4 Myths & Truths About High Heels You May Or May Not Have Heard (And More)
High heel shoes have the ability to add something unique and sophisticated to any outfit you wear. They look amazing and come in many different styles, so there's something for everyone. However, you may be hesitant to wear these types of shoes because of things you've heard. It's time to put some of these high heel myths to rest.
Common High-Heel Myths Linked to Health
There are quite a few high heel myths that exist, and they may make it so that you are afraid to wear them or don't wear them for long. This limits your style options, so let's set the record straight when it comes to high heels.
Myth #1: High Heels Will Make Your Calves Bigger
High heels do have the ability to stretch your legs and make your calves more prominent, along with your thighs, but they aren't going to increase the size of your calves just by wearing them. If you find that your calves look or feel bigger after wearing heels, this could be because of numerous factors, including retaining water from being on your feet all day.
Myth #2: Heels Cause Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are large, twisted, purple, or blue veins that appear on your legs. They are caused by weak or damaged valves. When the valves don't open and close the way they should to allow blood flow, the blood can flow backward and pool, which then twists and stretches the vein.
While women are more likely to develop this condition than men, heels aren't the cause. Risk factors for varicose veins include age, pregnancy, genetics, being overweight, and sitting or standing for long periods of time. More than likely, if you are going to develop varicose veins, you will get them regardless of whether you wear heels or not.
Myth #3: Heels Cause Foot Problems
While wearing heels can lead to discomfort, especially if you've been on your feet all day, the chances that they will cause permanent damage is rare. There are many different problems that can arise with your feet, from bunions to corns to ingrown toenails to Plantar fasciitis and others. Heels may not cause these issues, but they probably won't help them. Of course, there's no guarantee that flats or tennis shoes will make these problems better or worse either.
Myth #4: Pregnant Women Shouldn't Wear Heels
When it comes to high heel myths, this one claims that wearing heels will have a negative impact on the developing baby. How that will occur is not explained. Thus, wearing heels while pregnant is perfectly fine.
The only caution to consider is that if the heels make you lose your balance and you are prone to tripping and falling, you might want to reconsider. This can be dangerous for both you and the baby.
4 Truths About High Heels
In addition to looking at some of the high heel myths, let's take a look at some of the truths. These may help you decide whether or not you want to wear these shoes more often or not.
Truth #1: Heels Can Tone Your Legs
One of the reasons that people might believe the high heel myths and think they make your calves bigger is because you have to work the calf muscles when wearing these shoes. This won't increase them in size, but it will make them more tone. Heels tighten all of your leg muscles as you walk, so over time, this could help you lose fat and build more muscle.
Truth #2: Heels Improve Your Posture
If you've ever worn heels, you know how important it is to be aware of your balance and your posture. If you slouch or slump your shoulders forward, the chances of you slipping or rolling an ankle in your heels increases. Thus, keeping your back straight, you head held high, and your shoulders back is essential in making sure you stay on your feet when wearing heels.
Truth #3: Men Love Women in High Heels
This one may not appeal to everyone, but it has been proven through various studies that men will pay more attention to women who are wearing heels. The higher the heels get, the more attention they pay. Again, whether or not this is what you're trying to achieve when you wear heels will depend, but it's a truth nonetheless.
3 Tips To Be More Comfortable Wearing Your Heels
There are many high heel myths that exist, but there are also some truths, too. If you decide you want to wear these shoes for any reason, make sure you are comfortable and safe during the process. Below are some ways to wear your heels comfortably.
1. Get the Right Size
The right sized shoe will have a huge impact on how comfortable they are. It's possible for your feet to change over time and after having kids, so at least once a year have them measured to ensure you are wearing the right size. This should include both length and width so you can get the right heels.
2. Consider Thicker Heels
Shoes with thicker heels will give you better balance. If the heel is too thin, it will cause your foot to wobble, and this could lead to a twisted ankle or other issues. This isn't to say that thin heels should be totally avoided, but try to wear them as little as possible.
3. Take Breaks
Throughout the day, find the time to take your heels off and stretch your feet and toes. Some of the stretches that you might consider doing include pointing your toes down and then pulling them up with a strap. This will stretch the Achilles' tendon and your calf. You'll also need to pull them from one side to another to stretch your instep and the outside of your foot.
Conclusion
You've more than likely heard some high heel myths, and this may make you wary about wearing these shoes. As long as you have the right sized shoe and you are comfortable, wear heels as often as you want.