A good pair of women’s heels will, quite literally, elevate your outfit, but they don’t look quite as stylish when you’re hobbling around in pain after a few hours. So if you’re planning on wearing your high heels for a longer period of time, you need to make sure they’re comfortable.
You could wear sneakers or just remember to throw a pair of fail-safe flats or walking shoes into your designer bag… or you could sidestep the issue entirely by choosing the most comfortable heels in the first place—yes, it’s possible.
Fortunately, today’s designers are one step ahead of the game, with comfortable high heel shoes to match any occasion available in almost any style and color under the sun. Whether you prefer a high heel, kitten heel, block heel, pointy toe, a classic nude, needle-thin stiletto, or a timeless mule, we’ve tried and tested many types of heels to suit your every need.
The most comfortable heels below are made for wearing during all your favorite activities: strolling, exploring, shopping, and dancing the night away.
The 19 most comfortable heels you can actually walk, stand, and dance in
| # | Brand | Best for |
| 1 | M.Gemi The Esatto | Best overall |
| 2 | Valentino Garavani | Best luxury |
| 3 | Dream Pairs | Best value |
| 4 | Gianvito Rossi | Best designer |
| 5 | Clarks | Best for standing all day |
| 6 | Christian Louboutin | Best black |
| 7 | Jimmy Choo | Best nude |
| 8 | M.Gemi The Lustro | Best for walking |
| 9 | Tod’s | Best for work |
| 10 | Cole Haan | Best for wide feet |
| 11 | Stuart Weitzman | Best for wedding |
| 12 | Sergio Rossi | Best for clubbing |
| 13 | Bottega Veneta | Best pump |
| 14 | Aquazurra | Best stiletto |
| 15 | New Republic | Best sneakers |
| 16 | Manolo Blahnik | Best kitten |
| 17 | Rogier Vivier | Best block |
| 18 | Castañer | Best wedge |
| 19 | Naturalizer | Best ankle strap |
M.Gemi The Esatto: Most comfortable heels overall
Day or night, you’ll dazzle wearing M.Gemi’s The Esatto. Handmade in Italy, this wear-anywhere style is delicate and timeless, offering a classically elegant high heel that you’ll run to in years to come. A trendy take without needing to splurge, your soles will thank you for choosing these comfy heels thanks to a super-soft pump and attention-grabbing style.
The quintessential pointed-toe is a popular choice that dresses up any outfit and the 3.5-inch (90 mm) heel is that just-right spot between flats and skyscraper heels. Beautiful and classy, these high heels are a top transitional choice that will carry you through the seasons. A padded insole offers an extra level of comfort and a choice between black leather, black patent and classic suede colorways means there’s an option for whatever you’re pairing these high heel pumps with.
Heel height: High heel, 3.5 inches (90 mm) Colors: A range including Black, Cappuccino, Burnt Wallnut
Valentino Garavani Roman Studs Pumps: Most comfortable luxury heels
An oversized iteration of the now-iconic Rockstud shoe, Valentino Garavani Roman Studs Pumps combine classic craftsmanship with a strong street attitude. They feature an adjustable buckled ankle strap and oversized gold-tone ‘Roman Studs’ embellishments—how’s that for a statement?
Expertly crafted in Italy, these edgy-meets-elegant stiletto pumps will punctuate every look, from jeans to your favorite LBD.
Heel height: High heel, 3.1 inches (80 mm) Colors: A range including Black/Gold, Nude and White/Gold
Dream Pairs Annee Pumps: Most comfortable value heels
Dream Pairs is a go-to brand for any woman on the hunt for a sophisticated casual silhouette without a high price tag. Flattering and versatile, the Dream Pairs Annee complements jeans through to dresses while the D’orsay pointed toe and Latex padded insole add an extra level of comfort.
The ankle strap design and chunky low heel make this pump an effortlessly comfortable option for traveling from the office to the bar and a wide range of colors means the only difficulty you’ll have is choosing which pair to buy first. Opt for the black suede for a classic look, add a hint of color with the nude pair, or subtly elevate your outfit with a dash of red lipstick and the matching red heel.
Heel height: Mid block heel, 2.2 inches (57 mm) Colors: A range including Black, Nude and Red
Gianvito Rossi 85mm Pumps: Most comfortable designer heels
A firm favorite of the Duchess of Cambridge, this no-nonsense wardrobe staple is a designer heel you’ll never regret spending money on. “Most comfortable” is certainly an impressive accolade in the vast and ever-expanding world of high heels but the Gianvito Rossi Pumps are fully deserving of such a title. An instant classic, these stiletto heels were designed to look good and feel good, with an easy slip-on style and an understated silhouette. Gianvito’s timeless elegance is never more prominent than with the Gianvito 85mm pumps, an Italian-crafted high heel cut from supple leather or suede, and a pointed toe to round it off.
Gianvito Rossi is the epitome of high-quality Italian craftsmanship and the label has earned a reputation for designing some of the world’s most wearable high heels.
Wear them casually or formally—The black heels and nude heels are ageless and great pairs to invest in. Or make a statement with a pair in leopard print.
Heel height: High heel, 3.3 inches (85 mm) Colors: A range including Black Leather, Black Suede and Nude
Clarks Sheer55 Court: Most comfortable heels for standing all day
If you’re in the market for a new pair of heels that refuse to let you down no matter what kind of stress you put them through, this pair from Clarks is a winner. No one likes waiting around but what makes it even more unbearable is a relentless throbbing pain from your heels. Clarks’ Sheer55 has a squared toe and wearable 65mm block heel that guarantees comfort for hours.
Available in two colors (Black Leather and Praline Patent), either option adds a clean and minimalistic look with a big style impact. This is a heel that effortlessly dresses up raw edge jeans, adds an extra layer of elegance to dress skirts, or provides a contemporary pairing with cropped trousers.
The durable sole for dependable grip and the brand’s dual-density Cushion Plus™ technology for unbeatable comfort make for a very cozy heel and a desk-to-dinner staple.
If you know you’ll be on your feet all day, this is the heel to go for.
Heel height: Mid-height block heel, 2.1 inches (55 mm) Colors: Black Leather or Praline Patent
Christian Louboutin Kate Suede Pumps: Most comfortable black heels
It’s impossible to go wrong with a good pair of black heels and a comfortable yet stylish pair should be the first pair of heels you invest in.
Louboutins promise to pull any look together and few luxury shoe brands are quite as iconic as these. The red-soled comfortable black pumps are a premium option that adds a touch of luxury to any outfit. Glamorous from start to finish, these are the heels you’ll reach for your business meetings as much as cocktail soirées and exclusive evening occasions.
Sculpted in Italy with a velvety suede leather upper, set on a moderate needle-thin 3-inch heel, and finished with a pointed toe, if you’re looking to invest in one pair of classic yet comfy heels, you should make it these ones.
A signature style means Christian Louboutin chic and versatile pumps can be paired with virtually anything: the only rule is to ensure the red sole can be spotted when you’re out and about. The classic combination of black heel and red sole elevates even the simplest outfit effortlessly, making these black high heels the one to go for no matter what mood you’re in.
Heel height: High heel, 3.3 inches (85 mm) Colors: Black Leather or Black Suede
Jimmy Choo Neutral Romy 60: Most comfortable nude heels
Your classic nude pumps deserve an upgrade. Pulled out of the wardrobe for weddings, dinner and drinks, important meetings, or something in-between, a strong pair of nude heels is something you’ll thank yourself for buying in the future. Elongate your legs with Jimmy Choo’s Romy 60, letting the updated take on the pointed toe and classic silhouette take the lead. Favored by royals and celebrities (think Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey) alike, these nude heels are made of antique-rose suede and instantly polish up even the plainest of outfits.
The modest 2-inch heel makes them the perfect midpoint for leg lengthening while allowing you to confidently go about your day. Beautifully handcrafted, expect compliments galore whenever you pull these out of your wardrobe. Timeless, trendy, and ever-wearable, a good pair of nude heels will always save the day when the rest of your outfit needs a quick pick-me-up.
Heel height: Mid-height heel, 2.5 inches (60 mm) Colors: Nude, Black and Navy
M.Gemi The Lustro: Most comfortable heels for walking
Leave the backup flats at home next time you’re wearing heels and walking all day because M.Gemi’s The Lustro combines everything needed from a high heel that’ll literally take the pain out of walking in heels. A 3.5-inch (90 mm) heel might look intimidating if you know you’ll be on your feet for a while but a super-cushioned and flexible shape means you’ll almost forget you’re walking taller than usual.
With their gorgeous, delicate profile, these nude block heels are beautifully crafted and supportive, with an elevated and flattering look without any kind of toe-pinching. The style and quality make these comfy heels a pair you’ll treasure for years. An almond toe and slim block heel make these incredibly walkable with excellent workmanship. Pair the warm neutral patent heels with dark-colored clothing for a fresh look or keep it classic with the staple black patent heels.
Heel height: High heel, 3.5 inches (90 mm) Colors: Black Patent, Gray and Natural Patent
Tod’s Black Block-Heel Pumps: Most comfortable heels for work
Take the stress out of outfit planning on a Monday to Friday basis with the addition of Tod’s Black Leather Pumps to your business casual wardrobe. Classy and stylish, this mid-height heel will easily take you from meeting to meeting and the Italian artisanal black leather and lightly padded insole are proof enough that a comfortable work heel actually exists. A round toe takes no prisoners in the boardroom and a classic silhouette makes these heels easy enough to pair with any work outfit.
This sturdy block heel adds a modern look and provides more comfort than an initial glance would assume. The outsole features the label’s signature dependable grip, which means you can confidently stroll through your day without any fears of slipping when in a rush. Kate Middleton, The Duchess of Cambridge, is a fan of Tod’s, and the brand is known for its premium quality fabrics. Style yours with an oversized blazer for a chic office ensemble.
Heel height: Mid-height block heel, 2.5 inches (60 mm) Colors: Black
Cole Haan Grand Ambition Pump: Most comfortable heels for wide feet
Finding stylish and flattering shoes for wide feet can be a case of trial and error without even taking into account shoes with a heel. Breeze past the fears of sacrificing squeezed toes or numb feet with Cole Haan’s Grand Ambition Pump.
The name says it all — this pair is designed with the grand ambition to change the way you think about comfort: With its uncompromised fit, feel, flexibility, and cushioning, we’d say it’s mission accomplished.
Scientifically designed with the help of the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Biomechanics Laboratory, these heels come with a supportive, anatomically contoured cushioned footbed and lightweight construction from the platform to the heel for overall comfort from the very first wear.
With an elite comfort-level heel that’s ultra-chic and practical, these fashionable and wearable shoes take the stress out of finding wide-fit heels once and for all. Keep it simple with a black heel or add a splash of summer with a white pair.
Heel height: High heel, 3 inches (75 mm) Colors: A range including Black, Nude and White
Stuart Weitzman Nunaked Sandals: Most comfortable heels for a wedding
Shoes can make or break a wedding outfit, thanks to their ability to keep you dancing for hours on end, or sat in the corner of the room nursing a glass of Champagne to ease the throbbing in your toes. Expertly crafted in Spain, the Stuart Weitzman Nunaked is the perfect choice for any day to night occasion, with a barely-there silhouette and a flattering fit. Destined for the spotlight, the glittered pair is a simple addition to any wedding outfit, promising a dazzling touch of elegance without the temptation to take them off halfway through the evening.
A bullseye midpoint of comfort and style means you can dance for hours while wearing the Nunaked without even remembering you’re wearing brand new sandals. A 3-inch heel lengthens the leg without accidentally reaching for the stars or compromising your ankles and the cushioned footbeds make them comfortable enough for all-day-long comfort.
No wonder then these minimalist sandals are favored among the stylish crowd—from Gigi Hadid to actress Emma Roberts and former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Heel height: High heel, 3.2 inches (80 mm) Colors: A range including Nude and Gold
Sergio Rossi SR1 Sandal: Most comfortable heels for clubbing
Reach for an ankle strap heel when you’re planning on dancing and you’ll never look back. Sure, a classic stiletto might be the traditional choice but once you’ve made the switch you’ll be a long-time convert.
Barely-there heels are a staple to any woman’s wardrobe and a strong pair of strappy sandals can be worn over and over for many an occasion.
Sergio Rossi SR1 Sandal is chic and smooth, with a low block heel, a buckled ankle strap, and a square toe for luxurious comfort. It is not a staple on catwalks and red carpets for nothing!
Equal parts chic, stylish and comfortable, these are the party-perfect pump to grab for a night out with friends with the confidence that you’ll go home without any of the typical high heel pain.
Pretty and feminine, these heels are a joy to dance in whatever the occasion. Keep the party theme going with the metallic silver colorway or go back to basics with nude heels.
Pair with a cotton slip dress for an easy summer look that’s perfect for whatever song’s playing next.
Heel height: Mid-height heel, 2.3 inches (60 mm) Colors: A range including Nude and Metallic
Bottega Veneta Almond Pumps: Most comfortable pumps
Find a classic pair of comfortable pumps that are versatile with a hint of playfulness and consider it one of your best fashion investments of all time.
Classic with a twist, these distinctively modern Almond pumps from Bottega Veneta are exactly the right height to be dressed up or worn casually, making them a go-to for comfort and style, be it at a daytime event or at work.
Made in Italy from beautifully smooth leather, these thick heel pumps mix timeless elegance with avant-garde details. Featuring an elongated toe, a slip-on style, and a sculptural high curved heel, they look just as cool with skirts as they do with cropped jeans and a white t-shirt.
Heel height: Mid-height heel, 3 inches (75 mm) Colors: A range including Black, White and Nude
Aquazzura Bow Tie Pumps: Most comfortable stiletto heels
Expertly sculpted in Italy from velvety smooth suede, Aquazzura’s timelessly elegant Bow Tie pumps are definitely worthy of the front row seat they’ll take in your wardrobe, ready to be pulled out at virtually all occasions (and we mean all occasions). Both the Duchess of Cambridge and Meghan Markle make a strong case for the versatility of Aquazzura’s Bow Tie pumps)— the pointy heels were spotted on many royal visits.
With a slingback strap and ladylike silhouette, the point-toe pumps comfortably rest on a 3-inch stiletto heel while the cutouts follow the natural lines of the foot and leave a glimpse of skin on show.
The high heel is fashionably wearable in a way that only Aquazurra knows how, and exudes class and style whenever they’re effortlessly slipped on. Let the bow ties at the back do the talking by pairing these with an all-black outfit, or tap into Aquazurra’s sense of fun by mixing colors, textures, and fabrics from top to bottom.
Heel height: High heel, 3.3 inches (85 mm) Colors: Black or Neutral
New Republic Malibu Platform Sneaker: Most comfortable high heel sneakers
It might seem easier just to forego heels entirely and stick to flats if you struggle with arch issues and the Roulette-style guessing game of whether your new heels will do their job or not is something that none of us want to tackle.
Ready to party from the get-go, sneakers with heels are infinitely comfortable and breezily skip past all the frustrations out of shoe shopping. Or is that cheating?
The New Republic high heel sneakers might be the answer to your problems, helping you stay pain-free and fabulous even when your feet are determined not to play along.
Featuring a chunky platform sole for an effortless lift and TENCEL footbed for extra cushion, these platform sneakers are exactly what you need when you’re on your feet all day.
Heel height: Platform heel Colors: Bone or Sandstone
Manolo Blahnik Maysale Mules: Most comfortable kitten heels
These Manolo Blahnik’s mules are what the ultimate kitten heels should be: comfortable and chic.
Crafted by artisans in Italy from soft suede, these cute heels have an elegant pointed toe with the brand’s signature decorative buckle topper, a backless design, and a gently fluted 2-inch kitten heel for a comfortable fit.
Heel height: Low heel, 2 inches (50 mm) Colors: A range including Black, Tan, and Navy
Rogier Vivier Trompette Pumps: Most comfortable block heels
If there’s one thing we can say for certain, it’s that you’ll dazzle any room with this pair of Rogier Vivivier’s classic black pumps.
It’s hard to know what to focus on first with these Rogier Viviers: you’ll flit between admiring the label’s signature oversized metal buckle, the sculptural block heel, and the modern square toe.
Made in Italy, these chunky heels demand attention everywhere they go. A manageable 2-inch heel is high enough to make an entrance without sacrificing comfort in favor of style and Rogier Vivier’s dedication to quality means you can stand tall for as long as needed.
In short, they’re the epitome of French sophistication and shoes that’ll brighten your day — both literally and metaphorically — before you’ve even put them on.
Heel height: Low heel, 1.8 inches (45 mm) Colors: Black
Castañer Carina Canvas Espadrille Wedges: Most comfortable wedge pumps
True comfort comes in the form of wedge heels, thanks to the even distribution of weight throughout the foot. Luckily, they’re also one of the biggest summer footwear trends year after year, so if you’re thinking of investing in a pair of comfortable wedge heels this month, Castañer’s espadrille wedges will be a great addition to your wardrobe. Chic, comfortable, and with a closed toe for those summer “off pedicure” days, these wedges feel luxurious, easy, and smooth to walk in.
Available in different neutral colors, they’re a brilliant addition to your suitcase for evenings spent strolling along the promenade or laughing with family and friends at a barbecue. Pretty ribbon ties fasten securely around the ankles, allowing you to relax and enjoy your day without worrying about foot pain. Pair them with blue jeans or airy summer dresses for an easy summer solution.
Heel height: Wedge heel, 2.4 inches (60 mm) Colors: A range including Black, Beige and Navy
Naturalizer Joy Heeled Sandal: Most comfortable ankle strap heels
Not only do platform heels never go out of style, but they’re also completely seasonless. You’ll throw them on for summer parties or wintery nights out, making them one of the most versatile styles of heel out there and therefore one of the best fashion investments you’ll make.
Our favorites are the Naturalizer Joy, a pair of ankle strap heels renowned for having a level of comfort as high as the heel itself.
A dual-density cushioning on a patented contoured footbed with arch support provides an extra level of comfort and yet another reason to reach for these platform high heels. The durable non-slip outsole of these platforms offers enhanced stability making it the first thing you’ll add to your “to pack for holiday” list for evening strolls or Sunday morning brunch.
Available in many different shades, there’s a pair to match whatever you fancy wearing for seasons to come.
Heel height: High heel, 3.5 inches (90 mm) heel and 0.75 inches (19 mm) platform Colors: A range including Black, Nude, and Bronze
Buyers guide to comfortable heels for women
Do your feet a favor and choose wisely when it comes to investing in your next pair of heels. Before you click “checkout”, keep in mind these factors:
Choose your material wisely
Leather or suede heels might be more expensive but the premium quality means they’ll almost definitely outlive synthetic materials. Leather and suede are also more supple, molding to the shape of your foot a lot faster, and also don’t tend to rub as much.
Buy the right size
It might go without saying, but you should never buy high heels that don’t fit properly—or beware the curse of slowly starting to resent ever wearing them. High-heels should fit snugly and hold the foot firmly in place to prevent blisters or ankle pain. For best results, try your heels on at the end of the day after a busy day of walking. Feet are generally less swollen in the morning, so this gives a good idea of how comfortable they’ll be after a few hours of standing up.
Types of heel
If comfort is key, a wedge heel might be your secret weapon. You should also look out for heels with an ankle strap, pairs with a lower heel height and heels with plenty of space around the toes. If you can’t stay away from higher heels, choose a pair that has a sturdier and thicker heel for more stability to counteract the extra height. Spindly stilettos might look incredible, but offer the least support for your feet.
Wiggle your toes
Heels might feel slightly too big if there’s room to wiggle your toes but prioritize these over heels that cramp your feet. Long term, this can lead to arthritis if your toes are constantly pushing for more room. Round toe and almond toe shoes offer more space than classic pointy toes.
Heel height
Heels between 30 mm and 90 mm (1.2” to 3.5”) are thought to be the comfiest, providing elevation without being sky-high and putting too much tension on your legs and lower back. Opt for low heels if you’re planning on standing or dancing for hours on end, or treat yourself to high heels if you won’t be on your feet for long.
Comfort and cushioning
Cushioned soles can be a lifesaver when it comes to comfortable heels and a memory foam sole can be the difference between throwing a favourite pair to the back of your wardrobe or putting them on just to wander around the house for fun. If you do accidentally buy a pair of heels that are akin to sleeping on a bed of concrete, invest in some memory foam insoles to bridge the gap.
Frequently asked questions about comfortable heels
The overall most comfortable heels are M.Gemi’s The Esatto, known for their classically elegant, wear-anywhere versatility and attention to detail. Read our full guide on the most comfortable heels to find a pair that’s perfect for a wedding, a day at the office, or anywhere in between.
The most comfortable heel height is thought to be between 1.2 and 3.5 inches (30 mm to 90 mm). Heels higher than this don’t offer as much support or protection of the foot, which can lead to achiness and pain by the end of the day. Our full guide details the best high heels with comfort in mind.
The most comfortable evening shoes include pairs from Sergio Rossi, Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin, Gianvito Rossi, and Aquazzura. Equal parts chic and comfortable, they ensure you can walk, stand and dance for hours without pain.
Kitten heels, wedge heels, and those with a chunky heel or block heel are thought to be the most supportive and therefore the most comfortable. If comfort is key, avoid shoes with a thinner and higher heel in favor of those that are easier to walk in. Castañer’s espadrille wedges are a great option for comfortable wedge heels and M.Gemi’s The Lustro promises effortless walking no matter where you’re going.
Some of our favorite brands for comfortable heels include M.Gemi, Jimmy Choo, Gianvito Rossi, Aquazzura, and Christian Louboutin. These brands are all renowned for their high-quality workmanship, premium leather fabrics, and ability to make even the highest heels an effortless experience. Check out our full guide to choose your next pair of comfortable heels.
