Wear heels comfortably: Pick the right size, go for platform ones, use heel protectors

How to wear heels: If you are new to wearing heels or plan to wear them for a long day, the best options to start with are the wedge, platform or kitten heels that have 2-3 inches of heel height (Image: Canva)

If you love wearing heels but are not a fan of the discomfort that long-term heel-wearing can bring, you are on the right page.

Heels can make one look and feel more confident, but wearing them for a long time can also be hard on your feet and you can end up with chafed feet or blisters. Even if you are a pro at wearing heels, these tips and tricks can make wearing them feel more comfortable.

Choosing the right size, opting for platform heels or cushioned insoles can take out the pain of wearing heels. Make sure that you stretch your feet and calves after wearing heels to reduce tension and stiffness, and give your feet frequent breaks from wearing heels to improve circulation.

Here are some other tips and tricks on wearing heels:

Choose the right size

Make sure you are choosing the right size for your feet. Sometimes different brands may have different sizes that are right for your feet, so don’t forget to test them out before you buy them. Shoes that are too tight can cause blisters, while loose heels may lead to slipping.

• Tip: Choose a size that feels snug but isn’t too tight, with about a thumb’s width of space at the front.
• Pro tip: If one foot is slightly larger, choose the size that best fits that foot.

Higher heels can increase pressure on your feet. If you are new to wearing heels or plan to wear them for a long day, the best options to start with are the wedge, platform or kitten heels that have 2-3 inches of heel height.

These give you stability and provide less strain on the balls of your feet by distributing weight more evenly. These kinds of heels work best for office or anywhere that you have to wear heels for a long time.

• Pro tip: Block heels are more stable than stilettos and provide additional support.

Cushioned insoles can make a big difference, absorbing shock and easing pressure on the balls and heels of your feet.

• Tip: Try gel or foam insoles made for heels, or use ball-of-foot cushions to relieve pressure. Pro tip: If your shoes feel tight, thinner insoles may be more comfortable.

Remember to always break in new heels before you wear them for a long day. There’s nothing worse than trying out new heels at a long event, and finding that they have given you blisters. Breaking in helps loosen your heels and makes them more comfortable for long wear.

• Tip: Wear new heels around the house for short periods. Adding thick socks can help stretch them.
• Pro tip: Flex the shoes gently to soften stiff areas.

Proper walking technique distributes weight evenly and reduces strain. Step heel-to-toe, taking smaller, controlled steps, and engage your core to help maintain balance.

Wear heel protectors

Heel protectors provide extra stability and keep heels from sinking into soft surfaces.

• Tip: Heel protectors increase surface area, making it easier to walk on grass or gravel.
• Pro tip: They prevent sinking and protect heels at outdoor events.

Moisturised skin is less likely to develop blisters, reducing friction in your shoes.

• Tip: Apply foot cream before putting on heels, focusing on areas like heels and toes.
• Pro tip: Let moisturiser absorb completely to prevent slippery feet.

Taping your toes can alleviate pressure on nerves, making high heels more wearable.

• Tip: Tape your third and fourth toes together for better support.
• Pro tip: Use medical or sports tape, which is gentle on the skin.

Even with the best tips, it’s important to rest your feet when wearing heels.

• Tip: Sit down whenever possible, wiggling your toes and stretching your feet to improve circulation.
• Pro tip: Bring foldable flats for longer events to relieve your feet when needed.

Stretching your feet and calves after wearing heels helps reduce tension and stiffness.

• Tip: Flex your feet and stretch calf muscles. Roll a tennis ball under your feet for a mini massage.
• Pro tip: A warm foot soak with Epsom salts soothes tired feet and reduces swelling.