High heels looks elegant, attractive and beautiful – however they can be pretty uncomfortable. So, how do you change this – we show you below.
Shaving Down Shoes
If maximizing your height isn’t a top priority, you can make your shoes more comfortable and easier to wear by shaving the heels down. This job typically costs about $15. That’s what New York City’s Steve Express Shoe Repair charges to lop off a portion of a spike heel. The owner of the shop, Steve, says that most of his customers have about an inch of heel taken off. This is about as much as you can take out without impairing the arched construction of the shoe.
Wear Gel Insoles
Good insoles can solve many classic high heel problems. The prevent blisters and keep your toes from scrunching up. Use inserts specifically designed for high heel wear – Dr. Scholl’s sells some excellent ones, alternatively custom made ones are even better. Gel inserts come with an adhesive backing that sticks to your shoes, but you can easily move one pair of insoles around to multiple pairs of shoes. Quality custom orthotics should last for a long period, but you should replace insoles immediately if you notice tears in them.
Limit Your Wear Time
Leather Spa, another popular Manhattan shoe repair shop, recommends taking regular breaks from high heels. The shop’s website advises taking breaks of at least a day in between spates of high heel wear. For maximum comfort, don’t wear heels on more than two days in a row.
Stretch Your Shoes
Some of the problems you have with high heels may be caused by wearing shoes that are too small. Podiatrist Franklin Polun recommends fitting your high heels after a full day’s work so that your feet are somewhat swollen. Model Molly Sims advises simply purchasing your heels a half-size larger than your other shoes. However you do it, it’s a good idea to give yourself a little extra wiggle room.
For heels you already own that have proven to be too tight, there are a few steps you can take to make them more comfortable. A cobbler can stretch your shoes professionally to offer you more room. Alternatively, buying a shoe stretcher that works with heels lets you solve the problem at home. This handy gadget is also useful for breaking in new shoes.
Choosing Smart Styles
The overall shape of your shoes will dictate a great deal about your comfort level. Platforms (sensible ones, not stripper shoes!) can actually make wearing heels a lot less challenging. They bring your heels down closer to the balls of your feet without sacrificing overall height. Styles with a roomy toe box will also be less of a trial to wear for extended periods. If you prefer pointy toes, just look for shoes that stretch out past your toes rather than cram your digits together.