Finding the Perfect Pair of Pumps
Pumps are a wardrobe staple for many women. With so many styles, colors, heights and materials available, it can be daunting to find the perfect pair. Here are some tips for choosing pumps that are both stylish and comfortable.
Consider Heel Height
Heel height dramatically affects the look and feel of pumps. Consider these common heel options:
- Kitten heel (1.5-2 inches): A short, sturdy heel that is very walkable.
- Mid heel (2-3 inches): A versatile heel height that works for most occasions.
- Stiletto heel (3+ inches): A dramatic, sexy heel that requires practice to walk in.
Choose a lower heel for all-day wear or situations that involve a lot of walking or standing. Save the stilettos for date nights or special events where you won't be on your feet as much.
Determine Arch Type
Your arch type - high, normal or flat - will impact shoe fit and comfort. Assess your arches:
- High arches have very little contact with the ground
- Normal arches gently curve from heel to ball of foot
- Flat feet make full contact with the ground
If you have high arches, look for pumps with extra cushioning and support. For flat feet, stability and shock absorption are key. Those with normal arches have the most flexibility in pump styles.
Consider Toe Shape
Pump toes come in many shapes:
| Toe Shape | Description |
|---|---|
| Pointed | Elongates the leg, sleek and sexy |
| Round | Classic, versatile style |
| Peep toe | Flirty, shows off a pedicure |
| Almond | Elegant, tapered semi-point |
| Square | Retro look, '60s inspired |
Make sure the toe shape fits the shape of your actual toes. Pointed or narrow toes can cramp wider feet.
Select Material
Pumps come in an array of materials, each with pros and cons:
- Leather - Classic and durable but requires polishing
- Suede - Softer and flexible but stains easily
- Patent leather - Glossy and eye-catching but can crack over time
- Fabric - Breathable and stretchy but less structured
Consider the occasion and how much wear you will give them. Leather is great for everyday use while patent leather makes more of a statement.
Try Them On
When trying on pumps:
- Shop at the end of the day when feet are most swollen
- Bring your own orthotic inserts if you use them
- Walk around the store to check comfort
- Ensure heels don't slip up and down
- Make sure toes don't feel cramped
- Choose lace-up or buckled styles if heels slip off your feet
Well-fitted pumps should be snug at the heel, flexible through the ball of the foot and roomy enough for toes to wiggle.
Finding the perfect pumps takes some effort - but eventually you'll discover that magical pair that makes you feel confident, sophisticated and ready to take on anything!
Choosing the Right Heel Height
Heel height can make or break a pair of pumps. The right height provides comfort and style. Here's how to determine the most flattering heel height for your needs:
Consider Occasion
Heel height often depends on the event:
- Lower heels (1-2 inches) are great for work or all-day wear
- Mid heels (2-3 inches) work for both professional and social situations
- Higher heels (3-4 inches) are better reserved for cocktail parties, nights out, etc.
Pick lower pumps for everyday office settings or occasions requiring extended standing or walking. Save stilettos for special events where you can sit and dance intermittently.
Evaluate Height and Body Type
Your height and frame impact how heel height looks:
- Shorter women can safely opt for higher heels to gain height
- Taller women may prefer a lower heel to avoid feeling too towering
- Heels visually elongate legs and accentuate calves for curvier figures
- Daintier figures can get away with ultra-high stilettos
Choose heels that balance and flatter your body type for the most leg-lengthening, proportional look.
Consider Foot Health
Heel height affects comfort and foot health:
| Heel Height | Comfort Factors |
|---|---|
| 1-2 inches | - Minimal impact on feet - Easiest for all-day wear |
| 2-3 inches | - Moderately comfortable - Manageable for workdays |
| 3-4+ inches | - Can strain feet - Difficult for long durations - Higher risk of injury |
Consider foot issues like plantar fasciitis or arthritis and opt for lower heels if higher ones cause discomfort.
Practice Walking
Test run new heel heights before wearing them all day. Practice walking in higher heels to ensure:
- You can walk naturally, without teetering
- Shoes aren't slipping up and down as you walk
- You feel stable balancing on smaller stiletto heels
Start low and work your way up in heel height as coordination improves. Add cushioned insoles for extra comfort.
Choosing the perfect heel height requires balancing style, proportions, comfort and intended use. With some thoughtful consideration, you can pick heels that keep you looking and feeling great all day or night long.
Considering Your Arch Type When Selecting Pumps
Your arches - high, normal or flat - greatly impact the fit and comfort of pumps. Selecting pumps tailored to your arch type can make all the difference in how a pair feels and functions for you.
Assess Your Arches
First, analyze your arches by looking at the shape:
- High arches - Very little area touches floor, feet appear hollow underneath
- Normal arches - Gentle curve from heel through ball of foot
- Flat feet - Entire sole area contacts floor, no curve
You can also do a "wet test" - step onto a shallow pan of water and observe the footprint shape left behind. High arches leave little imprint while flat feet imprint fully.
High Arches
If you have high arches:
- Look for pumps with built-in cushioned insoles for shock absorption
- Softer materials like suede or leather conform well to high arches
- Wider widths help fill in hollow areas under the arch
- Lower stacked heels distribute weight better than stilettos
- Padded ball-of-foot cushions provide comfort
For example, a 3-inch stacked leather heel with a suede upper and padded insole can provide comfort and support.
Normal Arches
If you have normal arches:
- Most pump styles can work comfortably
- Aim for heels no more than 3 inches to avoid strain
- Softer leather uppers mold to the natural arch shape
- Round or almond toes fit well and prevent cramping
A 2.5-inch classic leather pump with an almond toe, for instance, caters nicely to normal arches.
Flat Feet
If you have flat feet:
- Look for firm, structured materials like patent leather
- Wider toe boxes prevent cramping
- Lower block heels are most comfortable
- Added arch support is helpful via insoles
- Avoid pointed toes that compress flat feet
A 1.5-inch patent leather pump with a rounded toe box and gel insert addresses flat feet well in pumps.
Consider Widths Too
Pump width should also suit your feet:
- Narrow feet - Narrow/medium widths
- Medium feet - Medium/wide widths
- Wide feet - Wide/extra-wide widths
Make sure pumps aren't too tight across toes or balls of feet to prevent discomfort.
Considering arch type and width when shopping for pumps leads to better fit, extended comfort, and enjoyable wear without pain or slipping. It's worth the effort to find pumps tailored to your unique feet!
Finding the Right Toe Shape for Your Feet
Pump toe shapes should complement the natural shape of your feet for comfort and an attractive silhouette. Consider these common toe types when shoe shopping:
Pointed Toes
- Elongate the legs
- Work best for narrow or very petite feet
- Can pinch wide feet or long toes
Avoid pointed pumps if your toes spill over the edges or feel squeezed. The pressure can cause bunions, corns and calluses over time.
Round Toes
- Universally flattering and versatile
- Allow ample room for toes
- Pair well with both wide and narrow feet
Round toe pumps transition seamlessly from day to night and accommodate most foot shapes comfortably.
Peep Toes
- Show off pedicures
- Allow more ventilation
- Work for nearly all foot types
Peep toes are great for warmer weather or events where your feet will swell. The openness prevents cramping.
Almond Toes
- A tapered, structured shape
- More lifting effect than fully rounded
- Suit narrow through average width feet
Almond toes offer a nice middle ground between the points of pointed and rounded shape. They complement narrow heels well.
Try Shoes On
When trying on various toe shapes, ensure:
- Enough wiggle room for toes
- No squeeze pressure on sides
- Toes don't spill over edges
- No rubbing or friction spots
The correct toe shape should fit like a glove and feel comfortable from first step to last.
Consider the natural width and shape of your feet when selecting pumps. Finding the toe style with just the right proportions prevents pain and gives confidence in every step.
Similar products
Opting for Leather vs. Suede vs. Patent Leather
Pumps come in a variety of material options, each with their own pros and cons. Here is an overview of leather, suede and patent leather to consider when selecting your perfect pair.
Leather Pumps
- Pro: Durable and long-lasting
- Pro: Develops a stylish patina over time
- Pro: Easy to care for and polish
- Con: Can be expensive for higher quality leather
Opt for leather when you want a pair that will hold up well. Quality leather ages gracefully. Keep leather pumps looking sharp with regular polishing.
Suede Pumps
- Pro: Lightweight and flexible
- Pro: Softer texture and feel
- Pro: Versatile colors like nudes and neutrals
- Con: Stains easily and requires care
Suede offers a more delicate, versatile look. Be prepared to treat suede regularly with protective sprays and clean stains promptly before they set in.
Patent Leather Pumps
- Pro: High-shine, eye-catching finish
- Pro: Water-resistant
- Pro: Makes legs look longer
- Con: Can show creasing over time
- Con: Hotter than other materials
Patent leather makes a bold, polished statement. Handle patent gently to avoid cracking and creasing. Insert pads to absorb foot moisture.
Consider Your Needs
Choose pumps based on your intended use:
- Leather for everyday wear and longevity
- Suede for casual settings and events
- Patent for formal occasions and night outs
Weigh the pros and cons of each material to pick what best suits your lifestyle and pump purposes.
How to Use Your Amazon Prime to Buy Women's Pumps
Check Prime Eligibility
Having an Amazon Prime membership allows you to access free, fast shipping on millions of products. Verify you have an active Prime account before shopping for pumps. If not a member yet, start a 30-day free trial to test it out.
Enable 1-Click Ordering
The 1-Click feature makes ordering pumps a breeze. Set up 1-Click in Your Account under Payment Options. Enable it for any credit/debit cards you want linked. Then when shopping, look for the “Buy Now with 1-Click” option to skip lengthy checkout processes.
Review Return Policies
Amazon offers free returns within 30 days on most items for Prime members. Ensure the pumps you’re ordering have a return policy listed before buying. Know that return eligibility depends on the condition, who it's sold by, and return shipping costs.
Search Efficiently
Use precise keywords like “pointed toe slingback pumps” or “block heel pumps” when searching. Apply filters like brand, price range, heel height and style to narrow options. Browse the Women’s Pumps store section for easy discovery.
Compare Similar Styles
Evaluate multiple versions of a pump style you like. Carefully examine product photos, reviews, materials and sizing guidance. Select 2-3 top choices and add them to your Cart or Wish List for final consideration.
Check for Coupons
Look for any available coupons before purchasing. Clip digital coupons on product pages to save instantly. Consider using a cashback site like Rakuten to earn percentage rebates too. The savings can add up, especially on big purchases.
Pick Fast Shipping
Prime gives you access to free 2-day shipping on most items. Upgrade to next day, same day or 2-hour delivery for impatient orders. Try Amazon Day to consolidate orders and reduce packaging.
Using Prime perks like fast shipping, easy returns and simplified shopping can make purchasing women’s pumps almost as fun as wearing them. Find your perfect pair with ease.
Find The Perfect Pair Of Pumps For Any Occasion
If you're looking for the perfect pair of pumps for any occasion, here are some tips and options to consider:
Tips:
Options:
- Vivaia Chunky Heels
- DREAM PAIRS Pump Sandals
- Amina Muaddi
- Dressy block heels
- Clarks Un Cosmo Pump
- Naturalizer Michelle Pump
- Becky Pointed Toe 70mm
