Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.
We know the pain of uncomfortable heels all too well. High Heels Platform Sandals
Maybe it started at 15 when you were walking into the school gym wearing your prom dress. Or maybe you first experienced the agony when you wore a sundress and those strappy heels on a first date.
Whenever your introduction to the painful world of heels was, it may have made you forever fearful of any shoe over one inch tall.
But fear not, because beauty is not pain. You can still look fabulous without ending the day with blisters, sores, welts and red toes.
The most comfortable heel height is whatever you feel good standing for long periods in — obviously. However, as a rule of thumb, the shorter the height, the easier on your tootsies. According to our research, podiatrists tend to recommend forgoing anything above 3 inches when foot health is concerned. However, as we’ve already discussed, this still leaves you with a lot of options.
Introducing, the comfiest heels you’ll ever own.
Curated from top brands such as Cole Haan and Everlane, you’ll find a list of the most comfortable women’s heels for work, weddings, commutes and more. Simply browse the options below to find your perfect sole mate.
Available in black and Amphora leather options, the Cole Haan Grand Ambition Pump is the comfiest of the comfiest. It’s elegant silhouette is constructed “embracing the contours of your body” to create the perfect fit. The shoe also features responsive cushioning that adds the perfect level of padding for each step. And did we mention how perfect each detail is, such as the front gold trim? One happy customer called them “the most comfortable heels ever!” Here’s what else she had to say:
Customer review: “Super comfy heels! I googled What the most comfortable heels were and these were the top choice! They did not disappoint! I danced The night away in these heels and never felt the need to take them off. Five hours in heels, three on the dance floor!”
Product details: Heel size: 3 inches | Sizes: 5-11 | Material: Leather
Whether you’re searching the most comfortable heels for the office or need something casual to wear around town, these may be your new go-to. The shorty and chunky heel of the Bibi Lou loafers make them easy to walk in, plus their patent leather exterior is the epitome of chic. In the spring or summer, pair with a mini skirt and Bobbi socks for a cute girl-next-door look. In cooler months, switch the socks for stockings.
Customer review: “I have [received] a ton of compliments and can walk for miles in NYC in them. Great shoe!”
Product details: Heel height: 2.75 | Sizes: 4.5-12 | Material: patent leather
There’s nothing like a sexy black pump, but if it pinches and squeezes, the shoes are going straight back to the store! Thankfully, this pair of Sarah Flint heels are beyond comfortable. Not only do they feature a high, slim heel shaft, but the shoe features a wide toe box to minimize crowding and anatomical arch support. Your feet will also thank you for choosing a pair of heels that come with 6mm of extra padding added to the footbed.
Customer review: “I love my black suede Perfect Sandal for special occasions! They’re actually really comfortable considering the [3.3 inch height], and you can tell they’re really great quality. Super quick shipping, luxe packaging and are beautiful shoes, overall. Love them!”
Product details: Heel size: 3.3 inches | Sizes: 4-13 | Material: Italian suede
The cult-classic Everlane The Day Heel is back in stock, but there’s no guarantee it’ll stay that way. After all, the brand itself says it’s “a heel you can walk in. All. Damn. Day.” Choose from black, bone stacked or light taupe leather colors. The ballet-inspired silhouette features a rounded toe, a two-inch block heel and an elasticized back that makes it easy to slip on and off.
Customer review: “I’m not a heels gal, but these fit like a glove and are so comfortable throughout the day. I got the brilliant blue color, which I love because it adds a great pop of color!”
Product details: Heel size: 2 inches | Sizes: 5-11 | Material: 100% leather
During the colder seasons, many of us prefer a shoe with extra coverage. A boot, like the Nisolo Dari Commuter, is a gorgeous option that’s perfect for daily wear. It’s block heel is easy to stand in, plus the footbed has shock absorption to make pounding the pavement a lot gentler on feet. The gold metal of the zipper is eye-catching, elevating the shoe in a subtle but effective way. Whether you pair with leggings and a skirt or your favorite jeans, you’ll be sure to earn a few compliments with these.
Customer review: “These are so cute, so comfortable right out the box and the perfect heel height. You can tell the leather is high quality and I, of course, love how Nisolo supports fair wages and work environments. These are boots I will have for a long long time.”
Product details: Heel height: 2.5 inches | Sizes: 5-11 | Material: Waterproof leather
Pointed toes were big in 2023 and we’re predicting they’re still be trending in 2024. We, like many others, love these comfortable heels from Sam Edelman. The Hazel Pointed Toe Pump has a classic look, is a little sexy and works perfect with a pencil skirt or LBD. The insole has a padded sock, which cushions the foot to minimize blisters and other pains. The shoes are available in more than a dozen colors and come in a variety of finishes, such as velvet, suede, and patent leather. We’re officially obsessed and so are hundreds of other people.
Customer review: “So, I have the Hazel pump in maybe … 10 colors. It’s my favorite shoe in the world. Better than my red bottoms – better than anything. If you’re on the fence – don’t be – you won’t regret it!”
Product details: Heel height: 3.75 inches | Sizes: 5-14 | Material: Varies per shoe
With a retro-inspired design, round toe, chunky heel and knit upper, these Vivaia heels are next level. They remind us a little of Chanel, which doesn’t bother us in the least. Ideal for those who prefer a shorter heel, nine of the 11 styles available come with upgraded relief insoles. There’s also rebound support throughout the heel, arch and foot, so you’ll stay ache-free all day long.
Customer review: “Satisfied customer here! So comfy as my job required to stand and walk all day! Such a great and practical shoes. Love it! And i will order more soon! Highly recommended for anyone who has to move all day! Just amazing!”
Product details: Heel Height: 2.2 inches | Sizes: 5-11 | Material: fabric, rubber and natural Artemisia Argy
The Aerosoles Cosmo Suede Sandals are designed with a diamond flex outsole and an ortholite insole that move with your foot, providing stability, cushion and comfort. The open-toe design make them wonderful for spring, as well as summer. However, they can be enjoyed year-round if paired with a pair of brightly colored stockings.They come in a variety of colors but do run large, according to some customers, so if your foot is narrow, size down.
Customer review: “Typically I’m unable to walk in heels but these beauties allow me to walk all day. They are comfy without sacrificing height. They fit true to size. Fast shipping was a plus! Get yourself a pair, you won’t regret it!”
Product details: Heel height: 2.56 inches | Sizes: 5-12 | Material: various
We love these pumps from Anne Klein, and so do hundreds of customers who grabbed them on DSW. Offering 90 degree flexibility, they move with your natural stride, giving them that already broken in feel. According to their average customer rating, they fit true to size, and have a padded foot bed for an extra touch of comfort. They’re available in two colors and make a great work shoe.
Customer review: “I got these for work. Classy black work shoe. Super comfortable. Great inside cushion and great sole. The sole is thick, so walking around is east.”
Product details: Heel height: 3 inches | Sizes: 6-11 | Material: fabric upper, rubber sole
What does “nude” even mean? Well, it depends on your own individual skin tone, and thankfully Naturalizer understands that. A part of their “True Colors” collection, the Vera Dress Sandal come in a variety of colors, including several nude shades. Better yet, the block heel, ankle strap and Contour+ technology make for superior comfort. One reviewer even shared that the heel was still beyond comfortable after six straight hours of wear. Further heel features include a leather leather or suede upper, an open toe, an adjustable buckle closure and more.
Customer review: “Loved the shoes! I don’t like wearing too high heels due to back issues. These were great for all day wear and gave me the height I needed to wear a long dress. Would highly recommend!“
Product detail: Heel height: 2.38 inches | Sizes: 4-12 | Material: leather
With a name like LifeStride, you’re guaranteed a comfortable commute. These unique heels come in a variety of colors, while they are all made with a simple upper that adds traction and stability — two musts for those on the go. A puurfect option for those who don’t like or need a lot of height, these kitten heels are not only good for work but casual dates or running errands around town. They’re flexible, have some cushion, and flexible traction to keep you head over heels instead of the opposite!
Customer review: “I’ve owned one pair of these shoes for several years, and when they wore out, I went out and found the exact same shoe and bought it again because these are just the perfect work heel. Not too short, not too tall, comfortable enough to last all day.”
Product details: Heel height: 2.5 inches | Sizes: 5-11 | Material: synthetic, rubber
If you can afford these, we’re jealous. Like, very jealous, because it doesn’t get more luxe than this designer shoe. From the classic silhouette to the iconic red bottom, it’s sophisticated, feminine and timeless. Capable of making the cheapest jeans look upscale and the most basic LBD exciting, every women deserves to have at least one pair in their closet.
Customer review: “My first red bottoms purchase! I was specifically looking for soft leather pumps, a versatile style, and something not too high or low. Bought for my upcoming wedding and for more than just one wear after the wedding. Super excited about these! Only note is that they do seem to run small. I am usually a size 8 in other shoes but have wider feet, so I sized up to size 9 and they fit great! “
Product details: Heel height: 4 inches | Sizes: 4-12 | Material: leather
Are these platform as high as heaven? Yep! But more than 400 folks give them a five star rating on DSW and they instantly upgrade any dress in your closet. In terms of walkability, the platform style footbed actually puts less strain on the back of the heel, so they’re far more comfortable than they seem.
Customer review: “Had a wedding and needed a tall pair of heels for a floor length dress I did not have time to get hemmed. Found these beauties and they were surprisingly comfortable for the height. Wedding was on a cruise and elevators were not available while they loaded our luggage, so I did quite a few flights of stairs and walking in these heels.”
Product details: Heel height: 5 inches | Material: faux suede
When it’s just named “The Heel,” you know it’s going to be good. A favorite of many an editor — and others, too, this simple but sophisticated style comes in an assortment of colors and materials. Featuring a supportive fit, the shoe has leather lining and a plush foam padding to keep the foot comfy throughout the day and night. We’re not crazy about the price point but the shoe is so stylish and well-made that we’ll get over it.
Customer review: “I love the height as it allows me to wear a beautiful heel again (I’ve had a lot of back issues). The size of the heel is also very comfortable ! All this said, they are absolutely BEAUTIFUL!“
Product details: Heel height: 2.5 inches | Sizes: 3-14 | Material: varies
For a little extra foot protection, look to a boot-style shoe like this one from Nine West. It has a five star rating, looks amazing with bootcut or skinny jeans, and is currently on sale. As far as comfort, it may not be the best fit for people with sensitive ankles. However, the raised platform will take some stress of the area, as well as calf. If your foot is particularly boney, consider adding an insole.
Customer review: “Very comfortable and the height is perfect — very sexy.”
Product details: Heel height: 4 inches | Sizes: 5-12 | Material: leather
You can’t go wrong with a classic pair black pointed toe high heels. And according to more than few reviews on Nine West, these ones are comfortable as can be. They do come in a variety of other colors, upgrade basic jeans and will certainly go with almost any dress, legging or pants in your closet.
Customer review: “My go to pumps — very comfortable for work.”
Product details: Heel height: 3.5 inches | Sizes: 5-12 | Material: leather
We love these shoes, and can you blame us? Look at their cherry red color, block heel and delicate strap. Made from vegan suede, they also have a cushioned insole and anti-slip rubber bottom, so you can dance the night away or sashay down the work lobby, slip free. They’re available in five other lovely colors, and each one would look smashing with jeans or your favorite dress.
Customer review: “These shoes fit perfectly. Wore these on Valentine’s Day. We had to walk about a block up hill and the shoes did not hurt at all. No pain all night. Also had to walk down hill about a block. Again, no pain at all. The shoes are so soft and pretty. Fit perfectly on my foot. Very happy with my purchase.”
Product details: Heel height: 4 inches | Sizes: 5-11 | Material: vegan suede
Feeling ’90s nostalgia? Try these Mary Jane slingbacks on. They’re a modern twist on the classic look and not difficult to walk in. Although some reviews warn of squeaking, many don’t seem to mind. The shoes go with a variety of looks, including maxi skirts, jeans, as well as bodycon dresses, and are cute as can be!
Customer review: “I truly love these shoes. They are very stylish and comfortable. I am tempted to purchase more colors.”
Product details: Heel height: 4 inches | Platform height: .5 inches | Material: varies
These are one of the most comfortable heels for women, according to several happy customers of Aerosoles. Made from Italian leather, the shoes have rubber composites within the sole. This genius design helps to fight friction, and the block heel is stabilizing. Available in 15 different colors, including zebra haircalf, you’re sure to find one that suits your wardrobe.
Customer review: “As someone who hates to wear high heels, I have been thrilled to discover these platform shoes that feel almost like walking in flats. Very stylish and great colors! I have bought several pairs. I ordered a half size down and they fit well.”
Product details: Heel height: 2.5 inches | Platform height: 1 inch | Sizes: 5-13 | Material: varies
We love these pumps from Vince Camuto for work, but they also work for casual affairs where you might want to take things up a notch. Made in Brazil, their heel is under 3 inches and is in a block style, making it easier to balance. They have an open back, so they’re great for summer. However, we’re not against wearing them with a pair of nylons in the winter. One of commerce editor’s used to own them and says they were “a trusted favorite” that she wore until they were ragged.
Customer review: “Bought this recently, as I needed a dressy navy pump. I really like them, and they’re very comfortable. Sometimes [pointy-style shoes] can be hard to wear, but I was very pleased with the style and comfort.”
Product details: Heel height: 2.5 inches | Sizes: 5-12 | Material: embossed leather
If you’re searching for a little sparkle, this slingback comes in four different metallic colors, as well as six other solids that work just as well for date night or other special occasions. The slingback is adjustable for a more customized fit, and hundreds of folks who ordered through Nordstrom Rack adore them.
Customer review: “These shoes were as comfortable as heels come. I wore them for 7 hours with plenty of walking, standing and dancing, and never had to take them off and never got blisters on the first wear. The height is perfect to add some length to your legs without feeling too high. I liked the wide heel for stability. Considering getting them in another color!”
Product details: Heel height: 3.75 inches | Sizes: 5-13 | Material: Faux leather
For those of you who have plantar fasciitis or simply like don’t like teetering around on skinny heels, these wedges from Aetrex are for you. They have a cushioned footbed, the brand’s signature arch support, as well as adjustable straps for a snugger fit. They’re versatile, working well with shorts, jeans and even maxi dresses. If you can’t take the pain of regular heels but like a little height, these are a great option.
Customer review: “The only thing that makes me sad about this shoe is that winter is coming, and I live in the north. I wore these sandals at a huge conference with lots of walking, and they honestly felt better than tennis shoes. I’ve worn them in the city, shopping — you name it, and they are by far the most comfortable shoe I have had in years.”
Product details: Heel height: 3 inches | Sizes: 5-11 | Material: leather
Stilettos aren’t the most comfortable but can make your legs look fantastic! The fix? Picking one with a platform footbed. It gives the foot more of a surface to balance on and may alleviate some pressure from calves. Our pick? The Chinese Laundry Teaser 2. It gives lots of height and was called “surprisingly comfortable” by one happy customer at Nordstrom. Here’s what another had to say:
Customer review: “I’m super picky when deciding on shoes. These shoes exceeded my expectations! They are surprisingly comfortable for a platform heel. I received the nude and will be ordering the black as well. Very happy.”
Product details: Heel height: 5.75 inches | Sizes: 7.5-12 | Material: Faux leather
As the brand says, this is a “timeless pump that can go from desk to date to dance all night.”
Customer review: “These pumps are not only beautiful but comfortable. I have never been able to wear a pointed toe shoe before these.”
Product details: Heel height: 2.8 inches | Sizes: 5-12 | Material: varies
These Sarah Flint heels feature arch support, extra padding, and an inset block heel. Available in a variety of colors. Are they a splurge? Maybe, but only if you put a price tag on comfort. Check out what this reviewer had to say:
Customer review: “You won’t regret this purchase…This is by far the most comfortable pump I’ve ever owned. Wore them for several hours with no pain!”
Product detail: Heel height: 2.75 inches | Sizes: 4-13 | Material: Varies
Ergonomic insoles and padding that molds to pressure points is what make these pointed slingback heels comfortable. They come in suede, patent leather, fabric and even faux leather made from partially recycled materials. Best of all, they’re available in lots of color options. The heel is only 2.25 inches, keeping pressure off your gams, and you can even grab these in wide, if necessary.
Customer review: “I have two pairs of these shoes and they are not only extremely stylish but also very comfortable.”
Product details: Heel height: 2.75 | Sizes: 5-11 | Material: leather
These Steve Madden block heels feature a single band across the toe with an adjustable buckle strap at the ankle, making this pair the perfect choice for everything from skinny jeans to bodycon dresses. Reviewers are “obsessed” with the heels, and we think you will be too.
Customer review: “Purchased a size 10. I have wide feet and used a shoe stretcher to widen the strap of the foot sole area …worked perfectly and the shoe is a comfortable fit.”
Product details: Heel height: | Sizes: 5-12 | Material: leather
Regardless of your personal style, there are some key things to consider when selecting a shoe you’re going to be standing all day in.
Heels with a round or square toe, for example, may be preferable to those that are pointed. The reason for this is that they tend to be more breathable. No one wants to deal with sweaty, squished feet, right?
Heel length is another thing to look at. Higher heels generally mean more pressure on calves, ankles and feet. If you can’t stand the idea of anything below 2 inches, look for block style heels like the ones offered by Aerosoles ($135). The chunkier base offers a larger surface for you to balance on, making it easier to walk.
Finally, shoes with built-in cushion tend to be more pampering. For this reason, we like shoe brands like Naturalizer, who offer lots of different styles of comfortable heels that have a supportive design.
Once upon a time, people thought you had to sacrifice comfort in the name of fashion. Fortunately, we now know that’s not true. In fact, when shoes are concerned, there are many brands that make super cute and comfortable heels for work, play, weddings — every occasion. Here are some we always look to when craving a new pair:
Custom Overknee Shoes Boots Check out New York Post Shopping for more content.