what are stacked heels

15 PAIRS OF HEELS FOR WIDE FEET THAT ACTUALLY WORKS

Let’s face it, finding fashionable and comfortable shoes, especially high heels, can be a challenge for women with wide feet. But don’t worry yet. We’ll list high heels specifically designed for wider feet, giving you tips and suggestions to help you confidently step out in heels that fit you well. Let’s get started!

AEROSOLES PLATFORM SANDAL

Strappy sandals are the perfect choice for warm weather and sunny days. These sandals have multiple thin bands that crisscross over the top of your foot, creating a stylish and breezy look. They are great for letting your feet feel the fresh air while keeping you comfortably cool. The straps provide a secure fit, keeping your feet in place as you walk around. Strappy sandals come in various colors and designs, making it easy to find a pair that matches your style and outfits. 

AEROSOLES BETSY PUMPS

These popular shoes, available in two width options and a variety of colors, offer a solution for those with wider feet seeking comfort without breaking the bank. Priced under $100, these classic closed-toe pumps address the potential discomfort of traditional designs. The wide heel enhances stability, and the cushioned insole ensures a cozy feel. Despite the somewhat basic design and a heel height that might be a touch high for prolonged wear, these internet-famous shoes strike a balance between style, affordability, and comfort. The flexible leather upper accommodates swelling, making them a reliable choice for all-day comfort at an accessible price point.

DSW

These elegant asymmetrical faux suede mules not only showcase style but also prioritize comfort with a lightly padded footbed. The thoughtful design ensures proper support for the balls of your feet without causing any sensation of tightness or discomfort at the front. Slip into these chic mules for a sophisticated look that doesn’t compromise on ease and enjoy a balance of fashion and foot-friendly design.

VIVAIA MELODY PRO

These shoes boast a square toe, providing ample wiggle room for your feet, and a knit upper that is remarkably stretchy and forgiving. While the ribbed fabric may not appeal to everyone, and the style leans more towards a daytime look, the overall pros include the spacious square toe design and the comfortable, flexible knit upper. These qualities make these shoes a practical choice for those who prioritize comfort and versatility in their footwear.

SAM EDELMAN BIANKA SLINGBACK PUMP

Ideal for a seamless transition from day to night, these shoes offer versatile style. The adjustable back ensures a comfortable fit, accommodating individual preferences. However, limited color options are available for wide width, and they may not be the top choice for extended walks. In summary, these shoes strike a balance between day-to-night wear with their adjustable design, but potential drawbacks include a restricted color range for wider feet and a preference for shorter walks over long distances.

A NEW DAY WOMEN’S BASIL MULE HEELS

The A New Day Women’s Basil Mule Heels are a pair of slip-on sandals designed to add a touch of chic style to your wardrobe. They feature a 3.25-inch heel for a leg-lengthening effect, along with two bands with a woven design for a unique and stylish look. The open toe keeps your feet cool and comfortable, while the solid black color makes them versatile enough to pair with a variety of outfits, from dresses to office wear. With their easy slip-on design and comfortable materials, these heels are a great choice for a night out or a day at the office.

EVERLANE THE DAY HEEL

The elasticized back ensures a comfortable fit, making them ideal for long hours on your feet. Additionally, their lightweight design makes them a convenient choice for travel. However, potential buyers should be aware that these shoes may require going up half a size for an optimal fit. While the ballet-inspired silhouette and rounded toe add a touch of elegance, the casual look is accentuated by the pull tab in the back. 

ASOS DESIGN WIDE FIT SUEDE MID-HEEL BOOTS

These heeled booties designed for wide feet have become a delightful addition to my footwear collection, offering a blend of pros and cons. The standout flexibility ensures they never feel stiff, providing a comfortable and natural fit. The real suede construction at an affordable price point adds a touch of luxury to the equation. However, potential buyers should note the absence of half sizes and be aware that some reviewers have found the shaft to be a bit tight. Despite these considerations, these wide-fit booties feature a zip-side closure and thick flared heels, ensuring a snug yet stylish fit. 

MARGAUX PLATFORM SANDAL

These heels strike a perfect balance between height and comfort, earning them a spot as a favorite among wearers. Offering a pleasing elevation, they don’t sacrifice on comfort, making them an ideal choice for extended wear, as attested by numerous reviewers. It’s worth noting that initial snugness in the front straps may be experienced, and the wide width fit primarily accommodates a broader toe box. Despite these considerations, the overall consensus is that these heels provide a stylish solution for those seeking both elevation and extended comfort throughout the day.

STUART WEITZMAN STUART 85 PUMP

The Stuart Weitzman pointed-toe pumps seamlessly blend fashion and function, making them a valuable addition to any wardrobe. Boasting an ultra-sleek silhouette that stands the test of time, these pumps exude timeless elegance. While their chic stiletto heel and all-leather construction make them visually striking, it’s worth noting that the wide width option might have limited availability in terms of colors and sizes. Despite their higher price tag, these pumps are considered by reviewers to be surprisingly functional, even for those with wider feet, making them a potentially worthwhile investment for a classic and versatile wardrobe essential.

LARROUDÉ SELENA RUFFLE SANDAL

Available in cracked metallic leather or raffia uppers, these heels prioritize comfort with memory foam insoles that reviewers find exceptionally comfy. While the ankle strap is thin and may not provide extensive support, its adjustability, coupled with an open round toe, accommodates wider feet effectively. Despite the ruffled detail not being universally appealing, these heels are considered wide foot-friendly, offering a delightful combination of style and comfort for those who appreciate both the unique design and cushioned insoles.

REBECCA ALLEN THE TWIST

While these slip-ons may come in a single width, they are designed with a snug yet flexible vamp strap that avoids any sense of restriction, providing ample breathing room for your feet. The lightweight feel adds to their appeal, making them a comfortable choice for extended wear. However, potential buyers should be aware that going up half a size may be necessary for an optimal fit. The minor drawback of traction not being the best, the wrapped block heel enhances walking comfort, making these mules a stylish and practical option, especially for those who may not typically favor heels.

NATURALIZER VERA DRESS SANDAL

When it comes to finding suitable high heels for wide feet, these shoes present a mix of advantages and considerations. The insole, generously cushioned for comfort, stands out as a positive feature, while the stacked heel provides just the right amount of height for an elegant look. However, testers have noted that the toe strap might feel a bit tight initially, requiring some time to break in. Additionally, determining the correct size may pose a challenge, adding a layer of complexity to the fitting process. 

VIONIC CHARDONNAY HEELED SANDAL

These sandals for wide feet women offer a combination of advantages and considerations. Notably, the thick ankle strap stands out as a supportive feature, providing a sense of security for wearers. The chunky heel adds to the appeal, offering both stability for walking and comfort for those who enjoy dancing in their sandals. However, potential buyers should be aware that the available color options in the wide width are somewhat limited. Additionally, it takes some patience for the front strap to stretch out, requiring initial adjustment for optimal comfort. 

INEZ SARA

Defying the notion that those with wide feet can’t embrace super-high heels, these high-heel sandals offer a blend of advantages and considerations. Available in three widths and three bold color options, these sandals boast a minimalist, slip-on design for effortless wear. The elastic side gore ensures a secure fit without feeling overly tight, providing versatility for various foot sizes. Buyers should be mindful of the front strap, which may initially feel a bit snug. It’s important to note that these sandals don’t offer ankle support, but the hidden elastic in the ankle straps contributes to a snug fit. 

CONCLUSION

The search for heels that accommodate wide feet is often met with challenges, but there are undoubtedly options available that combine style and comfort seamlessly. Finding the perfect pair among these 15 options may well open the door to a world where wide feet can confidently and comfortably rock a variety of stylish heels.

16 EFFECTIVE PILATES EXERCISES TO STRENGTHEN YOUR CORE

Strengthening your core is one of the best ways to improve your overall fitness—and adding Pilates exercises to your routine can help you get there.

But why is core strength so essential? It goes beyond just your abs or obliques; your core also includes deep stabilizing muscles like the transverse abdominis, hips, lower back, and pelvic floor. Strengthening all these areas is crucial for balance, stability, posture, proper exercise form, and spinal health. Plus, a strong core can help prevent lower back pain, which is beneficial for both workouts and daily life.

While many exercises engage the core, Pilates specifically targets these muscles. Practicing Pilates can challenge your muscles in new ways, especially if it’s new to your routine, and help you build core strength in a balanced and controlled way.

“Pilates is a mind-body workout that activates your core muscles with each exercise,” says Manuela Sanchez, a Pilates instructor at Club Pilates in Brooklyn, New York. With Pilates, whether you’re doing a core-focused move or one targeting another area, your core remains engaged throughout.

Pilates strengthens both the deep and superficial areas of your core, from the deep internal transverse abdominis to the surface-level rectus abdominis, for comprehensive core strength, Sanchez explains.

What are the benefits of Pilates exercises?

As we mentioned, Pilates exercises—whether dedicated to core work or incorporating full-body moves—are fantastic for strengthening your entire core. But there are plenty more reasons to consider adding Pilates to your routine.

One major benefit is its accessibility. While some Pilates exercises use equipment like a reformer, many Pilates mat exercises require no equipment beyond a yoga mat for comfort. This means you can enjoy a Pilates workout at home without needing to join a class or gym. Plus, if you’re interested in lower-body-focused Pilates moves (which also engage the core), you can use just a chair for many effective exercises.

Practicing Pilates at home is not only convenient but also highly beneficial. In addition to core strength, Pilates enhances flexibility, balance, coordination, and breath control. It’s also adaptable, with exercises suited for beginners and progressions for more advanced levels, making it a scalable workout option for all fitness levels.

What are some great Pilates core exercises?

Some of the best Pilates core exercises include classics you may know, like the Pilates hundred, single-leg stretch, and roll-up. There are also a few you might recognize by sight, even if the names aren’t familiar. Below, you’ll find 17 effective Pilates core exercises you can do at home—no equipment needed!

You can incorporate a few of these as a warm-up, suggests Sanchez, or add them to your next workout to emphasize core engagement. For a quick movement session, choose a few favorites and repeat them a couple of times for a standalone routine. If you’re new to these moves, start by performing each exercise for 30 seconds and gradually work your way up to a minute.

LEG CIRCLE

Lie faceup with your arms at your sides, palms down.

Bend your left knee, placing your left foot flat on the floor. Extend your right leg straight up toward the ceiling.

Circle your right leg out to the side, down toward the ground, and back to the starting position. Keep the circle as large as possible while maintaining your lower back on the floor.

Reverse the circle for each rep.

Complete all reps on one leg, then switch to the other side and repeat.

DOUBLE LEG STRETCH

Lie faceup and bring both knees in toward your chest.

Curl your head up and place your hands on your knees.

Extend both legs out in front of you while reaching both arms overhead. Keep your lower back pressed into the floor and aim to straighten your legs as much as possible.

Circle your arms out to the sides and around back to your knees as you pull your knees back in toward your chest.

PILATES ONE HUNDRED

Lie faceup on your mat.

Lift both legs up toward the ceiling and lower them halfway, keeping them at an angle.

Curl your head up, reaching your arms long alongside your body with palms facing down.

Pump your arms up and down as you inhale for five counts and exhale for five counts.

Repeat this breathing pattern 10 times while maintaining the position.

ROLL UP

Lie faceup with your arms extended above your head, resting on the floor.

Float your arms up so your wrists are directly over your shoulders.

Slowly begin to curl your spine up off the floor, starting with your shoulders and ending with your lower back.

Curl up to a seated position, then fold your torso over your legs while keeping your core tight throughout the movement.

To return, reverse the movement, rolling back down to the floor from your lower back to your shoulders.

SINGLE-LEG STRETCH

Lie faceup on your mat.

Bring both knees in toward your chest, placing your hands on your shins, and curl your head up off the floor.

Extend one leg out at a time, alternating sides while keeping your knees bent.

Make sure your lower back stays pressed into the floor, and engage your core throughout the movement.

PLANK LEG LIFT

Start in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders.

Alternate lifting one leg off the floor as high as you can, but not past shoulder height.

Keep your core, glutes, and quads engaged to maintain stability and avoid rocking your hips.

TEASER

Lie faceup on your mat.

Bend your knees over your hips and lift your feet off the mat.

Extend your legs while reaching your arms toward your feet and lifting your head and shoulders off the mat. Aim to create a V shape with your torso and legs.

Hold this position for five breaths.

After five breaths, roll onto your back, bending your knees again.

HIGH PLANK TO PIKE

Start in a high plank position with your palms flat on the floor, hands shoulder-width apart (or wider, if that’s your preference for push-ups). Ensure your shoulders are stacked above your wrists, your legs are extended, and your core is engaged.

Exhale as you push your tailbone up toward the ceiling, straightening your legs as much as possible. (Feel free to bend your knees if needed to get your heels closer to the ground.)

Reverse the movement to return to the high plank position. This completes one rep.

Lie faceup on your mat.

Extend your right leg straight up so that it’s perpendicular to the floor. Place your hands behind your right leg, pulling it toward your face, and curl your head up off the floor.

Lift your left leg a few inches off the mat.

Switch legs by pulling your left leg in toward you while allowing your right leg to hover just above the floor.

Continue alternating between legs in a controlled manner.

PLANK ROCK

Start in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders.

Rock your whole body forward a couple of inches toward your hands, then rock backward toward your heels.

Keep your core, glutes, and quads engaged throughout the movement to maintain stability.

HIP DIP

Start in a side plank position with your right hand directly underneath your right shoulder and your left foot stacked on top of your right foot.

Dip your hips down toward the ground, then lift them back up to the starting position.

Repeat this movement 10 times before switching to the left side.

CRISS-CROSS

Lie faceup and bring both knees in toward your chest.

Place your hands behind your head, keeping your elbows wide, and curl your head up off the floor.

Bring your left shoulder toward your right knee as you extend your left leg out.

Then, bring your right shoulder toward your left knee while extending your right leg.

Continue alternating sides in a controlled manner.

TOE TAP

Lie on your back with your feet flat on the floor and your arms at your sides. Ensure your back is flat against the floor.

Bring your knees up to a 90-degree angle; this is your starting position.

Slowly lower your feet down so your toes tap the floor, then reverse the movement to return to the starting position. This completes one rep.

BIRD-DOG

Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position, ensuring your wrists are stacked under your shoulders and your knees are stacked under your hips. This is your starting position.

Extend your right arm forward and your left leg back, maintaining a flat back and keeping your hips in line with the floor. Focus on driving your foot toward the wall behind you. Hold this position briefly.

Squeeze your abs and return your arm and leg to the starting position. This completes one rep.

Perform a set number of reps, then switch to extend your left arm and right leg. Repeat the process.

SLOW MOTION MOUTAIN CLIMBER

Start in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders.

Bring one knee in toward your chest at a time, alternating legs.

Keep your core, glutes, and quads engaged to avoid rocking your hips during the movement.

BIRD-DOG CRUNCH

Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position, ensuring your wrists are stacked under your shoulders and your knees are stacked under your hips. This is your starting position.

Extend your right arm forward and your left leg back, maintaining a flat back and keeping your hips in line with the floor. Focus on driving your foot toward the wall behind you. Hold this position briefly.

Squeeze your abs and return your arm and leg to the starting position. This completes one rep.

Perform a set number of reps, then switch to extend your left arm and right leg. Repeat the process.

conclusion

Incorporating these Pilates core exercises into your fitness routine can significantly enhance your overall strength, stability, and body awareness. Focusing on the core not only improves your physical performance but also helps prevent injuries and alleviate back pain. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced, these exercises are adaptable and can be performed anywhere, making Pilates a convenient and effective choice for core training. Remember to engage your core throughout each movement, maintain proper form, and listen to your body as you progress. By committing to these practices, you’ll build a strong foundation that supports all your fitness goals.