Last updated on January 18th, 2022 at 02:29 pm
Buying a good pair of women’s sandals to see you through the summer months is something that most of us will do every year, but that doesn’t mean it’s a completely painless process.
Deciding which colour buy, which style to go for and which will be the most comfortable can be really stressful and often it can leave you disappointed if you don’t find anything that feels or looks right.
Some people can be wary of heeled sandals, whether it’s because they’re unsure what height works best for them or they don’t think they’ll be comfortable to walk in. We want to take a look at what sandals might be on your hit list this year. We’ll also discuss when’s best to wear them and with what as well as what to look out for when it comes to comfort.
When To Wear Heeled Sandals
One of the most common issues you might face when it comes to heeled sandals is deciding when it’s appropriate to wear them.
There are so many occasions that could call for a nice pair of heeled sandals, whether you’re off on your summer holidays or a family wedding is coming up and you’d like to wear something a little fancy but comfortable.
There are a few things that you’ll need consider before making your decision:
The length of wear – How long are you planning to wear them? How long are you likely to be on your feet? If you’re likely to encounter long periods of standing or walking, they might not be the best option. Or a lower, more robust heel might be a more comfortable choice.
The right style – Again, this all comes down to the comfort factor, some styles may not be appropriate for the occasion or your feet. If you’re looking for a glamorous pair of heeled sandals to wear to prom, it’s likely those same sandals aren’t going to be suitable for wearing to a beach party or a music festival in a field.
Think of your feet – The health of your feet should always come first. It’s easy to be blinded by a stunning pair of sandals that will go perfectly with your outfit, but ensuring your feet are supported and free from any issues is what really matters.
If you’re planning to wear heeled sandals for work, always make sure that it’s OK to do so with your employer. The last thing you want with heeled sandals is a foot injury!
TOP TIP: When buying heeled sandals, make sure you do this as late in the day as possible to allow for any change in foot shape.
Are Heeled Sandals Comfortable?
They certainly can be! Much like deciding when to wear them, making wise choices with the style and fit can be the difference between a comfortable and uncomfortable pair of heeled sandals.
Making considerations for the width of your feet will mean that the footbed of the sandal will accommodate your foot correctly, with the support in all of the right places.
Choosing shoes that are the right width will also mean that any straps on the sandals won’t be too tight or too loose.
Straps that are too tight can rub and cause blisters and sores, walking around with plasters and sores all over your feet is not a good look for anyone, never mind uncomfortable!
On the flip side, straps that are too loose can cause your feet to move around, making it easier for your feet to move around reduces the amount of support they give. In doing so, it will increase the chances of having an accident and injury.
TOP TIP: If you need some additional protection or support, gel inserts are great for this. You can also buy them specifically for sandals with a toe post should you find this causes you problems.
What type of heel should I choose?
In so many ways this comes down to personal preference, but there are a number of styles that can be better for you when it comes to comfort.
Choosing a solid block heel or a wedge sandal will offer more support, adding a little more rigidity to the instep of the sandal. These types of heel are usually reserved for a more casual look so may not be suitable for all occasions.
In that case, stilettos or kitten heels might be better suited as they offer a more delicate and glamorous look. If a stiletto heel isn’t really for you but you’d still like to wear a thinner heel, a flared (commonly found on dance style shoes) or a cone heel may be the option for you as these offer a little more stability whilst still looking feminine and light.
The other thing to consider when choosing heeled sandals is the heel height. Most people will find that a low to medium heel is the most comfortable for extended periods of wear as they offer more even distribution of weight across the foot.
When choosing heeled sandals, always ensure that the heel height is right for you by taking a few minutes to walk around in them before buying. If you’re unsteady or you experience pain in your feet or ankles, a different heel height should be considered.
How To Wear Heeled Sandals
There are so many different styles of heeled sandals on the market that you might struggle to own just one pair! Some have a wedge heel and ankle strap, others have a platform and block heel.
Whatever the style of sandal you choose, it’s fair to say they can be pretty versatile and can add a new dimension to an outfit.
Heeled sandals with laces can make a real style statement. If you want to keep things casual but also want to stand out from the crowd, they’re great teamed with cropped trousers and a flowing kaftan style top for a relaxed bohemian vibe. They can also be dressed up with ease, mixing them with funky knee length skirts and dresses will definitely get you noticed.
A big winner this summer is wedge sandals (or wedges as they’re often called). Stylish, comfortable and so versatile, they can be worn by any age and can be worn with pretty much anything, from trousers to skirts to shorts. They make the perfect holiday footwear too as they offer additional support in the arch of the foot while walking.
Conclusion
Picking the perfect pair of heeled sandals this summer doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether it’s platform sandals, lace up sandals or wedge sandals that you’re looking for, there’s definitely something out there for you.
