Why Women Buy Shoes that Hurt Their Feet

Stephanie Haefner
It's an age-old question: Why do women buy shoes that hurt their feet? I don't know. Why can't men ask for directions?

The truth behind this is at the end of the day, most women prefer fashion over comfort. Unfortunately, there aren't many styles out there for women who want to look cute AND be comfy at the same timebelieve me, I know this for a fact. Recently, a rocket scientist introduced an allegedly comfortable high-heeled shoe. This remains to be seen, since I don't have the money to invest in this technology. So I teeter around on mile-high heels (even though I'm quite tallwhat can I say? I like high heels!) and do my best to rest my feet whenever possible.

It's really a mental thing. Most days I follow in the footsteps (no pun intended) of the millions of working women who don their trusty sneakers on the city streets, then change to heels when they reach the office. This is the safest option for me, seeing as how I have a lengthy walk from home to the train, and from train to work. Plus I'm a complete klutz on a good day. Just when I'm feeling confident in my less-than-fashionable footwear, though, I'll see a woman leaving the train in sexy 3-inch heels. And my heart will sink, as I draw my feet as far beneath my seat as they can go. And I'll swear for the millionth time that I need to start wearing those heels outside the office.

See? For women, it's all about how the women around them make them feel about themselves. In fact, women dress up more for each other than for the men in their lives. Seriously. It's true. So we try to outdo each other to see who can wear the cuter, more trendy shoes, when all the time we're crying inside from the pain those adorable shoes are causing our feet. Doesn't make much sense? Believe me, I know. But neither does the male inability to ask for directions.

There are helpful products on the market which will help alleviate some discomfort, though. The most ingenious of all is the gel insert. Buy some of these and stick them to the inside of the shoe, right where the balls of your feet sit and where your weight gets shifted to once you slip into heels. Though it may not make you feel as though you're walking on air, it will definitely make a difference. And don't forget those beautiful little band aids to cover those blisters!

Another tip is to find shoes with a sturdy heel. The thinner the heel, the more difficulty your feet and ankles will experience as you try to balance. And don't be afraid to try lower heels it's a proven fact that a heel as high as two inches can elongate the leg (you know, the actual point of high heels), and that difference in heel height can work miracles for your overworked feet!

Truth is, shoes can make or break an outfit. They can make you feel sassy and sexy. What woman doesn't need a confidence booster now and again?

Published by Stephanie Haefner

I loves gardening and writing articles.  View profile

3 Comments

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  • Esmeralda8/11/2008

    I love my heels, I actually have a collection that just grows with every 3 months (when I adopt a new sexy pair to my gorgeous closet)
    To make sure they are comfortable avoid "made in china" and go for Italian, Brazilian brands. Aldo invest in soft sole inserts - its like walking on a cloud.
    I also have tons of flats - they are very IN right now, so try to purchase ones which would compliment your shape and match with your clothing

    Toodles!

  • Amy W. 7/21/2008

    I refuse to wear uncomfortable shoes. My highest heels are 2", and the heal itself is wide. Most of the time I wear flat shoes, even though I am short. My friends do the same.I may not look as fashionable, but I'm happy.

  • BarkingDogShoes12/14/2007

    There are a few really great shoe manufacturers out there who GET that comfort and style must go hand in hand. If you haven't tried Sofft shoes yet, you must give them a try. The footbed is cushioned well with moderate arch support. The metatarsal area (ball of foot) is also padded nicely. I have rheumatoid arthritis and can wear their high-heel boots with no problem.


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