Heels are arguably the easiest way to elevate not just your height, but also your outfit. Wearing high heels, however, comes at a high price.
While heels can lengthen the look of your legs and, not to mention, make you look slimmer, they can also cause pain and blisters. Over time, wearing high heels can lead to muscle spasms and even back pain.
There are several heels that claim to offer the same comfort as flats but fail to deliver. There are also high heels that are indeed comfortable but look rather old-fashioned and downright orthopedic.
Comfortable heels may sound impossible, but there are actually shoe brands that make them. They are hard to find, but we managed to compile a list of the most comfortable heels and dress shoes available.
Whether you prefer pointy or round-toe pumps, slim or block heels, according to customer reviews the choices below will help you get through the day without sore, aching feet.
1. Sofft ‘Madina’ Pumps, $29.99 – $109.99 at Amazon
Sofft is a European brand known for its feminine-designed handmade footwear and modern comfort.
One of their most raved about styles is the “Madina,” which can be purchased in premium full-grain leather or suede materials.
These slip-on pumps feature a microfiber-lined footbed with extra cushioning at the ball-of-foot, heel, and arch for maximum comfort and support.
They also have round toes, soft and breathable leather lining, and about 3-inch chunky leather-wrapped heels with durable rubber outsoles.
2. Rockport ‘Total Motion’ 75mm Pumps, $99.95 at Zappos
With comfort as the brand’s number one priority, the Rockport “Total Motion” guarantees to keep you up whether for work or play.
They feature a lightweight comfort system for shock absorption at the heel and rebound at the forefoot.
They also have 6mm of retention foam that provides full foot contact and support, a full-length polyurethane midsole plate for midfoot support and stability, and a lightweight and flexible man-made outsole for durable cushioning.
Available in leather, patent, and suede uppers, these easy slip-on pumps also feature breathable leather and textile lining, pointed toes, and about 3-inch slim heels.
3. LifeStride ‘Saldana’ Pumps, $24.01 – $68.26 at Zappos and Amazon
LifeStride offers affordable but comfortable shoes that can take you to places from morning till night.
Perfect for those on a tight budget, the “Saldana” pumps are made of synthetic leather with man-made lining.
They also have traction soles for stability and the brand’s Soft System comfort package that provides support, flex, and cushioning.
Design-wise, these d’Orsay pumps are chic and sophisticated with pointed toes, patent trims, and about 2.75-inch sculpted, wrapped heels.
4. Aerosoles ‘Deal Breaker’ Pumps, $27.54 – $163.31 at Zappos and Amazon
Developing high-quality, comfortable, and trendy shoes since 1987, Aerosoles has become one of the go-to brands of those who are looking for both comfort and style.
The “Deal Breaker” is one of their most popular shoe styles. They feature about 3.25 covered heels and pointed toes that create a leg-lengthening effect. They also have a memory-foam cushioned footbed and smooth synthetic lining.
Available in a variety of colors and materials, these pumps are also incorporated with Aerosoles’ Heel Rest technology that’s designed to distribute body weight towards your heels and away from the ball of your foot.
They also feature Diamond Flex rubber outsoles, designed to disperse friction away from the foot.
5. Naturalizer ‘Michelle’ Pumps, $49.99 – $69.99 at Zappos
Known as “the shoe with the beautiful fit,” Naturalizer is one of the first shoe brands to offer feminine style and comfort.
A lot of women who bought the “Michelle” pumps have nothing but praises for this pair. These dress pumps are sleek and classic, with comfortable almond toes, about 0.5-platforms, and 3-inch heels.
As for comfort, these pumps are integrated with Naturalizer’s N5 Contour technology, which features dual-density cushioning on the patented contoured footbed with arch support.
These are also made with lightweight and breathable materials with synthetic and textile lining and durable non-slip outsoles.
6. M. Gemi ‘The Esatto’ Pumps, $278 at M.Gemi
Lightweight and comfortable, the M. Gemi “The Esatto” pumps will finish off your look from AM to PM. These handmade pumps are classic with pointed toes and 3.5-inch self-covered heels.
The Italian-luxury shoe brand worked with master cobbler Pasquale to create this seamless pump design.
In addition, these pumps also have leather lining, scooped topline, and lightly padded insoles for a boost in comfort.
7. Clarks ‘Kaylin Cara’ Pumps, $77 – $109.99 at Zappos and Nordstrom
With a heritage dating back nearly 200 years, British-based shoe manufacturer Clarks is well-known for its quality craftsmanship, timeless design, and comfort.
One of their most well-loved styles is the “Kaylin Cara.” These pumps have about three inches of block heels, enough to boost your height.
They also have Clarks’ dual density Cushion Plus technology placed in the OrthoLite footbed for around the clock comfort.
Available in patent, leather, and suede versions, these slip-on pumps also feature round toes, soft textile lining, and resin rubber outsoles for durability.
8. Sam Edelman ‘Hazel’ Pumps, $42 – $149.95 at Zappos and Nordstrom
Providing comfort without sacrificing style, the Sam Edelman “Hazel” pumps feature a classic, pointed-toe silhouette with low-cut vamps and 3.75-inch stiletto heels.
These sexy stilettos also feature the label’s fit technology with a padded sock for added comfort.
While they have that designer flair, these pumps come with an affordable price tag. They are available in several colors and materials.
9. Banana Republic ‘Madison 12-Hour’ Pumps, $79.97 – $128 at Banana Republic
Banana Republic may not be your go-to brand when it comes to shoes, but the American clothing and accessories retailer actually has an interesting selection of shoe designs.
Their “Madison 12-Hour” line, for instance, come in different styles—classic pumps, slingback pumps, mesh pumps, and ankle-strap pumps. As its name suggests, this line is designed for all-day wear.
Made from flexible leather material, these pumps feature an Exclusive Padding System with memory foam and cushioned insoles.
They also have a breathable synthetic lining, injected insoles for heel stability, and flexible skid-resistant outsoles with comfort pods at the bottom.
10. Cole Haan ‘Grand Ambition’ Pumps, $126 at Zappos and Nordstrom
With comfortable high heels in mind, Cole Haan launched a new collection, called “Grand Ambition,” in collaboration with the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Biomechanics Laboratory.
The collection “provides uncompromised fit, feel, flexibility, and cushioning.”
Made from premium leather, the “Grand Ambition” pumps are lightweight and feature 3-inch wrapped heels and pointed toes.
And just like the rest of the shoes from the collection, they have anatomical molded footbed and soles with Grandfoam traction.
