Nothing is worse than wearing a really cute pair of pumps and feeling pain from the balls of your feet to, well, everywhere else. Sigh. Scientifically, women were just not designed to wear high heels. I know—I can already hear the gasps from women reading this whose favorite accessory is their Louboutin stilettos. But be warned, high heels are proven to cause long-term back, ankle and knee damage. What’s more is that women who wear high heels every day can have shortened calf muscles by up to 13 percent—which kind of diminishes the “mile-long leg” theory, if you ask me.
So, for those of you who cannot part with your high heels, here is a list of the five most walkable and comfortable high heels in stores today. But keep in mind, regardless of heel size or comfort, it’s best to wear them sparingly since there is long-term damage associated with repetitively wearing high heels.
The Ankle Strap
One of the most uncomfortable things about wearing a pair of pumps is having to dig in with your toes in order to keep the shoes on your feet. An ankle strap will ensure that the shoe stays exactly where it’s supposed to be—on your foot! This strap will also allow you to move more freely and enjoy the stability of a nice pair of high heels.
The Thick Heel
It’s a no-brainer that thin heels are much less stable than a chunky one. From substantially thick heels to near-wedges, these shoes will give you that height you desire without making you look like a weeble-wobble (you know, Weebles wobble, but they don’t fall down). The thick heel will allow you to walk like a model all day long.
The Bootie
It goes without saying that a bootie uses your entire foot as an anchor, rather than relying solely on your toes and your ankles for support. However, with more stability comes stiffer leather, which can be a bit uncomfortable. Therefore, it’s important to find a bootie that gives your toes room to breathe. Trust me, your feet (and toes) will thank you later!
The Wedge
A solid wedge not only provides stability, but it also gives your arches a little bit of extra support too. And ladies, wedges are back in style. Unlike the traditional stiletto, wedges are comfortable and easy to walk in. Even four-inch tall wedges are no problem for long days on your feet—safer too.
The Hidden Platform
A hidden platform means that the pitch doesn’t have to be as steep. Plus, a little toe boost will give you a wee bit of support. Look for shoes that have a hidden platform already built in. This support, in the front of the shoe, will help you last longer throughout the workday or those late nights out with the girls.
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License: Creative Commons image source
Author Byline: Liz Granger is a freelance writer with a passion for designer shoes. As a fashionistas in the making, Liz enjoys writing about great looking and comfortable shoes. She believes nothing is more flattering on a woman than a nice pair of shoes.
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Filed under: Beauty and Fashion, Featured Press
