Dangerous Design: High Heels

Throughout my lifetime of 21 years, I have heard many men and some women criticize high heels.  "Why wear them?" people ask.  "Heels make people's feet hurt and are only practical for aesthetic or severe heightening purposes."  People may not speak exactly this way, though these are the most common arguments given.  It is true, some heels seem insanely impractical to wear due to its dangerous design.  Some dangerous, yet beautiful heels are pictured below.  

Balance issues are easily detected when simply looking at the second and third shoes.  With the first pair pictured, there are more dangers to be observed.  The upturning of the shoe's front decreases the wearer's ability to balance since the toes will have no contact with the ground.  In addition, these curves which lead up to a point do not follow a foot's natural shape.  This causes the toes to be uncomfortably pushed together. 

The heel, a pleasing futuristic funnel shaped "spike" is the heel's most interesting characteristic.  The large base placed closest to the foot's heel seems to give the shoe more support than a stiletto.  However, the heel has almost no contact with the ground giving the wearer very little support or balance.  The placement of the heel also causes the foot to slide forward into the pointed and upturned end of the shoe.  This pressure decreases the amount of time that the shoe can be comfortably worn.  


Another dangerous component of the shoe is the hanging and already fraying fabric.  Others or even the wearer themselves can step on this fabric and trip.  Of course, all of these components are an unintentional consequence.  These shoes are obviously made by shoe lovers and artists who want to share this love with like-minded consumers.  High heels always pose the risk of twisted ankles, broken feet, sore feet, and the rapid decrease in a foot's functionality.  Despite all of these risks involved with wearing them, people of society love them because they make people feel taller and more attractive.


There is of course a common saying: "no pain, no beauty."  This is of course false but high heels are heavily involved in this saying.  Although the designs above appear dangerous, they are still beautiful designs.  Ideally though, in order to be successful, designs should strive to be more Utopian, safe and beautiful.  The danger factor may not only impede purchase but may also cause an expensive law suit, and nobody wants that!            


Photos from www.irregularchoice.com