High heels are out and comfy trainers in

THERE was a time when a pair of sky-high Jimmy Choos or Louboutins were the must-have items for women wanting to put their most fashionable foot forward.

But it seems that these days, women are swopping their heels in favour of a footwear trend that is rather more comfortable.

For the first time, more women are buying trainers than heels, according to retail analysts.

The move is part of a wider trend for so-called athleisure wear, with women ditching their skirts and jeans for sports leggings, jogging bottoms and Lycra tops.

Seen as the modern equivalent of shell suits, the clothes are sported by woman doing everything from the supermarket run to heading to the office.

Mintel said 37 percent of women bought trainers in the past year, compared with 33 percent who bought shoes with a heel, making them second only to flat shoes at 51 percent.

Among younger, trendy women aged 35 to 44, the number buying trainers was even higher at 48 percent.

Some 43 percent of women also said they find it hard to buy shoes that fit them well, which may have helped softer trainers overtake often rigid heels.

But while it might be assumed trainers are just a comfier – and cheaper – alternative to heels, the shoes have also become something of a fashion statement.

Even heel-loving celebrities such as Victoria Beckham have embraced the flat footwear, with many designers also using them in their catwalk shows. – Daily Mail