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Yvonne Ncube, Showbiz Reporter
They’re multipurpose. They’re comfortable. They’re breathable. They’re affordable. They’re long-lasting. They’re simple.

When Coco Chanel said “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance,” many women in Zimbabwe must have felt that.

Whether going to work, going out, or just running some errands, “pumps” as they are widely termed, are one of the most popular styles of women’s shoes, and also one of the most difficult to define.

In their most basic form, pumps have closed counters and a cut-out top line that exposes the entire top of the foot starting at the toe box. A classic pump has a seamless vamp and is made without laces, buckles, straps or ties.

Pumps add an instant air of glamour to any outfit, whether formal or casual.

Coming in a variety of styles and designs, many pumps feature peep toes, open toes, pointed toes, rounded toes, ankle straps amongst other adornments.

Attractive and dangerously alluring, they are quite feminine. This brand is a great option for a wide range of situations, from casual every day wear to providing a great warm working allowance.

A shoe that sits just right is a must when it comes to comfortable shoes. Sometimes knowing your size just might not be enough, but the brand as well. Characterised by perfection for any woman these shoes not only look great on their own, but can also be paired with multiple outfits in any occasion.

Furthermore, the product is wrapped in a soft rubber mid-sole and an added cushioning in the forefoot, making them known for their lightweight and comfortable aspects. Switching over the design of the shoes, we can see a fashionable low-cut style for added mobility. Additionally, they are available in numerous colours and styles anyone can find the perfect match for them.

Before we dive in too deep here, it might be useful to know that. First seen in the early 1900s, these shoes have survived the test of time.

The original flat-bottomed shoes were very fashionable in the late 19th century. The shoes were even presented at dinner parties and events offered at the time and greeted with much applause. As this style of the shoe began to take over the American fashion scene during the 1920s, it became apparent that it was more than just a trend. Today this vintage style is making a heavy comeback.

Since they bounced back in the fashion spotlight they have become trending in women’s fashion. They are the kind of shoes that can be worn every day thus they have always been an enduring style.

In Zimbabwe, one cannot be faulted to say this type of shoe no longer needs weighty marketing as it does so on its own. It has earned the “must not miss out on” type of description. It would not be surprising to find out that any woman has at least one pair of them in their closet.

Due to their versatility, they take on the definition of multi-purpose, with their added features. Made out of flex weave technology fibres, the shoes are built for strength and flexibility, they have won the hearts of many.

Making sure not to side line fashionistas, these flat sole shoes have been a trending style for many street wear looks.

With a functional approach towards fashion it has incorporated the shoe racks of both the youth and older generation.

The sole of the shoes are commonly made out of durable rubber that can withstand wear and tear. Whereas the base is stitched from a mix of breathable fabrics such as cotton, polyester, and even leather hence making them suitable to be worn as school shoes.

Over the years, schoolchildren in upper grades of high school have found a niche of fancying up their school uniforms and adding a bit of flavour. Not only do they look smart in these, but their durability is assured as well.

Above all, pumps have closed the gaps between the rich and the poor, not forgetting the power dimensions at work places as both the superior and the subordinate rock the same shoe.

A survey conducted by Chronicle Showbiz in the City of Kings and Queens revealed that one in every 10 women despised this type of brand, but they grudgingly admitted that pumps are affordable, durable and multipurpose.

“With a modern and multi-purpose spin, these shoes are an outfit friendly product that you will want to keep on forever. Designed in diverse styles and colours, one is not limited to have a collection. Above all pumps are built with style and comfort in mind.

They have a lightweight feature that allows for prolonged everyday use. Their rubber sole is very comfortable, they are known to support the foot and withstand any terrain. A final feature that many can appreciate is the price. They are affordable but can yet take you for a long time,” said Mrs Lwandile Ncube (43), a resident from Hillside.

Another resident, Thando Nkomo (24) said pumps are comfortable hence ideal everyday shoes.

“Wearing walking shoes that are comfortable and fit your feet can help prevent injuries such as blisters and calluses.

There is sufficient room, during normal walking your foot both spreads out and lengthens up to one centimetre in each direction and pumps cater for that. The best advantage about pumps is that I can wear them at work, they ease pressure. Wearing heels shifts your weight to your forefoot, which increases the pressure to this area and typically leads to forefoot pain.

High heels also create a balance problem; as you force your knees and hips forward, it may lead to pain and discomfort in your back and legs. But with pumps I have both casual and formal shoes much worse at an affordable price,” said Nkomo.

Anathi Magu (18), a high school learner said pumps are the best preference for the day to day running of school activities.

“Being in high school means moving up and down from one lesson to another and that movement has limited time.

Pumps have come in to rescue us from the weight of school shoes that make one easily tired especially on hot days.

Because of the light weight they come in with great speed you can walk as fast as you can. They are indeed a lifesaver!” Magu said.

However, despite all the good characteristics of pumps conspiracies have emerged among men that these types of shoes have a bad scent.

Controverts have said that it is because they are made of cheap quality.

“I have never come across any pump shoe that does not smell. I don’t know if they absorb heat or if they are sold with a bad smell. If it was one person it would have been easier to say the person is not smart but then it’s a majority,” said a source who preferred to speak on condition of anonymity.

However despite these conspiracies women have maintained their stance that pumps are a life saver. — @SeehYvonne