Finding a comfortable wedge heeled shoe

Large- and small-footed women are in the minority in the American shoe market: Only about 6 percent of American women need shoes above size 10, while less than 1 percent call for size 4 1/2 and below. All told, that’s less than half the number of women who wear America’s most popular size 8, the size that accounts for 16 percent of all women’s shoes sold, reports the NPD Group, a retail information company based in Port Washington.

Statistics like these combined with the fact that women in America are larger today, means that not only does there need to be several changes in the clothing industry but just as many changes need to be made in the way shoes are made to accommodate larger frames.

Approaching the shoes that you wear not only by what suits your individual tastes but what will most comfortably support your full figured body will help avoid any discomfort or injury resulting from wearing a shoe that is just not right for you. The type of shoe that is best for you in the end is up to you. Arm yourself with these helpful tips and you will have what you need to make the best choice possible.

Wedge heels - This style is the most popular right now because of the height that they give along with the sassiness that it gives your leg and foot. It’s best to stay with a wedge that’s no higher than two inches, because higher wedges will cause an increase in body weight, up to 7 times in most cases, on the ball of your foot.

Stack heels - This style combines a platform with a stiletto to provide a more stable shoe for those that like to wear heels but want to be comfortable at the same time. Just like the wedge for maximum comfort its best to stay at 2 inches for the maximum height of the heel.

Leather insole - Though synthetic insoles are in wide use they don’t allow for absorption of sweat from the foot which can lead to foot odor and increased heat around the foot. Leather has more give to it and will allow even distribution of heat as well as allowing your foot to breath.

Whether you have a regular size foot or a hard to find size as a plus size woman it makes no sense to spend a lot of time and effort finding the perfect clothes and not be able to find comfortable shoes to match. I know that many ladies that say they are willing to sacrifice comfort for the right look. There is no sense in looking good and being in agony when you can get the perfect shoe the first time.

Wearable Platforms - Love platforms, but can’t handle the height? These cushioned ankle-strap espadrilles have the all comfort of modest flats with the style of sky-high wedges.

Evening Platforms - The dressy sandal is instantly modernized with a platform sole, and a sky-high four-inch heel to boot!

Wavy-Soled Espadrille - These espadrilles, with large ribbon ties and a wavy-braided sole, manage to look more city chic rather than beach bum.

Luxe Thong Platform - Despite its Birkenstock sandal styling, this thong gets a serious upgrade with luxe embossed leather, pretty metallic color, and tall cork wedge.

Studded Platform - An otherwise straightforward pair of leather wedges gets instant bad girl appeal with stud and eyelet hardware.

Though it may seem like a lot to think about when deciding on which shoe to wear you will thank yourself at the end of the day when you’re just tired from having too much fun and not because your feet are killing you.