Fashionable footwear trends, including split-toe shoes and ballet flats, may pose greater risks to foot health than their style suggests, according to shoe designer Lisa Kay.
Kay, founder of Sole Bliss, stated that the common mistake consumers make is prioritizing aesthetics over construction. "A toe-box that's too tight, a heel that's the wrong height, a sole with no give at all - these aren't minor annoyances," Kay told the Daily Mail. "Left unchecked, they're what turns a bunion into a painful one, or leaves someone... unable to walk comfortably by the end of the day."
Split-toe shoes, popularized by brands like Maison Margiela and worn by celebrities such as Kylie Jenner, Zendaya, and Dua Lipa, are not suitable for all foot types. Kay advises that these shoes can place direct load on bunion joints and irritate neuromas. She specifically warns individuals with diabetic neuropathy to avoid them due to reduced feeling in the feet, which can delay the detection of damage.
Stilettos, while often seen as a fashion statement, can also cause significant discomfort. The high, narrow heel shifts body weight forward into a pointed toe box, potentially crushing toes. However, Kay notes that stilettos can be designed for comfort with wide toe boxes, cushioned footbeds, and arch support, making them potentially suitable for certain foot conditions.
Mules, a currently popular shoe style, can also present problems. Without a strap to secure the foot, narrower feet may slide forward, exacerbating issues like Morton's neuromas.
UGG boots, known for their comfort, lack structure and arch support. While they can be forgiving for sensitive skin, swollen joints, and wide feet, prolonged wear may worsen symptoms for those with plantar fasciitis, over-pronation, or bunions.
Ballet flats, a summer trend, have also drawn complaints of pain. Kay suggests that while well-made, supportive versions can work, excessively flat styles lack adequate cushioning and arch support, which can be detrimental for individuals with plantar fasciitis or flat feet.
Wedges are generally considered a kinder option due to their wider surface area distributing body weight. However, their rigidity can be unsuitable for those who over-pronate.
Mary Janes are often recommended for their supportive features, with the strap across the instep holding the shoe securely without compressing sensitive areas. Loafers are noted for their ease of wear and rounded toe shape, which can accommodate width. However, very flat-soled loafers may lack the necessary cushioning for conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Kitten heels offer a middle ground between flats and stilettos, but pointed-toe styles with insufficient cushioning can still aggravate plantar fasciitis and neuromas.
Ankle boots are generally considered suitable for most foot conditions, especially those with a wide toe box, cushioning, and secure fastenings like laces or zippers. Knee-high boots can offer stability but may be problematic for wider calves and feet, particularly for individuals with diabetic neuropathy.
Flip-flops are advised for limited wear. The toe post can irritate sensitive areas, and the lack of structure forces the foot to overcompensate, potentially exacerbating conditions like plantar fasciitis and bunions. The open design also poses a risk for those with diabetic neuropathy.
Platform shoes can be a good alternative to thinner heels, as the platform reduces the incline and pressure on the ball of the foot. However, a flat platform without built-in arch support will not address issues like over-pronation.
Crocs, while roomy and soft, lack sufficient structure and support, which can be problematic for many foot conditions. Thicker-soled trainers with deep cushioning and arch support are generally beneficial, especially for shock absorption. Thinner-soled trainers with minimal cushioning offer less support and require the foot to absorb more impact.