A common question which arises when prepping for a night out, yet one that no-one seems to know the ultimate answer to.
While it may not be the world’s biggest mystery (second only to the disappearance of Shergar, of course), the “comfort overstatement” debate is one that is widely questioned. Heels often face the blame for fashion-related injuries, while flat shoes tend to be viewed as being too casual. There seems to be no winning.
First and foremost, whatever your inclination, my ultimate advice is this: DO NOT WEAR HEELS ON A SUBCRAWL. I have taken one for the team and been there, and I can declare that it is not a good idea. The focus of the night went from “who will complete the circuit?” to “which surface will Hannah try to sit on for a rest in this station?”.
So, how do you solve a problem like Manolos? (sorry) Luckily, there aren’t many “hotspot” places in the city centre that dictate entry based on your choice of footwear. And when it comes down to it, we, the human race, have an impressive pool of talents. Some can run for miles in stilettos, while others can totally rock a pair of Superstars in the cutest of skirts. Yes, that is a talent. But I personally cannot handle anything that slightly elevates me off the ground, and so you’ll most likely spot me in the middle of Bamboo in the safest shoes in my wardrobe. Heck, I even bring fluffy socks to pres.
Don’t get me wrong – if you can handle wearing heels on an entire night out, then I tip my hat to you. I’m not writing this with the intention of slamming such an idea; however, I also can’t imagine having to experience the pain and incredibly slow walking that I formerly put myself through at age 18. Have you ever queued up for a taxi outside The Garage after a long Saturday night, praying for the two-day-long line (a slight exaggeration; one day) to work its way down – in footwear that would put the Cineworld on Renfrew St to shame? That thought alone is enough to get me reaching for my canvas shoes.
My poor experience is not only limited to nights out, either. I am often reminded of the time I wandered around Edinburgh Zoo in a pair of black heels. Not due to practicality, of course, but to try and look “grown up” and “sensible” – as one would be in such footwear when navigating around a display of pygmy hippos. I had to be carried to view the penguin parade.
Okay, so that last one is a pretty obscure justification, but you catch my drift. Flat shoes are just so much more practical. They’re comfy in all situations, you can jump around the club way easier, and you’re more likely to reach the penguin enclosure in enough time to get a decent view.
Although, having said that, did I mention the time I slipped and sprained my wrist on a night out in a pair of Converse…?
Feature Photo Credit- Flikr User Pierre Anquet
