Do I have an educational post for you today for my tips and advice series! I am sharing you my experiences in wearing pumps and heels without pain!
For those of you that don’t know, I am not very tall. And I have come to terms with the fact that my legs will never reach the photoshopped length of the magazine cover models… So my solution has been to wear heels.
Not only do I wear them because they make my legs look longer, but I also wear them because they are just, well, pretty! I am really a girly girl when it comes to shoes and the only shoes I have are in bold prints, ballerinas or have heels.
So with the summer finally arriving here in Holland, it’s time to get serious about walking on heels while it’s warm.
These are my tips and tricks on wearing pumps without pain:
1. Shopping with patience
I have seen people shopping for pumps like it’s a race: pulling them of the rack, trying them on with their winter socks still on, without walking on them and already purchasing with one shoe still off. (ok, maybe a bit of an exaggeration, but you get the point;) You won’t believe the amount of money people spend yearly on impulse purchases like this. I have to admit, I used to have some unworn shoes myself. Time has told me to always be patient while shoe shopping.
My rule is: If it doesn’t feel perfect in the store, it will not be the pump for me.
If on the first try you’re already reaching for a spot that doesn’t feel completely right, than it will only get worse when you are walking on it on a warm summer day. Also walk a few minutes on them in the store.
My favourite way to shop for pumps will be online. This way you can try them on in your house, wear them while you do your dishes and see if it feels right. And you can always return them!
2. Sizing
Toes over the edge, gaps in the back, tiny toes being squished is al a definite no go. It doesn’t look right and it definitely won’t feel right for your feet.
3. Platforms are your new friend
Thank you platform trend! I am very grateful that platforms are back in style! They will shorten your heels and can actually be pretty comfortable. I get that platforms are not everyones cup of tea, but platforms come in many different sizes, if the front part only has a one centimeter platform, it is still one centimeter less of an arch for your feet.
4. Thick heels vs thin heels
I actually don’t own any pumps with thin heels. I just really can’t walk on them. I look wobbly and my feet will be very painful after walking on them for a few minutes. If you are one of those miracle people that can walk on any heel: wow! If you are more like me, than opt for a thicker heel and save your stilettos for a night that will be worth the pain.
5. Wedge Pumps
Yes, I admit that I am a fan of the wedge pumps. They are just so comfortable! I can seriously walk on them for hours when I wear the right ones! And they really don’t have to be chunky, there are some pretty stylish ones out there, like my Restyled Wedges DIY!
6. Open Toe
Open toe shoes will give your feet just that extra space to get in a more comfortable position. I often find that open toe shoes are the ones that I pick for longer walks and outings. Plus you can show off your pretty nail polish!
7. Cover it up
Shoes with straps are very classy and pretty, but can also be a risk: the straps might tighten when you walk all day and create blisters. Try shoes that cover your foot up for more balance and security.
8. Taping it up
I haven’t tried this trick yet, but I have been reading all about it on Pinterest: Taping your 3rd and 4th toe together with medical tape or a bandage. The idea is that it will give your feet more space on the sides and create less friction. It’s apparently also good for your balance, so let’s all try this one the next time!
9. The always reliable cushions and gelpads
Cushions and gel pads really do help. I tried some cheaper ones, that where not a big succes. But when I opted for a thicker cushion it really made my pumps more comfortable!
And as a final personal note: When I know I have to stand or walk for a long time, I often opt for more comfortable heels over let’s say stilettos. Because looking like you are in pain and walking awkwardly on stilettos will just never get in style;)
What are your tricks? Please share in the comments section!
