Types of heels: stiletto, kitten, block, wedge and platform
Heels differ in height, width and shape: a thin high stiletto, a low kitten heel, a wide block, a one-piece wedge and a thick sole under the front of the foot (platform).
Below are the types of heels drawn from the side on the same shoe so they are easy to compare.
Stiletto heelA stiletto is a high, very thin heel, often 7–12 cm, named after a slender Italian dagger.Kitten heelA kitten heel is a low, thin, slightly curved heel, usually 3–5 cm high.Block heelA block heel is a wide, square or rectangular heel, steadier than a thin one, from 3 to 10 cm high.Wedge heelA wedge heel runs in one piece under the whole foot from heel to ball and looks like a wedge from the side.Platform shoesA platform is a thick sole under the front of the foot that, together with the heel, lifts the whole foot and reduces the angle between heel and toes.Cone heelA cone heel is wide at the top and narrows towards the ground, like an ice-cream cone.
Heel heights
How to choose
- All day: a kitten, block or cone heel up to 5–7 cm.
- Outdoor events: a block heel or wedge, not a stiletto.
- Evenings: a stiletto or platform.
- For height with comfort: a platform or wedge.
Lengths
| Length | Where it ends |
|---|---|
| Low | up to 4 cm |
| Mid | 5–7 cm |
| High | 8–10 cm |
| Very high | over 10 cm, usually with a platform |
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Questions and answers
Frequently asked
01Which heel is most comfortable?
A block heel up to 5–7 cm or a wedge: they spread the weight best.
02What are the types of heels?
Stiletto, kitten, block, wedge, platform and cone heels.
03What heel height suits the office?
3–7 cm, usually a kitten or block heel.
04How does a wedge differ from a platform?
A wedge is one piece under the whole foot; a platform has a thick front and a separate heel.