, or cold conditions, yet retains a soft and flexible feel that is perfect for new walkers.

We enjoyed the cute designs of leather soft-soled shoes when Laurel was learning to walk, but after a handful of launderings her shoes looked cracked and weathered and came out of the dryer stiff as a board. IsaBooties will be our shoe of choice on the next go 'round.