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The Perfect Heel: A Guide to Choosing the Right Size for a Comfortable Fit

High heels are a staple accessory for women, but choosing the right size can be a challenge. While these shoes are a must-have for many, getting the sizing right is an art that eludes some.

Administrator

14 July, 2024

High heels are a must-have item in any woman’s wardrobe, but choosing the wrong size can lead to painful feet. Let’s explore how to select the perfect-fitting high heels that will keep your feet happy.

1. How to Measure Your Feet for High Heels

What you’ll need:

Pen
Ruler
White paper

Instructions:

Step 1 Determine Your Foot Length and Width

Begin by placing a piece of white paper on the floor and stepping on it. Trace the outline of your foot with a pen.

Next, measure the length and width of your foot by drawing two parallel lines at the widest points of your foot.

If the length and width measurements result in odd numbers, you can round them up or down, as long as it’s not more than 0.3 cm down.

Tip: Opt for a size that is slightly larger rather than smaller to ensure comfort.

Determining Foot Size

Step 2 Consult the High Heel Size Chart

Once you have your foot length and width measurements, refer to the size chart below to find your corresponding US, UK, and VN/EU sizes.

Size US	Size UK	Size VN/EU	Foot Length (cm)
4	2	34 – 35	20.8
4.5	2.5	35	21.3
5	3	35 – 36	21.6
5.5	3.5	36	22.2
6	4	36 – 37	22.5
6.5	4.5	37	23
7	5	37 – 38	23.5
7.5	5.5	38	23.8
8	6	38 – 39	24.1
8.5	6.5	39	24.6
9	7	39 – 40	25.1
9.5	7.5	40	25.4
10	8	40 – 41	25.9
10.5	8.5	41	26.2
11	9	41 – 42	26.7
11.5	9.5	42	27.1
12	10	42 – 43	27.6

You can also calculate your shoe size based on foot length using this formula:

Shoe Size = Foot Length x 2 – 10 (cm)

Determining Shoe Size Based on Foot Length

2. How to Choose High Heels That Fit Perfectly

Shop for High Heels in the Evening

Our foot size can vary throughout the day, and they tend to be at their largest after a full day of activity. Therefore, to ensure the most comfortable fit, it’s best to shop for high heels in the evening.

Choose High Heels That Fit Snugly

A well-fitting pair of high heels should be snug, providing stability for your feet. Avoid choosing shoes that are too tight or too loose, as this can lead to discomfort and instability. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can also make walking difficult and increase the risk of sprains, skin damage, or bleeding.

Pay Attention to the Toe Shape

Consider the Toe Shape

When it comes to finding the right size for high heels, it’s not just about the overall length and width; the toe shape matters too.

The perfect pair of shoes should have enough room for your toes and match the shape of your feet, ensuring comfort and preventing issues like joint pain with regular wear.

Here’s how to choose high heels based on your toe shape:

Rounded or slightly pointed toes offer more room than sharply pointed toes. If you have larger feet or longer toes, opt for these styles.
Low-cut or less coverage on the toes will provide less room than higher-cut or more covered styles. These are better suited for smaller feet or shorter toes.
Choosing a toe shape that matches your foot shape ensures comfort and prevents unwanted issues when wearing high heels.

Try Them On and Walk Around

A common mistake when buying high heels is to make a decision based on how they feel when sitting or standing still. However, the feeling can be completely different when you’re walking.

For a more accurate assessment, try walking in the shoes for a while on different surfaces, including hard floors and carpets. This will help you find the most comfortable and suitable pair for your feet.

3. How to Choose High Heels That Are Easy to Walk In

Consider the Heel Height and Style

Heel Height and Style Matter

The style of your high heels plays a crucial role in ensuring comfort and ease of use. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Opt for high heels with straps that secure the instep or ankle. This provides a sense of security and prevents your feet from slipping out while walking.
Choose high heels that cover the toes or even boot-style heels that cover the ankles. This reduces pressure on the feet and makes walking easier, minimizing issues caused by excessive pressure. Selecting the right heel style will enhance your comfort and make wearing high heels a breeze.

Consider the Heel Type

Heel Type Affects Comfort

As heels get thinner and taller, the pressure on the front of your feet increases, making walking more challenging and potentially causing pain and other issues.

On the other hand, heels that are thicker, wider, and not too high distribute weight more evenly across your feet. The tendons and ligaments around your ankles can also move more freely. If you’re new to wearing high heels or want to minimize foot pain, opt for styles with more substantial heels, such as block heels or even wedge heels.

Positioning of the Heel

In addition to the thickness and height of the heel, pay attention to its positioning. The heel should be placed directly under your heel, neither too far forward nor too far back, as this affects the support it provides to your body and the distribution of weight on your feet.

A recommended guideline is to maintain a distance of approximately 6 cm between the sole and the heel – considered a safe distance that maximizes stability when wearing high heels.

Choose the Right Toe Shape

Choose a Comfortable Toe Shape

When selecting high heels to avoid foot pain, consider not only the correct size but also the toe design. Typically, pointed-toe shoes offer less space than squared-off, rounded, or squared-round toes. This can lead to more discomfort.

Therefore, invest in shoes with comfortable toe shapes to prevent any issues with your toes, especially when wearing higher heels.

Opt for a Lower Heel Height

High heels with a height of up to 4 cm are considered the most comfortable and least harmful for daily wear, as they reduce the load on the spine and do not significantly alter your bone structure. To find the ideal heel height for yourself, follow the instructions below.

Measurement Method 1:

Step 1 Sit on the floor with one leg extended in front of you, barefoot and relaxed (toes pointing slightly forward).

Step 2 Place a ruler on the floor, aligned with your heel, and hold a pencil or another ruler vertically, touching the floor and the front of your foot near the toes.

Step 3 Measure

Frequently asked questions

Choosing the right heel size is crucial for comfort and avoiding foot pain. Start by knowing your foot length and width, then consider the occasion and your activity level. For everyday use, opt for a lower heel (1-2 inches) for better stability and comfort. If you want a taller heel, choose a thicker, block-style heel for more support. Always try shoes on and walk around to ensure a secure, comfortable fit.

Firstly, consider the width of the heel. A narrower heel may look elegant but can be less stable and comfortable. Opt for a wider base if you prioritizecomfort. Additionally, look for shoes with a slight platform at the front, which helps reduce the slope and pressure on your feet. Finally, choose shoes with cushioning and arch support to absorb shock and provide comfort throughout the day.

Refer to the brand’s size guide and measurements. Measure your foot length and width, and compare it to the size chart. Some brands may offer half sizes or varying widths (narrow, medium, wide) to help you find a more precise fit. It’s also helpful to read reviews from other buyers regarding the shoe’s fit and sizing accuracy.

Yes, in addition to a wider base and a slight platform, look for heels with a soft, padded insole and a flexible sole. These features enhance comfort and reduce the strain on your feet. A secure fastening, such as a buckle or strap, is also beneficial to keep your foot in place and prevent slipping.

Start by wearing your new heels for short periods at home. This helps you get a feel for them and identify potential pressure points. Use a shoe stretcher to gently expand tight areas, and stuff the toes with paper or use a shoe tree to help stretch the shoes to your foot’s shape. You can also use gel inserts or pads to add cushioning and reduce friction in problem areas.