korkokenkien

Korkokenkien, literally "high-heel shoes" in Finnish, denote a category of footwear designed with a raised heel relative to the forefoot. They slant upward from the sole, altering the wearer's posture and gait. Styles vary widely and include stilettos, block heels, wedges, and platform shoes. Heel heights range from modest (about 2–5 cm) to high (10 cm or more), with materials such as leather, suede, textile, or synthetic leather.

High-heel footwear has a long history. Heels appear in various cultures historically as indicators of status or military role; in Europe, they became fashionable among the aristocracy in the 16th–17th centuries and later diversified in form. In the modern era, high heels became a staple of formal fashion and performance, with numerous designers exploring shapes, materials, and performance aesthetics.

Cultural usage and interpretation vary. In many contexts, high heels are associated with formal wear, elegance, and gendered fashion norms, though they are worn by people across genders in different settings. Design trends periodically emphasize comfort, sustainability, or bold silhouettes.

Health and ergonomics are considerations in high-heel design and wear. Prolonged use can increase pressure on the forefoot and strain on the Achilles tendon, knees, and back. Approaches to mitigate risks include choosing appropriate heel height, ensuring proper fit, using cushioned insoles, and limiting continuous wear or selecting ergonomic shapes such as thicker heels or platforms.