Platform Sneakers Information
Platform sneakers look like regular sneakers, but are more colorful and daring in appearance. Many have a springy, high rubber sole combined with a round, chunky appearance. Popularized during the rave heyday of the 1990s, platform sneakers still have a loyal following among alternative fashion lovers. Most of the shoes sell through Internet sources, but some store still carry the shoes in general stock.
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Function
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Platform sneakers are an artistic variety of footwear that is, for the most part, unsuited for sports or fitness activity. However, these shoes are very comfortable and are favorites among young people and alternative fashion denizens. Often, the thicker platform sole pads the foot well, but the chunky design and taller height may increase the danger of accidental falls. Depending on the design and materials, platform sneakers may be worn year round; one company, Volatile, makes winter varieties lined in polar fleece.
Identification
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A platform sneaker will have an upper that resembles a conventional sneaker. The biggest difference is the rubber sole, which ranges from 2 to 4 inches in height. The upper may be composed of fashion fabrics, with rhinestones or patches to enhance the design. Most of these shoes are light to medium in weight, and cause no additional strain on the wearer. Popular brands include Demonia, Volatile and Swear.
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Use in Alternative Fashion
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Platform shoes closely resemble Japanese anime footwear; because of this, young men and women use the shoes in cosplay outfits and club ensembles. One popular look is to layer an anime-style legwarmer over the platform sneaker, leaving little more than the sole and a bit of the upper sticking out. Other people wear the sneakers with boot-cut or flared jeans. In most cases, the bulk of the upper is concealed by clothing, with few wearing the shoes in plain, complete sight.
Geography
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During the raver fad of the mid to late 1990s, platform shoes were widely available in mall shops. Nowadays, most consumers have to resort to online stores for their platform sneaker fix. In alternative fashion centers like New York and Tokyo, it's still possible to walk into a store and buy a pair; however the selection is greatly diminished. The most high-end brand of platform sneakers, Swear Alternative, was crafted in London until 2001. After that, the brand stopped production, rendering many of the $200+ pairs instant collectors' items.
Warning
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Platform sneakers are for fashion use, not athletic wear. Due to the thickness of the sole, there's little movement through the foot while taking a step. Therefore, one could easily sustain an injury during athletic activities when wearing platform sneakers. Also, the increased height can cause missteps, slips and trips. They're not the best shoe for children, or those with back and foot problems. It's also best to try on a pair of platform shoes before purchasing to see if they fit and feel comfortable. Adjusting to the platform takes time, and some may not like the sensation of so much spring and buoyancy while walking.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit 2008 gwdexter / Creative Commons
