How quickly can you Get away?

Have you ever considered how your shoes affect your ability to protect yourself?

Last Spring this topic was highlighted when I encountered an angry stranger while walking with a friend in my neighborhood. Without any warning, the large woman bolted towards us, shouting profanities and threats.

Wanting to avoid a physical confrontation, we ran. She got dangerously close, but thankfully we were able to outrun her. The whole thing was bizarre.

As you can imagine, there was a lot to process, but one thing I realized was how grateful I was for the sneakers I was wearing. They allowed me to sprint (yes, SPRINT) through the grass to get away.

Which brings me to the intersection of fashion and self-defense.

Do shoes matter in self-defense?

When it comes to dressing for concealed carry, I’m typically focused on stylishly and comfortably concealing a firearm with clothes. From that perspective, shoes can seem less important … a mere aesthetic. However, I’ve learned they can be a valuable tool!

Getting off the “X”

In terms of shoes for self-defense, the most important thing to consider is a concept called “getting off the X”, or the line of attack. Instead of freezing like a deer in headlights, the idea is to train yourself to move as quickly as possible from your starting location.

By freezing, you allow an attacker to close the distance gap, but movement can buy precious time. This is why many firearms instructors teach you to step to the side as you draw your firearm.

What shoes are best for self-defense?

Most women's shoes don't look like they were designed for escaping an attack. But at the same time, it’s not realistic to trade in our footwear for combat boots. So, what kind of shoes can we wear that are both fashionable and practical for self-defense?

I think of shoes on a rating scale; which I think is a fun and lighthearted way to consider the topic.

Let’s start with the least efficient shoes first.

(0) Stiletto with Ankle Strap

Don’t get me wrong, I love stilettos because they’re so pretty and fun, but when they have an ankle strap, they’re the worst shoe for self-defense. First, they make it difficult to run and increase your chances of injury. Second, because too much time is required to take them off.

(1) Stiletto Pumps

The average high stiletto heel is 3-4 inches high, making it inappropriate for running. However, if you are wearing a stiletto heel, hopefully it’s a pump (heel without a strap). That way you can slip it off to either run or use the sharp heel as a self-defense tool.

(2) Wedges & Block Heels (with a strap)

A lot of women love heels and there’s nothing wrong with that, but some designs are better than others for an escape. Again, when there’s an ankle strap it limits your options, but running in a wedge or block heel is a little easier than a stiletto.

(3-4) Wedges & Block Heels (no strap)

I rank wedges and pumps with a block heel at 3-4 because the larger surface area of the heel gives you more to balance on. Also, the lack of strap gives you the freedom to remove the shoe if necessary.

(5) Kitten Heels

A kitten heel is typically 1.5-2 inches high and can be skinny or chunky. Of all the heel options, this one puts your foot at a more natural ankle. Just be aware of the bottom of the shoe – a pair with more grip is better for getting off the “X.”

(6) Sandals & Clogs

These rank higher because they put your foot at a flat ankle and they’re easy to slip off. Just bear in mind that they’re not ideal for running because of how easily they come off. In a desperate situation, you could throw them to create a diversion.

(7-8) Ballet Flats & Loafers

Now we’re talking! Ballet flats and loafers have a “tactical” advantage without the tactical look. Since they cover your toes and heel, they’re more likely to stay on when you run, especially with a proper fit. Versions with a grippy sole are readily available, which help you make good traction and they’re dressy enough to use in place of heels.

(9) City Sneakers

A stylish shoe that is supportive enough to walk miles in a big city. Because they have laces, they’re more secure than other options. They look closely related to a “running shoe” but due to their structured and less flexible sole, they aren’t specifically designed for running.

(10) Running shoes & Boots

With laces, cushioned support, and flexible but grippy soles, running shoes are perfect for getting off the X! (It’s in the name, after all). Similarly, combat boots are designed for military training involving long hikes and quick movement. Both are great options but unless you’re in the military you probably don’t have a pair of combat boots at home. It’s probably a lot easier to find a good pair of running shoes that express your style and help you move quickly.

Conclusion

Getting off the X is a perspective most women don’t consider when selecting shoes.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you can never wear heels again, but hopefully it’s thought provoking and maybe even effects how you select shoes. By moving up the scale, you can wear a safer shoe without sacrificing style.

“Chime-In!”

What is your go-to shoe? How easily can you run in it?

Shoe Rating Scale For Self-Defense