Tender Tootsies

Ladies, our love affair with our shoes can be a torrid one.  Looking good can come at a cost – not just to our bank accounts, but to our feet, legs & lower back.   So, the question for today is ‘Can you really be comfortable in heels?’  The answer is ‘yes ‘ and ‘no’.  You need to consider the fit and function and be sure to practice moderation and get plenty of exercise.

If the Shoe Fits…

First, make sure you buy the right size.  For the same reason you shouldn’t try and squeeze into clothing that is 2 sizes too small, you shouldn’t wear shoes that are too small for your feet.  One of my pet peeves is seeing women who have their toes sticking out over the ends of their open-toe shoes!  How is that attractive?   Now, I know in some cultures, small feet are a sign of femininity, but in a multicultural society such as Canada, men don’t care.  Believe me ladies, small feet aren’t what they’re looking for.  Besides, ill-fitting shoes will just cause unwanted aggravation on your tootsies.   Our feet actually vary in size as we get older, so it’s important to get measured every year.  Also, our feet will swell by the end of the day, especially if we stand for long periods of time.  Therefore, I recommend shopping for shoes at the end of the day to ensure you get the most comfortable fit.

Consider the shape of the toe.  If you’ve got wider feet, like me, you’ll probably be more comfortable in round, peep or open-toe shoes.  They’re more forgiving and won’t cram your toes causing joint pain and bunions.  Also, ask the shoe store if they carry wider widths and make friends with a good shoemaker.  Many can stretch out a shoe slightly – don’t expect miracles, but at least a little more ease.

Function

Consider where you’re going and what you’ll be doing when you choose your shoe for the day.  I’ve got my ‘meeting only’ shoes – ones that are a little higher in heel height, but that I know I’ll only be wearing from the car to a meeting room where I’ll be sitting for most of the time.  And by the way, I don’t wear my heels to drive – NEVER wear your heels to drive!  Not only can you damage the heel, but it’s also very dangerous, especially in stilettos.  The pointy heel can slip easily under the pedals.  Not good for sudden stops or at higher speeds!

I have my ‘presentation’ shoes – ones that are a little lower in height with a slightly wider heel for better support.  Not as sexy as my stilettos, but still stylish none-the-less and they let me focus on a fabulous presentation rather than my aching feet.

Finally, I have my practical flats.  Good for driving, if I’m taking public transit or know that I’ll be doing a lot of walking.   If I must absolutely be sexy when I reach my destination, then I’ll carry my stilettos with me in a very fashionable shoe bag.

Moderation & Exercise

Varying your heel height from day to day or even within the day is very healthy for your feet.  Although heels lengthen and define our legs, they aren’t really necessary with pants, so why not opt for some funky flats on your pants days to give your feet a break.

Stretching and strengthening your feet and legs will also help in alleviating unwanted stress and strain.  Here are some simple exercises to help alleviate your tired tootsies.

Toe curls – Place a cushioned toe separator (like the ones they use for pedicures in salons) between your toes, squeeze for 5 seconds and release.  Repeat 10 times.  This will help to strengthen muscles and minimize cramping.

Toe stretches – Place a wide rubber band around all your toes and try to stretch it out as much as possible.  Release and repeat 10 times.

Calf raises – Standing upright (you can use a wall for support), raise up onto the balls of your feet, hold for five seconds and lower.  Repeat 10 times.  This will alleviate cramps and strengthen the feet and calf muscles.

Calf stretches – Sitting on the ground with legs stretched out in front of you, wrap a towel around the balls of your feet and hold onto each end.  Point your feet as far forward as you comfortably can while applying slight resistance with the towel.  Hold for 5 seconds; release.  Then flex your feet up and back, using the towel to aid in the stretch – hold for 5 seconds and release.  Repeat 10 times.

I like to do these exercises everyday whether I’ve been in my heels or not.  They take only 5 minutes and can be done while you’re relaxing in front of the TV.  And of course, never, ever forget the best treat for your feet….an amazing foot massage!  Best given by a professional or that sexy, special someone!

To close off, I’d like to share a quote from a fun, fashionable movie, ‘Kinky Boots’ – “Look to the heel – the sex is in the heel!”  But I also hope you look to this blog so you don’t neglect your comfort or your health for the sake of sexiness.  With a little bit of effort and common sense, they can both co-exist quite nicely.