First off, you can't go wrong with Stride rite, they are my absolute favorite brand of baby/toddler shoes. My daughter had similar ones that she wore everyday until she outgrew them so I had to get some for my 15-month old son. They are sturdy, yet flexible. The best part is that they are adorable! My son laughs every time I put them on him. He points at Ernie's hair and giggles. He loves them! They give him the confidence to take more steps on his own because they are not bulky, stiff shoes.