I'm a big fan of less is more when it comes to physical development.  From what I've read, barefoot walking is very important to allow the development of proper body mechanics. Many shoe makers claim to have developed shoes based on the mechanics of the bare foot, but they inevitably beef up their shoes to the point where it is no longer close.  These shoes are the baby equivalent to adult Nike Frees, or Five Finger Vibrams.  My 18mo old's balance and "agility" seem to be outpacing her peers, and I think this shoe has had a lot to do with it.  For example, when she first started walking, grandma and everyone else got her all kinds of shoes, from Nike's to no-brands.  Even though she had already been walking fine in her Mini Shoez, when she put on the Nike's she was falling down all over the place.  My thought, was that because of the thicker sole, she lost all the extra proprioception that these shoes afforded her.  The mini shoez have a more gripping tread on the bottom as compared to the infant robeez.  This allows good grip on any surface. I've used them outside regularly with her, alternating with stride rites for anything more than around a block, or when terrain might be a little rougher, like in a park.  In daycare, they are her usual shoes, mostly because they are her favorite.  Only after about 4 months did the sole start to wear, which was right when she needed a new pair!  Too bad they only go up to size 5.