The Impact That Heels Can Have On Your Feet
The high heel is a style of shoe that has been around for centuries, but it hasn’t always been known for the femininity it encompasses today.
The History of Heels
Originally, heels were found on the feet of male Persian soldiers, then inspiring European aristocrats and performers including ballet dancers. Eventually, around the mid 16th century, the silhouette became a symbol of wealth and high class for women. Particularly in Venice, the style of shoe trended among upper class women to showcase their status, as the higher the heel meant more fabric was required to clothe the lady. Some of the high heels/ platforms reached around 20 inches!
In the late 17th century, the style was popularised by King Louis XIV, this time featuring a bold, red sole similar to the trademarked Louboutin style. Afterwards, heels were commonly worn by royals all across Europe.
As the 20th century came about, heels began to take many shapes and sizes and evolved through fashion trends. There were also significant factors that encouraged the use of high heels including big productions such as The Wizard of Oz, with Dorothy’s signature red slippers. The use of wooden heels started declining after the Second World War ended as more advanced technology encouraged the incorporation of metal within high heels. Since, heels have developed with trends coming and going and have become a staple in women’s wardrobes.
Heels and The Male Gaze
Amongst the popularisation of the silhouette of course came views and societal expectations that burden the style of shoe even today. Designed by men, the intention of creating high heels for women tended to be for various ill reasons, as they realised the style made women’s feet appear smaller, their body appear more sexual, and they limited their movement, ensuring women walk slower.
When questioned about the practicality and attractiveness of women in heels, French designer, Christian Louboutin, seemed unphased when stating “What is the point of wanting to run?” and said “I am all for the pace getting slower, and high heels are very good for that.”. Demonstrating the male gaze, Louboutin was insinuating that women have no need to move fast in a world run by men and that a man should simply have the luxury of looking at her longer. In the world of today it may sound surprising that a man would openly imply such notions, but what might come as an even bigger surprise is that he stated this only ten years ago, in 2013.
Despite the fact that women’s heels were originally designed by men to slow her down and look more appealing in their eyes, there is a sort of power in the style of shoe. A symbol of femininity, the shoe can mean many things for different women around the world whilst still connecting them together. At Sargasso & Grey, we look at the empowering nature of heels, and what looks like a restrictive item that dresses the body (feet) is merely a representation of the struggles that confine (and have confined for centuries) women within society. Similar to a battle wound, we view heels as a display of strength and enjoy wearing them from a new perspective that opposes the original gaze from male counterparts.
The Effects of Heeled Shoes on Your Foot Health
Of course, you can see just by looking at a pair of heels that they are not natural for the shape of human feet. Contrary to that of a Barbie doll, feet are not consistently and perfectly elevated, and are not meant to be shaped this way for functional purposes. Foot health can be impacted by wearing the style of shoe, especially when worn often and for long periods of time, but particularly when the heels are not made with comfortability or practicality in mind.
Unfortunately, it is more common to find an uncomfortable pair of heels than a comfortable pair and this has seemed to be the way since heels were introduced, but in recent times (especially with the increase in female designers) comfortable heeled shoes are becoming more accessible.
What does it take for heels to be more comfortable?
Of course, we are not saying you should stop wearing heels altogether as there are solutions that make style of shoe more wearable, and we all know of course that heels will always look fabulous (and make you feel it too!). Unlike instances in the past, heels can be found today in many shapes and sizes. Similarly, they can also be more comfortable with more resources available, as well as information, that can advise on the suitability of heels for your feet.
Foot Pressure
One of the most important ways to protect your feet is to limit the pressure placed on them. The added pressure from high heels mostly affects the toes and balls of the feet as the heels are elevated, and so weight is concentrated towards the front of the feet. This can have a great impact on ligaments and bones in your feet, and in some cases other areas of the body.
Heels that are shorter in height are better when preserving foot health as there is less elevation and therefore less pressure placed on your feet. If you like heels that give the illusion of great height or longer legs, there are still tall shoe options that don't lift your arch so high. Platforms are great because they offer lots of height in both the front and heel of the foot, so there isn't actually as much pressure on your feet from pushing you weight forward to the front of the foot.
Block heels are smarter and more practical heeled options. A thicker heel means that your weight is more evenly distributed over a larger surface area, and therefore less pressure is placed directly onto one tiny point of the heel. Overall this will make a pair of heels more stable and supportive and will cause less pain that is a result of pressure.
Furthermore, the materials used to create a pair of shoes is extremely important to preserve good foot health and avoid sore feet. Natural materials like leather and suede are much better for your feet because they are more breathable than synthetic. Shoes that aren’t breathable are more likely to add strain to your feet, as well as increase pressure from swelling.
Our Top Wide-Fit Heels For Minimal Pressure
Block Heel Pumps
Versatile shoes that encompass true elegance, our pumps are stylish and comfortable, designed to assist balance and offer support. The upper of the shoe fully covers the toe joint, eliminating the risk of having the edge of the shoe cut into sensitive areas around the toe joint. Hence, it makes our list of top shoes to wear to reduce pressure on your feet.
Practical Court Shoes
A fabulous silhouette for an array of smart occasions, court heels are a staple in every woman's wardrobe! Sufficiently padded with memory foam that is cleverly incorporated into the leather insoles, our courts offer lots of cushioning and support, making them suitable for smart occasions including for work. The mid heel is graceful, whilst avoiding elevation that would cause pain. With a medium thickness, you can ensure that you'll feel stable and stylish in this shoe.
Heeled Sandals
A breathable shoe that can work across seasons, heeled sandals are another staple for your wardrobe. Made from butter-soft leather, these open styles are extra comfortable as well as breathable, which helps reduce swelling and inflammation. We especially love our metallic options for some extra pizzazz, making them a fabulous option for a good party!
Trusty Kitten Heels
Easy and convenient, kitten heels are ideal for long-wear. Suitable for parties and events or more regular occasions like the office, these low heels place combine practicality and elegance. With extra-wide (EEE) options available, there is plenty of room in the toe box for your feet to breathe, and the leather lining features a smooth and soothe panel that adds a softness against your skin, lessening irritation. Only about 3cm tall, you can rest assured that there is minimal pressure on your feet and maximum chicness!
Platform Heels
Our range of platform heels are cleverly designed to give the illusion of height, whilst keeping your arch elevation minimal. Because of the 2cm platform, your arches won't feel strained or uncomfortably elevated! This helps to reduce the pressure placed on the forefront of your feet, particularly for special occasions.
Sling Back Heels
Keeping comfort and practicality in mind, our wide fit sling backs are a great 'in-between' style. Perfect for use across all seasons, their half-open nature makes the shoe breathable but secure. With an adjustable strap, the shoe is better tailored to your foot, allowing for adjustments on the go!
So, you can rest easy knowing that there are ways to both look the part and feel comfortable. Instead of ditching heels altogether, we have some great 'killer heel' alternatives that will not put heaps of pressure on your feet, and will instead support you comfortably.
To view our collection of wide and extra-wide fit heels, just click here