Heels are a type of footwear characterized by an elevated heel, which raises the heel of the wearer’s foot significantly higher than the toes. They come in various styles, heights, and designs, making them a versatile choice for fashion, professional settings, and special occasions. Heels have been a staple in women’s fashion for centuries, symbolizing elegance, sophistication, and power. They are often associated with formal wear but are also available in casual and trendy styles.
Percentage of Heels Produced in China
China is a leading manufacturer of heels, producing approximately 60-70% of the world’s supply. The country’s vast manufacturing infrastructure, skilled labor force, and cost-efficient production methods contribute to its dominance in this market. The primary provinces involved in heel production are:
- Guangdong: Known for its comprehensive footwear manufacturing industry, Guangdong is home to numerous factories specializing in heels.
- Zhejiang: This province has a strong tradition of shoe manufacturing, with many factories producing high-quality heels for global markets.
- Fujian: Fujian is another significant hub for footwear production, including heels, leveraging its advanced manufacturing facilities and skilled workforce.
- Jiangsu: Jiangsu also plays a vital role in the footwear industry, contributing to the production of various types of heels.
Types of Heels
1. Stilettos
Overview: Stilettos are high heels with a long, thin heel, often exceeding 4 inches in height. They are known for their sleek and elegant appearance, making them a popular choice for formal events and night outs.
Target Audience: Fashion-forward women seeking to make a statement at parties, formal events, and nightclubs.
Major Materials: Leather, suede, synthetic materials.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $30 – $80
- Carrefour: €40 – €100
- Amazon: $35 – $120
Wholesale Prices in China: $10 – $30
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
2. Block Heels
Overview: Block heels feature a thick, square-shaped heel that provides more stability and comfort compared to thinner heels. They are suitable for both casual and formal wear.
Target Audience: Women looking for a comfortable yet stylish option for work, casual outings, and everyday wear.
Major Materials: Leather, synthetic materials, suede.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $25 – $70
- Carrefour: €30 – €90
- Amazon: $30 – $100
Wholesale Prices in China: $8 – $25
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
3. Wedge Heels
Overview: Wedge heels have a heel that runs under the foot from the back to the middle or front, offering stability and support. They are popular for casual and summer wear.
Target Audience: Women seeking comfortable and stylish heels for casual outings, vacations, and summer wear.
Major Materials: Cork, leather, synthetic materials.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $20 – $60
- Carrefour: €25 – €80
- Amazon: $25 – $90
Wholesale Prices in China: $7 – $20
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
4. Kitten Heels
Overview: Kitten heels are short heels, typically 1.5 to 2 inches in height. They offer a more comfortable alternative to high heels while maintaining a chic look.
Target Audience: Women looking for a practical yet fashionable option for work and casual events.
Major Materials: Leather, suede, synthetic materials.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $20 – $50
- Carrefour: €25 – €70
- Amazon: $25 – $80
Wholesale Prices in China: $5 – $18
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
5. Platform Heels
Overview: Platform heels have a thick sole under the front part of the foot, which provides extra height and comfort. They are popular for both casual and formal wear.
Target Audience: Women seeking additional height without the discomfort of traditional high heels.
Major Materials: Leather, synthetic materials, suede.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $30 – $80
- Carrefour: €40 – €100
- Amazon: $35 – $120
Wholesale Prices in China: $10 – $30
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
6. Cone Heels
Overview: Cone heels are characterized by a heel that is wider at the top and tapers down to a narrow base, resembling a cone. They are stylish and can be worn for various occasions.
Target Audience: Women looking for a unique and fashionable heel for both casual and formal events.
Major Materials: Leather, synthetic materials, suede.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $25 – $70
- Carrefour: €30 – €90
- Amazon: $30 – $100
Wholesale Prices in China: $8 – $25
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
7. Slingback Heels
Overview: Slingback heels have a strap that goes around the back of the heel or ankle, offering additional support and a secure fit. They are available in various heel heights and styles.
Target Audience: Women seeking a secure and stylish heel for work, casual outings, and formal events.
Major Materials: Leather, synthetic materials, suede.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $25 – $70
- Carrefour: €30 – €90
- Amazon: $30 – $100
Wholesale Prices in China: $8 – $25
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
8. Ankle Strap Heels
Overview: Ankle strap heels feature a strap that wraps around the ankle, providing extra support and a chic look. They come in various heel heights and designs.
Target Audience: Fashion-forward women seeking a stylish and supportive heel for various occasions.
Major Materials: Leather, synthetic materials, suede.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $25 – $70
- Carrefour: €30 – €90
- Amazon: $30 – $100
Wholesale Prices in China: $8 – $25
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
9. Peep-Toe Heels
Overview: Peep-toe heels have an opening at the front, exposing the toes. They are suitable for both casual and formal wear, particularly in warmer weather.
Target Audience: Women looking for a stylish and breathable option for spring and summer.
Major Materials: Leather, synthetic materials, suede.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $20 – $60
- Carrefour: €25 – €80
- Amazon: $25 – $90
Wholesale Prices in China: $7 – $20
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
10. Espadrille Heels
Overview: Espadrille heels are characterized by their jute or rope soles. They are often wedge-shaped and are popular for their casual, summery look.
Target Audience: Women seeking a comfortable and stylish heel for casual outings and vacations.
Major Materials: Canvas, leather, jute.
Retail Price Ranges:
- Walmart: $20 – $50
- Carrefour: €25 – €70
- Amazon: $25 – $80
Wholesale Prices in China: $5 – $18
MOQ: 200-500 pairs
Ready to source heels from China?
Major Manufacturers in China
1. Belle International Holdings Limited
Belle International is one of the largest shoe manufacturers in China, known for its high-quality women’s footwear, including heels. The company focuses on innovation, design, and quality, catering to both domestic and international markets.
2. Daphne International Holdings Limited
Daphne is a leading manufacturer specializing in stylish and affordable women’s heels. The company is known for its trendy designs and extensive distribution network.
3. Stella International Holdings Limited
Stella International is renowned for its high-end women’s footwear. The company emphasizes craftsmanship and uses premium materials to produce luxury heels for global brands.
4. Huajian Group
Huajian Group is a major player in the footwear industry, producing a wide range of women’s heels. The company is committed to quality and sustainability, supplying to top international brands.
5. Fujian Footwear Company
Fujian Footwear Company specializes in the production of stylish and durable women’s heels. The company leverages advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure high quality and competitive pricing.
6. Aokang Group
Aokang Group is one of China’s largest privately-owned shoe manufacturers, known for its high-quality women’s heels. The company focuses on innovation, comfort, and style, catering to both local and international markets.
7. Red Dragonfly Footwear
Red Dragonfly is a well-known brand in China, producing fashionable and high-quality women’s heels. The company combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design to create stylish and comfortable footwear.
Major Points for Quality Control
Material Quality
Ensuring the quality of materials used in the production of heels is crucial. High-quality leather, synthetic materials, and fabrics should be sourced from reputable suppliers. Regular inspections and tests should be conducted to verify material durability, elasticity, and appearance.
Heel and Sole Attachment
The attachment of the heel and sole to the shoe is a critical quality aspect. Proper gluing and stitching techniques should be employed to ensure the heel remains securely attached, preventing potential hazards for the wearer. Quality checks should include stress tests on heel and sole attachments.
Stitching and Seams
Attention to detail in stitching and seams ensures the durability and appearance of the heels. Regular inspections should be conducted to check for uniform stitching, secure seams, and the absence of loose threads or skipped stitches. This helps maintain the structural integrity of the shoe.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit are essential for customer satisfaction. Manufacturers should use standardized size charts and conduct fit tests on models to ensure consistency. The inner lining and padding should be checked for comfort, and sample shoes should be tested for various foot types to ensure a good fit.
Aesthetic Consistency
Maintaining consistent aesthetics across different batches is important for brand reputation. Color matching, design elements, and overall appearance should be closely monitored during production. Quality control teams should use colorimeters and visual inspections to ensure aesthetic consistency.
Regulatory Compliance
Adhering to international and local regulations regarding labor practices, environmental impact, and safety standards is essential for maintaining reputation and avoiding legal issues. Manufacturers should ensure compliance with regulations such as REACH, CPSIA, and other relevant standards, conducting regular audits to verify adherence to these requirements.
Recommended Shipping Options
Air Freight
Air freight is ideal for urgent shipments due to its speed. Although more expensive, it ensures quick delivery, making it suitable for high-value or time-sensitive products like heels. This method is particularly beneficial for fashion items with a short shelf life or seasonal demand, allowing businesses to meet tight deadlines and market trends.
Sea Freight
Sea freight is cost-effective for bulk orders. It may take longer but significantly reduces shipping costs, making it ideal for large, non-urgent shipments. This method is suitable for businesses looking to optimize their supply chain costs and manage inventory efficiently, especially when dealing with high-volume orders.
Rail Freight
Rail freight offers a balance between speed and cost, particularly for shipments within the same continent or regions with well-established rail networks. It provides a reliable and eco-friendly option for transporting goods over long distances, reducing the carbon footprint and ensuring timely delivery.
