This is probably a total first-time mom question... but does my baby need shoes? (lol, I feel silly even typing that).

LO is 8 months old and beginning to walk assisted. I don't think it will be too much longer before she is a legitimate walker. Until now, she has pretty much worn just socks or bare feet if the weather is really warm. My main concern is now that the weather is getting nicer, we will be spending more time outside, and she will likely want to be down and cruising.

So... I am guessing she needs shoes, because it isn't warm enough for bare feet. But does she need a soft-sole or hard-sole? Soft-sole is better for beginners, right? But it just seems like those would get so wet and dirty....

So.... What did you do for your beginning walker, specifically for outside play?