Just when you thought it was the end of your shoe collection as you know it, here’s some news that will make you feel fine: Comfortable shoes aren’t a myth. They actually exist!
What is the most comfortable women’s shoe?
Generally, block or kitten heels are your best bet when it comes to comfortable heels for work or a night on the town — at least when it comes to basic brands. Since we know we can’t live in those alone, we wanted to dig a little deeper to find brands that make comfort as much of a priority as style.
What is the most comfortable brand of women’s shoe?
Heels can be a pain — literally. But certain brands have set their sights on making heels that are as comfortable as any flats or even sneakers. Usually, that’s because the most comfortable heels feature technology in both the heel and sole.
Take Taryn Rose. The comfortable shoe brand is helmed by an orthopedic surgeon by the same name and focuses on every part of the foot, not just the heel. Banana Republic’s Madison line offers 12 hours of comfort thanks to injected insoles for heel stability and comfort pods at the sole.
And some of the most comfortable heels rely on specialized technology, frequently created by the brand itself (or in partnership with more athletic comfortable shoe brands like Nike). Cole Haan developed Grand.OS soles, for example, that are lightweight with responsive cushioning and flexibility that mimics the natural movement of your feet.
How do you wear high heels without pain?
Ideally, you shouldn’t wear your heels 24/7, even if they’re comfortable high heels. Podiatrists recommend kicking them off a couple of times a day to let your toes breathe a bit. Take this free time to stretch your ankles since they often receive the brunt of the stress. When your day is done, do another round of stretches and flexes to keep your feet happy.
How do you make shoes comfortable?
You do not, in fact, have to trick your nerve endings into submission with the help of sprays. But you may want to pick up some OTC shoe inserts. There are ones that add cushioning from your heel to your toes or silicone gels designed to go under the ball of your foot.
Madison 12-Hour Pump, $91.99 at Banana Republic
The safest bet is to buy a few pairs of comfort- and fashion-forward heels. Here are the brands that make the most comfortable women’s shoes currently on the market.
- Bared Footwear
- Everlane
- Banana Republic
- Taryn Rose
- Alfani
- Anne Klein
- Bella Vita
- Hopp
- Charleston Shoe Co.
- CC Corso Como
- Clarks
- Cole Haan
- Naturalizer
- Aerosoles
- Rockport
So throw off your heel-burners and toss your toe-pinchers, here are the top 15 brands that make the most comfortable heels, according to customer reviews.
[ Next: How to Make Wearing Heels More Comfortable]
Most Comfortable Heels 2017
-
Bared Footwear
Corella in Green Velvet, $178.77 at Bared Footwear
Designed by a podiatrist, Bared heels are super comfy and super stylish. (Take this spring-perfect green velvet pair, for example.) Footbeds are made from air-blown polyurethane to ensure all-day support. They also have foam cushioning beneath said footbeds for extra comfort. The brand boasts an impressive lineup that includes ankle-tie sandals and booties you’ll want to rock even in the middle of summer.
-
Everlane
The Day Heel in Pale Rose, $145 at Everlane
Everlane makes super comfy clothes so it stands to reason that the brand’s shoe selection would follow suit. Its go-to heel is made of 100 percent Italian leather that molds to your feet and the soft elastic prevents slippage and dreaded blisters. The ballet-inspired silhouette features a rounded toe and a block heel made for walking. They’ll take you from the office to drinks in total comfort.
-
Banana Republic
Madison 12-Hour Pump in Orchid Purple Suede, $118 at Banana Republic
Banana Republic’s Madison line is called 12 hour for a reason. The pumps are so comfortable, you can sport them to the office and then to dinner without punishing your feet. It’s all due to injected insoles for heel stability and comfort pods at the sole, making them the most comfortable heels for work. And judging by the fact that all the styles are selling out, these babies walk the walk.
-
Banana Republic
Madison 12-Hour Pump in Orchid Purple Suede, $118 at Banana Republic
Banana Republic’s Madison line is called 12 hour for a reason. The pumps are so comfortable, you can sport them to the office and then to dinner without punishing your feet. It’s all due to injected insoles for heel stability and comfort pods at the sole, making them the most comfortable heels for work. And judging by the fact that all the styles are selling out, these babies walk the walk.
-
Taryn Rose
Tamara in Cameo, $116 at Taryn Rose
This brand actually has science behind it. Launched in 1998 by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Taryn Rose, these most comfortable heels not only boast flexible soles, molded insoles and memory foam footbeds coupled with higher-density foams, but they also have PORON shock absorption and energy return foams situated at both the ball and heel of the foot.
-
Taryn Rose
Tamara in Cameo, $116 at Taryn Rose
This brand actually has science behind it. Launched in 1998 by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Taryn Rose, these most comfortable heels not only boast flexible soles, molded insoles and memory foam footbeds coupled with higher-density foams, but they also have PORON shock absorption and energy return foams situated at both the ball and heel of the foot.
-
Alfani
Step 'N Flex Jeules Pumps in Cotton, $69.50 at Macy’s
Alfani’s Step 'N Flex technology is designed for flexible support, cushioning and comfort. Plus, there are several styles that will give any outfit a kick. From perforated pumps to trending white ankle boots, your feet will thank you for indulging in these comfortable high heels — as will your wallet — since most versions are under $70.
-
Alfani
Step 'N Flex Jeules Pumps in Cotton, $69.50 at Macy’s
Alfani’s Step 'N Flex technology is designed for flexible support, cushioning and comfort. Plus, there are several styles that will give any outfit a kick. From perforated pumps to magenta slingbacks and even trending white ankle boots, your feet will thank you for indulging in these comfortable high heels — as will your wallet — since most versions are under $70.
-
Anne Klein
Fabulist Synthetic Pump, $80 at Amazon
Outfitted with iFlex Technology that allows for a flexible fit that can bend up to 90 degrees, Anne Klein’s Fabulist collection is pretty fabulous. The lineup also offers dual, lightweight foam layers to provide cushioning and shock absorption throughout the day. From two-tone options to on-trend leopard patterns, you’ll never want to take these comfortable high heels off.
-
Bella Vita
Sybil Pump in Red Faux Patent, $89.95 at Nordstrom
Bella Vita’s claim to fame is utilizing luxury materials and padded footbeds to create some of the most comfortable shoes out there. The brand also employs hidden goring for stretchy comfort. And there are plenty of styles to choose from, including open-toe mules and cute kitten heels.
-
Bella Vita
Sybil Pump in Red Faux Patent, $89.95 at Nordstrom
Bella Vita’s claim to fame is utilizing luxury materials and padded footbeds to create some of the most comfortable shoes out there. The brand also employs hidden goring for stretchy comfort. And there are plenty of styles to choose from, including open-toe mules and cute kitten heels.
-
Hopp
Two Strap Sandal in Mint Leather, $195 at Hopp
Former Opening Ceremony designer Eree Kim launched Hopp, which is Swedish for "bounce." A self-professed "comfort-shoe girl," Kim wanted to make shoes that were both easy to walk in and easy on the eyes. To that end, she reached out to Nancy Richardson, head of SAS, a San Antonio-based shoe manufacturer known for its no-fuss, ultra sensible designs. Richardson agreed to produce Kim’s line and the results are nothing short of magic. Though styles are currently very limited, all are elegant, weigh nothing and have incredible arch support.
-
Hopp
Two Strap Sandal in Mint Leather, $195 at Hopp
Former Opening Ceremony designer Eree Kim launched Hopp, which is Swedish for "bounce." A self-professed "comfort-shoe girl," Kim wanted to make shoes that were both easy to walk in and easy on the eyes. To that end, she reached out to Nancy Richardson, head of SAS, a San Antonio-based shoe manufacturer known for its no-fuss, ultra sensible designs. Richardson agreed to produce Kim’s line and the results are nothing short of magic. Though styles are currently very limited, all are elegant, weigh nothing and have incredible arch support.
-
Hopp
Former Opening Ceremony designer Eree Kim launched Hopp — Swedish for "bounce" — just over a year ago. A self-professed "comfort-shoe girl," Kim wanted to make shoes that were both easy to walk in and easy on the eyes. To that end, she reached out to Nancy Richardson, head of SAS, a San Antonio-based shoe manufacturer known for its no-fuss, ultra sensible designs. Richardson agreed to produce Kim’s line and the results are nothing short of magic. Though styles are currently very limited, all are elegant, weigh nothing and have incredible arch support.
Limited Edition Hopp x Pauline de Roussy de Sales Three Strap Sandal in White, $220 at Hopp
-
Charleston Shoe Co.
Charleston Shoe Co. prides itself on its cozy minimalist footwear that's sturdy enough to weather the cobblestone streets of the designer's hometown. Made primarily from rubber and elastic, the shoes read pretty sporty. Still, they're chic enough to wear "from the cobblestones to cocktails" and beyond. After you slide on your first pair of Monterey sandals, you'll be a convert for life — we swear it.
Telfair in Black-Tan, $135 at Charleston Shoe Co.
-
Charleston Shoe Co.
Logan in Red/Green, $135 at Charleston Shoe Co.
Charleston Shoe Co. prides itself on its cozy minimalist footwear that's sturdy enough to weather the cobblestone streets of the designer's hometown. Made primarily from rubber and elastic, the shoes read pretty sporty. Still, they're chic enough to wear "from the cobblestones to cocktails" and beyond. After you slide on your first pair, you'll be a convert for life — we swear it.
-
Charleston Shoe Co.
Logan in Red/Green, $135 at Charleston Shoe Co.
Charleston Shoe Co. prides itself on its cozy minimalist footwear that's sturdy enough to weather the cobblestone streets of the designer's hometown. Made primarily from rubber and elastic, the shoes read pretty sporty. Still, they're chic enough to wear "from the cobblestones to cocktails" and beyond. After you slide on your first pair, you'll be a convert for life — we swear it.
-
CC Corso Como
Denice Pump in Champagne Leather, $128.95 at Nordstrom
Another relatively new kid on the comfortable heels-trodden block is CC Corso Como, established in 2005. Its silhouettes are suspiciously sleek and modern for a shoe that claims maximum quality and comfort, but this isn’t a "too good to be true" product situation. The company makes it a point not to skimp on parts, naturally treating and tanning each sole to allow the wearer ease and traction without sacrificing style. The supple leather lining of the shoes is designed to let your toes breathe plus the naturally tanned material will never leave a stain.
-
CC Corso Como
Denice Pump in Champagne Leather, $128.95 at Nordstrom
Another relatively new kid on the comfortable heels-trodden block is CC Corso Como, established in 2005. Its silhouettes are suspiciously sleek and modern for a shoe that claims maximum quality and comfort, but this isn’t a "too good to be true" product situation. The company makes it a point not to skimp on parts, naturally treating and tanning each sole to allow the wearer ease and traction without sacrificing style. The supple leather lining of the shoes is designed to let your toes breathe plus the naturally tanned material will never leave a stain.
-
CC Corso Como
Another relatively new kid on the comfortable heels-trodden block is CC Corso Como, established in 2005. Its silhouettes are suspiciously sleek and modern for a shoe that claims maximum quality and comfort, but this isn’t a "too good to be true" product situation. The company makes it a point not to skimp on parts, naturally treating and tanning each sole to allow the wearer ease and traction without sacrificing style. The supple leather lining of the shoes is designed to let your toes breathe plus the naturally tanned material will never leave a stain. Socks and sandals, anyone?
Caress in Black Suede, $119 at CC Corso Como
-
Clarks
Linvale Loop in Black Leather, $69.99 at Clarks
Flats may have put Clarks on the map back in the 70s, but don’t let that reputation fool you. It’s perfected the art of comfortable heels. Its technology ranges from Cushion Plus, a tri-layer system designed to keep your feet cozy and stabilized, to GORE-TEX lining, meant to keep footwear breathable, waterproof and cushioned. Expect everything from a classic workwear pump, like the Delsie Bliss, to more trendy designs.
-
Clarks
Linvale Loop in Black Leather, $69.99 at Clarks
Flats may have put Clarks on the map back in the 70s, but don’t let that reputation fool you. It’s perfected the art of comfortable heels. Its technology ranges from Cushion Plus, a tri-layer system designed to keep your feet cozy and stabilized, to GORE-TEX lining, meant to keep footwear breathable, waterproof and cushioned. Expect everything from a classic workwear pump, like the Delsie Bliss, to more trendy designs.
-
Clarks
Flats may have put Clarks on the map back in the 70s, but don’t let that reputation fool you. It’s perfected the art of comfortable heels. Its technology ranges from Cushion Plus, a tri-layer system designed to keep your feet cozy and stabilized, to GORE-TEX lining, meant to keep footwear breathable, waterproof and cushioned. Expect everything from a classic workwear pump, like the Delsie Bliss, to more stylized designs, like the sporty Imali Jasmine sandals.
Amali Primrose in Orange Nubuck, $85 at Clarks
-
David Tate
Meet David Tate, king of the cozy kitten heel. In actuality, Tate is not one man, but the brainchild of four shoemaker brothers who also picked up on the potential of the market back in the 70s. Like its peers, the brand outfits its shoes with foot-conforming cushioned insoles, gentle linings and flexible soles. What really sets the brand apart from the rest, however, is the plethora of evening-friendly styles. Say goodbye to your summer wedding shoe woes.
Terra Ankle-Strap Sandal, $113.95 at Zappos.com
-
Cole Haan
Vesta Pumps (45mm) in Mocha Mousse, $180 at Cole Haan
Women across the globe mourned the day Cole Haan and Nike announced they were parting ways in 2012. The concealed Nike Air technology inside Cole Haan heels has become legend. Thankfully, you can still find some select styles online, like the Air Tali wedge as well as the Air Chelsea pumps. And Cole Haan has continued its long-standing reputation for comfortable heels with its revolutionary Grand.OS soles, which, like their predecessors, are lightweight with responsive cushioning and flexibility that mimics the natural movement of your feet. Trust us, you won’t be able to tell the difference.
-
Cole Haan
Vesta Pumps (45mm) in Mocha Mousse, $180 at Cole Haan
Women across the globe mourned the day Cole Haan and Nike announced they were parting ways in 2012. The concealed Nike Air technology inside Cole Haan heels has become legend. Thankfully, you can still find some select styles online, like the Air Tali wedge as well as the Air Chelsea pumps. And Cole Haan has continued its long-standing reputation for comfortable heels with its revolutionary Grand.OS soles, which, like their predecessors, are lightweight with responsive cushioning and flexibility that mimics the natural movement of your feet. Trust us, you won’t be able to tell the difference.
-
Cole Haan
Women across the globe mourned the day Cole Haan and Nike announced they were parting ways in 2012. The concealed Nike Air technology inside Cole Haan heels has become legend. Thankfully, you can still find some select styles online, like the Air Tali wedge as well as the Air Lainey and the Air Chelsea pumps. And Cole Haan has continued its long-standing reputation for comfortable heels with its revolutionary Grand.OS soles, which, like their predecessors, are lightweight with responsive cushioning and flexibility that mimics the natural movement of your feet. Trust us, you won’t be able to tell the difference.
Grace Grand Sandals (85mm) in Nude Leather, $270 at Cole Haan
-
Børn
If you know anyone who wears Børn, then you’re probably aware the line has a cult-like following. The shoes are handcrafted with flexibility, cushioning and a roomy toe bed. Expect a more bohemian, natural aesthetic. We’re big fans of the Bima, a goes-with-everything mule, and the double-strapped Holguin slingback in that inescapable millennial pink.
Havana in Brown, $89 at Børn
-
Naturalizer
Kinsley in Papaya Suede, $89 at Naturalizer
Naturalizer was dubbed "the shoe with the beautiful fit" by advertising guru Leo Burnett in the 40s and it’s lived up to the title. Since the 20s, this footwear brand has been combining style and comfort to make shoes that feel like they form to your feet. And not only is Naturalizer soft on your sole, but it’s easy on your wallet. The majority of the shoes are priced under $100. We love the block-heeled Imogene sandals and ultra flirty Kinsley.
-
Naturalizer
Naturalizer was dubbed "the shoe with the beautiful fit" by advertising guru Leo Burnett in the 40s and it’s lived up to the title. Since the 20s, this footwear brand has been combining style and comfort to make shoes that feel like they form to your feet. And not only is Naturalizer soft on your sole, but it’s easy on your wallet. The majority of the shoes are priced under $100. We love the block-heeled Imogene sandals and ultra flirty Adelles.
Adelle in Red Suede, $89.99 at Naturalizer
-
Naturalizer
Kinsley in Papaya Suede, $89 at Naturalizer
Naturalizer was dubbed "the shoe with the beautiful fit" by advertising guru Leo Burnett in the 40s and it’s lived up to the title. Since the 20s, this footwear brand has been combining style and comfort to make shoes that feel like they form to your feet. And not only is Naturalizer soft on your sole, but it’s easy on your wallet. The majority of the shoes are priced under $100. We love the block-heeled Imogene sandals and ultra flirty Kinsley.
-
Aerosoles
We know what you’re thinking here, Aerosoles have been around since the dawn of time. That’s because the brand really invests in comfort. The company has what it calls diamond flex soles to absorb shock, memory foam footbeds and a heel rest design, which is created to distribute your body weight toward your heel and away from the ball of your foot. In the past, most of the styles featured a shorter, chunkier heel and you really had to dig for a more fashion-forward pump. Thankfully, those days seem to be gone — the latest offerings are refreshingly on-trend.
Laminate in Blue Green Printed Fabric, $59.99 at Aerosoles
-
Aerosoles
Bright Idea Pointed Toe Pump in Bone Snake Printed Leather, $59.99 at Aerosoles
We know what you’re thinking here, Aerosoles have been around since the dawn of time. That’s because the brand really invests in comfort. The company has what it calls diamond flex soles to absorb shock, memory foam footbeds and a heel rest design, which is created to distribute your body weight toward your heel and away from the ball of your foot. In the past, most of the styles featured a shorter, chunkier heel and you really had to dig for a more fashion-forward pump. Thankfully, those days seem to be gone — the latest offerings are refreshingly on-trend.
-
Aerosoles
Bright Idea Pointed Toe Pump in Bone Snake Printed Leather, $59.99 at Aerosoles
We know what you’re thinking here, Aerosoles have been around since the dawn of time. That’s because the brand really invests in comfort. The company has what it calls diamond flex soles to absorb shock, memory foam footbeds and a heel rest design, which is created to distribute your body weight toward your heel and away from the ball of your foot. In the past, most of the styles featured a shorter, chunkier heel and you really had to dig for a more fashion-forward pump. Thankfully, those days seem to be gone — the latest offerings are refreshingly on-trend.
-
Rockport
Pardon the pun, but Massachusetts-born footwear brand Rockport is pretty much Clarks’ archenemy. The 45-year-old company collaborated with Nike rival Adidas on its ADIPRENE-infused line and the underdog did not come up short. ADIPRENE technology helps absorb shock in the heel while providing energy rebound in the forefoot, ensuring there’s a happy bounce to your step all day — or at least from Seven to 7. (For the record, we cherish all four brands equally.)
Seven to 7 High Plain Pump in Warm Taupe, $89.99 at Rockport
-
Rockport
Total Motion Slingback Pump in Neutral Beige, $120 at Rockport
Pardon the pun, but Massachusetts-born footwear brand Rockport is pretty much Clarks’ archenemy. The 45-year-old company collaborated with Nike rival Adidas on its ADIPRENE-infused line and the underdog did not come up short. ADIPRENE technology helps absorb shock in the heel while providing energy rebound in the forefoot, ensuring there’s a happy bounce to your step all day. (For the record, we cherish all four brands equally.)
-
Rockport
Total Motion Slingback Pump in Neutral Beige, $120 at Rockport
Pardon the pun, but Massachusetts-born footwear brand Rockport is pretty much Clarks’ archenemy. The company collaborated with Nike rival Adidas on its ADIPRENE-infused line and the underdog did not come up short. ADIPRENE technology helps absorb shock in the heel while providing energy rebound in the forefoot, ensuring there’s a happy bounce to your step all day. (For the record, we cherish all four brands equally.)
-
Eileen Fisher
Podiatrist Dr. Cathleen A. McCarthy swears by Eileen Fisher. The über socially conscious label produces fashionable styles with a "thick, rigid and non-flexible sole that allows for maximal protection to the foot joints. Less motion through your foot joints translates into more comfort, less mechanical strain and less chance of injury." Many designs also "have a wide, soft toebox that puts less pressure on the toes. The excellent rearfoot control (particularly with the boots) helps with increased ankle stability..." Translation: Although prices usually hit the 200s, Eileen Fisher's comfortable heels are well worth the splurge.
Oodle Sandal in Tumbled Nubuck, $225 at Eileen Fisher
