Difference Between Platforms and Wedges
By Rebecca Rodriguez - July 20, 2022

Heels exist in many designs and are perfect for different outfits, both functionally and aesthetically. However, it is only natural that similarities begin to crop up after a while. Platform heels and Wedge heels tend to be easily confused for each other, but there are specific differences in both function and aesthetics, even though both designs can be combined in just one shoe!

Table Summary

PlatformsWedges
They are chunky at the ball of the foot.May or may not have chunky soles under the ball of the feet.
It can be merged into other shoe designs, including wedges.They are a specific design of shoes.
Require ankle strength and is not easy to lift.They are sturdy and usually lightweight.

Definitions

Platforms are heels that are not heels. A shoe has a platform sole when the front of the shoes, where the ball of the feet is supposed to rest on, is made a little chunkier. This has nothing to do with where the lower underside –known as the sole- is meant to rest.

Wedges are heels with thick triangular or wedge-shaped soles similar to platforms, but the soles are taller at the back to give the illusion of a heel, as most Wedge heels do not split the front of the shoe from the back.

Platforms VS Wedges

Platforms were the rage in the 1970s and were a prominent feature in men’s footwear. Platforms today generally refer to footwear with chunky but flat soles, which some also refer to as Flatforms. The designs can be merged with other methods such as in sneakers, boots, sandals and stiletto heels to make pumps. While, wedges do not necessarily have a thickened sole at the front, despite the commonality of the style. These little differences have effects on the functionality of both designs. Wedges are sturdy and provide an easy lift, especially when they do not have platform soles. Meanwhile, platforms shift the weight of the feet and shoes on the ankles, which does not make for an easy or quick lift.