For centuries, heels have been a symbol of femininity and strength — and they can easily elevate an outfit. While this type of footwear isn't always associated with comfort, heels can make your style pop. There are many variations and heights to help you gain some inches (from block heels to wedges and more) — but how can we balance fashion with comfort?
Shop TODAY spoke with stylists and experts about what key features you should keep in mind when shopping for comfortable heels. They outlined some important design specs such as insole cushioning, shoe width and heel height.
In fact, one of the main things you should aim for while shopping is the “weight of your foot to be distributed evenly across the shoe,” says fashion stylist Sophie Lopez.
Another expert we spoke with, Marisa Byrne (the president of Journee), says that "a good heel should fit snugly without being tight — no pinched toes allowed!"
In addition to Lopez and Byrne, we spoke with Lauren Wright, the senior director of brand marketing and creative at LifeStride, who also shared her insight on comfortable heels. Plus, editors on our team revealed their most trusted pairs which they've worn all day for work, events and more (even weddings).
Features to look for in heels | Expert-approved women's heels | Editor-approved women's heels | Best type of heels for your feet | How we chose | Meet the experts
Best for all-day wear$79.99$150.00
Features to look for in comfortable heels
Again, even weight distribution is helpful while shopping for comfortable heels.
Byrne also recommends knowing if you need a medium or wide width for the right fit. "Look for cushioned footbeds for extra support, flexible soles for natural movement and wider heels for better stability (because no one likes wobbling)," adds Byrne.
Additionally, try on the shoes and see if you feel balanced and stable, "You also want to make sure they have enough insole cushion to take you through your busy day," says Wright.
Most comfortable heels, according to experts
Silver simplicity: Cushionaire Bay Kitten Heel Pumps
- Sturdy material
- Options for wide feet
- Can be narrow for some
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 11 | Heel height: 2 in.
According to Lopez, kitten heels are very on trend right now. With a short height and an elongated design, this heel is ideal for those evenings when you need to zhuzh up your outfit. The pair features memory foam padding and a sturdy outer material to withstand long nights of dancing and walking.
Safety sophistication: New York & Company Imari Slingback Heels
- Adjustable strap
- Comfortable height
- Toe box can be narrow
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 5 | Heel height: 2.25 in.
The strappy design is great if you need modest support with a dash of panache. Another recommendation from Lopez, these feature a shimmery material that exudes sophistication, and they have a squared heel to help you withstand standing moments and longer walks.
Slip on instantly: Cushionaire Bonus Kitten Heel Mules
- Comfortable heel
- Easy to slip on
- Create a flap noise
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 2 | Heel height: 2 in.
This is another style Lopez recommends for its easy open-back design and short heels. While they're not recommended for long walks, these are best suited for formal events and more elevated looks. Customers also say they are flattering, chic and easy to wear.
Go for a Western vibe: Yellow Box Cyan Heeled Mules
- Removable insoles
- Comfortable heels
- Limited sizes
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 3 | Heel height: 2.25 in.
"Block heels are generally better for balance," says Lopez. She usually styles clients on a block heel due to their comfort level and stability. With a faux leather finish and an open back, these make for an easy dress-up experience. plus, they featured a contoured footbed for extra comfort.
Most comfortable heels, according to editors
For the busy woman: A New Day Shannon Heels with Memory Foam Insole
- Cushioned insole
- Chunky heel
- Limited colors
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 3 | Heel height: 2.5 in.
Shannon Garlin opts for this heels and says, "These are my go-to heels for dinner and nights out. Since I live in NYC, I need heels that I A) won’t kill myself in and B) can comfortably walk long distances. And these check my boxes. The memory foam insole is extremely cushioned and the heel is the perfect height to walk." Garlin also notes that they "look nice with jeans and dresses."
For the all-nighter: The Drop Avery Square Heeled Sandal
- Don't cause blisters
- Wide design
- Straps may be too wide
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 38 | Heel height: 3 in.
Editor Amanda Fama continues wearing these comfortable heels for the square-toe design and wide-heel structure.
"The studded traps are spaced far enough that the shoes don’t slip around while walking, and they certainly don’t dig into my skin (even during long nights of dancing). I’ve worn these to a few weddings and wasn’t bothered or blistered after hours on my feet. I truly hope to buy pairs in different colors... there are so many options," says Fama.
Casual dynamics: Ermonn Women Mid Knee High Boots
- Very comfortable
- Multiple colors available
- Not available in wide sizes
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 5 | Heel height: 3 in
Lopez says the Western style is back and that this design is a great way to add height into your footwear repertoire.
Associate editor Allie Wise says, "I recently bought these boots in both brown and black for fall and instantly became obsessed. It’s rare for me to find a shoe that is both fashionable and functional, but this pair takes the cake. These mid-knee high boots are extremely comfortable and easy to walk around Manhattan in. They fit perfectly and make me feel super feminine!"
Height with an edge: Aerosoles Comfortable Platform Sandal
- Ideal for all-day wear
- Comfortable
- They look big
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 18 | Heel height: 3 in.
I've owned these heels for over a year and a half already. They're my trusted pair when I need to go to work and events. They have arch support and Ortholite foam insoles that help with stability. I've worn them for eight hours and my feet are pain-free. Also, they are available in wide sizes if you need extra space.
Work-approved heels: Toms Milan Closed Toe Heel
- Comfortable
- Block heel
- Toe strap can feel loose
Size: 5-12 | Colors: 8 | Heel height: 3 in.
For a casual choice, I would choose these mules due to the block heel design as advised by Lopez and zipper opening for easy wear. I recently received a pair of Toms boots in the mail and have worn them twice. While they have a higher heel than my usual threshold, they support my feet and go with most of my looks. These mules are a great option if you want to feel casually elegant.
Worth the splurge: Bared Footwear Towhee Low Heel
- Ideal for walking
- Very comfortable
- Arch support
- Straps don't hold up well
Size: 4-12 | Colors: 4 | Heel height: 2.3 in.
If I'm looking for a classic pair, I usually opt for these heels from Bared Footwear. (These shoes will make you feel like walking barefoot.) I can last six hours in them due to their contoured footbed and squared heel. Plus, the straps are comfortable and do not constrict my feet.
Trust the height: Scarlett Chase Coco 45 Sandal
- Comfortable
- Sturdy design
- Sizing is not accurate
Size: 35-42 | Colors: 2 | Heel height: 1.7 in
Vivien Moon says "I never like open-toed shoes because they never sit right on my toes and give me a lot of pain so the majority of my heels have always been close-toed. This is one of the few pairs I have that are both comfortable as heels and as open-toes shoes which is a rare find. They’re made with a sturdy base that has comfy cushioning making them easy to wear for hours on end without any issues."
What type of heels are best for your feet?
The best heels for your feet are block heels, kitten heels and wedges, according to Lopez.
“Block heels and wedges offer solid support by distributing weight evenly, unlike stilettos that focus pressure on a single point,” adds Byrne.
Also, If you’re aiming for extra height without the strain, Byrne recommends platforms to help maintain a more relaxed foot position. “But also, if you have a super high arch, you may prefer a higher pitch because that is where your foot naturally lays,” she adds. For reference, the pitch is the difference in cushioning between the heel and forefoot of a shoe.
Frequently Asked Questions
"A heel height of 2 to 3 inches strikes a good balance between style and comfort. It gives you a little lift without adding too much pressure on your arches. Anything higher might look great but is better saved for short outings," says Byrne.
However, Wright says that sometimes you can go a bit higher if you "add a platform in the front since that will help with balance."
"Your arch and heel should feel supported, but there should still be room for your toes to move comfortably," shares Byrne.
"Also make sure you don’t purchase a heel that is slipping in the back or too big [because] this will lead to your foot getting tired quickly trying to keep the shoe on your foot," says Wright.
"Platforms and wedges are a great option for when you want that extra height but with additional stability," says Wright. In simple terms, platforms help to reduce the incline, "giving you the height without the strain, while wedges distribute weight across the foot for better support. Both are great options if you want style and comfort in one," adds Byrne.
How we chose
Shop TODAY spoke with experts who shared which features to consider while buying comfortable heels, and we chose options based on their recommendations and expertise. We also asked editors on our team to share their favorite comfortable heels.
Meet the experts
- Lauren Wright is the senior director of brand marketing and creative at LifeStride.
- Marisa Byrne is the president of Journee, a brand focused on offering comfortable shoes and inclusive sizes for women.
- Sophie Lopez is a fashion expert and celebrity stylist.
The Flat Lay Co. Flat Lay Makeup Bag
The Flat Lay Co. Flat Lay Makeup Bag