Stiletto heels are adored by most men - and many women. They make beautiful legs look stunningly gorgeous. However, spike heels can be very uncomfortable, even painful. If you learn some basic facts, you can avoid the pain and wear a smile instead of a frown.

The Perfect Design

An incline of over 2 inches from toe to heel can increase the impact of each step sevenfold or more. Choosing a pair of heeled boots or shoes doesn't rule out sexy stilettos. If you purchase footwear with a stacked toe, keeping the incline to 2 inches or less, you can create the illusion of real stilettos - while avoiding the pain.

Modern materials and manufacturing techniques for athletic shoes are also utilized in today's women's shoes. Try to find a sole with air pockets and a see-through construction. The air pockets reduce painful impact, and the transparency gives the impression of floating on air, while making shoes look dainty.

Insist on sturdy, quality construction with straps that hug (without chafing) to provide firm support. Shoes with leather uppers will wick away moisture and heat, allowing your feet to breathe in comfort.

Whatever your choice, footwear should be comfortable from the first moment you try it on. High-quality footwear does not require a breaking-in period.

Perfect Sizing

Don't try to squeeze into something that is too small. If you must wear a 7 1/2 wide instead of a 7 narrow, do it. Comfort must always be number 1 on your list of priorities. You may have seen commercials for high-heel comfort gel inserts. While there is nothing wrong with this extra layer of protection, it cannot replace proper style and fit.

The Tryouts

After you have found your 'perfect' footwear, try it on and walk around inside the store for a few minutes. Place your weight gently, heel first, rocking forward onto the ball of each foot. Take small steps, legs close together, pretending that you are wearing a really tight skirt without a kick pleat. Toes should be pointed to the front, not to the side.

Do you feel absolutely comfortable? Great! Ring up the sale! Do you wobble from side to side when you walk? Do you feel unsteady? Pick out something else! Wobbling is unsafe and unsexy. If you sprain or break an ankle, you won't feel very attractive hobbling around on crutches.

Keeping your sales slip handy, proceed at once to an indoor location with a smooth floor. Stroll around in your new shoes or boots for about an hour. Practice walking around corners, navigating stairs, and making turns - like a model on a runway. After the hour has passed, how do your feet feel? Do they burn? Do they have blisters or tender spots? If the answer is 'yes', return them to the store immediately and look for something else. The soles will still be in near pristine condition. Once the final decision has been made, spend more time practicing. Do not venture out in public until you feel confident walking on floors, uneven surfaces, and carpeting. If you plan to go dancing, rehearse for awhile in front of a mirror.