10 Most Comfortable Heels for Women to Wear on Any Occassion, According to Podiatrists
You can literally stand in them all day.
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When you think back to your college days, it was NBD to strut around in a cute pair of heels on a night out with friends. Or maybe there was pain, but your brain has chosen to forget that part over time? Luckily, today's designers are waking up to the fact that heels don't have to be uncomfortable.
And we don't mean after a "break-in period." There is no break-in period when it comes to heels shopping! Your shoes should immediately feel good when you try them on, says Grace Torres-Hodges, D.P.M., a podiatric surgeon in Pensacola, FL. "Heels by design already give up some support because you are elevating the back of the foot," she says. However, a closed-back shoe is more supportive than a slingback or mule because the shoe is able to control the entire foot.
When it comes to heel height, Dr. Torres-Hodges says you want to stick between 1.5 and 2 inches. "And the more ground that the heel is in contact with, the more stable the shoe will be," she adds. So, of the six types of heels—cone, kitten, prism, spool, stiletto and wedge—a wedge is the most stable.
There are some additional considerations if you have specific foot problems:
Flat feet: You have to know the cause and type of this condition before determining if you should wear a heel, Torres-Hodges says. "If the cause is flexible due to a movement causing pronation in the back of the foot, a heel can be quite beneficial," she says. "However, if the flatfoot is the result of arthritis or rigid deformity, a heel can potentially injure."
High arch: "As with the flatfoot, a high arch (a.k.a. cavus foot) will have a 'tilted' bone position, and increasing the height with a heel can potentially cause more instability," Torres-Hodges says.
Bunion: "Not all bunions are the same," Torres-Hodges says. "In general, individuals with bunions will be looking for a deeper toe box and a rounded rather than pointed toe. However, because a heel will exaggerate more pressure at the ball of the foot, it has the potential to worsen the condition."
Plantar fasciitis: If you have plantar fasciitis, Torres-Hodges says you actually want to avoid a heel because it does not allow the normal function of the ligament under the foot or the adjacent Achilles tendon to stretch fully. "Wearing a heel may hamper recuperating from the inflammation because although it may not hurt, it is not allowing it to heal," she says.
Below, consider 10 supportive heels—some of which are inspired by our list of most comfortable shoe brands overall—to look comfortably chic all day long.
Named one of our most comfortable shoe brands overall, Vionic makes its shoes in collaboration with podiatrists, so they're a brand you really can trust. The Josie Kitten heel makes you 2 inches taller and is available in whole and half sizes, as well as two widths. Choose from nine finishes including snakeskin, leopard print, and embossed leather.
Lulus Alessia Pointed-Toe Heel
At just $29, you can have the chicest pair of comfortable heels that'll have all your friends wondering where you got them. With a 1-inch stacked heel and a cushioned insole, you won't find yourself popping Advil throughout the day. If you're intimidated by the leopard, not to worry, you can pick up a pair in elegant black or beautiful blush.
Sam Edelman Dori Heel
The height on these Dori pumps by Sam Edelman is 2 inches tall (a.k.a. Dr. Torres-Hodges approved!), so you'll be able to walk around while feeling supported. This pair also features a double-padded, fixed footbed for bonus comfort.
Paul Green Tammy Heel
With 4.5 stars from Nordstrom costumers, it's easy to say that the Tammy pump by Paul Green is a crowd favorite. This shoe is designed with a 2-inch block heel and a foam-cushioned footbed with arch support to maximize coziness. They come in black and champagne suede, making them your perfect everyday heel.
Aquatalia Pasha Heel
Not only is the Pasha pump super cute and comfy, but it's also on sale at Nordstrom right now! This classic Italian shoe in a timeless nude boasts a 1-and-3/4-inch block heel and pod cushioning for added support. The leather lining ensures poor weather won't ruin these shoes no matter where you take 'em.
Cole Haan Vesta Skimmer Heel
Cole Haan Vesta Skimmer Heel
These classic pointy-toe pumps in cherry mahogany leather will become your office go-to. The 1-inch block heel makes walking a breeze, even if you have a long commute or know you'll be on your feet all day. These comfy heels also have a foam-cushioned footbed as if you're floating on clouds.
Steve Madden Irenee Ankle Strap Heel
Steve Madden Irenee Ankle Strap Heel
During the warmer months, a strappy heel becomes a wardrobe staple—especially when they're as comfy as this pair from Steve Madden. There isn't much support in the insole, but the block heel is 2 inches in height, making them low enough to the ground to keep you from stumbling. Plus, you can always add an invisible insole for extra support.
If you're tempted to reach beyond the doctor-recommended 2-inch max, Clarks is the best brand to experiment with. Another brand we named most comfortable, Clarks's Kaylin Cara shoe will give you 3 inches of height along with an 8-centimeter block heel and both medium and wide widths.
Enzo Angiolini Margot Mule
Although Torres-Hodges advises a closed back over a mule, you can find supportive ones like this pair from Enzo Angiolini. They're fairly low to the ground with a 2-inch block heel and designed with a cushioned leather insole so you can slide your feet right in and enjoy 'em all day long.
Marc Fisher LTD Marc Fisher Alida Espadrille Platform Wedge
Marc Fisher LTD Marc Fisher Alida Espadrille Platform Wedge
I own these, and they're honestly amazing. Obviously this open-toe shoe with an artfully-braided jute wrap wedge is best suited for summer or warmer climates, but you'll want to live in them. Although the heel height is quite high, Torres-Hodges recommends wedges because they're highly stable and supportive. Plus, the ankle strap provides additional security.
Currently an assistant editor at Prevention.com, Nicol is a Manhattan-based journalist who specializes in health, wellness, beauty, fashion, business, and lifestyle. Her work has appeared in Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Houston Chronicle, Business Insider, INSIDER, Everyday Health, and more. When Nicol isn't writing, she loves trying new workout classes, testing out the latest face mask, and traveling. Follow her on Instagram for the latest on health, wellness, and lifestyle.
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