Be forewarned, if you don't like studs or shoes...or studs on shoes, this blog post may not be for you! ;)
Clous Sandal by Sonia Rykiel
Hawk Spike by Jeffrey Campbell
Spike Boot by Dr Martens
Spiked Lita by Jeffrey Campbell
Hellraiser by UNIF
The Sonia Rykiel Clous studded leather sandals are my newest spiked babies. They run true to size and the leather is super duper soft and kind to feet. Absolutely no grip on the soles though, may need scuffing up a bit for less slippage. Great for summer days or dinner out.
Comfort: 4/5 on first impressions.
Sizing: True to size.
Stud type: Small conical.
Durability: Not yet tested, however they seem like a 4/5 on first impressions.
The Jeffrey Campbell Hawk Spike slip ons are lethal weapons. I used to think my UNIF Hellraisers were sharp but, my God, these spikes can do some serious damage. They run a little large but I wouldn't recommend downsizing because they are wide more than anything. I just use a Scholl heel grip and an insole to keep them snug. They're a bit sore for the first few wears but comfortable when they're broken in. Great for casual, grungy looks - just try not to gouge your ankles when you walk.
Comfort: 3/5
Sizing: True to size but quite wide.
Stud type: Razor sharp tall conical and small conical mix.
Durability: 3/5 - taller studs could be susceptible to damage.
The Spike Boot by Dr Martens were a Christmas gift this year. SO tight when you first put them on but persist - mine have loosened up wonderfully after a few wears. Goes without saying that they're very uncomfortable until broken in, but gradually becoming more and more comfortable with each time I wear them. Absolutely fantastic for winter days and could be good for gigs so you can boot people in the shins if they push you too hard. ;)
Comfort: 1/5 on first try. 4/5 when worn in.
Sizing: True to size, tight across the bridge of the foot until leather loosens.
Stud type: Small conical.
Durability: 5/5 - Studs seem extremely durable and secure.
The Jeffrey Campbell Spiked Litas are a classic. Super comfortable and give you height. True to size, but could be slightly too narrow at the toe for the wider footed ladies. Another lethal weapon along with the Hawk Spikes, but not AS sharp. Good for self defence on the dance floor from drunken men. Again, an ankle gouger if you're not careful.
Comfort: 4/5
Sizing: True to size but relatively narrow at the toe.
Stud type: Small conical and tall conical mix.
Durability: 3/5 similar to the Hawk Spike - taller studs may be susceptible to damage.
The UNIF Hellraiser flats are the more delicate (?!really?!) version of the Hawk Spikes. I'm tempted to describe them as more 'girly' than the others, but I still think that would be an oxymoron. Girly Hellraisers. Anyway, they're true to size. Super comfortable, I suffered just minimal rubbing on the top of my foot for the first few wears but they quickly became one of the most comfortable pair of shoes I own. Be careful - I managed to dislodge my first spike by catching my toe on a shopping trolley so they definitely are more delicate than the other spiked shoes I own. Great for wearing with dresses as they're more flattering on the foot than the Hawks.
Comfort: 5/5
Sizing: True to size.
Stud type: Meduim conical.
Durability: 2/5 - Least secure of all the shoes. They've done well but due care is needed when wearing as I managed to dislodge a spike more easily than I thought.
I hope you liked this post.
I effing love studs! Can you tell!
:)
Lots of love,
Neeny
x