While footwear is an obligatory part of our everyday looks, it is also a means of manifesting our personality and even a way to attract a partner on a date. We asked the experts from Tune2Love, a popular dating app for LA singles, to share some research in the field of footwear and dating. And this is what their researchers found out.

What does science say in general about footwear and personality?

Indeed, some research has proved that the footwear we prefer is linked to our personality traits. For example, it was discovered that:

• People who prefer practical and comfortable shoes, such as sneakers or loafers, are usually more agreeable and empathetic. The majority of such respondents also were laid-back and easygoing and valued comfort and functionality over fashion. One study revealed that people who like comfortable footwear tend to have higher scores in emotional stability and conscientiousness. In addition, they did score higher in neuroticism and materialism. Sneaker enthusiasts tended to be more extroverted, conscientious, and open to experimenting and trying new things. Those people also often have higher scores in materialism and status-seeking behavior. And what is good news for those who like comfortable shoes, studies show that lovers of comfortable footwear in general show lower levels of stress. 
• People who like flip-flops, sandals, and all kinds of open-toed shoes are logically associated with being laid-back, right? However, some research in this field has found an alternative correlation. In reality, those who prefer such shoes are often afraid of foot pain and injuries. And they also often feel low stability and a lack of support. 
• High Heels: studies show that women who wear high heels are more confident, assertive, and aggressive than those who prefer more comfortable footwear. It was mentioned in several studies that women preferring high heels are usually more extroverted and open to new experiences. Such ladies claim that they feel more attractive, self-assured, and confident than when they wear flat shoes. Tests also proved that women wearing high heels are less agreeable. 
• Expensive or Fashionable Shoes. This is an independent category of shoe-wearers. Usually, these people are extroverted and attention-seeking and pay a lot of attention to fashion and appearance.

These studies above tell about the connection between human personality and the footwear we choose. At the same time, there are also our perceptions of how the choice of footwear correlates with the personality of people. For example, we consider some men and women sexier, more arrogant, or vice versa shyer based on what they wear. Here are some findings about what men and women think about each other based on footwear.

What do men think about women’s footwear? 

• High heels are traditionally associated with attractiveness and female qualities. Men who participated in the research said that women wearing high heels look more attractive than women dressed casually. Though this impression may differ in various countries and may change along with the norms of the society, it is still worthy of your attention. 
• Red shoes deserve a particular note. The surveyed men said that they found women wearing red shoes more charming and sexier than other women. This effect may be explained by the fact that the color red is connected to arousal and sexual attraction.
• The survey also showed that while men consider high heels seductive and fashionable, they also like women who wear comfortable shoes and consider them more approachable and down-to-earth.

What do women think about men’s footwear? 

While men pay attention to heels and colors, women also take notes while dating a man. Here are the top things girls pay attention to when looking at men’s footwear. 

• Cleanliness. Women don’t like scruffy clothing and footwear. They prefer men who wear clean and well-kept shoes. Weary or dirty shoes were often considered signs of excessive casualness or neglecting details.
• Classics. Classic shoes, loafers, or dress shoes, make men look more handsome in the eyes of a woman. In addition, classic styles are usually more appropriate for a wide range of occasions. 
• Expensive Shoes. Women’s opinion on the price of the shoes is a bit tricky. While they indeed might not be that impressed with the flamboyant and pricey shoes, they still prefer men who invest in quality and durable things, including good footwear. 
• Sneakers. Women like men wearing sneakers if the occasion is really appropriate. For example, if you meet in a gym, running, or at a casual event, sneakers are perfectly fine. However, the same sneakers will be less accepted in a formal setting. 

What do you think about understanding people’s personalities based on their favorite footwear? Do you pay attention to people’s footwear?