@Mojo
As someone who used to work in shoe sales and has genetic mutations (thanks, ancestral incest...) that require me to care about ergonomics and joint stability I can say with authority:
the heels on most shoes are counterproductive at best. Feet work fine. Alter than angle and you shift your weight unnaturally.
Add in how archaic dress shoes are in general (no traction, no cushion, no give, creasing that can cause pain unless you walk in an awkward manner) and the fact that they’re considered required attire for many situations is awful.
I’m glad I can find Clarks that are good enough to go to shul.
Women’s footwear was so shet for so long that the rebound has been great.
There are moderately comfortable men’s dress shoes, but they dress so boring that theres no room for totally new styles. You end up with softer leather and a cushioned sole.
Point is: we have cars, sewers, and the knowledge of cushion and traction tech.
Heels are all fashion.