The Good, the Bad and the Uggly: A case against Ugg Boots and other ill-fitting footwear.

Online, June 18, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Evidence shows that footwear does have an impact on foot health yet results suggest women are socialised into regarding footwear as an important part of their appearance, which in itself is also an important social norm. (Joyce, 2000, p114)

This would account for all those sore feet out there, endlessly punished by being shoved into shoes that are too small, big, narrow, and wide. Practicality and foot health come second and third, at the very least, when it comes to fashion and this is especially apparent (in the form of blisters, corns, calluses and bunions) with women's choice of footwear. However, if footwear is deemed such a vital part of appearance and a 'deal breaker' in first impressions, then why do so many females wear Ugg Boots? They are perceived by many to be the ugliest pair of shoes a woman can put onto her leg ends. Along with the hideous and as 'useless as a chocolate teapot' Crocs, they polarise opinion. The mystery unravels when the likes of Kate Moss and Eva Longoria are pictured wearing them out and about - then of course it seems to a significant number of our women folk like such a brilliant idea.

There is another element to this though that branches out from the 'hypodermic syringe' theory. Joyce argues that throughout a woman's life, she will encounter tensions at the shoe shop between her desire to wear fashionable or pretty shoes and her craving for comfort (p115). I believe that Uggs and their persistent wear - though regarded as enormously trendy - are the result of this latter 'craving' for slipper-like warmth and softness. What a contrast from the super high-heeled stilettos and pointed toe court shoes!!!!

"Because these boots are warm and soft, young girls think they are giving their feet a break. In fact, they are literally breaking their feet," (Dr. Ian Drysdale, head of the British College of Osteopathic Medicine)

The original Australian sheepskin boot, before it even left the country was a favourite amongst rural folk; particularly farmers wives who, however, would only wear them INSIDE. They are slippers and made to be worn without socks and wearing them on a daily basis will lead to a stink increase in the inner boot territory. What is more, they are completely flat and offer no support for the arch of the foot and from the constant pounding against concrete and other industrial/man-made surfaces. I have noticed in my many wanderings through city town centres that girls appear before me in droves like yetis stomping towards Primark. Once in Primark of course, or Asda, they go into a shuffle. Uggs are a mystery wrapped up in an enigma.

Yes sure, yeah yeah yeah they are SO comfy! But so are your Nan's slippers but they smell like cheese and you wouldn't wear them out in the snow. Unlike many I witnessed during winter.

A cultural change from irrationality to practicality is not on the horizon and this is the only thing that would sway people in their millions and billions (especially the ladies) towards the procurement of a good pair of sensible shoes. Age will probably increase the likelihood of such a purchase or even relocation to the moon or other earthly space where fashion whims and imperatives do not apply. Germany is the land of sensible shoes, but they are a special case and an explanation which is best left for another time. I urge you all to try to get yourself a pair of shoes that really fit you. Wide fitting or narrow fitting shoes can be bought from many places and this size and measuring guide will assist you in doing so.

http://www.duoboots.com/pages/size_measuring_guide/

Your feet are trying to tell you something! Pain is not something to be endured for the sake of fashion or vanity. Take stock (as my old father always says) of the footwear you have open your two feet today. Wiggle your toes about a bit. Plenty of room in there? Maybe too much room eh? Summer is almost upon us and comes with it the time of jelly sandals, flip-flops, espadrilles and other assorted foot slayers and walking hazards. If the shoe fits - wear it! And not otherwise.

I leave you with a quote from a forum. This is taken from a thread entitled "My wife has ordered a pair of Ugg Boots, should I leave?"

"I think some people are failing monumentally to understand the socioeconomic implications of this apparel here in the UK. Like it or not, Britain is shot through with social class and distinction and as such people should be aware this footwear is second only to Bench and fake Burberry in the Chav's choice of clothing. They even come with free food coupons, a pack of 10 Lambert & Butlers and a can of Tenants Extra to further emphasise the stereotypical images & to help the wearer assimilate into the lower social divisions of UK society. Like it or not, this is the choice of footwear of women (note: not ladies) from The House Association properties."

Reference: Joyce, Philip, 'Women and their shoes: attitudes, influences and behaviour'; British Journal of Podiatry, 3(4) 111-115 (2000).