Right. So you have seen this huge platform shoes that you simply must have? You need to consider a few things before you decide which size you will need. Flat platform shoes usually run true to size (if they are from a reputable brand) as your foot can lie flat on the sole. If however you have seen some platform heeled shoes or boots that you simply can not resist you will need a size larger. An extreme heel always pushes the foot to the front and its highly likely that you would want to use gel insoles or party feet for the ball of your feet to take away the pressure.

When choosing a size you will also need to consider the material the footwear is made out of.
•    Leather, usually having a supple and comfortable feel and with a texture pattern, is the highest quality material of all used in shoemaking. Leather will always stretch and mold to your feet. Leather can also be stretched at a cobblers.
•    Man made uppers usually polyurethane, is a semi-shiny to non-shiny man made material designed to be less expensive than leather. This material is resistant to stretching and a larger size should be considered. For boots you can always wear a pair of socks! With man made uppers on boots you need to consider your calf size as this material will not stretch.

When buying those 7 inch red patent platform shoes, think about where you are going to wear them? Will you have to walk great distances? Over rocky terrain? Assail down jagged rock faces? If so you might need to re-think your extreme footwear purchase. Even platform trainers can be cumbersome, and unsuitable for uneven surfaces.

Always make sure you have some gel insoles for the balls of your feet when you are dealing with extreme footwear, as more balance is needed and you always put more pressure on the balls of your feet. Take plasters with you just in case, not just for your feet. High zipping shoes can rub at the zip as the inside can get jagged. Practice in your extreme shoes before you go out, highlight the problems you might have BEFORE that night out. If the footwear involves a stiletto, you might want to buy some of those ankle weights to wear while you practice to strengthen your ankles and minimise the twists and sprains.