Heeled Sandals

Women’s Heeled Sandals: Get Through the Day Without Compromise

A heeled sandal is often a careful balance between  style and comfort. The good news: choosing the right heel shape makes a real difference to how long you can wear it without discomfort.

Heel shape matters more than height

Discomfort is often associated with heel height, when in fact  shape plays an equally important role :

• Stiletto heel : elegant, but concentrates all the weight on a small surface area, so best reserved for occasional wear
• Block or wide heel : offers much better stability and distributes pressure across the foot more evenly
• Wedge or platform heel : reduces the sensation of height by raising the front of the foot as well, and is often considered more comfortable over longer periods

Get through an entire evening without pain

A few simple habits can help reduce discomfort:  avoid buying a new pair just before an event (allowing time to break them in is important),  choose an ankle strap that keeps the foot stable as you move, and alternate between several pairs during the same evening whenever possible.

Choose the right pair for your foot shape

A  slender foot tends to slide forward in a heeled sandal, which increases discomfort over time: a strap or ankle adjustment system helps prevent this. Conversely,  a wider foot will be more comfortable with an open upper rather than a thin strap that could squeeze the top of the foot.

Frequently asked questions

Which heel should you choose for optimal long-lasting comfort?
Block, wedge, or platform heels are generally better tolerated over several hours than stilettos because they distribute body weight more evenly.

How can you prevent your foot from sliding forward?
An ankle strap or an adjustment system at the back of the foot helps limit this slipping, especially for slender feet.

Should you wear a new heeled sandal for an evening out right away?
It is better to wear it for a few hours at home beforehand to soften it slightly and identify any areas that may rub.