Heels That Make or Break Your Walk

One of the most common mistakes I see contestants make is choosing the wrong heels.

The heels you wear can have a huge impact on your walk — and I’m not just talking about how they look. Different heel styles can change your posture, balance, turns and the way you move across the stage.

I've included some examples above, so let's go through the heel styles I recommend — and the ones I would leave at home.

4. Wedge Heels

In my opinion, wedges are one of the worst choices for pageant walking.

While they provide support across the entire foot, they can make your movement appear heavy and flat-footed. They also don't give you the same elegant foot movement and lines that you want to create on stage.

Keep the wedges for a Sunday afternoon party — not the pageant stage.

3. Block Heels

Block heels may feel comfortable and stable, but visually they can look heavy.

That extra weight and width through the heel can affect the appearance of your turns and make it harder to create the smooth, light and elegant walk we're looking for on stage.

For pageant walking, I prefer a much finer heel.

2. Platform Heels

Platform heels are another common mistake I see, particularly when contestants choose them simply because they want to appear taller.

My advice is simple: if you are not extremely confident and experienced walking in high platforms, don't wear them.

It is far better to walk beautifully and confidently in a slightly lower heel than struggle across the stage just to gain another couple of inches in height.

Height should never come at the expense of your posture, balance or confidence.

Pageantry has also changed. We now regularly see women of different heights placing and winning major competitions. Your presence on stage is far more important than adding a few extra centimetres with your shoes.

1. Stilettos

Stilettos are my all-time go-to heel for pageant walking.

They're timeless, feminine and elegant, and they work beautifully with everything from swimwear to an evening gown.

For most contestants, I recommend an open-toe stiletto with good support around the foot and ankle. As your confidence and walking ability improve, you can gradually experiment with higher heels or a slightly larger platform.

But always remember: you should control the heel. The heel should never control your walk.

Practice Before Pageant Day

Whatever heels you choose, don't wait until competition day to properly walk in them.

Practice in the exact heels you intend to wear. Train in them with your swimwear and, importantly, your evening gown.

Walk, turn and pose in the full outfit. Check whether your gown catches underneath the heel or around the shoe. Find out how the shoes feel after you've been wearing them for more than a few minutes.

These are small things, but preparation eliminates unnecessary surprises.

When you step onto that stage, the last thing you should be thinking about is your shoes.

You should be thinking about your walk, your presence and enjoying your moment.

Thelma Rodriguez
Walk Coach & Mentor