More women buying trainers than high heels

Women are swapping high heels for comfy trainers as they follow in the footsteps of fashion icons such as Victoria Beckham who have ditched skyscraper shoes.

Almost half of women aged between 35 and 44-years-old (48 per cent) have bought trainers in the past year, compared to 30 per cent who have bought new heels.

The research by consumer analysts Mintel confirmed that 2016 is the first time more women have bought new trainers than high heels.

And experts say mature celebrities such as former Spice Girl Victoria, 42, are thought to be influencing sneaker sales.

Previously, trainers and high heels sales matched, with 35 per cent of women buying new heels and trainers in 2015.

Overall, flat shoes are still the most popular type of shoes purchased, at 51 per cent.

The research showed 30 per cent bought flat boots while 25 per cent bought flat sandals came.

And sales of heels look set to fall flat, as 59 per cent of women said they preferred to buy flat shoes, compared to just 12 per cent who would rather don heels.