You should reconsider the notion that wearing Crocs or flip-flops on an aircraft is more comfortable than wearing heels or trainers. A flight attendant has explained why it’s best to store this type of footwear safely—and no, it has nothing to do with foul-smelling feet.
American Airlines stewardess Andrea Fischbach has outlined the reasons why shoes such as these, high heels, and sandals with no back should be avoided at all costs.
“This footwear poses dangers on a flight, especially if passengers are required to evacuate the aircraft quickly,” the flight attendant told whattowear.co.uk.
Furthermore, although stewardesses themselves don high heels, Ms. Fischbach has disclosed that they are unfeasible and are typically taken off.
‘Heels can possibly cause further damage to emergency exits or hurt others if they go flying off somehow’, Fischbach stated.
‘I would really advise against high heels or flip-flops or any slides, mostly for safety purposes.’
‘If there is an evacuation and slides are required, your high heels will have to come off, as they can puncture the slide.’
‘Who knows where and in what conditions you’ll land. Plus, they aren’t very practical running gate to gate.’
Despite the fact that many people correctly point out that flight attendants wear high heels when serving passengers or taking calls, Ms. Fischbach clarified that this isn’t really the case.
After takeoff, she says, they change their heels.
As if that weren’t enough, she went on: ‘As if another reason is needed, they make the metal detectors go off (if you are lucky enough to have pre-check) thanks to nails in the heels.
‘Flip-flops and backless shoes can also end up flying off your feet, and your feet are more likely to freeze, especially during a long flight.’
She also mentioned that wearing exposed shoes can result in an unhygienic experience when using the restrooms on an airplane.
Ms. Fischbach suggested that you should replace your flip-flops, sandals, or slippers with something closed when you need to use the restroom in midair.
She cautioned: ‘Be wary of wearing sandals if you are planning on going in the lavatory.
‘That isn’t water on the floor (yes, use your imagination), and sandals invite whatever that liquid is to splash on your feet.’
For the sake of comfort, practicality, and safety, the stewardess also mentioned more items that are not appropriate to wear when flying.
This includes avoiding tight clothing and wearing only leggings and a sports bra because airplanes can get cold and can catch fire.
Wearing restricting clothing can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a condition when a blood clot forms in a vein, generally in the legs, or discomfort and stomach swelling.
To guarantee a comfortable flight, you should instead layer up, suggesting that you bring a cashmere hoodie or lightweight jacket.
For added warmth, she suggests bringing your own pair of thick socks.
Things to avoid wearing on airplanes
For practical and safety reasons, American Airlines flight attendant Andrea Fischbach has compiled a list of things you should never wear at 35,000 feet.
- Anything that restricts
- Combustible substances
- Sandals with no back or high heels
- Metal-based shoes, jewelry, or accessories
- Insufficient layers
