High Heels

High heels are a type of footwear in which the shoe is constructed to make the heel section of the foot significantly higher than the toe part of the foot. Heels are often worn by women in order to look and feel taller, slimmer and sexier. But some men wear heels, as well. Whatever the gender, wearers agree that heeled footwear generally make everything look better, whether it’s strappy sandals with dresses to ankle boots with jeans.

Types of Heels

There are countless types of high heeled shoes (sometimes called pumps), which are often thought to have originated during medieval times to help keep horse riders’ feet from slipping out of stirrups. Some include:

• Kitten Heels: A shoe with a short, slim heel that does not exceed 2 inches in height
• Stiletto Heels: A shoe with a slim heel that exceeds 2 inches
• Wedges: A shoe with a raised heel that simultaneously occupies all of the space under the entire foot, including the arch
• Slingback Heels: A heeled shoe that offers only a flexible strap at the back of the heel and ankle area
• Peep Toe Heels: Heeled shoes constructed with a small “peep hole” at the end of the toe area
• Platform Heels: Heels in which the toe area is also raised; often accompanied by heels that are more than 6 inches in height

Heels can also be made out of a variety of materials, including leather, suede, plastic, lace, rope and faux leather.

Popular Heel Brands

Nearly every shoe company manufactures heels, considering it’s such a popular type of footwear. However, some companies and designers are known for their heels. Some of these include Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo, YSL, Vince Camuto, Franco Sarto and Bandolino.

The Pros and Cons of Wearing Heels

High heeled shoes have created quite a controversy, with many doctors warning that stilettos can lead to serious health issues like bunions and back pain. Despite the warnings, over 70 percent of women will wear heels at least once in her life.

The Pros

Heels, especially stilettos and platform heels, have become associated with sex and sexual fantasies, leading wearers to feel more desirable in this type of shoe

Heels give the aesthetic illusion of a longer, more slender body and legs

Heels make the feet appear smaller

Heels often change a person’s posture, forcing them to change their gait and stand more upright

Heels attribute to some wearers feeling more confident and sexy

The Cons

Heels often cause foot, toe, muscle and tendon pain

Heels can cause foot deformities like bunions and hammertoes

Heels can lead to back pain

Heels increase the likelihood of falls, sprains and bone fractures

Heels can cause knee pain and joint problems

Over time, heels can alter a person’s gait and lead to overall bodily pain

For more information on how to choose the right high heels for you, check out our article Stiletto Savvy: How To Shop For High Heels