Stepping Back in Time: Men in High Heels for Horseback Riding Until 1740

High heels, those iconic fashion accessories that have graced the feet of fashionistas for centuries, have a history that might surprise you. While today, they are often associated with women’s footwear and style, there was a time when men, too, proudly donned high heels. What’s even more intriguing is the reason behind this trend: it was believed that high heels helped men ride horses better. Join us as we take a journey back in time to explore this curious historical fashion phenomenon.

The Heeled History

High heels have been around for centuries, dating back to at least the 10th century. Originally, they were designed as practical footwear for horse riders, both men and women. The earliest high heels were not the sleek, stiletto-like versions we know today but rather sturdy, robust heels that provided a functional purpose.

Stirrups and Stability

During the 16th and 17th centuries, horseback riding was not just a pastime but a crucial mode of transportation and a skill associated with the elite. It was during this era that heeled shoes became fashionable for men. The primary reason was the advent of stirrups, which revolutionized horse riding.

Stirrups allowed riders to have a more secure grip on their saddles, and heels, with their slightly raised design, provided added stability. This was especially important for activities like jousting and warfare, where a secure seat on a horse could make all the difference.

A Fashion Statement

As time passed, the practicality of heeled shoes for riding merged with the world of fashion. European aristocrats, including King Louis XIV of France, adopted high heels as a symbol of power and prestige. The trend quickly spread, and it wasn’t uncommon to see men from various social classes sporting heels, not just for horseback riding but also as part of their everyday attire.

The Decline of Heeled Riding Boots

The 18th century saw a shift in fashion and footwear. Heels gradually began to lose their association with horseback riding, and practicality gave way to aesthetics. This marked the decline of men wearing high heels for equestrian purposes.

The Modern Heel

While the era of men wearing high heels for horseback riding may have ended around 1740, the legacy of high heels as a fashion statement continues to this day. Today, high heels are primarily associated with women’s fashion, but they have not lost their ability to convey power, elegance, and style.

So, the next time you slip into a pair of high heels or admire them from afar, remember their surprising history. What was once a functional accessory for riders has transformed into a symbol of fashion and self-expression, proving that the world of fashion has always been a fascinating blend of practicality and aesthetics.

Picture courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright