The best platform shoes for you will be well-made, comfortable and stylish, and be in a price range that you can afford. You can find platform shoes through online retailers, stores, and vintage boutiques and thrift shops. Before you shop, determine your budget and style preferences.
For shoes that you plan to wear for several years, in a classic style or color, it is worthwhile to spend a little more money for a higher quality product. For trendy shoes that you won't wear for more than a few months, a cheaper shoe will suffice. Either way, you need to decide which of these two you are looking for before shopping. It will save time and help prevent you from making impulse purchases that you may regret later.
Platform shoes come in a wide range of designs. Boots, sandals, pumps, sneakers, and many other styles of shoe are made with platform soles. If you don't have a specific style in mind, browse through stores or web sites. When you see a pair of platforms you like, think of at least three outfits that you could wear with the shoes. If you can't think of at least three then keep looking. For the most part, neutral colors like black, brown, and gray will give you more versatility than bright colors.
Once you've decided on your price range and style, save time by searching online retailers to find shoes that fit your needs. Next, locate a store that has them in stock, and try them on. If you must purchase the shoes online, be sure to check the company's return policy, and avoid retailers who charge restocking fees. Some companies pay for shipping both ways, which can save you a substantial amount of money if you have to exchange an item.
Since the stacked sole provides height along the entire length of the foot, pressure is more equally distributed in platform shoes than in other types of high heels. Stilettos, for example, place all the pressure on the ball of the foot, which can cause discomfort. The basic design of platform shoes should make them quite comfortable to wear, and you will be able to tell if there is any rubbing or pinching within five to ten minutes of walking around in the shoes.
If the shoes are comfortable, check them for good craftsmanship. No damage, glue smears, or frayed stitching should be visible. It is especially important to inspect vintage shoes since both fabric and leather can dry out, harden, and crack over time. If there are some problems, like lack of cushioning in the foot bed or a worn sole, weigh the cost of repairs against the cost of the shoe itself. Purchasing cushion inserts is a popular easy fix that can make cheap, trendy shoes much more comfortable.