The pointed pump is back - but what's the fashionable shoe doing to our toes?

The pointed pump has long been a classic footwear choice, but this summer it has returned with a vengeance.

Spotted on several Spring/Summer 2023 runways, including Prada and Miu Miu, and seen on celebrities like Rihanna, Beyonce, the Princess of Wales and current it-girl Sofia Richie of late, it’s officially pointed toe season.

But, what price do your feet have to pay to stay on trend?

"Pointed shoes, particularly those with a narrow toe box, can constrict the natural shape and movement of your toes," Dr Evelina Sabonaityte of Glow Bar London, who specialises in podiatry, says.

"Over time, this can lead to a variety of issues such as hammertoes (where the toe bends downward at the middle joint), bunions (painful bony bumps on the big toe joint), and neuromas (nerve damage between the toes). Wearing pointed shoes frequently can also exacerbate conditions like ingrown toenails and corns."

Ouch.

Yet, Dr Sabonaityte says we don’t have to avoid pointed pumps entirely. As with everything in life, it’s all about moderation.

"Use pointed shoes for special occasions, and limit the time you spend in them," she says. "If you do wear pointed shoes, ensure they fit well and do not squeeze or compress your toes."

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The best shoes for your feet

While pointed pumps will dress up any outfit, if you’re looking for the best shoes for both comfort and long-term foot health, Dr Sabonaityte recommends looking for pairs with a wide toe box that allows your toes to wiggle freely.

Her tips:

• The shoe should offer good arch support, a firm and cushioned sole

• Look for breathable materials to prevent fungal infection

• The heel height should ideally be less than two inches

• Most importantly, the shoe should fit well - not too tight, not too loose

Yet, even if you were to wear the correct shoe for foot health your entire life you still may not be able to escape the dreaded bunions, she says.

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Foot health is important - and something many of us forget to prioritise, says Dr Sabonaityte."Remember, taking care of your feet means taking care of your mobility. Always listen to your body - pain is its way of saying something is wrong. If you're experiencing persistent foot pain, it's essential to consult a podiatrist."

So, while wearing a pointed pump may not be the best option for the long-term health of your feet, wearing them once in a while won’t hurt (well, it might, but you know what we mean).