How to Walk in High Heels

Heels do not need to be long and thin to be considered fashionable. But no matter what the length of your heel, take extra caution to keep your balance and place the least amount of strain on your muscles.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Step with your heel down first, then let the sole follow quickly and smoothly.

2. Walk with your toes pointing straight ahead or as close to straight ahead as possible.

3. Swing your arms as you walk for balance.

4. Keep your legs straight, close and parallel.

5. Take smooth, even steps; consider shortening your stride a bit.

6. Avoid walking on ice, slush, mud, grass, sand, gravel and grated surfaces, on which you can slip or sink. When in doubt, take off your heels and carry them across such questionable surfaces in your bare feet.

Tips & Warnings

• When climbing stairs, make sure both sole and heel land together firmly and simultaneously on each step. When descending stairs, only the sole of the shoe needs to be planted on each step.
• Learning to walk in high heels is mostly a matter of practice.
• While high heels can make your legs look better and longer, they can also wreak havoc on your feet, especially when worn regularly over long periods of time.
• Avoid driving in high heels - you don't have quite as much control over the car, and you can damage the back of your shoe. Keep an extra pair of flats in your car, or consider driving barefoot.

[ssarah]

on 10/6/2009 Hello honey - I am very sorry but this actually does not make a good guide. I did try following your instructions but I ended up looking like a stork or somethint like that. My husband came in saw me and asked if I were in pain or if he could help me somehow. If you would enlarge the first three steps put more detail in them or maybe even create a video that would be quite more helpful.

[KaraDiablo]

on 8/26/2009 I have the worst feet for high heels but just love how cute and sexy heels can be.

[jones11]

on 4/25/2009 i like high heel ,but i can not wear them to walk for i was afraid to practice it and wear high heel shoes make my feet feel aching...

[bmi57]

on 1/16/2008 I really like wearing high heels, but my husband feels uncomfortable when I wear them because they make me taller than him. Great article, thanks.

[CCrock]

on 1/15/2008 Practice, so you don't look awkward. If shoes are open-toed, make sure feet and toenails are clean and polished looking. And, look into getting some Dr. Scholl's comfort cushions to make those high heels feel more comfortable so you can walk and look sexy without the pain!