High Heel: The Origin of Stuff - Episode 2

Katy Brand loves a high heel. Once known by friends and family
for her ‘shoe fetish’, her dad even gave her a ceramic heel that
could hold a wine bottle at a jaunty angle.


These days, Katy’s cherished heels from her torture days live in
her cupboard. She has traded the pain for the statement trainer.
But their art, history and construction still fascinate her.


So what is it about the high heel that has made it stand the test
of time?


With the help of resident public historian, Greg Jenner, Katy
explores the heel’s fascinating passage through time, finding a
place on the feet of men, as well as women, in high and low
places. Heels donned the feet of men on horseback in 17th century
Persia, were adored by King Louis XIV, and gained an erotic
currency with the invention of photography.


But how has science and engineering ensured the high heel’s
survival?


Footwear Technologist, Mike George, shows us how the high heel is
engineered, and how he can test if a particular design is
teetering on the edge of safety. Social scientist, Heather
Morgan, reveals the perceived benefits of wearing heels, as well
as the risks when she fell foul to when fell in heels and broke
her ankle.


Producer: Beth Eastwood