Do you love wearing the latest designer high heels but hate that high-heel hangover? Everyone hates aches, pains & blisters! Here are some tips to help make those knock 'em dead shoes more comfortable and easier on your feet. Things to keep in mind before you buy your next pair of designer shoes:
Best time to try on - Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen and are at their widest. This will help avoid a tight fitting uncomfortable shoe.
Have your feet measured - Did you know your shoe size can change throughout their lifetime? Plus, different designers have different sizing. Another thing to consider is that more than 60% of people have one foot that is slightly larger than the other, so it is important to have your feet measured to make sure you are getting the proper fitting shoe for both feet.
Take your time- Buying designer shoes is an investment and you want to make sure your first step is as comfortable as your last. Take your time and stroll around the store and don't be in a hurry. If the shoe fits properly you should be able to wiggle your toes and touch the top of the shoe. Also allow at least 3/8" to 1/2" of space from the end of the shoe and the top of your longest toe.
Opt for a platform or wedge shoe- Platform shoes have thick soles sitting under the front part of the foot which actually elevate the entire shoe, not just the heel. On wedge shoes the heel runs under the foot, from the back of the shoe to the middle or front. Both options will provide height but give more support to the foot and are more comfortable.
Choose a rounded toe or open toe shoe- Choose a shoe that has a rounded toe or open toe as these options keep your toes from being squished and miserable.
Tips on keeping those feet happy with your new shoes:
Break it in- A good repair shop can break in a shoe for you or will have products available for purchase that you can use to work in those new shoes. You may also wear your new shoes around your house before actually wearing them outdoors. The flooring in your house will be easier on your feet than wearing them out on concrete for the first time.
Add cushioning- In most high heels we put our weight on the ball of our foot. There are many inserts on the market that can add extra cushioning to the ball of the foot and make wearing heels more comfortable.
Limit your time- When wearing extreme high heels try to limit your time to short periods of time if possible.
Mix it up- Try to alternate heel heights throughout the week giving your feet and calves a break.
Blister fixer- If your new shoes cause a blister anywhere on your foot, try Dr. Scholl's Mole foam padding. It can be cut to any size, is self adhesive and can be placed on the shoe or foot to keep the foot from rubbing against the shoe.
Stretch your feet - Dr. Megan Leahy, podiatrist at the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute and a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association says you can reduce some pains caused by high heels by completing the Achilles tendon stretch, three times a day and the "alphabet exercise" to strengthen ankles and improve your range of motion. For complete exercise instructions and to read the complete article, please visit Health.com "Stretches for High-Heel Wearers".
Be Kind To Your feet- After wearing high heels soak your feet in warm water and Epsom salt for 20 to 30 minutes. Next massage your feet and toes with a foot therapy cream and then sit back and relax with your legs elevated for at least 15 minutes to reduce swelling in your feet. Your feet will thank you for the care and look forward to that next pair of sexy new stilettos.
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