An article of infant footwear comprising an upper sock portion attached to a lower sole portion. The lower sole portion comprises a toe region and a heel region. A toe region, comprising a lip portion and a toe-cap, rises up from the front of the lower sole portion to surround and protect the toes of an infant's foot. The heel region comprises a heel member to protect the heel and surrounding tendons of an infant. The lower sole portion has an underside, a protruding layer, and stud protrusions providing traction, protection, and balance for an infant wearing the article of infant footwear.