WHEN autumn leaves hit the ground we’re surrounded by a sea of rich ambers, yellows and reds.
While it makes the grey pavements look pretty temporarily, mix them with heavy downpours and they suddenly become treacherous. And that’s before the icy blast sets in.
There’s no kicking up leaves playfully like something from a Hallmark film – the likelihood is you just fall flat on your bum, or worse still, you might end up breaking a leg.
Yes, right now is slippy leaf season and nobody wants to spend the festive season laid up.
That’s why your choice of footwear is crucial.
Here, Fabulous’ fashion editor Clemmie Fieldsend reveals the surprising high street treads you can count on as well as the the type that might just land you…flat on your back.
Ballet pumps might have fallen back in fashion but be warned they come with risk.
Flimsy, grip-less soles that are slapped on the bottom of a pump do not withstand slippery conditions even if they are key to your look.
Why risk it? Pop them in your bag and wear more sensible footwear for the great outdoors.
Unless you’re wearing your running shoes with your outfit then give trainers a miss.
Aside from sports brands with a sole that has lots of texture for grip, a lot of plastic high street trainers won’t hold out when faced with a slippery leaf.
Your chunky trainer might seem like they’ll hold you up, but if you run your finger under along the bottom you’ll find the plastic is quite smooth – and that means little grip when you need it.
Also, if you’ve had them for a while the sole may have worn down entirely and that could be lethal.
Crocs are great for merrily shuffling around the house, supermarket or even taking the bins out.
But when it comes to damp weather you could find yourself flat on your bum or worse in A&E.
Crocs, like trainers, have a plastic sole with little to no grip and if you’ve lived in yours for a few years then treading the leafy pavements could be similar to wearing slippers on an ice rink.
Now, hear me out.
Like it or not we concentrate more when we’re in heels because we are aware that the balls of our feet are balancing on stilts.
Consciously or subconsciously, (unless you’ve had a few glasses of wine), you’re making an effort to stay steady.
So when you’re faced with the treacherous conditions of a slippy pavement you’ll be ultra careful to mind your step.
For added ankle protection choose a heeled boot – but go steady on the inches.
The key to not going flying when leaves become sludge all depends on the soles of your shoes.
Tractor soles or styles with deep and solid soles will keep you grounded.
Be it a boot, a heel or a trainer – as long as you have a good trend you’ll stay upright.
And you don’t have to spend a packet.
This pair from Primark cost just £7 and they don’t compromise on quality. They have a cosy lining AND a study sole for zero slipping.
Just keep an eye on those soles and make sure they’re not wearing out – or you might see stars.
