These Are the Most Comfortable Heels of 2023 According to a Podiatrist (2024)

When it comes to comfortable heels, Clarks is a tried-and-true brand you can rely on. Per Yau's recommendation, the Un Cosmo Pump has a thick 2-inch heel. While you'll still get a noticeable boost, she explains that the modest height reduces "the distance from the heel to the floor, which provides more overall support for the foot." But the comfy design doesn't stop there. This thoughtfully engineered shoe has an OrthoLite footbed with built-in arch support, ample cushioning, and shock absorption with every step.

The Un Cosmo has genuine leather uppers. Yau is a fan of the material, as it softens over time and conforms to the shape of your foot, making it all-around more comfortable.¹ Having said that, it might feel slightly stiff during the first few wears while you break in the leather. Available in wear-anywhere hues like black and navy, this sleek pump boasts a versatile yet sophisticated silhouette that'll work with endless outfits in any season.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Leather | 2 inches

If you prefer vegan leather, Yau recommends Naturalizer's Warner Pump. "It has a block heel that will prevent any fall," she tells Travel + Leisure. "I love the square toe box, which means the toes are not squeezed into the [shoes] too tightly." The thick heel is 2.5 inches tall — not so high that it'll be hard to walk in but also not so low that you won't feel elevated.

The Warner also has a contoured footbed to provide all-day arch support, while the non-slip outsole provides traction underfoot. "This smart, sophisticated pair of high heels is a wonderful addition to any outfit," says Yau. And you can choose from several chic hues ranging from rose to navy to champagne gold.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Vegan leather | 2.5 inches

According to Yau, block heels tend to be the most comfortable type of pump, especially if you're going for a taller style. With this in mind, we're loving the 3-inch Zala Block Heel from Marc Fisher LTD. It's got a lightly padded footbed with moderate arch support and a grooved outsole for extra traction.

Available in several statement hues and versatile neutrals, these classy pumps have smooth leather or soft suede uppers. While a pointed toe might not be everyone's idea of comfy footwear, the roomy toe box won't squish your toes. Not only that, but you can expect the uppers to break in over time as well.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Leather or suede | 2.75 inches

Aldo's Velalith Sandal is our favorite heeled mule. With a squared off footbed, a slightly flared block heel, and a single wide strap over the forefoot, it's undeniably stylish and endlessly versatile. From weddings and wineries to dinner dates and shopping excursions, you can wear this shoe almost anywhere. Not only that, but Yau says open-toe styles like this one minimize pressure on your toes, which can prevent foot pain and ingrown toenails.

The Velalith has a molded foam midsole with contoured arch support, plus a padded footbed to keep you comfortable on your feet. What's more, the patterned, rubberized outsole provides a sturdy grip. To complement a wide range of outfits, this leather shoe comes in white, black, cognac, and light orangy-blush. Since the upper isn't adjustable, one thing to note is that it might be slightly too wide for folks with particularly narrow feet.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Leather | 2.75 inches

Interested in heeled sandals? Yau recommends this pair from Madden Girl on account of the "nice, thick heel and platform with multiple straps to support the foot." With a 3-inch heel, this shoe is definitely on the taller side, but thanks to the 1-inch platform, it'll feel more like 2 inches.

The Sohoo has a wide, rounded toe bed and a sturdy midsole that curves with the shape of your arches. We also appreciate the stretchy fabric straps, which offer a secure, adjustable fit while still being super easy to slip on and off.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Thermoplastic rubber sole | 3 inches

Looking for a classic heel you can wear for business travel and on special occasions year-round? You can't go wrong with the Easy Street Passion Pump. This shoe has a rounded toe with plenty of wiggle room and a modest heel height of just over 2 inches to add sufficient height without compromising stability.

Beyond that, the flexible outsole is designed to keep you comfortable on your feet for hours on end, while a padded insole provides plush cushioning. Just a heads up that while the faux leather uppers are vegan-friendly, they may not soften like genuine leather.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Vegan leather or vegan suede | 2.25 inches

For weddings, fancy dates, fine dining, and other dressy occasions, Yau recommends Naturalizer's Joy Dress Sandal. While the heel is nearly 4 inches tall, she explains that the platformed footbed minimizes the angle of your foot to reduce strain on your arches. Additionally, she says, "the cushioned insole will give the foot stability."

Available in genuine leather or suede in your choice of several statement hues and versatile neutrals (plus a few metallics and snake prints), the Joy Sandal is undeniably elegant. The open-toe design helps prevent cramping, and you can count on the uppers to soften to the shape of your foot over time. "With a slender strap to give support, this pair of high heels is designed for comfort," says Yau.

The Details: 4 to 12 | Leather or suede | 3.75 inches

If you're in the market for heels you can wear virtually anywhere, in all four seasons, the Parigi Pump is a solid choice. This simple slip-on shoe has a modest 2.5-inch heel and a comfortable rounded toe. LifeStride's Soft System comfort technology ensures the foam footbeds offer plush cushioning and flexibility with every step.

The Parigi Pump comes with vegan leather, microsuede, or fabric uppers. It’s available in several bold tones, florals, and animal prints, but personal stylist Cassandra Sethi of Next Level Wardrobe recommends getting pairs of dark and light heels in neutral hues for maximum versatility. "Nude or tan and navy or dark gray will coordinate seamlessly with many outfits in your closet," she explains.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Vegan leather, microsuede, or fabric | 2.5 inches

Prefer a lower heel? Check out the Soft Style Angel II Pumps. They're just over an inch tall with thick, tapered heels that'll keep you stable on your feet and comfortable for long periods of time. "You'll actually be able to walk in them, and they're perfect for more formal occasions," says Sethi.

Available in several colors ranging from cherry red to glossy black to deep taupe, these pared-down pumps have patent, embossed, or smooth vegan leather uppers that easily wipe clean. Although the material may not break in as well as genuine leather, the padded foam footbeds and soft tricot lining offer all-day comfort while the grippy outsoles keep you comfortable on your feet.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Vegan leather | 1.25 inches

With extra stability from a continuous heel, wedge sandals are among the most comfortable footwear styles for women. We're particularly fond of the UGG Cloverdale, which has a cork-wrapped foam midsole and a molded rubber outsole with patterned tread. Though the heel is almost 3 inches tall, the 1-inch platform makes it feel more like 2 inches.

Leather uppers and adjustable ankle straps are the icing on the cake of this endlessly comfy heeled sandal. There are only two colors to choose from (black and camel), but both are highly versatile, and espadrille-style jute braiding around the base offers a down-to-earth, vacation-ready appeal.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Leather | 2.75 inches

Heading to a colder climate? Vionic's Harper Ankle Boot is an excellent choice. At just over 3 inches tall and rising just above the ankles, this versatile bootie has a chunky block heel and a convenient zip-on design. Like all shoes from Vionic, this pair features contoured footbeds with podiatrist-designed orthotic technology. In other words, built-in arch support, deep heel cups, and ample cushioning will keep you comfortable no matter where you're headed.

The uppers are treated for weather resistance, so you won't have to worry about walking around in heavy rainfall or snow. But they're genuine leather, so it may take a few wears to break in these booties. And since the silhouette is relatively narrow, they might not be ideal for people with wider feet.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Leather or suede | 3.1 inches

If you're drawn to more of a retro look, you'll appreciate the Camera Platform from Aerosoles. This modish shoe features a thick heel and a platformed toe to keep you steady on your feet. The heel is 3 inches tall, but the platform is 1.25 inches, so it'll only feel like 1.75 inches.

Ankle straps offer extra support with each step, and since they're adjustable, you can create a customized fit. These elevated sandals have durable rubber soles and padding at the heels to enhance overall comfort, while a diamond-patterned tread helps minimize friction underfoot.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Suede or leather | 3 inches

Stilettos aren't known for being the most comfortable type of heels, but this pair from Naturalizer is another story. The Anna Pump features a contoured foam footbed with ample cushioning and a padded heel.

Not only that, but the non-slip rubber outsole helps keep you steady on your feet. At over 3 inches, the heel height is taller than average for comfy styles, but once they're broken in, you can expect to wear these for several hours without your feet hurting.

The Details: 5 to 13 | Leather or suede | 3.4 inches

We also like this strappy pair from Vionic. The Angelica Sandal features soft, slightly puffy, twisted straps that provide a feminine, flirty touch — but they're also not so thin that they sacrifice comfort or support.

The slingback-style ankles have adjustable buckle straps, allowing you to secure the perfect fit. This shoe also stands out for its modest kitten heel that sits just 2.5 inches from the ground. And like all Vionic footwear, it has built-in, completely hidden orthotics with arch support to keep your feet happy all day long.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Leather | 2.5 inches

Heading on a business trip? Go with the Nina60 Pump. These classic pointed-toe heels go with everything from slacks and pencil skirts to structured dresses and pressed jumpsuits. Though the stiletto-style heel is relatively narrow, it's not super tall, so you're unlikely to feel unsteady on your feet. Not only that, but the slim, understated silhouette won't take up much space in your suitcase.

Made with long days on your feet in mind, these shoes feature cushioned footbeds with comfy arch support. They come in several colors, and while we're definitely fans of the sparkly options, neutral hues like black, navy, and beige are best for professional settings.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Textile, suede, or faux leather | 2.75 inches

If you have a destination wedding on the calendar, we recommend Dolce Vita's Paily Braided Sandals. They feature chunky braided straps over the forefeet, which create an easy-breezy, laid-back vibe that's still polished enough for a special occasion.

These heels won't provide the same secure fit as styles with ankle straps. However, the thick block heels help you stay steady on your feet, and you can count on them to remain comfortable for several hours while you mingle with other guests or dance the night away.

The Details: 4 to 13 | Faux leather | 3.25 inches

These heels from Margaux are not only extremely comfy but also incredibly durable. They feature a roomy, rounded toe, a modest heel height of just 2.5 inches, and 5 millimeters of foam padding throughout the footbeds.

The structured fit offers ongoing support that molds to your feet and gets more comfortable every time you wear them. You can also expect the Italian leather or suede uppers to conform to the shape of your feet while standing the test of time. Another reason we love these shoes? They come in an extensive range of sizes, plus and narrow, medium, and wide widths.

The Details: 3 to 14 | Leather or suede | 2.5 inches

On a budget? These comfortable, wallet-friendly heels won't break the bank. They have thick block heels, curved footbeds with padded insoles, and buckle straps around the ankles that provide an adjustable fit.

You can choose from nearly 30 colors and prints — from neutrals to bold hues to playful patterns — and suede or faux leather uppers. Just bear in mind the faux leather won't break in or soften like the suede options, which could affect the overall comfort of the shoe.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Suede or vegan leather | 3 inches

If you're open to splurging on the perfect pair of comfortable heels, Marion Parke won't disappoint. As the name suggests, the brand's Classic Pump 45 is a truly classic style you'll want to wear again and again to social gatherings and professional occasions alike.

These shoes feature a slim kitten heel that rises less than 2 inches from the ground. Like other styles from Marion Parke, they feature contoured footbeds with arch support and adaptable cushioning that provides pressure relief for the balls of your feet. Not only that, but the slim design will take up minimal space in your suitcase.

The Details: 6 to 11 | Suede or leather | 1.8 inches

Not only are nude heels versatile and seasonless, but they can also create the illusion of longer legs. And like nude nail polish, the color doesn't have to be an exact match to your skin tone. We like this pair from Vince Camuto, which comes in several neutral hues, including beige, taupe, deep brown, cognac, sandstone, and ivory.

These sophisticated leather heels have thick 3-inch block heels, a timeless pointed toe, and slingback-style straps. While the straps aren't adjustable, they're elasticized to provide a secure fit around your ankles.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Leather | 3 inches

Who says you have to choose between fashion and comfort? If you want to make a statement without your feet hurting, the Gem Platform Sandal might be just the thing. These heels feature textured, wavy raffia wrapped around the uppers and outsoles.

The padded insoles offer comfy cushioning with every step, and while the heels are 4 inches high, the 1-inch platform makes it feel like they're only 3 inches. Just a heads up, these trendy sandals only come in whole sizes, and the brand recommends ordering down if you usually wear a half-size.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Raffia | 4 inches

As Yau notes, arch support is crucial when it comes to comfortable heels. Clarks Freva55 Pumps boast contoured footbeds that hug your arches and keep you light on your feet with generous cushioning.

They have balanced block heels, flexible yet durable rubber outsoles, and breathable linings that help prevent your feet from sweating throughout the day. You can also expect the leather uppers to soften with use and get more comfortable over time. In the end, we just wish these heels came in more colors.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Leather | 2.5 inches

Sam Edelman's Terra Pumps are made with sustainability in mind. They have leather uppers responsibly sourced from a tannery certified by the Leather Working Group, assuring they were produced using minimal energy and water while minimizing waste. The brand also adheres to the California Supply Chain Act, which ensures workers are treated humanely and paid fairly.

As for comfort features, these heels have curved arches, adjustable slingback straps, and thick block heels with a modest height of just 2 inches. But since they're on the narrower side, we should note they aren't ideal for women with wide feet.

The Details: 5 to 11 | Leather | 2 inches

For wide feet, we recommend Trotters Kiera Pumps. In addition to wide and extra wide, they also come in medium and narrow widths. These versatile shoes have not-too-pointy almond toes that allow plenty of wiggle room and a low kitten heel measuring just 2 inches.

They feature removable insoles with memory foam cushioning and ultra-comfy arch support. What's more, an antimicrobial lining helps keep sweat-causing bacteria and odors at bay.

The Details: 5 to 12 | Leather or suede | 2 inches

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are platform or wedge heels more comfortable than stilettos?

  Platform and wedge heels are typically more comfortable than stilettos because they're more supportive and have better weight distribution. However, you can make any pair of heels more comfy by adding gel pads or other insoles.

• Are taller heels less comfortable?

  They can be, since higher heels put more strain on the balls of your feet, but it depends more on the person and specific shoe. Shoes with block heels and sufficient cushioning may feel quite comfy even if they're high, while kitten heels can easily feel uncomfortable if they have a hard insole and thin heel. In general, though, you should choose a lower heel for sightseeing and travel days to avoid stumbling through the airport, cobblestone streets, or other uneven terrain.

• What type of heels hurt the least?

  According to Yau, heels that hurt your feet the least will have thick block heels that aren't too tall and built-in arch support to prevent your arches from collapsing onto the footbeds. If the weather or occasion allows, an open-toe style will minimize painful pressure on toes and toenails. And generally speaking, leather styles will feel the best on your feet once the material breaks in.

• How do I pack high heels?

  You'll want to pack them on their sides to make them as flat as possible, and then place them against the walls of your suitcase to save space and keep them from moving around too much. If your heels are on the softer, more malleable side, consider stuffing them with socks and underwear to help them keep their shape. Still having trouble packing heels? You may want to invest in packing cubes or a weekender bag with dedicated shoe storage space.

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