Elizabeth Semmelhack

High heels have been around since as early as the 10th century. Today we see them as a cornerstone of footwear fashion, with models strutting their stuff on the catwalk in heels of varying colours and styles. But how has this impractical, even masochistic piece of design become so gender-specific and has it always been this way? Greg Jenner discusses the history of high-heeled shoes with Dr Elizabeth Semmelhack from the Bata Shoe Museum and with returning comedian Lauren Pattison.See photos of the shoes discussed: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p09w4wgl/Produced by Cornelius Mendez Script by Emma Nagouse, Harry Prance and Greg Jenner Research by Harry Prance

Elizabeth Semelhack, a shoe history expert, joins Harvard scholars Dan Lieberman and Irene Davis, along with podiatrist Howard Osterman, to explore the evolution and impact of footwear on human health. They challenge the idea that shoes are essential, discussing the benefits of barefoot running and the health risks of modern designs. Topics range from the historical roots of shoe fashion to the anatomy of our feet and their untapped capabilities. The conversation reveals how footwear choices affect foot health and well-being.

Elizabeth Semmelhack, director of the Bata Shoe Museum, shares her expertise on the fascinating history of footwear. Discover how shoes evolved over 4,500 years, from King Tut's gold sandals to the rugged origins of high heels. She examines the impact of war on footwear, the cultural significance of cowboy boots, and the chaos of shoe sizing. The discussion also highlights the evolution of styles like Crocs and the shift towards sustainable designs. Join Elizabeth for a journey through humanity's relationship with shoes!