Puffer

Unless I am much mistaken, the seller is a member here and has been a regular seller on eBay. My one purchase (a DVD, not shoes) was perfectly straighforward.

This is the link:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1239975/Female-feet-getting-larger-size-10s-demand.html#ixzz0bSdIGCTH

And I posted a comment about the article here (which seemed a logical place) before I saw that Dr Shoe had beaten me to it:

http://www.hhplace.org/guys/4875-you_happy_your_foot_shoe_size-14.html

According to today's Daily Mail (Benno’s favourite paper), ‘female feet are getting larger and even size 10s are in demand’, with Debenhams (for one) intending to stock them. Hardly earth-shattering news but any increased commercial recognition is welcome.

Of around 80 online comments so far, few are particularly noteworthy but it is clear that a significant number of (mainly younger) women are actively seeking more fashionable footwear on the High Street in UK sizes 9, 10 and 11. And not just women, of course …

Interestingly, there are a number of comments from the US (possibly boosted by the time zone difference). But there is clearly some confusion about shoe sizing and I do wonder how many of the US readers realise that a woman wearing a UK11 (for example) is the equivalent of a US13 – pretty big by any yardstick.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1239975/Female-feet-getting-larger-size-10s-demand.html#ixzz0bSdIGCTH

No, but have you seen Zara Phillips in 6 inch stilettoes on snow and at church with the Royal Family on the front page of todays Daily Mail? Awesum!

Another example of the all-too-common journalistic exaggeration (or perhaps just appalling guesswork). Zara's shoes were nice enough but probably 4.5" heels at most. She has however quite often worn shoes around that height and looks good in them.

... I headed for the register and got into a “20 items or less” line. The girl (high school) was trying to explain to her mother that that they were in the wrong line because they didn’t have 20 items and I lost another bit of hope for the next generation. ...

Yes indeed, and for the present generation too who should know that the correct concept is '20 items or fewer'. (Always good for an argument if challenged with too many items in the basket - especially as the limit in the UK is more likely to be 5 or 10 items at most!)

Sir Isaac Newton shown wearing modest heels. At about 30s into slide show.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/8381425.stm

Well, that's one way to defy gravity ...!

...If you want to wear heels out and about like the girls do, then you got to be able to do it as well as, if not better than they do. You have to be totally natural in them. Nothing looks worse than a girl struggling in heels she is not able to wear, doubly so for a man.

Well said, Simon! I would only add that society expects to see most women wearing heels at least some of the time, and often not too graciously. We are used to seeing the 'struggling woman' but the sight does not amuse (or irritate) us less merely because it is quite common. Alas, even the sight of a man walking competently and naturally in heels will - if truly noticed - amuse or irritate the public at large because it is not the expected norm.

And therein lies the let-out for the time being: 'if truly noticed': Bubba above and many others have shown that they can get away with wearing heels through a mixture of personal skill/discretion and public apathy but it is only the former that the wearer can really control - and so he should if any degree of public male heel wearing is to become acceptable.

I also have a pair of the underground winklepickers. These are the least comfortable and I think they are not good value for money. They run one size small, the leather is very plasticy and the sole/heel is a one piece rubber moulding. Really strange to walk on as the heel really absorbs the contact shock. Would be really quiet if it wasnt for the "slap" of the sole. No I don't like these shoes and regret having spent my money on them (although not as much as your site charges) and wouldn't recommend them.

I've only just noticed this comment. I invariably respect Tb2's taste and views but for once I do not entirely agree with him. I have the Underground zip-sided 'Marlon' boot in size UK11 as in my avatar (although I think Tb2 has the very similar 'Fred' elastic-sided version). Both can be seen at http://www.underground-cybershop.co.uk/acatalog/mens_winklepicker_boots.html

I agree that the leather is a little stiff (but appears hard-wearing) and that this, combined with the size running a little small and the pointed toe, made some stretching and breaking-in necessary before they were comfortable, but it did not take long. I am happy enough wearing them for hours at a time and, even if the heel shape and material produces a slightly strange feel when walking, I don't find that a problem. (I cannot comment comparatively as I have nothing else truly similar to wear at present, alas.)

As an intro to cuban heels with a nice retro look, I think they serve their purpose. I would however recommend going a size larger; they do go up to UK13 and some outlets discount them a little below the Underground price.

As with so many of the polls here, the choices are not well thought out. If nominal shoe size (i.e. length) is the issue here, there should be only three possible answers: 'Yes'; 'No - I wish it was smaller'; 'No - I wish it was larger'. The two who simply answered 'No' tell us nothing of their reason! (But I agree that these two rogue answers scarcely affect the overall result.) The poll does also ignore the common situation that someone might be perfectly happy with his shoe/foot size in terms of its appearance and relationship with his height/build etc but would like a smaller foot for other reasons, e.g. so that available women's styles could be worn readily (what a strange notion!).

6' 1.5" (1.87m) barefoot. Size 11UK (45) in most shoes - right for my height but not ideal for my footwear preferences.

If there were no stigma attached to stiletto heels and men it wouldn't change a thing. Men generally are not fashion animals and seem to care little about how the present themselves to the world.

Simon.

I disagree. I believe many (most) men already have a curiosity and would wear them if not for the stigma (ex: ear rings). No matter how free we claim to be, societal boundaries do affect many of us.

You are both right and your views do not wholly clash! I agree with Tb2 that, on the whole, men are not fashionistas - i.e. they do not generally show keen interest in, knowledge of or conformity with the prevailing fashions (male or female). Most will wear what they like and feel comfortable in (often with limited taste!), but with a certain amount of (perhaps unconscious) influence from friends and family and always subject to what is (i) available/affordable; (ii) considered acceptable/practicable (e.g. in the workplace or community). In other words, they will tend to be 'neutral/passive/blind followers' rather than 'active experimenters/trendsetters' when it comes to the overall male look.

But some men will certainly be aware of alternative male clothing/accessories/appearance (which is not necessarily 'fashion' - as that term really implies popular adoption, often for a brief period). Their recognition of at least the potential for dressing and looking 'differently' will cause them to be curious, adventurous, aroused (or whatever) to varying degrees. Some of them (us!) will experiment by flouting convention or indeed practicability by wearing heels and other items not generally associated with men in the prevailing climate.

If stiletto heels were to become an accepted and available high street item for men, then some men would wear them because (i) they were the 'fashion', and therefore to be adopted; and/or (ii) they were different/fun/appealing/height-boosting etc. But I doubt there would be any stampede, even amongst those who would claim to be at the forefront of any trend - and HHMP members would not by themselves tip the balance numerically. The trend in the last couple of years towards men's footwear with a modest cuban heel and more elegant lines (pointed toes, some decoration etc) is definitely a step in the right direction (no pun intended) and might - just might - pave the way for something a little more daring. The shoes in Tb2's avatar are an excellent example of positive progress and are rightly acceptable to almost everyone - but a semi-pointed 3.5" thin-heeled ankle boot worn exposed under narrow jeans is at present just beyond our reach, yet the logical development IMHO and an elegant look which would suit a man of normal build without screaming effeminacy or fetishism.

Let us pray ...

Hi all,

I bought these from Pricesless last Friday. Already worn them for work (with a new skirt from M&S) last Sunday. Really comfortable, UK11, almost 4 inch heel but realy easy to walk in and wear. And ONLY £20.00!

http://www.pricelessshoes.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product1_11051_-1_115104_11051

Interesting, Tosca. I saw these advertised and doubted the claimed heel height of 12cm – your clarification is therefore helpful. What size do you normally wear, please? Do your 11s run true to size in length and width?

These boots are also available up to size 11 from Priceless and its sister companies: http://www.bigshoeboutique.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=14051&catalogId=14052&productId=114119&langId=-1 The reviews on BSB include this interesting one from a bloke with size 12 feet:

My first boots and they fit perfectly

"Bought these for a fancy dress do, not fully expecting them to fit (am 6' tall and big, with size 12 feet) but they fit perfectly, can even get my jeans inside them. Still looking for an excuse to wear them out, but the missus seems happy for me to wear them about the house, although they take a bit of getting used to!"

Anyone interested in these or other products from Priceless/Barratts/BSB is recommended to look at all the sites as price/availability does seem to vary between them, as do any discounts (online shopping only) or free delivery options. These codes appear to be current:

1. Barratts: The code WINTERDISCB entitles you to 10% off your order including reduced items (and also free delivery, I think). Valid until 31st January 2010.

Free Delivery on web orders over £50, Voucher Code DELAWB Expires on: 31/12/2013

2. BSB: 10% discount with code WINTERDISCBSB until 31.1.10

Free Delivery on orders over £40, Voucher Code DELAWS or MOV4B Expires on: 31/12/2013

3. Priceless: 10% discount with code WINTERDISCP until 31.1.10

Free Delivery on Orders Over £30, Voucher Code DELAWP or FREEDLP Expires on: 31/12/2013

Happy shopping and season’s greetings to all!

...After our chat, I went to the coffee shop, where I ordered a latte and browsed some political books. I did get A LOT of looks, and did get very god service from the college age girl working. I sat in a conspicuous place, so everybody who passed could see. A lot of reactions, but basically the typical shock, look away, look again nonchalantly...

So, HF, now you are an exalted deity! I suppose you are when wearing heels, because you move in a mysterious way.

You continue to impress and inspire us; well done. I do like the second look in particular and I think you carry it off better than many women would.

... They came in their original box and I got them from eBay for the grand sum of £26 in a UK size 12. They fit like a dream and don't know whether to wear them or just collect them...??? ...

Andi

Nice buy; well done, Andi. Consider yourself fortunate that, had I seen them on eBay, I might have bid against you!

A pleasant enough clip, heelma, although I didn't think much of the shoe styles, not normally liking platforms, peep toes or thick heels! But what was really annoying was that banner obscuring part of the lower screen - so often the case when watching TV (and shoes are usually towards the bottom of the screen so often not properly visible)!

Yes, there are some attractive 11s on the Priceless site, although the sizing chart suggests that 11 = Eu44 (not 45) so I would question the fit.

The most obvious style for male heeling is this 'Kelpie' boot:

http://www.pricelessshoes.co.uk/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product1_11051_-1_115104_11051

But look at the description: Is it really a 'platform boot' (not that I would want that)? Not much sign of it, even if thin and concealed. And I don't believe the heel height is truly 12cm (4.75"); it looks a good inch less. The single review is not exactly encouraging as it suggests the size runs small whilst giving no further comment.

The 'Kuvasz' stiletto boot looks good (but much more feminine); it also comes in an 11 and has good reviews. The heel is unspecified but looks a good 3". IMHO, that is a boot that should be acceptable for male wear (e.g. on show with skinny jeans). I wonder ...

If you look at the box for a pair of men's trainers or other 'international' shoes, it is usually marked with a whole list of sizes. The ones I have noted (no, I'm not a trainspotter - not nowadays ) usually show the US men's size as being a half or a full size greater than the UK, which accords with my experience, e.g. UK11 = US11.5 = Eu45. But, as we all find out the hard way in real life, actual size may be everything but consistent numbering ain't and requires empirical attention.

I feel for you, bb, I really do. It does take some courage to go shopping for heels or anything that might be thought 'out of character' but you will find that there is really nothing to it when you take the plunge.

I can well remember when I felt really awkward just stopping and looking at shoes in a shop window or on a display stand, but I soon realised that nobody else cared. And looking at, choosing or buying shoes for my gf or wife soon became second nature.

Tb2 and others have given you good advice; I hope you can act on it. But if personal collection ('on behalf of my gf/sister/colleague') or delivery to home really is a problem, can't you get the package sent to your workplace or lodgings, or even to your nearest main post office (assuming Topshop will deliver to an address other than that recorded by your credit card company)?

Good luck anyway - we look forward to hearing that you have the boots and are wearing them!

I once shared a train compartment (remember them?) with two girls ...

Now we all know why compartments in railway carriages were abolished, even those marked 'Ladies Only'.

Today I went to M&S shoe shopping ... My purches inclused some small 1.5 inch heeled patent court shoes and some ankle boats with a 4 inch heel. I wore the boots out of the shop when finnishing purchesing and walked around the the shopping center for about half a hour afterwards. ...

... All i can those is these boots from M & S are amazeing, http://www.marksandspencer.com/Limited-Collection-Round-Buckle-Boots/dp/B002F55SAU?ie=UTF8&categoryNodeID=42967030&node=83157031&page=1&mnSBrand=core&rh=n%3A83157031, even after 2 miles my feet were still not in pain. Plus no blisters! when ever I break in normal shoes I get blisters.

Are the boots you mention buying the ones then pictured, Crazyewok? If so, the heel looks a lot less than 4" - no help on the M&S site as height is not specified there. A good freestyle choice though.

... As I was walking back to my car a guy on the street (who’s elevator didn’t make it all the way to the top) said he liked my outfit and asked if I was going to a Halloween party. I said I wasn’t which seemed to confuse him....

You could have prevented his confusion by answering: 'Yes - and it's a long journey, so I must hurry on my way ...' .

It is probably risky nowadays to be observed partially undressed in any public area in the UK - and with surveillance cameras being so prolific there are not many places where one can be sure of not being observed, at least in urban areas. Although there is no specific offence in being undressed, cross-dressed or indecently dressed (or even naked) in public in the absence of any complaint from an observer, one might at least have some explaining to do, i.e. why one was there and what one's next action was to be.

Many years ago, I went on a business trip to a distant town and had arranged a date with a girlfriend whose home was on a convenient diversion from my return route. But I didn't want to go out with her wearing my business clothes so I took a change with me in my car. It was a mild autumn day and the easiest thing to do was to stop somewhere discreet to change; I picked a smallish country picnic/parking area which was deserted at 7pm, as one might expect.

It is always a struggle to change sitting in a car, especially with trousers, so I did the obvious thing and stood behind my car to do so. I had my trousers off when, with no warning, a police car drove quickly into the park and pulled up in line with my car. The two officers got out (apparently for a cigarette break), immediately saw my status and came over for 'a chat'. I looked somewhat sheepish and was about to offer an explanation when one of the cops smiled and told me that I was a bit early for the 'entertainment'! Not quite understanding, I pointed to my open bag and told him that I was just getting changed for an evening out and had no intention of staying, with or without an audience.

I was clearly believed and told to continue, but advised that there had been a number of complaints of indecent behaviour in that and other local parking areas and that, had it been a little later and darker, I would have been treated with greater suspicion. I was also told that 'watchers' were known to lurk in the trees overlooking the parking area, either to spy on unsuspecting courting couples or to be entertained by flashers and others who knew they were there. (I believe the current term for such conduct is 'dogging'.)

Lesson learned; no harm done - but it made me wary of misbehaving in the car later with my date!

Look at the opening sequence of Saturday Night Fever:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvrMSGQJiwQ

At the 54 sec mark...

Thanks - I remember it well! But best to start watching a few secs earlier or you will miss some of it.

Yes, Simon, I see what you mean; interesting finds. I quite like the look of the Gabor loafer - that style of shoe is, as you rightly say, totally male and smart and timeless too (but not frumpy and looks equally good on a woman). It is now shown as unavailable but similar shoes can be bought elsewhere; alas not in a true 11UK as far as I know! The Hush Puppies offering is also suitable for male wear, albeit more conspicuous with that heel (and the pic seems to show the heel leaning over; I wonder why?). Personally, I don't like it - I rarely wear lace-ups and loathe the Oxford style (prob because it smacks of ultra-conservative menswear which I rebelled against from age 10 or so!). Here again, nothing in an 11 and a higher price on the other site for size 10. Quidam's find is also a very neat unisex shoe - but not perhaps exciting enough for male heeling and (imho) too expensive for non-leather. Largest size is UK8 which is not helpful either. Let's keep looking!

This morning, I received an e-mail from Amazon inviting me to visit the Javari website 'dedicated to shoes and handbags' at http://www.javari.co.uk/?ref_=pe_31441_17044541 It appears that Javari is an Amazon company.

There is quite a large range of men's and women's shoes, mostly in the better-known brands at mid-to-high prices, but delivery and returns are free. I make no further comment on the catalogue; each can decide for himself (or herself). But there is nothing worth considering in any larger women's sizes (the UK 9s are pretty frumpy and there is almost nothing larger) and I failed to find any heel heights stated - they are merely described as being e.g. 'High (Over 3")', which adds nothing to the pictures!

I e-mailed the company pointing out that the site was useless without a stated heel height for each shoe rather than a vague range. To my surprise, I received this reply less than an hour later:

'The only information we have about any item is displayed on our website. Whilst some of our products do advise the exact heel height, I am aware that others do not.

We realise it can be difficult to make a purchasing decision without the information you'd like. Our editorial staff is working to improve the information we provide about each item on our site, but in this case I don't have any more information to offer.

That said, if you decide to order the item from our site and you find that it's not what you expected, you may return it for a full refund. You'll find our returns policy, instructions and a printable return mailing label online at:

http://www.javari.co.uk/returns/

I'm sorry I couldn't be of more help. We hope to see you again soon on Javari.co.uk.

Well, 10/10 for promptness; 7 for providing a response addressing the issue and 4 for the degree of help and reassurance it provided. I'm not holding my breath for any improvement in the info on the site and I do wonder how much is factored into the prices to cover all the costs of two-way carriage and admin when a shoe is returned, for whatever reason. Do women (or men) buy shoes online without any clear idea about heel/platform height and other key 'dimensions'?