Do not go out without sky-high heels, it was almost a golden rule in the time of Gabrielle Solis. , said the character of , quoted by Grazia. Between glamor and bulbs, many are still searching for the perfect balance.
Because behind the fantasy of endless legs, days spent on heels that are too high sometimes leave very real pain. However, podiatrists have identified an ideal height for heels, chic enough to lengthen the silhouette, but reasonable enough to protect the feet.
High heels: what podiatrists see on our feet
For podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Dr Ebonie Vincent-Sleet, interviewed by the American HuffPost, the findings are clear. , she warns, referring to neuromas, bunions, hammertoes or early osteoarthritis linked to prolonged wearing of heels.
The higher the heel rises, the more the weight of the body shifts towards the front of the foot, compressing the metatarsals and pulling on the Achilles tendon. , details Ebonie Vincent-Sleet.
Ideal heel height: the figure given by specialists
Based on this data, several teams of podiatrists agree on a clear limit: it is better not to exceed 5 cm of heel, or approximately two inches. , recalls Dr. Hira H. Mirza. Between 2 and 4 cm, we remain in the famous so-called physiological heel, which generally respects posture.
Research cited by these specialists shows that a heel of around 2.5 cm already increases pressure on the forefoot by 22% compared to a flat shoe, 5 cm by 57%, and 7.5 cm by 76%. For Ebonie Vincent-Sleet,: she invites .
Which heel to choose to stay chic without damaging your feet
On a daily basis, podiatrists advise favoring stable shapes: square or block heel, sometimes compensated, with a moderate height around 3 to 5 cm. This type of heel better distributes the load and limits instability. Slingbacks, these pumps closed in the front but held in place by a heel strap, keep the foot in place when the strap is well adjusted.
Another key criterion is the shape of the shoe itself. A sufficiently wide toe box, rounded or straight toes and a firm heel counter significantly improve comfort. , insists Ebonie Vincent-Sleet, who recommends avoiding very pointed or too narrow models.
What is the ideal heel height?
For regular wear, aim for between 2 and 4 cm, without exceeding 5 cm.
Can we wear 8cm heels?
Yes, but only occasionally and for a limited period.
Which heels hurt your feet the least?
Square heels of 3 to 5 cm, in well-supported and fairly wide shoes.
Sources
- Grazia
“Ideal height podiatrist reveals heel choose to stay chic without abusing feet”
- Biba
“Here is the maximum heel height that you can wear according to this method validated by podiatrists”
