When I first got my scooter I was amazed at how much easier it became to navigate the world. It felt like the doors to being 24-really 24, in all the glory and freedom that should bring-were opened. I could finally, really go anywhere without pain. That feeling only magnified when I got fitted for a proper power chair.
Accordingly, I decided that getting a power chair was an appropriate occasion for a wardrobe revamp. I started playing more with casual cosplays. I dressed up during the week. I flirted with more colorful items. As I started to experiment, one of the first things I noticed felt different were shoes.
Here’s what I noticed.
Heels
Heels sucked significantly less than they did when I was wearing them to walk around in but, surprisingly, these still hurt my legs at the end of the day. My heels were typically at least three inches, so they definitely stressed my calves and my ankles. They made me look damn good, but the pain wasn’t generally worth the tradeoff.
I’ve generally stuck to making my heels a staple for when I’m using my cane instead. The logic might seem silly, but if I’m having a day where all I need help with is my balance, I may as well go for broke and test it.
Platforms
Platforms, even tall ones, have been much easier on my legs. They don’t stress my ankles and calves as much because they aren’t holding them at an angle. The main pair I’ve been wearing is a pair of platform Mary Janes that I bought at H&M when I first moved to the DMV. They strike the balance between Wednesday Adams and dark lolita fairly well.
I find that platforms are also surprisingly versatile. They add that touch of quirky formality that can fit with dresses, skirts-basically anything that flares out around the ankle or hip. They have a good amount of support and cushion if I need to kick open a door as well.
Boots
Boots have become my go to. My favorite pairs are easy to pull on in a rush, and they go with basically anything casual. My second favorite pairs are zip-up and have a thicker platform. They pass as more punk. They cause me no pain.
They’re ready to kick a door open or navigate holding open a nearly shut door most reliably, without any risk of coming off my feet.
Ballet Flats
While these work in the most technical sense of the word, if they don’t have a firm, relatively thick base, they’re entirely useless to me. I can’t stop worrying that they’ll flop right off my feet, and they aren’t strong enough that I can kick open a door without some pain in my foot and ankle.
