But are they really your friends? This to me is just acquaintances. I've loads of girls like that from work and we are friendly and flirt to pass the time. Nailed a few on work nights out. But would I ask them out to bars and do social activities? Not really unless it was like 'you get your group of girls mates to go out and we'll meet you there'. These types of nights out always seem to end up with a few people boning each other though so it's not really fair to call us all mates. Also, I couldn't imagine going to the bar with a girl pal one on one like how you would do with a guy mate. It would feel really weird unless it we both knew we just there to sax each other. I always feel there is some sort of underlying sexual tension with having girl mates. Like the girls I talk to most at work I fancy. It's not even a deliberate thing, I just notice I enjoy chatting to them more and that's probably because subconsciously we both get a kick out of the flirting even if it's not going anywhere. If it's a fat ugly acquaintance I'm more likely to not chat to her as much unless she really trys lol.

of course

Yes women can be friends with guys, but usually because they've friend zoned the guy or the guy has friendzoned them. I expect there's usually an attraction on one side, and that it's not the norm that guys and girls just get along and decide to be friends. One feels attracted and drives the relationship, while the other isn't attracted (or just not biting), and keeps it a friendship. In most male-female relationships, I would bet that under the right circumstances, after a few drinks, one or both would be up for it.

Agreed, Its shallow and possibly tough to admit but you wouldn't walk up to an unattractive female to friend them in hopes of advancing your friendzone life style. Women are equally as shallow in this department.

If you and a female both find each other relatively attractive and circumstances are right, just a matter of time.. who makes the first move etc.

( from experience )

I get **** all the time for befriending a couple of cute co-workers. Nothing has happened as I'm married as is one if them. No issues.