For some, the higher the heels, the better. For others, there’s no place you can’t make a pair of khussas or flats work. No matter what side you fall on, it is more than likely that you will end up having to wear heels sooner rather than later. And since heels are notoriously painful to wear ( we’re looking at you stilettos!) , we’ve listed down some quick tips that will let you strut your stuff in your tallest pairs of heels without the pain! :
1. Get The Right Size
As obvious as this sounds, it’s SO important to find a shoe that fits. You want to make sure there is space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. When shoe shopping, buy at the end of the day when your feet are already somewhat swollen. Also, opt for wide fit heels if your feet are on the wider side. No cramming!
2. Break Them In
Before you wear your heels out on the town, break them in first at home. Wear socks at home while wearing shoes for a few hours, or use shoe stretchers.
3. Choose Leather
When buying your heels, it’s important to look at the material they’re made of. Wear shoes that are made of leather rather than synthetic so they can stretch.
4. Use An In Sole Cushion
Walking in heels is much less painful when the in-sole is well-cushioned. They help in absorbing shock in the ball area while walking and provide comfort. In sole cushions can be made either of eva foam/latex foam or memory foam, which is the best.
5. Shave Down the Heel
If you’ve got a favorite pair of heels that are agonizing to walk in, consider getting part of the heel shaved down. Head down to a trusted Mochi. They will usually shave off about 1/2 inch to 1 inch maximum to maintain the integrity of the shoe, but that small amount could still make a difference.
6. Learn How to Walk Properly
How you walk in heels should not be the same as how you walk in sneakers. Walking with the correct posture can help minimize impact as well as pain on your joints and muscles. Stand up straight, use your core muscles as you walk, and each time you step, land on the outer border of the heel and toe off.
7. Use Deodorant to Prevent Chaffing
Say bye bye to blisters by rubbing a bit of deodorant on the backs and sides of your foot. The deodorant acts as a barrier and helps prevent too much friction.
8. Take Some Breaks
Wearing heels once on a fancy night out won’t have long-term damage. But if you’re wearing uncomfortable heels daily, you might want to consider taking some breaks. Wear heels only for periods of time and give your feet a break.
9. Tape Your Toes
Taping together the third and fourth toe of each foot takes the pressure off the ball of the foot, which can help ease pain. Use medical tape to prevent cramping and numbness by keeping these two toes bound together.
10. Platforms, platforms, platforms!
If added height is the main reason you wear heels, you might want to consider switching to platforms. Platform is used to ease off some body weight pressure from the heel part and distribute it to the ball area. The higher the platform height, the more will be the comfort level.