Barbie Allowed to Change Into Flats After Half a Century
New Mattel dolls feature “articulated ankles”
If you’re familiar with that horrible pain that high heels and stilettos cause, you’re probably also familiar with the beautiful relief that is taking them off at the end of the day. Well, good news! After enduring heels for 50 LONG YEARS, Barbie, who has been a doctor, a paratrooper, and a firefighter, can finally slip out of those heels and into a nice sensible pair of flats.
Mattel’s new “Fashionista” line of Barbie dolls feature non-frozen ankles that can slip into both high heels and flats! Now Barbie, whatever profession she’s working at, can enjoy both the glamour of heels and the comfort of flats. Film Director Barbie can get the job done AND avoid foot damage. Chronic pain and tendon problems are no joke! Dr. Nevins at the American Osteopathic Association says:
Extended wear of high heels and continually bending your toes into an unnatural position can cause a range of ailments, from ingrown toenails to irreversible damage to leg tendons. Additionally, cramming your toes into a narrow toe box can cause nerve damage and bunions….High heels have also been linked to overworked or injured leg muscles, osteoarthritis of the knee, plantar fasciitis and low back pain.
Mattel also promises a lot of other changes to come, including the racial and body-type diversity of their dolls. “We love that each one of you is unique and encourage you to Find Your Style with us!” exclaims their Instagram. Let’s hope so!
(via CTV News, Image via Charles Rodstrom on Flickr)
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