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How to Walk In Heels - A Complete Guide

• Gabor Shoes

Heels can elevate your look in so many outstanding ways, but they can also be an utter nightmare to walk in. Learning how to walk in heels correctly can save your feet from hours of pain, your look from a lack of height and elegance, and your posture, too!

We’ve put together our best tips for walking in heels, preventing foot pain as you walk in them, and making your gorgeous shoes feel more comfortable. Follow our comprehensive guide, and you’ll be strutting down the street in your favourite pair in no time.

Table of contents

How should heels fit?

First and foremost, you need to get the right-sized heel. If you’re trying to strut your stuff in a pair of heels that don’t fit properly, you may as well be walking along a tightrope. The main feature you’re looking for from a well-fitting heel is strong hold and support. A tight fit around the ankle is best, as a heel that’s too big will rub and cause blisters or, worse, a trip hazard.

Your heel should feel fixed in place without being compressed so much that it’s painful. The less your heel moves while you walk, the better. Allow a tad more room around the width of your foot while the ball of your foot should feel secure but not suffocated. Give your toes room to breathe; if you feel set without too much pressure, you’ve nailed it!

How to make heels feel more comfortable

We know you’ve heard the hacks to achieving comfy heels 100 times before, but trust us! At Gabor, we’ve got plenty of experience with heels and are eager to share our knowledge. Of course, learning how to walk correctly in heels is the ideal way to make them feel as comfortable as possible, but some helpful tips and tricks can’t hurt.

Break them in

This one feels like cheating, but it’s true! One of the best ways to ease that harsh and strenuous feeling we’re all too familiar with is to take them for a test drive around your home. Try wearing them during everyday tasks; sooner rather than later, you’ll be ready to take them out confidently. Trust us, your feet will thank you later!

Use gel insoles

While breaking your heels in is a great way to allow them to mould to your feet, some pairs can be rigid in shape and structure. For these instances, and if you don’t fancy the breaking-in process, we recommend purchasing gel insoles to cushion the ball of your foot. The extra cushioning from the insoles will lower that strain and make the switch back to flats far less tempting.

Blow dry the shoes

If you’re pressed for time, this is a quick fix for uncomfortable heels. Warming the heels will allow the material to soften and stretch before you put them on, allowing for an easier fit and less harsh impact on your feet.

Our top tips for walking in heels

The confidence you get from a pair of new heels can only be matched by absolutely crushing it as you walk into a room in them. You know you look good, and so does everyone else! We wish this feeling for everyone who bravely ditches their flats for a pair of stunning heels, but if you've not had much practice wearing heels, it can have the opposite effect. So, we’ve gathered our best tips for walking in heels so you can stride on down anywhere with your head held high.

Slow and steady

Getting started with new heels is by no means a race, so take your time to find your footing as you take your initial steps. You’ll need to adjust your stride when wearing heels, so smaller steps will help you maintain control as you go. It may initially feel odd, but you’ll quickly get used to it.

Walk heel-to-toe

It's much easier to keep control when you walk heel-to-toe in heels. This walking style will look and feel much more natural than any other way, which can appear ungainly. It’ll take some practice, but do your best to repeat “heel, toe, heel, toe” in your head as you walk to get yourself into a good rhythm. This method will also help prevent you from twisting your ankle.

Eyes up

Walking in new heels can feel daunting, and it’s natural to want to look down at your feet to make sure you’re getting every step right. However, this could completely throw off your balance and result in a nasty fall. We’d like to keep you upright and with your dignity intact, so we recommend keeping your eyes on the prize and looking forward while walking in your heels.

Different types of heels

The best thing about entering the wonderful world of heels is that there's so much to choose from! We recommend you take it steady when starting with something small, like a kitten heel. Over time, as your confidence grows, there's no reason why you can't upgrade to a stiletto or something similar.

Block, wedge, and platform heels are your go-to for the most comfort possible. They provide height, stability, and padding so you can elevate your everyday and glam looks while being confident in your footwear. When styling your outfit around heels, consider the occasion and season to ensure you get the most out of your look.

Heels at Gabor

Now that you’re well on your way to taking the street, office and town by storm, it’s time to pick your perfect pair of heels. At Gabor, we stock a wonderful range of heels featuring beautiful designs that you’ll be falling head over, well, heels for!

Find the perfect material for you with leather, suede, and patent-style heels available. Our range has a heel for every occasion, so whether you’re looking for a professional or party look, we’ve got you covered.

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